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A Mazda CX-5 driving down the road

The Most Complained About Mazda SUVs

Mazda SUVs are a popular choice among SUV options from Japanese car companies. The newer models are especially desired for their driving agility and luxurious interior offered at an affordable price. However, the more popularity a model gains, the more complaints it’s going to have. These three models are the most complained about Mazda SUVs. …

Mazda SUVs are a popular choice among SUV options from Japanese car companies. The newer models are especially desired for their driving agility and luxurious interior offered at an affordable price. However, the more popularity a model gains, the more complaints it’s going to have. These three models are the most complained about Mazda SUVs.

The Mazda Tribute

Now discontinued since the 2011 model year, the Mazda Tribute was once a staple in the Mazda lineup. Though it has been out of production for nearly a decade, it’s still the third most complained about Mazda SUV with 208 complaints on file. The worst model year for the Mazda Tribute is the 2001 model year.

a black 2005 Mazda Tribute SUV driving at speed on a scenic road with an urban view
2005 Mazda Tribute | Mazda

The 2001 model year experiences engine problems, making it the most difficult and expensive to repair. The 2005 model year, however, is the model year with the most complaints of all. The most-reported problem is about rusted out wheel wells seen in the 2005 Mazda Tribute SUV.

The Mazda CX-9

The Mazda CX-9 is the second most complained about Mazda SUV. This is one of the larger models and appeals to a family that needs the option of a third row. Overall, CarComplaints.com shows 225 total complaints about the Mazda CX-9 crossover SUV.

the 2020 Mazda CX-9 driving on a scenic forested back road
2020 Mazda CX-9 | Mazda

The Mazda CX-9 crossover SUV is popular, and because more units are sold it’s likely this has something to do with the fact that it’s one of the most complained about SUVs. The worst model year is 2008 which experiences a high volume of reported issues with the brakes. However, the model year with the highest number of accumulated complaints is 2012. Additionally, the most-reported problem is with the 2012 model year for the failure of the brake power boost unit.

The Mazda CX-5

The Mazda CX-5 crossover SUV is very popular among American families for its fun to drive personality as well as its high level of affordable luxury. It offers more space than a car, but you don’t have to sacrifice too much of that car feel. It’s also number one for the most complained about Mazda SUVs. Overall, the Mazda CX-5 crossover SUV has 365 total consumer complaints filed on CarComplaints.com.

A red 2020 Mazda CX-5 Signature vs. a gray 2016 Mazda CX-5 Sport
2020 Mazda CX-5 Signature vs. 2016 Mazda CX-5 Sport | Matthew Skwarczek

The worst Mazda CX-5 model year is 2016. This is a pretty recent year that consumers complain about because of problems with the windshield and windows. In fact, the 2016 model year of the CX-5 is also the one with the most complaints overall. Additionally, the 2016 model year claims the most-reported problem of daytime running LED light failure. The 2016 model year CX-5 crossover SUV may be one to avoid if you’re shopping used.

Mazda SUV complaints

These Mazda SUVs are not necessarily the worst Mazda SUVs just because of the higher volume of complaints. It’s also worth noting that none of these numbers even breech 500. So, none of the numbers are extremely high. Still, these three models are the most complained about Mazda SUVs.

A general view of the Mazda CX-5 during the L.A. Auto Show
The Mazda CX-5 | Victor Decolongon/Getty Images for Mazda Motor Co.
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