2021 Mazda CX-5: common problems and reliability

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 has 137 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 0 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are engine and power train. Owners most often flag interior build quality concerns: reports of delicate materials: steering wheel leather peeling, piano black trim scratching easily, and noticeable interior noises. frequency: recurrent.

Safety record for the 2021 model year

137
Owner complaints
0
Recalls
8
Crash reports
0
Fire reports

Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2021 Mazda CX-5 vehicles (US, public record).

Is 2021 a good year for the CX-5?

Across the 8 CX-5 model years we track, complaint volume runs from 1 (2012) to 259 (2019). With 137 complaints, the 2021 CX-5 sits about the same asthe model's median of 133.

These are raw NHTSA complaint totals, not adjusted for how many cars sold or how long each model year has been on the road. Older and higher-selling years accumulate more complaints.

Where owners report problems

engine
76
power train
16
service brakes
11
electrical system
11
forward collision avoidance
9

What owners say across generations

The sentiment is predominantly positive, with the CX-5 consistently praised for its reliability, premium interior feel, and engaging driving dynamics.

  • Infotainment interface dissatisfaction: Lack of touchscreen (pre-2026) criticized as slower and less intuitive; the new 2026 touchscreen is criticized by owners who preferred the previous rotary dial system. Frequency: very frequent.
  • Interior build quality concerns: Reports of delicate materials: steering wheel leather peeling, piano black trim scratching easily, and noticeable interior noises. Frequency: recurrent.

Owner insights cover all generations of the CX-5. See the full CX-5 owner picture and every model year.

Typical used price

Used CX-5 listings typically run $15,249–$25,378 across 2013 to 2026 model years.

Other CX-5 model years

Compare every CX-5 year side by side to see how 2021 ranks against the rest.

Compare the CX-5 against its rivals