2001 Mazda B2500

Introduction to the 2001 Mazda B2500

The 2001 Mazda B2500 is a compact pickup truck offered with a variety of engine and transmission options. The base model comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 136 horsepower and 160 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a five-speed manual transmission or an optional four-speed automatic transmission. The higher trim levels offer a more powerful 3.0-liter V6 engine that generates 170 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. It is mated to a five-speed manual transmission or an optional four-speed automatic transmission.

Drivers appreciate the B2500’s affordability, reliability, and comfortable cabin. However, it is criticized for its weak base engine and limited interior space.

Engine

2.5-liter Four-Cylinder

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, rough idle
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from valve cover area
  • Solution: Replace valve cover gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0-liter V6

• No Issues Found

Transmission

Five-Speed Manual

• Shifter Bushing Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting, loose shifter
  • Solution: Replace shifter bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Four-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Fluid Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking fluid from transmission pan
  • Solution: Replace transmission pan gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Shift Solenoid Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission not shifting smoothly or getting stuck in a gear
  • Solution: Replace shift solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Ball Joint Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise when turning, loose steering
  • Solution: Replace ball joints
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Leaf Spring Sag:
  • Description/Symptoms: Decreased ride height, difficulty handling loads
  • Solution: Replace leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, battery not charging
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Recalls: 02V343000
• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies after sitting for a period of time
  • Solution: Check for parasitic drain, replace battery if necessary
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to open or close door from inside or outside
  • Solution: Replace door lock actuator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Tailgate Handle Corrosion:
  • Description/Symptoms: Handle becomes rusty and difficult to operate
  • Solution: Replace tailgate handle
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appear on the dashboard
  • Solution: Replace dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Belt Retractor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat belt does not retract properly
  • Solution: Replace seat belt retractor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
  • Recalls: 99V025000

Summary

The 2001 Mazda B2500 is a reliable and affordable pickup truck with a few common issues. The most severe issues include the dashboard cracking and the valve cover gasket leak, which can both be costly to repair. However, most of the other issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix.