Likes
- Typical superb Mazda build quality and reliability (for petrol models)
- Well equipped and great levels of safety
- Arguably the most enjoyable SUV in this class to drive.
- Retain value very well.
Used Mazda CX-5 (KE) review
2012 - 2017
Dislikes
- Diesel models are to be avoided at all costs.
- Bargains are hard to find.
- Dark colour paint can have issues.
- Road cabin noise can be too much for some.
Stuff you should know
- The first-generation Mazda CX-5 can be divided into two main iterations: KE Series 1 (2012 – 2014) and KE Series 2 (2015 – 2017). Aside from minor updates in 2013, these iterations encompass the primary differences in the first-generation models.
- Engine choices include two petrol engines (2.0 L and 2.5 L) and a 2.2 L turbo diesel. The CX-5 is available with either front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). In AWD models, power is typically sent to the front wheels, with the rear wheels engaging only when front wheel slippage is detected.
- Trim availability depends on the engine and drivetrain configuration. Local variants include Maxx, Maxx Sport, Grand Touring, and Akera.
- Visual changes between KE Series 1 and KE Series 2 are minimal. Significant updates focused on improving technology and features, and enhancing Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) levels for a quieter, smoother ride.
- Thanks to a resoundingly positive reaction from motoring press when new, and a long list of standard features, plus offering one of the more enjoyable driving experiences in its class, the original CX-5 became a sales success.
- This has resulted in a huge range of cars to choose from on the used market and excellent levels of support while well maintained CX-5s retain value extremely well.
- Mazda is known for excellent build quality and reliability. However, the diesel engines in the CX-5 have gained a less favorable reputation compared to petrol variants. Potential buyers should be aware of several common issues, which are detailed below.
What goes wrong
Exterior:
- Paint Quality:
- The paint is known to be thin and prone to chipping and scratching, especially in darker colors like red and black.
- Windscreen:
- The design exposes the outer edge of the windscreen, making it vulnerable to stone chips and debris.
- Shark Fin Antenna:
- Some owners report FM signal dropouts.
- On earlier models stored outdoors, the rubber seal around the antenna can deteriorate from sun damage, potentially allowing moisture in and affecting the wiring.
- Plastic Trim:
- The black plastic around the guards can fade due to UV damage and may require rejuvenation over time.
- Brakes:
- Many owners report loud groaning or squealing noises from the brakes when reversing. This is a known issue with no definitive fix, except to avoid reversing.
Interior:
- Common issues include screen glitches, Bluetooth connection problems, ghost touch issues, system reboots, and the screen becoming faded and mottled.
- Some owners have replaced the entire system with aftermarket equipment.
- Reports of rattling interior trim are common, and diagnosing the source of the rattles can be difficult.
Mechanically:
- Petrol Engines:
- Generally reliable with proper servicing and maintenance.
- Some reports of direct injection clogging in later models, but these are rare.
- Rare issues with the high-pressure fuel pump and occasional oil pressure problems have been reported.
- Engine mounts commonly lose their damping fluid, making the car vibrate, but this is an easy and inexpensive fix.
- Diesel Engines:
- Turbo failures and wastegate breakage, which are very costly to fix.
- Reports of camshaft failure.
- Issues with the exhaust pressure sensor, although a cheaper non-genuine upgrade kit is available.
- Problems with injector seals and oil pressure due to blocked strainers from carbon buildup.
- Coked-up inlets (shutter valves and EGR) are increasingly common.
- Oil dilution problems can lead to further engine issues.
- Transmission:
- Automatic Transmission:
- Uses Mazda’s own automatic transmission, not the Jatco unit found in other models, which has proven to be very reliable.
- Rare issues include selector position faults or switch problems.
- Automatic Transmission:
Exterior:
- Paint Quality:
- The paint is known to be thin and prone to chipping and scratching, especially in darker colors like red and black.
- Windscreen:
- The design exposes the outer edge of the windscreen, making it vulnerable to stone chips and debris.
- Shark Fin Antenna:
- Some owners report FM signal dropouts.
- On earlier models stored outdoors, the rubber seal around the antenna can deteriorate from sun damage, potentially allowing moisture in and affecting the wiring.
- Plastic Trim:
- The black plastic around the guards can fade due to UV damage and may require rejuvenation over time.
- Brakes:
- Many owners report loud groaning or squealing noises from the brakes when reversing. This is a known issue with no definitive fix, except to avoid reversing.
Interior:
- Common issues include screen glitches, Bluetooth connection problems, ghost touch issues, system reboots, and the screen becoming faded and mottled.
- Some owners have replaced the entire system with aftermarket equipment.
- Reports of rattling interior trim are common, and diagnosing the source of the rattles can be difficult.
Mechanically:
- Petrol Engines:
- Generally reliable with proper servicing and maintenance.
- Some reports of direct injection clogging in later models, but these are rare.
- Rare issues with the high-pressure fuel pump and occasional oil pressure problems have been reported.
- Engine mounts commonly lose their damping fluid, making the car vibrate, but this is an easy and inexpensive fix.
- Diesel Engines:
- Turbo failures and wastegate breakage, which are very costly to fix.
- Reports of camshaft failure.
- Issues with the exhaust pressure sensor, although a cheaper non-genuine upgrade kit is available.
- Problems with injector seals and oil pressure due to blocked strainers from carbon buildup.
- Coked-up inlets (shutter valves and EGR) are increasingly common.
- Oil dilution problems can lead to further engine issues.
- Transmission:
- Automatic Transmission:
- Uses Mazda’s own automatic transmission, not the Jatco unit found in other models, which has proven to be very reliable.
- Rare issues include selector position faults or switch problems.
- Automatic Transmission:
Exterior:
- Paint Quality:
- The paint is known to be thin and prone to chipping and scratching, especially in darker colors like red and black.
- Windscreen:
- The design exposes the outer edge of the windscreen, making it vulnerable to stone chips and debris.
- Shark Fin Antenna:
- Some owners report FM signal dropouts.
- On earlier models stored outdoors, the rubber seal around the antenna can deteriorate from sun damage, potentially allowing moisture in and affecting the wiring.
- Plastic Trim:
- The black plastic around the guards can fade due to UV damage and may require rejuvenation over time.
- Brakes:
- Many owners report loud groaning or squealing noises from the brakes when reversing. This is a known issue with no definitive fix, except to avoid reversing.
Interior:
- Common issues include screen glitches, Bluetooth connection problems, ghost touch issues, system reboots, and the screen becoming faded and mottled.
- Some owners have replaced the entire system with aftermarket equipment.
- Reports of rattling interior trim are common, and diagnosing the source of the rattles can be difficult.
Mechanically:
- Petrol Engines:
- Generally reliable with proper servicing and maintenance.
- Some reports of direct injection clogging in later models, but these are rare.
- Rare issues with the high-pressure fuel pump and occasional oil pressure problems have been reported.
- Engine mounts commonly lose their damping fluid, making the car vibrate, but this is an easy and inexpensive fix.
- Diesel Engines:
- Turbo failures and wastegate breakage, which are very costly to fix.
- Reports of camshaft failure.
- Issues with the exhaust pressure sensor, although a cheaper non-genuine upgrade kit is available.
- Problems with injector seals and oil pressure due to blocked strainers from carbon buildup.
- Coked-up inlets (shutter valves and EGR) are increasingly common.
- Oil dilution problems can lead to further engine issues.
- Transmission:
- Automatic Transmission:
- Uses Mazda’s own automatic transmission, not the Jatco unit found in other models, which has proven to be very reliable.
- Rare issues include selector position faults or switch problems.
- Automatic Transmission:
Should you buy it?
Should you buy a first generation CX-5? We strongly advise against buying a diesel CX-5. While some diesel models have been trouble-free, the potential for serious issues is significant. The minor benefits, such as slight fuel savings and additional torque, do not outweigh the substantial risks associated with diesel engines in this model.
On the other hand, the petrol variants of the CX-5 are highly recommended. As long as the vehicle has a complete and well-documented service history and passes a pre-purchase inspection, it is an excellent choice. The petrol models of the CX-5 remain some of the best SUVs in their class.
Moreover, due to the depreciation in the used car market, you can often find higher-spec versions of the CX-5 for only a bit more than the lower-spec models. Therefore, it’s worthwhile to thoroughly search the market and negotiate to get the best deal possible.
However, if you do not specifically need the increased ground clearance that an SUV provides, we also suggest considering the Mazda 6. This model is a highly capable alternative that might better suit your needs.
Should you buy a first generation CX-5? We strongly advise against buying a diesel CX-5. While some diesel models have been trouble-free, the potential for serious issues is significant. The minor benefits, such as slight fuel savings and additional torque, do not outweigh the substantial risks associated with diesel engines in this model.
On the other hand, the petrol variants of the CX-5 are highly recommended. As long as the vehicle has a complete and well-documented service history and passes a pre-purchase inspection, it is an excellent choice. The petrol models of the CX-5 remain some of the best SUVs in their class.
Moreover, due to the depreciation in the used car market, you can often find higher-spec versions of the CX-5 for only a bit more than the lower-spec models. Therefore, it’s worthwhile to thoroughly search the market and negotiate to get the best deal possible.
However, if you do not specifically need the increased ground clearance that an SUV provides, we also suggest considering the Mazda 6. This model is a highly capable alternative that might better suit your needs.
Should you buy it?
Should you buy a first generation CX-5? We strongly advise against buying a diesel CX-5. While some diesel models have been trouble-free, the potential for serious issues is significant. The minor benefits, such as slight fuel savings and additional torque, do not outweigh the substantial risks associated with diesel engines in this model.
On the other hand, the petrol variants of the CX-5 are highly recommended. As long as the vehicle has a complete and well-documented service history and passes a pre-purchase inspection, it is an excellent choice. The petrol models of the CX-5 remain some of the best SUVs in their class.
Moreover, due to the depreciation in the used car market, you can often find higher-spec versions of the CX-5 for only a bit more than the lower-spec models. Therefore, it’s worthwhile to thoroughly search the market and negotiate to get the best deal possible.
However, if you do not specifically need the increased ground clearance that an SUV provides, we also suggest considering the Mazda 6. This model is a highly capable alternative that might better suit your needs.
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Disclaimer
Please note that pricing information is subject to fluctuations in the automotive market.
Information correct as of May 15, 2024.
The advice provided on this website is general advice only. It has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on this advice, you should consider the appropriateness of the advice, having regard to your own objectives, financial situation and needs.
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