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: 2006
I've had my car for about a month now and I'm excited to share my experience with you! Next week, I'll be taking a trip from WI to Washington D.C. and I'll be sure to update you with another review when I get back. I purchased my 06 Mazda5 with just over 82K miles and I've already driven about 1,000 miles. So far, I haven't experienced anything that would make me rate this vehicle any less than a 5/5! There were a couple of minor things that I noticed, such as having to pop in one of the plastic fillers where the fog lights are since my car doesn't have that option and it popped out. Additionally, I did notice that it's not the best in the snow, but it's a 4 cylinder wagon, so I wasn't expecting it to be perfect. However, I'm confident that with a good set of snow tires, it'll do just fine. The fuel mileage is also impressive, averaging about 23 city and 28 highway. Thank you for taking the time to read my review!
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Vehicle year: 2013
Great job on handling and fuel mileage! Just a quick reminder that it's recommended to rotate your tires every other oil change.
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Vehicle year: 2013
The vehicle may seem average based on its specs, but it truly shines when you get behind the wheel. The handling is exceptional, and the seating position is ideal for a comfortable ride. Even if you prefer a manual transmission, the automatic drivetrain is near perfect. In a pinch, the vehicle can seat up to six adults with ease, thanks to the front and middle rows that can move up a notch. The vehicle is also impressively tight, with a low noise level that makes for a pleasant driving experience. In fact, it's even tighter than our previous Honda, a 2003 CR-V. Lastly, sliding doors are a great feature for anyone with kids, as they prevent accidental damage to other cars in parking lots and make it easy to access child seats.
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Vehicle year: 2010
This is a fantastic car! It may be smaller than your average minivan, but with all the back seats down, it's incredibly spacious inside. It's like a super-station wagon! The Mazda5 has slightly less-than-desirable gas mileage, but if they hadn't discontinued it, it would have received the skyactiv treatment like the rest of their models, making it just about perfect. The sliding second-row doors make it easy to load groceries and whatever else you need. The ride is great, and the acceleration is torque-y and crazy, just like all Mazdas. The controls make sense, and the aux input for audio is a nice touch (1/8th jack). The glovebox is voluminous, and there's even storage under the 2nd-row seats. Everything makes sense! Why, Mazda, why????
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Vehicle year: 2010
This car is great for shopping, running errands, and commuting. However, it may not be the best option for long trips.
Are you having problems with your Mazda Mazda5?
Thad Mohr 2025-10-15
Vehicle year: 2010
Hi there! It's been 18 months since we got our vehicle and we've already driven 25,000 miles. We had to replace the stock tires because they wore out, but thankfully we took it to the dealer for maintenance. At 16,000 miles, we had to replace the passenger side axle due to a defect, but the dealership took care of it. Recently, at 25,000 miles, we had an issue with the transmission, but the dealership was able to replace it and also found a defective driver's side axle that they replaced. On the bright side, the car gets around 32 mpg and has been great for our family trips from Iowa to NJ. The entertainment package has been a lifesaver for keeping the kids entertained, although it can struggle a bit on steep hills. Overall, we've had some bumps in the road, but we're still happy with our purchase.
Newton Barrows 2025-10-15
Vehicle year: 2008
I've had the car for almost two years now. I've noticed that every 30K miles maintenance runs $750, which is quite expensive. Although the initial price was cheap, the maintenance costs are quite high. Personally, I wouldn't buy another Mazda for this reason. My past Honda's didn't require this much maintenance.
Christian Botsford 2025-10-11
Vehicle year: 2015
We purchased our Grand Touring model brand new and have driven it for 32,000 miles. Although we had some issues with the factory tires not lasting long and the trailing arms not being in spec, which the dealer promptly fixed, we still think the Mazda5 is an awesome car! It is solidly reliable and works great for my two kids, one of whom is over 6 feet tall and fits comfortably in the third row. We have taken many road trips with four people, my wife's sewing machine, fishing gear, and other equipment, and have had no problems fitting everything inside. The Mazda5 is very easy to live with, fits in all parking spaces, and is much more spacious than your typical heavy and gas-thirsty minivans. The Bluetooth works flawlessly, and the automatic climate control is excellent with plenty of fan options. The leather seats have held up well and still look new. The sunroof works great and doesn't leak. The factory radio/CD player is okay, but nothing to write home about. The handling and performance are definitely high points, and the car feels slower with a heavy load, as expected. The gas mileage is averaging a very good 24.1 MPG in mostly commuting/city driving, and we've hit 28 MPGs on non-loaded road trips. We have had no issues with the paint, trim, or any other external parts, and they all still look brand new. There are some minor complaints, such as tire noise, a squeaky driver side sliding door, and cheap wipers. Overall, we highly recommend the Mazda5!The Mazda5 is a fantastic vehicle that offers great value for money, even when fully loaded at under $30K. It boasts rock-solid reliability, excellent brakes, fun handling, and easy parking. The windows are great, and the seating/hauling options are flexible and practical, making it a smart purchase. It's worth noting that Mazda will no longer import these to the States, so now is the perfect time to snag one, especially since you could probably get a great deal on leftover units. We replaced our Mazda Tribute with the Mazda5 as we needed a bigger hauling capability and occasional seating for 6, but didn't want the high price tag or poor handling/MPGs of larger SUVs or
Judson Bosco 2025-10-10
Vehicle year: 2009
I bought the 5 because of its versatility and fun-to-drive factor. However, I have had some issues with the build quality that have soured me on the car. While I can dismiss the fact that the factory tires were shot after 20K as being just the typical cheap OEM tires, there are some issues that I can't forgive. These include a power steering pump failure, constant companionship of suspension squeaks and rattles, cracking and squeaking sounds from the windshield on cold days, blown left rear strut at 28K, blown right rear strut at 35K, broken gas cap (stuck on car with nearly empty tank) at 15K, Bluetooth that fails to connect 90% of the time despite several attempts at reset, and seat heaters with only two settings - either on or off. Unfortunately, the longer I keep it, the less I like it.
Larry Hoppe 2025-10-02
Vehicle year: 2010
This is an affordable car with sliding rear doors, although it is not a 'mini' minivan. It is worth noting that Mazda has experienced a mechanical issue with the rear-end camber on the Mazda5, which can lead to vibration, noise, and premature tire wear. While the car handles relatively well, the engine may be underpowered for some drivers. The three rows are a nice feature, but the front seats may be uncomfortable for taller adults due to limited legroom. Additionally, there is limited interior storage. Overall, it may not be the best option for everyone, but it is a budget-friendly choice to consider.