2016 Mazda CX-5
Common problems & what to know before you buy
Before you message the seller, know the documented failure patterns, repair cost exposure, and risk level for the 2016 Mazda CX-5.
What to watch for on the 2016 Mazda CX-5
Infotainment Screen Delamination (2013-2015)
The LCD screen can develop white spots or delamination at the edges. Mazda extended warranty on affected units. Replacement is the only fix. The 2016+ screen is more durable.
Rear Brake Pad Wear
Rear brake pads can wear faster than expected, often at 25,000-35,000 miles. Regular inspection and replacement as needed. The brake wear sensor will trigger a warning.
2 more known problems on the 2016 CX-5
Your guide shows all of them and which apply to the exact car, and what to ask the seller.
2016 Mazda CX-5 price ranges
The 2.5L is the only engine worth buying. 2016+ models have better infotainment. The CX-5 holds its value well. It's more reliable than the CR-V and more fun than the RAV4 of this era.
Recalls on the 2016 Mazda CX-5
Structure: hatchback/liftgate
On the affected vehicles, the lift gate support struts may corrode, possibly causing the struts to break and/or the lift gate to drop…
Steering
The lower mounting nuts and bolts that attach the front strut assembly to the steering knuckle may loosen, allowing the steering knuckle to…
Fuel system: filler pipe and cap
The affected vehicles have a fuel filler pipe that may rupture in the event of a crash.
2 more in the guide, with whether each one was done on the car you're looking at.
Source: NHTSA
What 511 owners reported
Source: NHTSA
2016 Mazda CX-5 at a glance
- Trims
- Grand TouringSportTouring
- Engine
- 2.5L 4-Cylinder, 2.0L 4-Cylinder
- Transmission
- Automatic 6-spd, Manual 6-spd
- Drivetrain
- FWD, AWD
- Fuel
- Gasoline
- Body style
- SUV
Mazda CX-5 (1st Gen) Buyer's Guide
The Game-Changing Crossover
The 1st-gen CX-5 (2013-2017) was Mazda's first Skyactiv vehicle and the car that transformed the brand's reputation. It brought sharp handling, excellent fuel economy, and surprising reliability to the compact SUV segment — all without a CVT.
Powertrain: The 2.0L Skyactiv-G naturally aspirated (155 hp, 2013-2016) with 6-speed manual (FWD only) or 6-speed automatic is adequate but slow. The 2.5L Skyactiv-G (184 hp, 2014-2017) with 6-speed automatic is the one to buy — much better power and the same fuel economy. The 2.5L is standard on Grand Touring trim and optional on Touring. The 2016 refresh brought an updated infotainment system.
What to look for: The 2.5L Skyactiv is one of the most reliable engines on the market — no turbo, no DI carbon buildup (Skyactiv uses both port and direct injection), no CVT. The 6-speed auto is smooth and responsive. Check for infotainment screen delamination (2013-2015). The 2016+ models have the better Mazda Connect system. The diesel (2014-2016, 2.2L turbodiesel) was available in some markets but rare in the US.
About the 1st Gen
The 2013-2017 Mazda CX-5 represents the first generation of Mazda’s compact crossover, debuting the brand’s Kodo design language and Skyactiv engineering philosophy. This generation was the first Mazda SUV to fully integrate Skyactiv engines, transmissions, and lightweight chassis construction, setting a new benchmark for driving dynamics in the segment.
Powertrain choices consisted of a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 155 horsepower and a 2.5-liter four-cylinder making 184 horsepower. A six-speed automatic transmission was standard, with a six-speed manual available only on front-wheel-drive 2.0-liter Sport trims for 2013 and 2014. Both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations were offered across the range. Body styles were limited to a single five-door SUV layout, with trims including Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring.
As a used buy, the first-generation CX-5 suits buyers seeking a compact crossover with engaging handling, responsive steering, and a refined interior relative to its era. Its general reputation is strong for reliability, fuel efficiency, and longevity, though the 2.0-liter engine can feel underpowered for highway merging. This generation is widely regarded as a sensible, driver-focused alternative to less athletic competitors.
In-depth generation guide
We've written a detailed buyer's guide covering this generation's known issues, engine variants, and what to inspect.
Mazda CX-5 (1st Gen) Buyer's Guide: Common Problems and Reliability (2013–2017)→Other Mazda CX-5 years
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Frequently asked questions
Is the 1st-gen CX-5 reliable?
Very reliable — above average for the compact SUV segment. The 2.5L Skyactiv-G and 6-speed auto are a proven combination. No CVT, no turbo, no direct injection carbon buildup issues.
Should I buy the 2.0L or 2.5L CX-5?
The 2.5L without question. The 2.0L is underpowered for highway merging and passing. The 2.5L gets the same fuel economy (26-28 MPG combined) and is much more pleasant to drive.
Squeezed is a buyer guide based on public data and industry patterns, not a mechanical inspection. Always get a professional pre-purchase inspection before you buy.