The 2016 Mazda CX-5 lasts around 200,000 miles with some serious transmission and electrical issues. At $14,375 to $16,950, it’s cheaper than other compact SUVs, but not worth it when mechanical problems cost thousands to fix.
Is the 2016 Mazda CX-5 a Good Used SUV?
- Overall Rating 6/10 – 2016 is a bad year for the Mazda CX-5, they just have too many problems to earn a higher overall score. Owner reviews complain about electrical issues, brake problems, as well as check engine lights.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Interior materials are nicer than average in the CX-5, the seats are comfortable for long trips, although cargo space is a bit lower than average.
- Reliability 6/10 – The 2016 Mazda CX-5 has more complaints than any other year. Buyers should avoid models from 2014 & 2016. We recommend 2015 along with 2017–2021, which all have fewer problems.
- Performance 7/10 – Performance is average from both of the available 4-cylinder engines.
- Safety 7/10 – The CX-5 is reasonably safe, earning 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests. Optional safety features include a rearview camera, adaptive cruise control, smart brake support, as well as lane departure warning.
- Gas Mileage 8/10 – Fuel economy is great at up to 29 MPG giving 443 miles of range from the 15.3 gallon tank. Gas costs are $50 lower than average, at $209 per month.
- Value 6/10 – Expensive problems found in the 2016 Mazda CX-5 make it a bad long-term value since you’ll spend a lot of money fixing it up as it ages.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Mazda CX-5?
- Consumer Reports says the 2016 CX-5 has a choppier ride than other compact SUVs, with average owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds gives the CX-5 a 4.3/5 praising the sporty driving experience, but doesn’t like the weak stereo system.
- Kelley Blue Book users rate the CX-5 at 4.6/5, enjoying the nice interior for the money, but owners don’t like the low towing capacity at only 2,000 pounds.
What Common Problems Does the 2016 Mazda CX-5 Have?
Common problems found on the 2016 Mazda CX-5 include daytime running light failures, the transmission failing to move from park to drive, as well as brake wear issues. Overall, these problems are worse than other compact SUVs from 2016, leading to higher repair costs, too.
Daytime running light failures are a widespread issue on the 2016 Mazda CX-5 in the first 10,000 miles. Many owners have replaced the LED lights, which cost around $1,000. In 2020, Mazda issued a recall to replace the headlight assembly. If you have paid for new headlights before, you can contact Mazda for more information on potential reimbursement.
The transmission failing to move from park to drive has also been mentioned at around 50,000 miles. This happens when there are broken components inside of the transmission. Replacing the transmission is the only way to fix the issue, costing around $4,800.
Excessive brake wear is another common complaint in the first 30,000 miles, which keeps happening as the CX-5 ages. The original pads and rotors tend to wear out quicker than in other SUVs. Changing out the pads costs around $300, while rotors are an additional $600. Some aftermarket pads and rotors last longer, making them a better choice.
There are 5 recalls, which is similar to other compact SUVs from 2016. The most serious recall is for the fuel filler pipe, which can rupture during a crash. Mazda will replace the fuel filler pipe on affected models for free. Other recalls cover the daytime running lights, rear lift gate, and the steering knuckle.
How Long Will the 2016 Mazda CX-5 Last?
A well-maintained 2016 Mazda CX-5 may last around 200,000 miles before it becomes too costly to repair, which is shorter than the highly rated Toyota RAV4. Regular annual maintenance costs are similar to other compact SUVs, according to data from Repair Pal, at $387 per year.
Since many 2016 CX-5 models for sale have over 100,000 miles buyers should be prepared to replace the heater core for $1,500, stabilizer bushings costing $550, as well as the camshaft, which costs $625.
Yes very reliable. The only thing is when it is under 30 degrees outside, the computer/ dashboard monitor reboots multiple times until the car is warmer.
Very reliable so far with no problems after 3 years of ownership. It will also tell me when a maintenance is due.
It is very reliable. Cost of maintenance is super low. I have had it under a year but so far it has had no problems.
The back up camera sometimes does not come on when putting the car in reverse and the camera lens gets dirty easily.
I have not had any problems with the Mazda cx 5. Routine oil changes and breaks at appropriate mileage have been extent of repairs.
I have not had any issues with my vehicle so far. I have found it to be very reliable and I feel very safe driving it.
The Mazda CX5 is extremely reliable. The only problem that we have experienced is lack of space in the rear seats for baby carriers without having to move the front seats up extremely far on the dash.
It is reliable, but I have only had it 3 years. I have never broken down. The air conditioning and heat is not forceful enough and engine has two fans.
How Is the Technology?
Entertainment technology is average in the 2016 CX-5 with standard Bluetooth connectivity. Optional upgrades include a 7-inch touchscreen stereo. The safety technology is better than average with an optional rearview camera, blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, automatic braking, and lane departure warning.
Is the 2016 Mazda CX-5 a Good Value?
No, the 2016 Mazda CX-5 is not a good value since it has more problems than any other year leading to higher ownership costs. Blue book prices range from $14,375 to $16,950, making it similar in price to a Honda CR-V or VW Tiguan. When new, the price range was $21,795 to $29,470. Depreciation is worse than average, losing about 12% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Mazda CX-5?
There are three main models of the Mazda CX-5 offered in 2016, from the base Sport up to the well-equipped Grand Touring.
Sport is the entry-level model with:
- 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Cloth Seating
- Power Windows & Locks
- Cruise Control
- Bluetooth Connectivity
- 4-Speaker Stereo System
Touring is a step up, adding:
- Premium Cloth Seating
- Power Driver’s Seat
- Keyless Ignition & Entry
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- 7-Inch Touchscreen Stereo System
- Rearview Camera
Grand Touring is the flagship model with:
- 19-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Leather Seating
- Dual-Zone Climate Control
- Heated Front Seats
- 9-Speaker Bose Stereo System
- Moonroof
- Optional Advanced Safety Package
What Engines Come In the Mazda CX-5?
- The base engine in the 2016 Mazda CX-5 is an average 2.0L-4-cylinder which makes 155 horsepower while getting up to 29 MPG.
- An available upgrade is the slightly stronger 2.4L-4-cylinder which produces 184 horsepower at up to 29 MPG as well. Performance is okay, taking 8 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH.
What Colors Does the Mazda CX-5 Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Mazda CX-5?
The 2016 Mazda CX-5 is a very comfortable compact SUV with seating for up to 5 people. Seats are better than average, making them comfortable for longer trips. Interior materials are also nicer than other small SUVs.
Passenger room is great throughout the cabin with enough leg room in the back seats to easily fit taller adults.
How Much Storage Space Does the Mazda CX-5 Have?
Cargo space is average for a compact SUV with enough room for 6-8 suitcases behind the second row, and 10-12 with the seats folded flat.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The first generation of the Mazda CX-5 was introduced in 2013, and was replaced by the second generation in 2017.
2014: Larger engine in Touring and Grand Touring models, optional collision warning & braking system.
2015: Standard keyless entry & ignition on Touring and Grand Touring models.
2016: Minor styling changes, updated stereo system, along with optional safety technology.
2017: Fully redesigned for the second generation with new interior, exterior, and engines.
2018: Standard blind spot monitoring, more fuel efficient.
2019: More powerful engine on Grand Touring Reserve & Signature, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto added, ventilated front seats, optional 360 degree camera.
2020: More noise reduction, standard high-tech safety features, diesel engine discontinued.
How Does the Mazda CX-5 Compare to the Competition?
The Mazda CX-5 ranked well when it was new, however, as it’s gotten older, too many problems have developed to recommend it over more reliable compact SUVs on the market.
The Honda CR-V is another small SUV which costs around $3,000 more. Reliability ratings are better in the Honda CR-V, while the interior materials are more luxurious in the Mazda CX-5. We recommend the Honda CR-V since they have fewer problems, making them a better choice for a used SUV out of warranty.
The Toyota RAV4 is a competitor which costs $3,500 more. Performance is a bit better in the Toyota RAV4, while the Mazda CX-5 offers a bit more passenger room in the second row. We recommend the Toyota RAV4 since it’s the longest-lasting compact SUV offered in 2016.
Do Owners Recommend the Mazda CX-5?
Yes, I love all the features like the leather seats, blind spot indicator, and Bluetooth capabilities, and it makes me feel very safe!
Yes, I like the size and interior. Easy to drive, good exterior lighting. I like the safety features of this car. Was standard with warning sounds when getting too close to another vehicle on either side of the car and also when backing up. Also like the backup mirror feature. The back is also very roomy with plenty of space esp when the seats are down.
Yes it is super safe and has great gas mileage. It has heated seats. It does really well in all weather conditions. It has Bluetooth.
Yes it is a good car the leather is nice and the Bose sound is nice. Keyless entry keyless start heated seats.
It's an excellent vehicle. It is reliable and looks great. Upkeep is minimal. I rarely have a problem with this vehicle.
I think that my car is great! I love it and it is easily my favorite vehicle that I have owned. It handles well and looks stylish.
Yes the Mazda CX 5 is a very good vehicle. It has a very good price. It is reliable. The CX5 has excellent features.
Yes, it is the grand touring which is a smart car with speed camera warning. It has leather seats, electric seats, navigation with gps.