Motoring Today

Mazda Cx-5 MOT reliability

Reliability from 9 Mazda Cx-5 cars with real DVSA MOT history — how often they pass first time, the most common failure reasons, and how much MOT life is left.

Reviewed by the Motoring Today Editorial team · methodology in our editorial standards.

How reliable is the Mazda Cx-5 at MOT?

Across 4 Mazda Cx-5 cars on Motoring Today, the average first-time MOT pass rate is 69%. 50% of stock currently holds a valid MOT, with a median of 4 months left on the certificate. The most common reasons these cars fail an MOT are brakes, visibility (windscreen & wipers) and steering, from real DVSA test history.

Avg pass rate
69%
Valid MOT
2 / 4
Median MOT left
4 mo
Top failure
Brakes

Of the 59,113 Mazda CX-5 MOTs recorded nationally, 84.99% passed their most recent test. This represents cars presented for MOT, not lifetime reliability, and failure rates typically increase with a vehicle's age and how well it has been maintained, rather than being an intrinsic fault of the model itself. The most common reasons for MOT failure across the UK for the CX-5 are 'Brakes' (23%), followed closely by 'Tyres' (22%), 'Suspension' (17%) and 'Lighting & electrical' (16%). 'Brakes' topping the list means an inspector often finds worn brake pads, discs, or issues with the braking system's hydraulics. For a used car buyer, this highlights the importance of checking brake pedal feel, listening for any grinding noises, and visually inspecting the brake components. 'Tyres' failures are commonly due to insufficient tread depth or damage, making a good visual inspection of all four tyres essential before purchase. There are currently 3 Mazda CX-5s available on Motoring.Today starting from £8960, or a representative monthly finance example of £195. Remember that finance agreements are always subject to status.

69First-time MOT pass
Average pass rate
Stock with valid MOT
2 / 4
50% road-ready
Median MOT left
4 mo
Expiring < 2 mo
0
Plan for an MOT soon after purchase

Most common MOT failures on the Mazda Cx-5

Grouped reasons for MOT rejection across 9 Mazda Cx-5 cars with DVSA test history in our stock (7 recorded failure items, 3 of them dangerous).

Failure areaRecorded failuresShare of failures
Brakes229%
Visibility (windscreen & wipers)114%
Steering114%
Suspension114%
Other114%
Fuel & fluid leaks114%

Based on real DVSA MOT test records for cars currently listed. Individual condition varies — always check the specific car's MOT history and advisories on its listing.

MOT pass rate is the percentage of Mazda Cx-5 cars in our stock that passed their most recent MOT on the first attempt, based on DVSA history. A pass rate above 80% is generally strong for a car of this age.

If a car you're viewing is approaching its MOT expiry, factor in the cost of any advisories — these are listed on each vehicle detail page.

Frequently asked questions

What is the MOT pass rate for a used Mazda Cx-5?
Based on 59113 national DVSA MOT tests, the Mazda Cx-5 has a pass rate of 84.99%. This indicates a strong performance in official inspections across the UK.
What are the most common MOT failures on a Mazda Cx-5?
The most frequent MOT failures for the Mazda Cx-5 are Brakes (23%), Tyres (22%), Suspension (17%), and Lighting & electrical (16%). These categories account for the majority of issues found during tests.
Is the Mazda Cx-5 reliable?
While an 84.99% MOT pass rate is good, it reflects vehicles presented for test rather than overall lifetime reliability. Failures tend to increase with vehicle age and can be influenced by maintenance and driving conditions.
What should I check before buying a used Mazda Cx-5?
Before purchasing, pay close attention to the brakes, tyres, suspension, and all lights. These are the most common MOT failure points for the Mazda Cx-5, so thorough inspection here could highlight potential issues.
How many Mazda Cx-5s are for sale and what's the cheapest price?
As of 1 August 2026, there are 3 Mazda Cx-5s currently for sale. The cheapest available model starts from £8960, or can be financed from £195 per month (representative example, finance subject to status).
What are the most common MOT failures on the Mazda Cx-5?
Across 9 Mazda Cx-5 cars on Motoring Today with DVSA MOT history, the most common reasons for MOT failure are brakes, visibility (windscreen & wipers) and steering (brakes account for 29% of recorded failures).

More Mazda Cx-5 resources