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Mazda CX-5: which year should you buy?

Across the 2013 to 2019 model years, the public record is strongest on the 2013 (89/100). Every year below is scored on its own NHTSA complaint and recall history. Pick the year, not just the nameplate.

Best years to target

2013 89 · 2017 85 · 2018 81 · 2019 73

Every model year, scored

Same math for every year (how we score). A neutral Unproven or Too New stamp means too few owner reports are on file to affirm the year, not that it’s clean.

201973/100
Buy

260 complaints · 2 recalls

201881/100
Buy

112 complaints · 3 recalls

201785/100
Buy

148 complaints · 1 recalls

201662/100
Caution

507 complaints · 5 recalls

201564/100
Caution

133 complaints · 4 recalls

201464/100
Caution

377 complaints · 4 recalls

201389/100
Buybest year

194 complaints · 1 recalls

Zeroing in on the 2013?

The full year-by-year verdict is free. When you’re ready to inspect and negotiate one specific car, the Full Report turns the 2013 Mazda CX-5’s complaint breakdown and recall list into an inspection-ready, shareable PDF.

Recalls, complaint breakdown & inspection checklist, all in a shareable PDF

Cross-shopping a different nameplate? Compare the 2019 Mazda CX-5 head-to-head →

The fine print: each year’s verdict is computed from public NHTSA complaint and recall records for the Mazda CX-5 as a model, not for any individual car. A well-kept example of a weaker year can outlast a neglected strong one. Informational only, so always get a professional pre-purchase inspection.