I did not drive, but taxiing around Guadalajara was safe.
I did not want to leave Ajijic on Lake Chapala. The weather, restaurants and views are incredible. This was two years ago.

Many years ago I was in DF in a park drinking with two other 20 year olds. We were just sitting at a park table. 3 policia came up and hassled us clearly looking for money. We were all pretty broke and they left us with the few pesos we had. I can't imagine it's gotten better.

I would not hesitate to fly to Guad and taxi around.
Same for the Chapala area.