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.

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

How reliable is the Mazda Cx-5 at MOT?

Across 2 Mazda Cx-5 cars on Motoring Today, the average first-time MOT pass rate is 93%. 50% of stock currently holds a valid MOT, with a median of 0 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
93%
Valid MOT
1 / 2
Median MOT left
0 mo
Top failure
Brakes

Motoring Today currently lists 3 Mazda Cx-5 models, starting from £8,595 or a representative monthly payment of £194. Analysis of 59,113 real-world DVSA MOT tests reveals that the Mazda Cx-5 achieves an 84.99% pass rate nationally. While this is a strong figure, like any used vehicle, certain areas are more prone to issues. The most common MOT failure categories for the Cx-5 are Brakes (23% of failures), Tyres (22%), and Suspension (17%), with Brakes topping the list. These failure statistics offer valuable insights for used car buyers. High failure rates for Brakes and Tyres suggest that consumable wear-and-tear items are a primary concern; a buyer should always check the condition of brake pads, discs, and tyre tread depth, as these will likely need replacing if not in good order. Suspension issues can range from worn bushes to faulty shock absorbers, often leading to poor ride quality or handling, so listen for knocks and check for uneven tyre wear during a test drive. It's crucial to remember that an MOT pass rate reflects the condition of vehicles presented for test, not an absolute measure of lifetime reliability, and issues frequently cluster with age and maintenance, rather than the badge itself. Motoring Today provides the full MOT history for every listing, allowing you to see specific advisories and failures for any particular Cx-5 you're considering.

93First-time MOT pass
Average pass rate
Stock with valid MOT
1 / 2
50% road-ready
Median MOT left
0 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?
According to real national DVSA MOT test data, the Mazda Cx-5 has a pass rate of 84.99% from 59113 tests. A dangerous failure rate of 5.94% was also recorded.
What are the most common MOT failures on a Mazda Cx-5?
The top failure categories are Brakes (23%), Tyres (22%), Suspension (17%), and Lighting & electrical (16%). Other issues account for 12% of failures.
Is the Mazda Cx-5 reliable?
While the 84.99% MOT pass rate is a good indicator, it reflects vehicles presented for test, not necessarily lifetime reliability. MOT failures can cluster with vehicle age and neglect.
What should I check before buying a used Mazda Cx-5?
Given the common MOT failures, pay close attention to the brakes, tyre condition, and suspension components. Also check all lights and electrical systems thoroughly.
How many Mazda Cx-5 cars are currently for sale and what's the cheapest price?
As of 12 September 2026, there are 3 Mazda Cx-5 vehicles for sale. The cheapest model is priced from £8595, or from £194 per month as a representative finance example, 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