Mazda Mazda5 problems
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.
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Mazda Mazda5 model years
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.
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
Latest positive Mazda Mazda5 car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2012
Hi there! My wife and I spent a whole month searching for a replacement for our aging Odyssey. We were looking for a vehicle that had better gas mileage, room for 6, and was the best value for our money, all while staying in the low to mid $20k range. After test driving several options, we found that the Mazda 5 was the perfect fit for us. We also considered the RAV-4 with 3rd row, Sedona with 3rd row, Dodge Journey, Odyssey, Traverse, Equinox, and others, but the Mazda 5 was the clear winner for us!
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Vehicle year: 2014
I've had my Mazda5 for about a month now and I am really impressed with this vehicle. It's been a great change from my previous Honda Accords, which I owned since 1987. I test drove a few other cars before settling on the Mazda5, including the 2012 Honda CR-V (which was a bit too expensive), the Hyundai Tuscon (which had a cheap interior), and the Toyota Rav4 (which just didn't quite fit my needs). The Mazda5 is a feature-laden vehicle that is fun to drive and offers a lot of value for the money. I had a fantastic experience working with Heritage Mazda in Baltimore, which made the car-buying process a breeze. The only downside I've found so far is that the gas mileage is only average.
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Vehicle year: 2014
Hi there! My wife and I spent a whole month searching for a replacement for our aging Odyssey. We were looking for something with better gas mileage, room for 6, and the best value for our money, all while staying in the low to mid $20k range. Finally, we found the perfect fit with the Mazda 5. It was the first car we test drove and the one we ended up buying. We also considered other options like the RAV-4 with 3rd row, Sedona with 3rd row, Dodge Journey, Odyssey, Traverse, Equinox, and others, but the Mazda 5 was the clear winner for us.
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Vehicle year: 2009
Hi there! I have a Mazda5 09 GT model that I absolutely adore. The styling inside and out is just fantastic, and it's so functional for my family of 4 and our furry friend. The option for 6 seats is great when we need it, but we've found that there's not much trunk space when all 6 seats are in use. While it does everything we need in the summer, I have to admit that I dread the cold weather because the power locking assist mechanism on the sliding doors doesn't work in freezing temperatures. I took it to Mazda and they just lubed the door latch, but the problem persisted. It's not a safe feeling when driving with the kids in the back, but we've found a workaround - we only wash the bottom half of the doors in the winter to avoid getting water inside. We did have to change the top engine mount at 60000 miles when the hydraulic fluid leaked out, but Mazda said it was normal to change these mounts. We also changed all the shocks and struts, and while we wish Mazda had beefed up the suspension a bit, we're still driving it and loving it (and hating it a little bit too!). It's not recommended for commuting with more than 4 adults every day, but it's a great mini school bus! We've had it for 8 years now and it's still running well and reliable. We did have to repair the sway bar bushings when they wore out and made a grinding noise in the summer, but it turned out to be a minor issue. We also had to fix some minor issues with our 2010 Ford Explorer last year every 2-3 weeks, so it's not just a Mazda thing. Overall, we're still happy with our Mazda5 and would recommend it to anyone looking for a functional and stylish family car.This made the Mazda5 look good. Just sold the Ford, and never again. Now looking for a Toyota.
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Vehicle year: 2007
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with the Mazda 5 w/Auto after owning it for 6 weeks. I completely agree with Consumer Reports - this car is amazing! It drives like a sports wagon and has plenty of pick-up, especially when carrying 1-2 passengers. The build quality, amenities, and overall workmanship are outstanding, especially considering the low price (around $19k MSRP). It has all the features of our much more expensive 2004 RX330, except for leather seats and wood grain inserts. We've driven 1020 miles and have had to fill up several times, but our mileage for mixed driving averaged 23.6 MPG, just as predicted by CU. We did replace the overly tall radio antenna with a shorter one for only $10. The only thing we miss is having an armrest for the front passenger. Thanks for listening!
Are you having problems with your Mazda Mazda5?
Lindsey Schmidt 2025-02-16
Vehicle year: 2008
If you're looking for a small mini van that can carry 2 kids and a lot of stuff or 3-4 kids with bare essentials on short trips around town, the Mazda5 is a great choice. While the fuel economy could be better, the fit, finish, driving experience, and comfort are all satisfactory. As a larger person, I can attest to the comfort level. The reliability has been fine, with the exception of the brakes which require an expensive servicing that, unfortunately, the dealer claims is not covered by the warranty. It's worth noting that my experience is from Canada, so U.S. customers may have a different experience with warranty service.
Alphonso Rice 2025-02-10
Vehicle year: 2009
Hi there! I recently purchased a certified Mazda 5 and unfortunately, I had to replace all of my tires due to inward damage. When I brought this issue up with the dealer, they recommended that I also replace the suspension parts on three out of four wheels. It was definitely unexpected, but I wanted to share some tips with you if you're considering buying this car. Firstly, make sure to check the alignment every few months. Secondly, plan to change your tires every 11k to 13k miles. Lastly, it's a good idea to have the suspension parts checked and potentially fixed on a yearly basis. Hope this helps!
Stuart Herzog 2025-02-02
Vehicle year: 2012
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. It's small yet spacious, making it perfect for our trips to New York and Arizona. It's also easy to drive in the city and not too big. Before buying this car, please do your research and talk to the dealer or get a second opinion. I hope this issue can be resolved soon. 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.
Sigurd Cassin 2025-01-29
Vehicle year: 2010
The Mazda has a versatile interior, making it easy to pack a lot into this little car. It's also nifty if you need room for 5 people, including two car seats. When we first got it, the car was peppy and fun to drive. However, we have had some reliability issues, specifically with the suspension. We bought a 4-year-old model with only about 50k miles on it, and we have had to replace a lot compared to our Camry hybrid with almost 150k miles. Unfortunately, we have been plagued with suspension problems over the past couple of years. We spent almost 1k to fix the rear suspension, only to have to replace the entire front suspension, shocks, and struts a couple of months later. I wish I had known Mazda was notorious for suspension problems before buying. Although the suspension has improved, it still doesn't ride like it did. Currently, the car has only about 85k miles.
Russell Renner 2025-01-13
Vehicle year: 2006
The tires on this car require rotation with every oil change, which is recommended every 5,000-6,500 miles. It's important to note that only Mazda shocks are compatible with this car, and some mechanics have had trouble getting non-Mazda shocks to work for more than 8 months. I had aftermarket shocks installed by two different mechanics, but they both failed shortly after. After replacing them with Mazda shocks, they worked well for a while. I am currently waiting to see if Mazda will warranty the one that failed less than a year later. I drive my car about 60 miles a day, mostly on the Turnpike.