Mazda CX-5 Problems

All of them would be good choices, but I would prefer the Mazda CX-5 or the Kia Sportage. Either would be fine.

The two cars you’ve selected are equally sound and reliable, and there are no issues to be concerned about when buying a used example. Either one would do what you want. The best course is to test drive each and decide which one you like best.

Of those you list I would go for the Mitsubishi ASX. You could also try the Kia Sorento or Mazda CX-5.

There’s no good reason to not buy a Falcon, parts will be available for many years yet. There’s the Commodore, but it too is out of production. Other than that there’s no similar sized car available for you. You need to think about getting an SUV, such as a Toyota Kluger, Kia Sorento, Mazda CX-5.

Intermittent problems are hard to fix because the mechanic really has nothing to go when everything is working. It could be an electrical connection, or a sensor. The only thing you can do is to persist and take it to the dealer when it happens again.

As you say, the choice is bewildering. All the models you have been looking would be suitable; you could also look at the Nissan X-Trail. I would go for either the Mazda CX-5 or the Kia Sportage, but that's not to say the others aren't worth considering. Why don't you go shopping and check each of them out to see how they fit your needs.

An SUV would seem to be the best choice given your concerns about getting in and out of the car. Most carmakers now offer FWD versions as well as all-wheel drive models, and without knowing what your budget limitation is I would think an SUV like a Mitsubishi ASX, Mazda CX-5, Subaru Forester or Kia Sorento would fit your needs well.

If you’d had your car serviced by the Mazda dealer you would have saved yourself the cost of the replacement alternator, and the inconvenience of trying to sort it out.

On average a 2012 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring would cost around $25,000, which makes yours a little expensive. But against the odometer reading is well below the average, which compensates for the higher asking price. If you have any doubts about the car have an RACV inspection done.

There are locksmiths who can supply keys for the CX-5. You can find them online.