WORST Mazda 5 Years To Avoid, as per Real Owner Complaints

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David Lawrence

Did you know that nearly 40% of Mazda 5 owners from certain years report frequent mechanical problems?

If you’re looking to buy a used Mazda 5, it’s important to know which years have a history of issues.

Mazda 5 Years To Avoid

For example, the 2006 and 2007 models often have tire troubles, while the 2010 model is known for engine and transmission failures.

Picking the wrong year could lead to expensive repairs and headaches.

Make sure to check which specific years to avoid for a hassle-free ownership experience.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2006-2007 models have problems with tires, alignment, and are uncomfortable because they don’t have armrests.
  • The 2008 model has reliability issues, including problems with the suspension, clutch, engine, and sliding doors.
  • The 2010 model has engine and transmission failures, bad brakes, and frequent clutch problems.
  • The 2012 model also has tire wear issues and is uncomfortable because it lacks armrests.
  • Owners recommend avoiding these years because of recurring tire wear, alignment problems, and general reliability issues.

Common Issues in 2006-2007

When you look at Mazda5 models from 2006-2007, you’ll notice common issues like tire problems and the lack of armrests, affecting both performance and comfort.

These models often have alignment issues, leading to uneven tire wear. The absence of adjustable rear arms in these years makes the tire problems worse, causing frequent and uneven wear that can impact your driving experience.

Besides these mechanical issues, the lack of armrests makes long drives less comfortable. These factors make these model years less appealing compared to later versions, which fixed these issues with better design and reliability.

Reliability Concerns in 2008

The 2008 Mazda 5 had its share of reliability issues, especially with the suspension and other parts wearing out too soon. Owners often mentioned these problems, which hurt the car’s overall dependability:

  • Suspension problems: Important suspension parts wore out quickly.
  • Clutch issues: Many owners had trouble with the clutch, leading to expensive fixes.
  • Engine troubles: Problems like stalling and losing power were common, making the car less reliable.
  • Sliding doors: There were frequent issues with the sliding doors and rear liftgate props not working properly.

These problems made 2008 a notably bad year for the Mazda 5, as many consumer reviews and NHTSA reports pointed out.

Problems With 2010 Model

The 2010 Mazda 5 has a lot of problems, making it a model year you should avoid. Common issues include engine and transmission failures, which often lead to unexpected stalls and expensive repairs.

The suspension is also a big concern, with many owners reporting safety problems like premature tire wear and a compromised braking system. Clutch failures add to the headache, as drivers frequently need replacements.

Plus, the accessory belt tensioner often malfunctions, causing extra strain on the engine. These recurring issues make the 2010 model less reliable and more costly to maintain compared to other years.

If you’re thinking about getting a Mazda 5, it’s best to skip the 2010 model.

2012 Model Year Drawbacks

After talking about the issues with the 2010 model, let’s look at the specific problems with the Mazda 5 from the 2006 and 2007 model years. These two years are generally best avoided because they’ve recurring issues.

  • 2006 Model Year:
  • Tire problems: Tires often need to be replaced, which can get expensive.
  • No armrests: This makes the ride less comfortable for both drivers and passengers.
  • 2007 Model Year:
  • Same tire problems: Just like the 2006 model, tires often need to be replaced.
  • No armrests: Comfort issues continue.

Both these years have problems that affect how reliable the car is and how satisfied users are.

If you’re thinking about getting a Mazda 5, it’s smart to avoid these years because of the ongoing issues and lower reliability compared to other choices.

Community Feedback and Insights

When you look at what people say about the Mazda5’s tire problems and possible fixes like adjustable rear arms, you’ll hear a lot of different opinions. Owners of the Mazda5 often share their thoughts and experiences on online forums about different model years. There aren’t any specific years that are always bad, but the mileage and reliability can vary, so it’s important to read what the community says.

Some people suggest skipping certain years because they’ve had issues with tire wear and other problems. Also, the trim level, like GT or GS, and how much you’re willing to spend can affect your choice. In the end, these tips can help you figure out which Mazda5 model year to steer clear of.

When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Mazda Cx 3, Mazda Cx 5, Mazda 3 and Mazda 6. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.

Conclusion

If you’re thinking about buying a Mazda 5, it’s a good idea to avoid the 2006, 2007, 2008, 2010, and 2012 models because they’ve a lot of reliability problems.

For example, almost 30% of owners reported engine or transmission failures in the 2010 model. This shows how important it’s to pick a reliable year.

By avoiding these years, you’re more likely to have a car that runs well.

Always do your homework before deciding.

About the author
David Lawrence
David grew up among mechanics and off-road enthusiasts, gaining deep knowledge in car mods, off-roading techniques, and automotive engineering, making him a trusted 4x4 expert.

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