2013 Mazda Mazda2 problems

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The Mazda2 is a subcompact/supermini (B-segment) car manufactured and marketed by Mazda since 2002, currently in its third generation. An entry-level model of the brand in markets outside Japan, the Mazda2 is positioned below the Mazda3. The Mazda2 has also been marketed as the Mazda Demio (a name it kept in the Japanese market until 2019), while its direct predecessor was exported as the Mazda 121.

The second-generation Mazda2 earned the 2008 World Car of the Year title, while the third-generation model was awarded the 2014–2015 Japanese Car of the Year.

The third-generation model was sold in North America as the Scion iA and Toyota Yaris, Yaris iA and Yaris R.

A separate, petrol-hybrid version based on the Toyota Yaris Hybrid has been sold in Europe under the same Mazda2 nameplate since 2022 alongside the petrol-powered third-generation Mazda2.

2013 Mazda Mazda2

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Common 2013 Mazda Mazda2 problems

Based on complaints from owners of the Mazda 2 2013, common problems reported include issues with the air conditioning system, clutch, and diesel particulate filter (DPF). Here is a detailed breakdown of each problem:

  1. Air Conditioning System Problems:
    • Owners have reported difficulties with the air conditioning system, where it struggles to provide cool air as expected. This issue may stem from a faulty blower motor or refrigerant gas leakage, leading to inadequate cooling in the cabin.
    • Symptoms: Inadequate cooling, lack of cold air, or inconsistent temperature control.
    • Potential Causes: Blower motor failure, refrigerant leaks, or other component malfunctions.
    • Average Repair Cost: Approximately £94.14 for air conditioning repairs.
  2. Clutch Issues:
    • Drivers have experienced problems with the clutch, noticing a clicking noise when engaging or disengaging it. This clicking noise could indicate various faults within the clutch system, necessitating inspection by a trained mechanic.
    • Symptoms: Clicking noise when using the clutch pedal.
    • Potential Causes: Faulty clutch components or wear and tear.
    • Average Repair Cost: Around £517.26 for clutch repairs.
  3. Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Concerns:
    • Some Mazda 2 owners have faced issues with the DPF becoming clogged easily, leading to the illumination of the DPF warning light. This problem is more likely to occur if the car is used for frequent short journeys, preventing the engine from reaching optimal temperatures.
    • Symptoms: DPF warning light, reduced engine performance, or increased fuel consumption.
    • Potential Causes: Clogging due to short trips, poor fuel quality, or high mileage.
    • Average Repair Cost: Approximately £186.77 for DPF cleaning.

These common problems with the Mazda 2 2013 can impact the driving experience and require timely attention to prevent further damage or safety risks. Owners are advised to address these issues promptly by consulting a qualified mechanic to ensure the proper functioning of their vehicles.

2013 Mazda Mazda2 engine

What are common problems with a Mazda 2?

Some of the common problems with the Mazda 2 include:

  • Clutch problems.
  • Diesel Particulate Filter problems.
  • Air conditioning problems.

Is Mazda 2 2013 reliable?

Excellent gas saver and very reliable

This car has small stature but offers plenty of interior space with fold down rear seats, offers excellent gas mileage, and very reliable. I highly recommend this great commuter for anyone who drives substantially, or looking for an affordable reliable car, with interior space.

What is the recall on the 2013 Mazda 2?

2013 Mazda Mazda2 Recalls

The lower mounting nuts and bolts that attach the front strut assembly to the steering knuckle may loosen, allowing the steering knuckle to separate.

How long does a Mazda 2 engine last?

What is Mazda 2 lifespan? The estimated lifespan of a Mazda 2 is 183,000mi, before reaching the life expectancy upper limit. Fuel type is a major factor when looking into a vehicles lifespan/life expectancy.

2013 Mazda Mazda2 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mazda Mazda2 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Steering problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Seats problems
  • Wheels problems
  • Air bags problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2013 Mazda Mazda2 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2013 Mazda Mazda2 complaints

The NHTSA has received 13 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2013 Mazda Mazda2.

2019-08-27

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-08-27
  • VIN: JM1DE1KY6D0
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TAKATA RECALL
2019-04-22

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-04-21
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: JM1DE1KY7D0
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 MAZDA 2. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS AT A STOP LIGHT, SMOKE APPEARED FROM THE CD PLAYER AND FLAMES APPEARED FROM THE DASHBOARD. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO EXIT THE VEHICLE AND EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO GROOVE MAZDA (LOCATED AT 10301 E ARAPAHOE RD, CENTENNIAL, CO 80112, (720) 399-4467) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT AN ELECTRICAL MALFUNCTION CAUSED THE FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 64,000. *TR*JB
2019-02-23

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-02-23
  • VIN: JM1DE1KZ7D0
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: TAKATA RECALL
2018-12-15

SEATS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-11-16
  • VIN: JM1DE1LZ8D0
  • Components: SEATS
  • Summary: DRIVER'S SEAT CAME UNATTACHED FROM THE FLOOR MOUNTED SLIDES/BRACKETS THAT ALLOW FOR LEG LENGTH ADJUSTMENTS. CAR WAS IN MOTION, TRAVELLING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, AND IN THE CENTER OF THREE LANES OF TRAFFIC AT THE TIME. I PULLED OVER AND EXAMINED THE SEAT. WASHERS WERE UNDER THE SEAT, AND THE SEAT WOULD MOVE UP AND DOWN 8-10 INCHES ON THE LEFT (DOOR-SIDE) SIDE. SEAT WAS STILL ATTACHED TO BRACKETS/SLIDES ON THE RIGHT (CENTER-LINE / GEAR-LEVER) SIDE.
2018-07-02

SEATS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-12-10
  • VIN: JM1DE1LY2D0
  • Components: SEATS
  • Summary: A RECALL WAS ISSUED ON THE 2011 MAZDA 2 MODELS RELATED TO A PROBLEM WITH THE SEAT HEIGHT ADJUSTER MECHANISM BECOMING LOOSE. BASED ON THE DESCRIPTION OF THE ISSUE, MY 2013 MAZDA 2 IS EXHIBITING THE SAME ISSUE. THE SEAT 'ROCKS' BACK AND FORTH, AS IF IT'S ONLY PARTLY SECURED. I CONTACTED MAZDA AND THEY REITERATED THAT THE 2013 MODEL IS NOT CURRENTLY COVERED UNDER THEIR RECALL, HOWEVER THE PROBLEM IS CLEARLY PRESENT ON MINE. IT IS MAZDA'S RESPONSIBILITY TO ENSURE THAT ALL SEAT MECHANISMS ARE FUNCTIONING SAFELY AND SECURELY. THE ISSUE WAS NOTICED EARLIER THIS YEAR AND HAS SUBSEQUENTLY GOTTEN WORSE.
2018-02-12

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-02-01
  • VIN: JM1DE1LZXD0
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: CLUNKING NOISE AND FEEL, AND EXCESSIVE PLAY IN THE STEERING MECHANISM DURING LOW SPEED TURNS. THE PROBLEM BEGAN DURING THE FIRST YEAR OF OWNERSHIP. INTERNET FORUMS INDICATE THAT MANY OTHER OWNERS OF THIS MODEL EXPERIENCE THE SAME PROBLEMS. THE CAUSE IS FAILURE OF PART NUMBER DR613210XF, KNOWN AS THE ENERGY ABSORBER SHAFT. MAZDA IS AWARE OF THE FLAW.
2017-11-13

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-09-13
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: PROGRESSIVE POWER STEERING RACK FAILURE POWER STEERING RACK, WHILE TURNING, MAKES AUDIBLE CLUNKING/POPPING NOISE ACCOMPANIED BY VIBRATION AND EXCESSIVE PLAY IN STEERING. MOST NOTICEABLE WHEN MAKING A LOW-SPEED THREE POINT TURN, I.E. BACKING INTO OR OUT OF A PARKING SPACE. COMPLETE STEERING FAILURE MAY RESULT IF NOT CAUGHT OR ADDRESSED EARLY. OCCURRED IN A NEW, VERY LOW-MILAGE VEHICLE.
2017-09-28

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-09-11
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: REAR SHOCKS HAD TO BE REPLACED AFTER 65,000 MI. NO SIGN OF AN ISSUE PRIOR. DROVE TO AND FROM WORK ON A SUNDAY, MONDAY MORNING ALL FLUID HAS LEAKED ONTO MY DRIVEWAY.
2017-06-19

WHEELS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-08-05
  • Components: WHEELS
  • Summary: TAKATA INFLATORS , MY CAR MAKES A RUMBLING NOIRS COMMING FROM MY BACK TIRES WHICH SOUNDS LIKE THE REAR WHEEL HUB AND THE DEALERSHIP IS TELLING ME THAT IT'S MY BACK TIRES AND WENT TO ANOTHER PLACE AND THEY TOLD ME IT IS THE REAR WHEEL HUBS
2017-03-08

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-03-08
  • VIN: JM1DE1KY3D0
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: RATTLING NOISE AND KNOWING OF STEERING COLUMN. INDEPENDENT SERVICE WON'T REPAIR SINCE THERE IS AN OPEN RECALL FOR FAULTY STEERING KNUCKLE ON SAME YEAR, MAKE, AND MODEL CAR. ACCORDING TO MANUFACTURE MY SPECIFIC VEHICLE DOES NOT FALL UNDER RECALL BECAUSE OF VIN NUMBER.
2015-05-01

TIRES,WHEELS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-12-24
  • VIN: JM1DE1KZ7D0
  • Components: TIRES,WHEELS
  • Summary: ON THE NIGHT DEC 24,2014, I HAD PICKED UP MY RENTAL CAR(1013 MAZDA 2 SILVER SEDAN) FROM DOLLAR RENTAL CAR AT BWI AIRPORT. ABOUT 30 MINUTES AFTER I DROVE OFF THE LOT, ABOUT 5 MILES AWAY FROM THE PICKUP GARAGE, I NOTICED THE LOW TIRE PRESSURE WARNING LIGHT WAS ON. BEFORE I HAD A CHANCE TO TURN AROUND AND RETURN THE CAR, THE FRONT DRIVERS SIDE TIRE BLEW OUT. THE TREAD WAS SEPARATED. THIS WAS OBVIOUSLY NEGLIGENCE ON PART OF THE RENTAL CAR COMPANY. WHOEVER DID THE MAINTENANCE AND SAFETY CHECK NEVER SHOULD HAVE ALLOWED THE VEHICLE TO BE DRIVEN OFF THE LOT. NO WHERE IN THE RENTAL CONTRACT DOES IT STATE THAT THE RENTER IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE OPERATIONAL & MECHANICAL MAINTENANCE OF THE VEHICLE WITH THE EXCEPTION OF REFUELING THE VEHICLE. THE CONTRACT ALSO DOESN'T STATE THAT THE RENTER IS RESPONSIBLE FOR DAMAGES CAUSED BY NEGLIGENT OR IMPROPER MAINTENANCE PERFORMED BY THE OWNER/RENTAL CAR COMPANY. I WAS FORTUNATE I DIDN'T HAVE AN ACCIDENT. BECAUSE DOLLAR/THRIFTY RENTAL CAR REFUSES TO ACKNOWLEDGE/RECTIFY THIS PROBLEM OR TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR ITS NEGLIGENCE, THIS PROBLEM WILL EVENTUALLY HAPPEN TO ANOTHER CUSTOMER. *TR
2014-11-15

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-11-15
  • VIN: JM1DE1LY3D0
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: GAS PEDAL STUCK DOWN CAUSING UNWANTED ACCELERATING. *TR
2014-06-22

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-06-21
  • VIN: JM1DE1LY1D0
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: UPON STOPPING, TURNING OFF VEHICLE AND REMOVING IGNITION FOB KEY; FOB KEY AND IGNITION SWITCH WERE VERY, VERY HOT TO THE TOUCH. *TR

2013 Mazda Mazda2 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2013 Mazda Mazda2.

2016-04-11
  • Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2016 CX-3 vehicles manufactured June 1, 2015, to December 2, 2015, 2013-2014 Mazda2 vehicles manufactured July 3, 2013, to August 8, 2014, 2014-2016 CX-5 vehicles manufactured January 19, 2013, to December 2, 2015, and 2013-2015 CX-9 vehicles manufactured December 6, 2012, to July 31, 2015. The lower mounting nuts and bolts that attach the front strut assembly to the steering knuckle may loosen, allowing the steering knuckle to separate.
  • Consequence: If the steering knuckle separates from the strut assembly, it can cause a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the lower mounting nuts and bolts that secure the front strut assembly to the steering knuckle. If the bolts are loose, they will be replaced and then correctly tightened, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin May 20, 2016. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's number for this recall is 9316D.

Negative 2013 Mazda Mazda2 car reviews

  1. Gaston Fritsch 2024-10-19

    Firstly, I want to say that the Mazda 2 fulfills its purpose of being an affordable and reliable car that gets me from one place to another. I purchased it mainly for its affordability and reputation as a respected manufacturer. Although the interior has some flaws, such as easily scratched plastics and fabric that tears easily, it still looks good with its black fabric and red piping. However, I did have some issues with the back seat tearing even though I took precautions to prevent it. Additionally, the fuel level indicator is hard to see and the gauges and text on the information system are small and difficult to read. The car is also quite small and lacks space compared to other small cars like the Mini Cooper Coupe and Chevy Sonic. As a 5'7'' driver, I have to adjust the seat all the way back and recline it far back to fit comfortably, which leaves no leg room for passengers in the back. The cup holders are hidden underneath the optional armrest and there is little storage space. The 6 speaker Bose system is decent, but I have heard better. Unfortunately, the windows have trouble defogging. Overall, the Mazda 2 is a good car for its affordability and reliability, but it does have some drawbacks to consider.I have tried every setting on the heat/ac system and unfortunately, the only setting that works is the a/c on, even in the winter in New England. The full blast fan coming out of the defrost setting only is not ideal, but I have had some luck with the Rain Dance defogger. As for the exterior, the chrome peeled off the Mazda 2 logo in the back within weeks of buying the car, but other than that, it has held up pretty well. In terms of mechanics, it has been a reliable vehicle for over 2 years and 50,000 miles. It always starts in the cold New England winters and maintenance has been cheap and infrequent. Balise Mazda in West Springfield, MA has been awesome! However, the brakes have been a major issue. The anti-lock brake feature comes on way too early and I have had multiple issues stopping in it. I found pumping helps, but I brought this up to Mazda service and they can't find anything wrong with them. Today, I nearly hit a Jeep in front of me and it wasn't even in hard braking conditions. The anti-lock braking comes on at random times, which is not acceptable and is the main reason I am trading the car in. I need reliable braking power, especially with the many hills and bad road conditions in Western Massachusetts. In terms of handling, it is easy to drive and handles fine. I even taught my teenage daughter to drive in it. However, it is way underpowered for driving in a hilly or mountainous region. I have given up on certain freeway on-ramps because the car just doesn't have enough power to get up to 65 and merge. If you have to drive on snow at all, make sure to get 4 really good snow tires. I had no control on snow with the stock tires, but I have a little better control with top-of-the-line snow tires. Overall, if you are looking for something cheap, with fair MPG, and from a reliable maker, then the Mazda 2 is a good bet.If you live in a hilly or mountainous area with bad weather, then you might want to consider a vehicle with better handling, heating, power, and control. :)

  2. Marlin Klein 2024-08-23

    This is a fantastic little car if you're looking for excellent gas mileage with minimal maintenance costs. It's a hatchback, so when you fold down the back seats, you can fit quite a bit of stuff in the back. The only downside I've found is its size, as it can be difficult to spot in parking lots behind larger cars. Overall, it's a great car for anyone seeking excellent gas mileage, ample storage space, ease of driving, and comfort. It's the perfect little car!

  3. Bart Hodkiewicz 2024-06-18

    My wife really likes it. However, I have had a couple of small breakdowns and found that replacement parts for the Mazda two are both expensive and hard to find. For example, a simple tire stud was only available from the dealer, and the same goes for the CV joints/driveshaft, which cost $800 compared to the $60-$120 for other cars.

Positive 2013 Mazda Mazda2 car reviews

  1. Sheldon Buckridge 2025-02-10

    Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with this car that I purchased back in August. After waiting all summer to make a new car purchase, I finally decided to test drive this one before making any decisions. And boy, am I glad I did! Unlike the Fiesta, which didn't quite live up to the hype, and the Yaris, which I considered closely, this car is an absolute joy to drive! The more I drive it, the more I fall in love with it. I've actually been driving more in the past 3 months than I did in the 6 months prior with my old car. If you're like me and do a lot of city driving, you'll find that this car is perfect for navigating tight side streets, making quick turns, and edging through traffic. And don't worry, it does just fine on the highway too! With 100 hp, I've found it to be more than sufficient. Thanks for listening to my experience!

  2. Jabari Dach 2025-02-01

    I recently had the opportunity to drive one of these cars and it got me thinking about my own purchase. Despite being on a tight budget, I ended up buying a 2012 Ford Focus without considering the Mazda 2. However, after driving the Toyota Yaris 4-door, which had a noisy ride and a hard feel on the road, I was pleasantly surprised by the Mazda 2. As a six-foot tall driver, I found the Mazda 2 to be spacious and comfortable with a quiet and solid feel inside. The doors closed with a satisfying thunk and the car was both smooth and fast. While the Edmunds review criticized the automatic transmission, I personally found it to be more than adequate. When I needed to pass, I hit the pedal hard and the car responded quickly with smooth and fast acceleration. Overall, I highly recommend the Mazda 2 for anyone in the market for a reliable and enjoyable car.

  3. Burley O'Keefe 2025-01-24

    I purchased my Mazda 2 in 2014. I was looking for a car that had great gas mileage, low payments, and a way to listen to my music from my phone, all while still looking stylish. Previously, I had a basic 2006 Hyundai Tucson that had transmission problems and only got 19 mpg. The Mazda 2, on the other hand, got an impressive 28 mpg, which was a significant improvement. I only needed to change the oil regularly and the brakes once during the two years I owned it. Mazda makes excellent tires, and the ones that came with the car lasted through many long trips without any issues. Even when I traded it in for a new vehicle due to my growing family, the tires were still in great condition. Although the Mazda 2 was designed to be affordable, it still looked and felt like a quality car. As a Mississippi girl, I can attest that the car was spacious enough to comfortably fit three friends and all of our luggage on three six-hour trips to the beach. The car's great gas mileage allowed us to save money on fuel and spend more on our trip. With 28 mpg, I only needed to fill up once or twice a week, even with a 45-minute drive three times a week and driving to work. The Mazda 2 was a definite upgrade from my previous vehicle and required very little maintenance. While the ride could be slightly noisy and bumpy, it was still enjoyable to drive. The car's size made parking, backing up, and switching lanes super easy. I wish I had this car as my first one. It even had a USB and aux outlet for listening to music, which was a great feature.Siri talked through the sound system, making phone navigation a breeze. The sound system was particularly impressive, especially since the one in my Tucson had been ruined by the previous owner. As I had a new baby, I needed a vehicle that could accommodate a baby car seat without having to bring the front passenger seat too far forward. The Mazda 2 had everything I needed to install a baby car seat, and even my 5'3 mom could sit comfortably in the front passenger seat with the car seat installed. I loved the Mazda 2 so much that I traded it in for a 2013 CX-5, which I'm absolutely in love with! I would highly recommend the Mazda 2 to anyone; Mazda all the way!

  4. Taylor Jones 2025-01-10

    I recently purchased this car and I absolutely love its quick and responsive handling! For a 100 hp, this little car can really move. I have to say, I strongly disagree with Edmunds' assessment of this car. I also test drove the Fiesta and was a little disappointed. Although the Fit has more storage, I find its drive less pleasant and its styling less attractive. Overall, I'm really happy with my purchase!

  5. Hank Rowe 2024-10-20

    This sounds like a great car! It handles curves really well and gets great gas mileage, especially for highway driving. I love that you can customize it with a K&N air filter for even better acceleration. It's not perfect, but in my opinion, it's the best subcompact hatchback on the market for handling. I highly recommend test driving one before making a decision. Personally, I would definitely buy this car again.

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2013 Mazda Mazda2 problems:

Mazda 2 : r/mazda
Mazda 2 : r/mazda
https://www.reddit.com/r/mazda/comments/17rb8c4/mazda_2/

Nov 9, 2023 ... Any Mazda owner like to share any common problems or issues needs to be careful with. ... I have a 2013 Mazda 2. ... r/mazda3 - Mazda 3 Recall. 113 ...

Mazda 2 Problems | Common Faults & Repair Costs ...
Mazda 2 Problems | Common Faults & Repair Costs ...
https://www.whocanfixmycar.com/advice/common-problems-with-the-mazda-2

Mazda 2 air conditioning problems. Another problem reported with the Mazda 2 is with the model's air conditioning system. Drivers have found that the air ...

Mazda 2 driveability problem| Grassroots Motorsports forum |
Mazda 2 driveability problem| Grassroots Motorsports forum |
https://grassrootsmotorsports.com/forum/grm/mazda-2-driveability-problem/134207/page1/

2013 Mazda 2 sport 5 speed, 90k miles. At about 2500 rpm regardless of gear under light load or part throttle engine appears to miss.

2013 Mazda 2 Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
2013 Mazda 2 Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
https://repairpal.com/cars/mazda/2/2013

Get 2013 Mazda 2 repair and maintenance costs, common problems, recalls, and more. Find certified Mazda mechanics near you.

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mazda mazda2 2013 photo
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