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2021 Mazda CX-5 Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 12, 2026·Ethan Miller
2021 Mazda CX-5 Report

Overall Score

8.0/ 10
Our Verdict
Recommended

Key Takeaways

  • Excellent safety scores across the board, including 5-star ratings for overall, frontal, and side crash tests.
  • Good reliability is indicated by the absence of recalls and complaints, though long-term data is limited.
  • Fuel economy is competitive for its class, achieving an EPA-estimated 24 MPG combined.
  • Standard all-wheel drive enhances traction and stability in various driving conditions.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2021 Mazda CX-5

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 offers a compelling blend of upscale interior design, engaging driving dynamics, and strong safety credentials, making it a desirable used SUV. Its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a smooth six-speed automatic transmission provides adequate power for daily driving and highway cruising. The standard all-wheel-drive system enhances its all-weather capability. While the CX-5 boasts a clean record with no recalls or complaints in the provided data, a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection is always recommended for any used vehicle.

Critical Failure Risk

Excellent safety scores across the board, including 5-star ratings for overall, frontal, and side crash tests.

Early detection can reduce the odds of major repair bills.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
24
MPG
City
22
MPG
Highway
27
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.2/ 10

Practicality

4.4/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Drivers seeking a stylish and refined compact SUV with a premium interior feel.

+3 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Budget-conscious buyers who need the absolute lowest entry price, as the CX-5 can command a premium.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2021 Mazda CX-5 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Mazda CX-5.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
4-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
24

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Most Common Issues

No complaint hotspot data available yet.

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Wiper Blades

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
Final buyer verdict: should you buy?
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2021 Mazda CX-5 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Mazda CX-5 is 9.2/10. Reliability score is 9.2/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2021 Mazda CX-5 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 4.4/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 24 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2021 Mazda CX-5?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Mazda CX-5 is 8.0/10. Overall score is 8.0/10 (Strong). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 9.3/10. Practicality 4.4/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Mazda CX-5?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Wiper Blades at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700.

What engine is in the 2021 Mazda CX-5?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.5.

What transmission does the 2021 Mazda CX-5 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Mazda CX-5, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is 4-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Mazda CX-5?▾

EPA combined estimate is 24 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Mazda CX-5?▾

15 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2021 Mazda CX-5?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Mazda CX-5, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2021 Mazda CX-5?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Mazda CX-5, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2021 Mazda CX-5 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Mazda CX-5, drivetrain is 4-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Mazda CX-5?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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