2004 Mazda B4000

The 2004 Mazda B4000 is a compact pickup truck that shares its platform with the Ford Ranger. It offers a practical and affordable option for light-duty tasks. The 2004 B4000 came with two engine options: a 2.3L inline-4 and a 4.0L V6. The 2.3L produced around 143 horsepower and 154 lb-ft of torque, while the 4.0L generated approximately 207 horsepower and 238 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed automatic. Owners often appreciate the B4000’s reliability, compact size, and fuel efficiency (especially with the 2.3L engine). However, some dislike the smaller cab size compared to full-size trucks and the somewhat dated interior. The Mazda B4000 is mostly sold in North America.

Engine

4.0L V6

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the front of the engine, especially on startup. Can lead to timing chain failure if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain tensioners, often along with the timing chains and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, rough idling, or difficulty starting. Check engine light may illuminate with a P0340 or similar code.
  • Solution: Replacing the camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.3L Inline-4

No Issues Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: Shaking or shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the torque converter. May also involve flushing the transmission fluid and replacing the filter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

No Issues Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging/Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sitting lower than normal. Reduced ride quality and load-carrying capacity. Visible cracks or broken leaves in the leaf spring pack.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaf spring pack.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noise from the front suspension, especially when turning or going over bumps. Loose steering and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the upper and/or lower ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate or operating slowly and erratically.
  • Solution: Replacing the window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Blend Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning or heat only blowing on one temperature, failing to change temperature or mode from dash controls, clicking noise from behind dash.
  • Solution: Replacing the Blend Door Actuator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rocker Panels/Cab Corners
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust forming on the lower portions of the rocker panels and cab corners. Can eventually lead to structural damage.
  • Solution: Cutting out the rusted areas and welding in new metal. Repainting the affected areas.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ depending on the extent of the damage
  • Recalls: None Found
• Tailgate Handle Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Tailgate handle snapping or becoming difficult to operate.
  • Solution: Replacing the tailgate handle assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, often due to sun exposure.
  • Solution: Replacing the dashboard (expensive) or installing a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken Seat Recliner Handle
  • Description/Symptoms: The recliner handle on the seats breaking off or becoming difficult to use.
  • Solution: Replacing the recliner handle or the entire seat assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Mazda B4000, while generally reliable, does have some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. The 4.0L V6 engine can suffer from timing chain tensioner problems. The automatic transmission may develop a torque converter shudder. Suspension components like leaf springs and ball joints are also known to wear out. Rust, especially in areas with road salt, is a significant concern. Electrical issues, such as window motor and blend door actuator failures, can also occur. Interior issues, like cracking dashboards and broken seat recliner handles, are cosmetic concerns. The severity and cost of repairs vary, with rust repair and engine work being the most expensive. Potential buyers should thoroughly inspect the vehicle, paying close attention to these common problem areas, and factor in potential repair costs when making a purchasing decision.