In a recent analysis by Consumer Reports, used Mazda cars have once again proven their value by ranking among the top three most reliable brands for 5- to 10-year-old vehicles. This annual report, based on survey data from over 150,000 vehicle owners, highlights just how much long-term dependability matters, especially in today’s market, where high new-car prices, inflation, and tariffs have made used models more appealing than ever. For buyers looking to make a smart financial decision, a reliable used car offers a cost-effective path to ownership without sacrificing peace of mind.
Are Mazdas reliable? The data clearly says yes. Alongside Lexus and Toyota, Mazda continues to earn high marks for consistency and quality. Unlike some brands that rush to introduce unproven technology, Mazda has built a reputation for thoughtful evolution across its lineup. As Steven Elek, Consumer Reports’ senior automotive data analyst, explains, brands like Mazda incrementally improve their entire product line rather than introducing many all-new systems, leading to cars that are not only dependable when new but stay that way as they age.
To determine brand rankings, Consumer Reports focused on 20 problem areas, ranging from minor annoyances like squeaky brakes to major concerns such as engine and transmission troubles. These issues were weighed by severity and compiled into a single reliability score based on six model years, from 2015 to 2020. The results showed that used Mazda cars perform exceptionally well over time, making them a top choice for value-conscious drivers.
For those looking to shop with extra confidence, Mazda Certified Pre Owned (CPO) vehicles are an excellent option. Each Mazda CPO model undergoes a rigorous inspection process and comes backed by warranty coverage, adding another layer of reassurance.
Koeppel Mazda make it easy to explore a wide selection of Mazda CPO vehicles, helping drivers find a reliable used car that fits both their needs and budget.
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Mazda’s Meticulous Vetting Process + Incredible Perks
Mazda takes exceptional care to ensure that only the highest quality used Mazda cars qualify for its Mazda Certified Pre Owned (CPO) program. This meticulous process is designed to provide peace of mind to drivers seeking a reliable used car that offers both quality and long-term value. From the moment a vehicle is considered for certification, it must undergo a thorough 160-point inspection that examines everything from the engine and transmission to the brakes, interior, exterior, and even the heating and air conditioning systems. This inspection ensures that every part of the vehicle, whether large or small, meets Mazda’s high standards.
Autocheck Vehicle History Report - Every Mazda Certified Pre Owned vehicle also includes an AutoCheck® Vehicle History Report. This provides a detailed record of the car’s past, offering full transparency. The report includes Buyback Protection from Experian for three years, giving buyers additional confidence in their purchase. By focusing on the complete history and mechanical condition of each vehicle, Mazda ensures that only the most dependable used Mazda cars earn the CPO badge.
CPO Vehicle Warranty - Mazda backs its CPO vehicles with impressive warranty coverage. In addition to any remaining balance of the original 3-year/36,000-mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty, each Mazda CPO model comes with a 12-month or 12,000-mile CPO Limited Vehicle Warranty. If the original warranty has expired, this coverage begins at the time of purchase. All covered repairs are made with a zero-dollar deductible, minimizing potential out-of-pocket expenses.
Powertrain Warranty - Even more reassuring is the 7-year/100,000-mile Limited Powertrain Warranty that covers critical components like the engine, turbocharger, and transmission.
24-Hour Emergency Assistance - Along with the warranties above, buyers receive complimentary 24-hour emergency roadside assistance, which includes:
- Jump starts
- Flat tire changes
- Towing (to the nearest authorized Mazda dealership)
- Lockout assistance
- Fuel delivery
Transfer Benefits - Another advantage of buying a Mazda Certified Pre Owned vehicle is the transferability of its warranties. If the owner decides to sell the car, the warranties remain in place at no additional cost, increasing the resale appeal of the vehicle.
An Excellent Car Maker
Mazda is an amazing car brand with a rich automotive history rooted in innovation, resilience, and a passion for driving. Founded in Japan, Mazda originally began as a cork manufacturer before shifting to the production of tools and eventually vehicles. In 1931, it introduced its first motorized product, a three-wheeled truck called the Mazda-Go. This marked the brand’s early commitment to mobility and engineering excellence.
In the decades that followed, Mazda gained global attention for its dedication to performance and design. One of its most iconic achievements came in the 1960s with the development of the rotary engine, a unique and compact powertrain that set Mazda apart in the racing and sports car world. The launch of the Mazda Cosmo in 1967, the first production car with a twin-rotor rotary engine, helped Mazda build a reputation for innovation.
Mazda’s momentum continued into the 1980s and 1990s with vehicles like the RX-7 and the launch of the MX-5 Miata in 1989. The Miata quickly became the best-selling two-seat roadster in history, celebrated for its light weight, balance, and driving fun. These models helped solidify Mazda’s place in the global automotive landscape.
Today, Mazda is known for producing cars that are both fun to drive and engineered with care. The company’s design philosophy, called Kodo or "Soul of Motion," gives each vehicle a distinctive look that reflects motion even when parked. Its engineering approach, SKYACTIV Technology, focuses on optimizing performance, efficiency, and safety without sacrificing driving enjoyment.
Mazda’s long-standing commitment to quality and driver satisfaction continues to earn praise from industry experts and drivers alike. The brand has earned high reliability ratings and accolades for its attention to detail and craftsmanship. Through decades of evolution, Mazda has become a name recognized around the world for vehicles that deliver both heart and precision.
Choose Reliable Used Cars from Koeppel Mazda!
So… are Mazdas reliable? Absolutely. The data from Consumer Reports confirms that Mazdas are indeed dependable, making used Mazda cars an excellent choice for those seeking a roadworthy vehicle. With Mazda’s rigorous certification process, Mazda Certified Pre Owned vehicles offer additional peace of mind, providing thorough inspections and robust warranties.
At Koeppel Mazda, you can explore a wide range of Mazda CPO options that are carefully selected for quality and reliability. See our used Mazda car and certified pre-owned inventories today!
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