Mazda Mazda5 problems

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The Mazda Premacy (Japanese: マツダ・プレマシー, Hepburn: Matsuda Puremashī) is a passenger minivan that was built by the Japanese manufacturer Mazda from 1999 to 2018.

The first generation Premacy was built in Japan and exported to Europe and Asia. A rebadged version was sold by Ford in a few Asian markets (including Japan) as the Ford Ixion or Ixion MAV.

The second generation onward is sold outside Japan as the Mazda5. Ford Lio Ho in Taiwan, which assembles Mazda5 for the local market, adapted a re-badged version as the Ford i-Max from 2007 until 2011.

The first generation Premacy was a two- or three-row, five- or seven-passenger vehicle, while the second generation adds a third row of seats for up to six passengers in American form, and seven passengers outside the United States. Both generations feature near-flat floors, folding or removable second row, and fold-flat rear seats.

photo of Mazda Mazda5 car production

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Mazda Mazda5 model years

mazda mazda5 2016 photo
Mazda5 2016
Mazda

2

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda mazda5 2015 photo
Mazda5 2015
Mazda

7

1

22

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda mazda5 2014 photo
Mazda5 2014
Mazda

12

1

41

2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda mazda5 2013 photo
Mazda5 2013
Mazda

22

1

35

2.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda mazda5 2012 photo
Mazda5 2012
Mazda

35

1

28

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda mazda5 2011 photo
Mazda5 2011
Mazda

1

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda mazda5 2010 photo
Mazda5 2010
Mazda

57

1

29

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda mazda5 2009 photo
Mazda5 2009
Mazda

63

3

39

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda mazda5 2008 photo
Mazda5 2008
Mazda

67

2

40

2.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda mazda5 2007 photo
Mazda5 2007
Mazda

60

2

41

2.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda mazda5 2006 photo
Mazda5 2006
Mazda

78

3

42

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Common Mazda Mazda5 problems

Common Problems with Mazda Mazda5 Cars:

One of the most common issues with the Mazda5 is a rattling noise coming from the front suspension, which is often caused by worn-out sway bar bushings. These bushings, which connect the sway bar to the vehicle's frame, can deteriorate over time due to wear and tear, leading to a rattling noise, especially when driving over bumps or turning. Replacing the worn-out sway bar bushings can resolve this issue and restore the smoothness of the ride.

  • Shock Absorber Failure

Another common problem with the Mazda5 is shock absorber failure, which can cause the car to feel jerky or rough from the rear and knock when driving over speed bumps. This issue can be identified by checking for leaks underneath the back of the car. If the shock absorbers are leaking, they will need to be replaced to restore the vehicle's ride quality.

  • DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) Clogging

The DPF, a device that filters out harmful diesel particulate matter, can become clogged on the Mazda5, leading to a warning light on the dashboard. This issue is more likely to occur when the car is only used for short journeys, as the DPF does not have a chance to get hot enough to burn off unwanted particles. To resolve this issue, the car should be driven at around 40 mph for 10-15 minutes in third gear to allow the DPF to heat up and burn off the particles. If the warning light remains on, the DPF may need to be manually cleaned.

  • Suspension Problems

Some Mazda5 owners have reported hearing a knocking noise coming from the front suspension when driving over speed bumps or poorly surfaced roads. This issue can be caused by faulty lower front suspension arms or the front anti-roll bar bushes. To resolve this issue, the faulty part must be identified and replaced. Replacing the anti-roll bar bushes is generally the cheaper option.

  • Engine Overheating

Engine overheating is another common problem with the Mazda5. If the warning light comes on or if there is steam coming out of the car's hood, the car should be pulled over immediately, and the engine should be allowed to cool down. Common causes of engine overheating include low coolant levels, a faulty thermostat, or a damaged radiator. It is essential to address this issue promptly, as continued driving with an overheated engine can lead to severe damage.

In conclusion, while the Mazda5 is generally a reliable vehicle, these common issues can arise due to wear and tear or other factors. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent these problems and ensure the vehicle's longevity and safety.

Mazda Mazda5

What is the most common problem with the Mazda5?

Here are a few common issues Mazda5 vehicles experience: Air conditioning troubles. Slipping clutches. Transmission failure.

How long do Mazda5 engines last?

Mazda vehicles are known for lasting over a decade and between 200,000 and 250,000 miles, with some going even longer than that. The key to a long-lasting Mazda vehicle is to keep it running with proper maintenance and regular service.

Is the Mazda5 a good car?

Nimble and agile handling means it doesn't sacrifice being fun-to-drive either. Further, antilock brakes, traction control, and electronic stability control are standard. Still, there are some downsides. The four-cylinder engine can be overtaxed on hills, or with a full load.

What is the best year for a Mazda5?

Overall, the Mazda5 is a decent car if you're looking for a compact vehicle with the ability to weave through the city while providing enough room inside. We recommend going with the 2010, 2011, 2013, 2014, or 2015 options for the best results in the long term.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Mazda Mazda5 years

We have researched Mazda problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Mazda Mazda5 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Mazda Mazda5 model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Mazda Mazda5 model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Mazda Mazda5 years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Mazda Mazda5 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Mazda Mazda5 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Steering problems
  • Tires problems
  • Suspension problems
  • Structure problems
  • Service brakes problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Mazda Mazda5 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Mazda5 model years

A total of 28 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Mazda5 model years

There were a total of 8 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Mazda5 model years

There were a total of 27 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 404 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Mazda Mazda5 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Mazda Mazda5 vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Mazda Mazda5 2014
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-18
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
  • VIN: JM1CW2BL7E0
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: I bought this vehicle as is, about 2 months past, after driving it home I felt after pressing the Brakes pedal that it is not responding until I press 2 or 3 times. I went bnack to the dealer the next day and made a complain. They sent me to their Mechanic who diagnosed the problem to be the ABS Hydraulic Control Unit Assembly. It is available for inspection upon request. My safety and the safety of my family was put at risk because of the fact that I have to pump the brakes to slow the vehicle. Yes the problem was confirmed by the independent Mechanic recomended by the dealer, with a detailed estimate. No inspection was performed by the manufacturer, police or insurance representatives. The service light was on from the day I bought the vehicle.
Mazda Mazda5 2012
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-25
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-25
  • VIN: JM1CW2BL6C0
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: Sentury Touring (Discount Tire) 205/55/R16. Both front tires have inner wear to the point of shredding in the same location on *both* front tires. Both tires went out at the same time and could have caused a serious accident. Discount tire stated it was an alignment issue. The alignment shop (30 minutes after new tires were installed after dual blowout) stated that my alignment was perfectly within spec and also stated there was no indication of tire rub on any portion of the vehicle.
Mazda Mazda5 2008
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-04-30
  • Date Complaint: 2024-04-30
  • VIN: JM1CR293580
  • Components: STEERING,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: Mazda 5 power steering system fails intermittently. The power steering light comes on and steering becomes extremely difficult to steer. Occasionally, the check engine comes on as well and the engine stalls making the situation Also vibration in the steering wheel, and when I mean, the steering logs all the way up it locks all the way up, likes flicker and go out, but then it goes away after a few moments
Mazda Mazda5 2010
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-08-03
  • Date Complaint: 2024-01-26
  • VIN: JM1CR2WL1A0
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: On several occasions, most of which happened while in motion, my vehicle has stalled out of the blue with no warning. It seems to mostly happen when I’m slowing down or when I’m making a right hand turn and try to accelerate, suddenly there’s no power to the engine. I have to put the vehicle into park and restart it. Twice while slowing down for a red light. Twice immediately after making a right handed turn, and once, when entering roundabout, after yielding. This is happened at least five times. The most recent incident occurring in August 2023.
Mazda Mazda5 2010
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-01-17
  • Date Complaint: 2024-01-18
  • Crash: 1
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: JM1CR2W30A0
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: The Mazda 5 was in a minor collision. The vehicle rear-ended another vehicle in stop-and-go traffic. Both vehicles were in motion, approximate speed of the Mazda 5 was 15MPH or less. The front seat airbags deployed. The other vehicle had rear bumper damage but the Mazda 5 immediately had smoke and flames under the hood. Thankfully, all four occupants immediately exited the vehicle to safety. The Mazda 5 quickly burned completely. Police and firefighters came to the scene and everyone agreed that the Mazda 5 fire was not commensurate with the extent of the collision and likely speed of impact. I am concerned there was a major safety defect that caused it to be engulfed in flames.
Mazda Mazda5 2014
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-08-17
  • Date Complaint: 2023-08-17
  • VIN: JM1CW2CLXE0
  • Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: Power steering became stiff hard to turn, steering pulls left or right when driving over bumps on the road also brakes became spongy.
Mazda Mazda5 2015
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-06-18
  • Date Complaint: 2023-06-22
  • VIN: JM1CW2CL8F0
  • Components: EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
  • Summary: Weld failure can cause the board to tip and dump the user on the ground. This is a hazard because this piece of equipment is design for disabled users who can't stand. User found the cracked weld before it broke completely. The board was sagging from horizontal. I notified the manufacturer, then had the part repaired by a local fabricator. I have pictures showing the failure.
Mazda Mazda5 2010
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-03-01
  • Date Complaint: 2023-06-20
  • VIN: JM1CR2W36A0
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
  • Summary: My check engine light came on. We took it to a mechanic who hooked it up to the computer. It read DTC p2096. When the mechanic looked it up, he noticed that there was a recall issued previously on this specific problem. The description said Target EF feedback system to lean- manual and automatic transmission. When plugging in my VIN number it said it was not affected. But my question is if I'm having the same problem and it affected the same year that my vehicle was made, why is my vehicle not on that recall list?
Mazda Mazda5 2010
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-04-19
  • Date Complaint: 2023-04-19
  • VIN: JM1CR2W38A0
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2010 Mazda Mazda5. The contact stated that while inflating the driver’s side rear tire, the valve stem fractured and detached. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was taken to tire shop for assistance. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 165,000.
Mazda Mazda5 2009
  • Date Of Incident: 2022-08-01
  • Date Complaint: 2022-12-09
  • VIN: JM1CR293090
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: The headlights on this car are dangerously dim. Like the turn signals overpower them levels of dim. I’ve replaced the bulbs, the battery, cleaned all the connections, replaced the alternator, nothing makes a difference.
Mazda Mazda5 2012
  • Date Of Incident: 2022-09-21
  • Date Complaint: 2022-10-11
  • VIN: jm1cw2cl5c0
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Mazda MZ5. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal was depressed and went to the floorboard. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired and remained at the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that there was no recall associated with the VIN. The failure mileage was approximately 118,000.
Mazda Mazda5 2014
  • Date Of Incident: 2022-08-21
  • Date Complaint: 2022-08-21
  • VIN: JM1CW2BL4E0
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: The car became hard to steer, and I noticed the power steering light was on. It is a safety risk due to increased difficulty steering car and a risk for myself and other drivers on the road. This just occurred today and has not been investigated by an other parties. No warning or incidents prior to steering becoming difficult.
Mazda Mazda5 2012
  • Date Of Incident: 2022-08-10
  • Date Complaint: 2022-08-10
  • VIN: JM1CW2DL4C0
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: This vehicle ejects a significant amount of fuel from its fuel filler port during every refueling. The volume of fuel and the distance the gasoline travels in a hazardous environment poses an avoidable risk that can result in a catastrophic event with potential fatalities. In addition, the cumulative quantity of fuel needlessly spilled negatively impacts the environment at a time of heightened environmental concerns. For these reasons, this known issue should be elevated from a simple technical service bulletin (#01-013-15-3048) to a safety recall before fatalities result from a known manufacturing defect.
Mazda Mazda5 2013
  • Date Of Incident: 2022-06-22
  • Date Complaint: 2022-07-22
  • VIN: JM1CW2BL5D0
  • Components: SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
  • Summary: THE TCM FAILED ON THE CAR AND IT IS A VERY COMMON THING. THE DESIGN SET THE MODULE IN A LOCATION THAT OVERHEATS AND MALFUNCTIONS WHEN CONNECTION IS LOST WITH MECHANISMS THAT WARP UNDER HEAT, THE COST TO REPAIR AT THE DEALERSHIP WAS EXTREMELY EXPENSIVE
Mazda Mazda5 2010
  • Date Of Incident: 2021-11-04
  • Date Complaint: 2022-02-15
  • VIN: jm1cr2w33a0
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: While driving the car started lurching when accelerating. I noticed somebody else mentioned this recently when their car reached 180,000, which is when mine started doing the same thing. When this started happening my transmission light and my traction control light came on and my car was no longer operable. And by that I mean I could not accelerate or shift the vehicle into reverse, park, or neutral. This happened while driving 60 mph on the highway and almost caused an accident as I could no longer accelerate. I had the vehicle taken to a transmission shop and had the transmission control module replaced, but the car continued to have the same problem.

Latest 5 recalls Mazda Mazda5

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 15 recalls for different components of the Mazda Mazda5.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Mazda Mazda5 2015
  • Report Received Date: 2016-09-06
  • Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
  • Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE
  • Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2010-2013 Mazda3 and Mazdaspeed3 vehicles manufactured November 18, 2008, to June 8, 2013, 2012-2015 Mazda5 vehicles manufactured October 26, 2010, to June 22, 2015, 2016 CX-3 vehicles manufactured June 1, 2015, to December 26, 2015, and 2013-2016 CX-5 vehicles manufactured December 15, 2011, to December 26, 2015. On the affected vehicles, the lift gate support struts may corrode, possibly causing the struts to break and/or the lift gate to drop unexpectedly.
  • Consequence: If the lift gate falls unexpectedly, it may hit the user, increasing their risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Mazda dealers will replace the both lift gate supports, free of charge, however parts are not currently available. The recall began April 2017. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's number for this recall is 9916H.
  • Model: Mazda Mazda5 2012
  • Report Received Date: 2016-09-06
  • Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
  • Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE
  • Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2010-2013 Mazda3 and Mazdaspeed3 vehicles manufactured November 18, 2008, to June 8, 2013, 2012-2015 Mazda5 vehicles manufactured October 26, 2010, to June 22, 2015, 2016 CX-3 vehicles manufactured June 1, 2015, to December 26, 2015, and 2013-2016 CX-5 vehicles manufactured December 15, 2011, to December 26, 2015. On the affected vehicles, the lift gate support struts may corrode, possibly causing the struts to break and/or the lift gate to drop unexpectedly.
  • Consequence: If the lift gate falls unexpectedly, it may hit the user, increasing their risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Mazda dealers will replace the both lift gate supports, free of charge, however parts are not currently available. The recall began April 2017. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's number for this recall is 9916H.
  • Model: Mazda Mazda5 2013
  • Report Received Date: 2016-09-06
  • Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
  • Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE
  • Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2010-2013 Mazda3 and Mazdaspeed3 vehicles manufactured November 18, 2008, to June 8, 2013, 2012-2015 Mazda5 vehicles manufactured October 26, 2010, to June 22, 2015, 2016 CX-3 vehicles manufactured June 1, 2015, to December 26, 2015, and 2013-2016 CX-5 vehicles manufactured December 15, 2011, to December 26, 2015. On the affected vehicles, the lift gate support struts may corrode, possibly causing the struts to break and/or the lift gate to drop unexpectedly.
  • Consequence: If the lift gate falls unexpectedly, it may hit the user, increasing their risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Mazda dealers will replace the both lift gate supports, free of charge, however parts are not currently available. The recall began April 2017. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's number for this recall is 9916H.
  • Model: Mazda Mazda5 2014
  • Report Received Date: 2016-09-06
  • Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
  • Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE
  • Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2010-2013 Mazda3 and Mazdaspeed3 vehicles manufactured November 18, 2008, to June 8, 2013, 2012-2015 Mazda5 vehicles manufactured October 26, 2010, to June 22, 2015, 2016 CX-3 vehicles manufactured June 1, 2015, to December 26, 2015, and 2013-2016 CX-5 vehicles manufactured December 15, 2011, to December 26, 2015. On the affected vehicles, the lift gate support struts may corrode, possibly causing the struts to break and/or the lift gate to drop unexpectedly.
  • Consequence: If the lift gate falls unexpectedly, it may hit the user, increasing their risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Mazda dealers will replace the both lift gate supports, free of charge, however parts are not currently available. The recall began April 2017. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's number for this recall is 9916H.
  • Model: Mazda Mazda5 2010
  • Report Received Date: 2010-11-24
  • Manufacturer: MAZDA MOTOR CORP
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
  • Summary: MAZDA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2009-2010 MAZDA5 VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JUNE 29, 2009, THROUGH APRIL 28, 2010. WATER MAY NOT HAVE BEEN REMOVED COMPLETELY FROM THE HARNESS CONNECTOR OF THE FUEL PUMP DUE TO VARIATIONS IN THE FUEL TANK LEAK CHECK PROCESS PERFORMED BEFORE VEHICLE ASSEMBLY. THE CONNECTOR PIN MAY CORRODE, POTENTIALLY CAUSING THE PIN TO BREAK.
  • Consequence: THIS COULD LEAD TO AN INOPERATIVE FUEL PUMP, ENGINE STALL AND THE INABILITY TO RESTART THE ENGINE INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE FUEL PUMP CONNECTOR AND IF NECESSARY IT WILL BE REPLACED AND THE HARNESS WILL BE REPAIRED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 6, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MAZDA CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE CENTER AT 1-800-222-5500.

Latest negative Mazda Mazda5 car reviews

  1. Gianni Lueilwitz 2025-07-12

    Vehicle year: 2009

    I had a car for 1 1/2 years and really liked it at first. However, I noticed a loss of stable feeling when driving and the rear shocks were really shot after 17,000 miles. It was also very bad in the snow, with the front tires just spinning. I had to get snow tires, but then it was okay. The factory tires were bad after 20,000 miles, so that's two sets of tires after the first year. Overall, we got tired of the car. The gas mileage was not very good, and it was low to the ground which made it look nice, but it was easy to hit curbs when parking. Anyhow, I decided to switch to a Mazda6 and it was a great decision. The 4cyl 2010 gets more than 30 mpg and the difference is like night and day. I would not recommend getting the car I had.

  2. Travon Bayer 2025-07-02

    Vehicle year: 2008

    Hello! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my 2008 car. At first, I really enjoyed the sporty handling and versatility. However, I did notice that the tires became quite loud before reaching 10,000 miles. Unfortunately, the dealership was not very helpful and suggested that we rotate the tires more often, even though we were already doing so at 5-6K. I was disappointed to find that Edmunds and other car sites did not warn about this design flaw that causes excessive tire wear, which has been an issue for years. After doing some research, I found that many others have also experienced this problem. On the bright side, it seems that Mazda may have fixed the suspension issue in the 09's. It's too bad that we purchased the 08 model, but hopefully this information will be helpful for anyone looking to buy a used micro van with a sharp look. Thank you for reading!

  3. Brice Thompson 2025-06-25

    Vehicle year: 2007

    I want to share my experience with this car to help other buyers. Unfortunately, I have had some issues with it. The transmission failed at 86,000 miles and required a complete rebuild. I also had to replace the brakes twice before reaching 80,000 miles, even though they were the pricy 'performance' brakes. Additionally, I had to replace the shocks twice and the struts once at 60,000 miles. I also had to replace the 'performance' tires twice. I experienced numerous manufacturer warranty repairs due to faulty engine components, and the body is made of plastic and can fall off on the freeway. I had to use the extended warranty so much that the company investigated the dealer for possible fraud. Please keep these things in mind when considering this car.

  4. Ahmad Roob 2025-06-11

    Vehicle year: 2007

    The Mazda5 has low profile tires that cannot be changed for full size tires due to the way the car is built. This means that it may scrape on things that normal cars would just roll over and may not handle well in snow. However, different tires may improve this. The cabin can be noisy and it may feel like there's nothing between you and the engine, which can be a bit annoying. On the bright side, the Mazda5 has a third row that technically seats 6 people, but it may not be comfortable for anyone over five feet tall or with average length legs. The air conditioning and heat may take a while to reach the third row, so it's not ideal for full-time usage. Additionally, when the third row is up, the trunk area is almost non-existent, which can be inconvenient for larger families. The gas mileage is decent for the size of the car, but the tank is not very large. The Mazda5 uses a computerized key fob with a jack knife style key, which can be expensive to replace. However, the side sliding doors are a nice feature and the DVD player with wireless headphones is great for trips.The Mazda5 has a six CD changer, which I personally appreciate very much. The seat adjustments are great, and the lumbar support is probably my favorite feature. There are plenty of cup holders, with one for each seat, one in each front door, and an extra one in the middle of the 2nd row. So if you've ever had a car where there weren't enough cup holders, you can understand why this makes me happy. Overall, I would recommend the Mazda5 if you value cup holders, but keep in mind that it may not be the best choice if you need all six seats every day or if you like to drive through mud.

  5. Merlin Runolfsson 2025-05-23

    Vehicle year: 2013

    I noticed that all the reviews were from 2012 and felt compelled to write one myself, especially since I am now facing my second clutch replacement in just 71,000 miles. It's disheartening to learn that Mazda has a history of faulty clutches for both their Mazda 3 and Mazda 5 cars. I wanted to share my experience to prevent others from making the same mistake and falling in love with this car, only to face the same issue. My husband and I have been driving this car for 5 years and have loved it, except for the clutch problem. We have driven manual transmission cars for over 20 years and have never had to replace a clutch before 120,000 miles. We had to fight with the dealer to replace everything for free, including the master and slave cylinder. We hoped it was just a fluke, but unfortunately, it wasn't. We still love this car for its 6 seats and good MPG, and how small it is yet spacious. We have taken it on long trips without any issues. Living in the city, I find it easy to drive and not too big. Before buying this car, please look into this issue closely and talk it over with the dealer or get a second opinion. The only other thing I don't love is the heating and cooling system.The car just can't seem to get cool on a spring or fall day, and sometimes I have to have the air on when it is totally unnecessary. But when driving on the highway, it's too hot to open windows. However, it does get hot enough.

Latest positive Mazda Mazda5 car reviews

  1. Ervin DuBuque 2025-07-13

    Vehicle year: 2014

    Great job on handling and fuel mileage! Just a quick reminder that it's recommended to rotate your tires every other oil change.

  2. Trystan Stoltenberg 2025-07-11

    Vehicle year: 2014

    I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying your Mazda5! It sounds like you did your research and found a great vehicle that meets your needs. The gas mileage is definitely a plus, and it's great to hear that the acceleration and transmission are smooth. It's also impressive that you're getting such good mileage on the highway. The bells and whistles are a nice touch, and it's always fun to drive a car that handles well. Thanks for sharing your positive experience with the Mazda5!

  3. Orlo Raynor 2025-07-09

    Vehicle year: 2008

    I bought this car used and have driven it for around 34,000 miles. It averages around 24 mpg mixed, which is pretty good. The car has a decent amount of pep for around town, but it lacks passing power. The 5-speed auto is responsive and has manual control. I love the space for 6 people, although if all seats are up, there is small cargo space behind the third row. The packaging and storage are clever, especially with the huge glovebox and flip-open second-row bottoms. I also love the armrests. The steering feel is lively, but there is a bit of wind noise at highway speeds. If you're considering buying this car, beware of suspension problems with the 5. I have noticed some creaking, so make sure to look into it before making a purchase.

  4. Cyrus Yost 2025-07-08

    Vehicle year: 2012

    I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying your 2012 Grand Touring Mazda5! It sounds like it's a quick and nimble car that seats six people comfortably. Even though it's not the fastest car, it still provides ample pickup. You mentioned that you do 70% of your driving on the highway and 30% in the city, and you're averaging about 25mpg, which is great! The seats provide good support and decent legroom, and the heating and A/C are good. The fit and finish of the car is excellent, and opening and closing the sliding doors is a breeze. The interior is well laid out, although the headliner and visors feel somewhat cheap. The seating is fine for four adults and two children, although space beyond the third seat is limited. Overall, it sounds like an excellent vehicle for the money, and I would definitely recommend it. The biggest plus is that it's fun to drive! I'm also glad to hear that you got a great deal through truecars.com.

  5. Mervin Heaney 2025-07-04

    Vehicle year: 2007

    Handling on this euro-popular van is great, especially for a six-seater. We chose this van for its flexibility, as we only occasionally need to transport 5 or 6 people, but we love the pickup-sized rear space for our trips to the home center. We even plan to use the back as a foul-weather shelter when camping, with a little padded plywood. If you prefer driving a manual, we recommend skipping the auto for a more enjoyable driving experience.

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