I'm considering a 2013-15 Mazda CX-5. I've done a lot of research here and on other sites. Another SUV in the running is a Honda CR-V. I see both the CX-5 and the CR-V can have trouble with low heater temperature output due to a clogged heater core. I wonder how common this really is with the CX-5? I see many positive reviews with the occasional mention of the trouble. The CR-Vs remedy is a heater core flush. From what I've read here, it's usually a heater core replacement with the CX-5.

I'm leaning toward the CX-5. While of course no vehicle will be flawless, especially a used one, the heater core situation would be a concern. I now have a 70+ mile round trip commute and it appears 29-30 MPGs on the highway with the CX-5 can be achieved which is impressive for AWD.

 

MY 2016 CX-5 never had a problem and I haven't seen anyone else complain about the issue on this forum. I wouldn't be concerned.

 

That's good to know. Most of the reviews I see are very positive.

 

Have a 2016.5 CX-5 AWD, myself. I think the temperatures of the heater and A/C put out are fine. Except for when air temps get below 10ºF or so, when the heating (temp rise) can feel a bit anemic. I'd prefer a bit stronger blower, with greater airflow (CFS), but otherwise it's fine.

 

If it's decent above 10ºF then that's fine IMO. Hopefully the situation with the clogged heater core is rare.

I wish there was a way to edit my title. I realized it says C-5 instead of CX-5.

 

Don't worry. Many of us here have fingers with learning disabilities.

 

fixed

 

Thanks for fixing the typo. Took a 2014 CX-5 for a test drive yesterday. What was surprising was the ride quality - some reviews refer to it as 'firm', or 'busy'. I found it to be smooth and complaint. The brief stretch of highway I took it on was recently paved, but overall I think the ride quality is fine. I found the driver's seat very comfortable.

Unfortunately it was priced way out of my cash range. The dealership listed a price online, which the salesman referred to as the 'Wholesale price'. The bottom line added a 'shop and recon' fee of almost $1,500, a 'doc fee' of $699, and a 'non tax fee' of $390. No way. If this is typical from a new car dealership I guess I'll need to lower the bar. Maybe I'd be better off with a smaller independent dealership. I understand there will be a conveyance fee, which maybe the 'non tax fee' is, but this seemed unreasonable.