Ford Explorer vs Mazda CX5
For 2012–2022 models, the Mazda CX5 has 17.1 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 55.3 for the Ford Explorer. Below: what each one’s owners report most, when it shows up, and what it costs to fix.
Both rates cover the same model years (2012–2022), counting each complaint once and dividing by US sales, so the more popular vehicle isn’t penalized for being popular. Years too new to judge are left out. How this is calculated.
Ford Explorer
55.3 complaints per 10,000 sold
3.2× the Mazda CX5’s rate
- Complaints
- 13,539
- Sold
- 2,448,408
- Recall campaigns
- 70
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 3
Most complaints: 2013–2014 and 2016. Fewest: 2022. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 82,000 mi
-
Electric power steering motor and module
Typically around 78,000 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Power steering pump, rack and lines
Typically around 77,000 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Harsh, delayed or erratic shifting
Typically around 88,300 mi
-
Water leaks and seals
Typically around 60,000 mi
Mazda CX5
17.1 complaints per 10,000 sold
69% fewer than the Ford Explorer
- Complaints
- 2,292
- Sold
- 1,340,709
- Recall campaigns
- 8
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 0
Most complaints: 2013–2014, 2016 and 2018. Fewest: 2012 and 2020–2022. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 59,000 mi
-
Head gasket and cylinder head
Typically around 82,000 mi · repair $1,620–$3,010
-
Infotainment, screen and software
Typically around 30,000 mi
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 12,500 mi
-
Wiring harness, grounds and connectors
Typically around 40,000 mi
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Ford Explorer or the Mazda CX5?
For 2012–2022 models, the Mazda CX5 has 17.1 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Ford Explorer has 55.3, counting the same model years for both.
What is the most common problem on the Ford Explorer?
The most-reported problem on the Ford Explorer is doors, windows, latches, seats and trim, typically around 82,000 miles.
What is the most common problem on the Mazda CX5?
The most-reported problem on the Mazda CX5 is body control and other modules, typically around 59,000 miles.
Which Ford Explorer and Mazda CX5 years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Ford Explorer: 2013–2014 and 2016; Mazda CX5: 2013–2014, 2016 and 2018.
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, recalls and investigations; US sales from public industry figures; repair costs from book labor hours and parts pricing at national rates. Complaints are self-reported and not independently verified. Problem lists cover each vehicle’s full history. This is not a recommendation to buy or avoid either vehicle.