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2023 Mazda CX-5 Report

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

Updated Jun 12, 2026·Ryan Davis
2023 Mazda CX-5 Report

Overall Score

7.8/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Excellent safety scores across all crash tests from NHTSA.
  • Competent fuel economy with a 24 MPG combined rating.
  • Standard all-wheel drive enhances all-weather capability.
  • A high volume of Technical Service Bulletins suggests potential for numerous minor system adjustments or software updates.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2023 Mazda CX-5

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 presents itself as a well-rounded compact SUV, appealing to used car shoppers prioritizing safety and a refined driving experience. It achieves top-tier NHTSA safety scores across the board, including a perfect 5-star overall rating. Fuel economy is competitive for its class, rated at 24 MPG combined. Under the hood, a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive provides capable performance. While the absence of recalls and complaints is a positive indicator, a notable number of TSBs warrants attention for potential minor technical issues.

Critical Failure Risk

Owners report occasional freezing, unresponsiveness, or connectivity issues with the infotainment system. These are often software-related and can sometimes be resolved with updates.

Early detection can help you avoid a $100-$400 repair.

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

9.1/ 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 safe and stylish compact SUV with standard AWD.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers looking for the absolute lowest entry price in the segment.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2023 Mazda CX-5 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2023 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
AWD/All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
24

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Most Common Issues

1. Infotainment System Glitches

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Minor Electrical System Anomalies

Usage data observed

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 and Inspection - Brake Inspection

Est. shop cost: $100 - $180

5,000 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)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2023 Mazda CX-5 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2023 Mazda CX-5 is 9.1/10. Reliability score is 9.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2023 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 2023 Mazda CX-5?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2023 Mazda CX-5 is 7.8/10. Overall score is 7.8/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.6/10. Practicality 4.4/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2023 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 and Inspection - Brake Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $200 - $350. Repair prediction highlight: Infotainment System (typical at 25,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $100 • Max: $500).

What engine is in the 2023 Mazda CX-5?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.5.

What transmission does the 2023 Mazda CX-5 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Mazda CX-5, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2023 Mazda CX-5?▾

EPA combined estimate is 24 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2023 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 2023 Mazda CX-5?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Mazda CX-5, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2023 Mazda CX-5?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Mazda CX-5, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2023 Mazda CX-5 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Mazda CX-5, drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2023 Mazda CX-5?▾

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

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2023 Mazda CX-5?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2023 Honda CR-V and 2023 Toyota RAV4.

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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