2006 Mazda 5

2006 Mazda 5

Overview

The 2006 Mazda 5, a compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV), aimed to blend practicality with a degree of driving enjoyment. It offered a flexible interior and a distinctive styling for its segment. Reliability for this model year is generally considered average, with some common areas of concern that owners should be aware of. While many owners report satisfactory ownership experiences, specific components have shown a propensity for issues that can impact long-term dependability and running costs. Understanding these potential problems can help prospective buyers and current owners manage maintenance and repairs effectively.

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Engine

2.3L L3-VE I4

Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Actuator Failure

• Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup; check engine light may illuminate.
• Solution: Replacement of the VVT actuator and potentially the timing chain tensioner.
• Cost: $500 - $1000

Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gasket)

• Symptoms: Visible oil on the engine, burning oil smell, low oil level.
• Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gasket.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (FS5A-EL)

Harsh Shifting / Delayed Engagement

• Symptoms: Jerky gear changes, difficulty engaging gears, slipping.
• Solution: Transmission fluid and filter change; potential internal repairs or transmission rebuild if severe.
• Cost: $300 - $800 (fluid/filter), $2000+ (rebuild)

6-Speed Manual

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: No widespread issues reported.

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Worn Control Arm Bushings

• Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, vague steering feel, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Rear Shock Absorber Leaks/Failure

• Symptoms: Bouncy ride, reduced handling stability, visible fluid leaks from shocks.
• Solution: Replacement of rear shock absorbers.
• Cost: $250 - $500

Electrical

General Electrical System

Power Window Motor Failure

• Symptoms: Window not operating, slow movement, grinding noise.
• Solution: Replacement of the power window motor and regulator assembly.
• Cost: $200 - $400 per window

Faulty Blower Motor Resistor

• Symptoms: HVAC fan only works on highest setting or not at all.
• Solution: Replacement of the blower motor resistor.
• Cost: $100 - $250

Exterior

Body Panels & Trim

Rust on Rear Wheel Arches/Fenders

• Symptoms: Visible rust or bubbling paint on the rear body panels.
• Solution: Rust repair and repainting; undercoating for prevention.
• Cost: $300 - $800+

Interior

Interior Components

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: No widespread issues reported.

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Summary Verdict

The 2006 Mazda 5 presents a mixed reliability picture. While the manual transmission is generally robust, the automatic transmission can experience issues with harsh shifting. Engine-wise, the 2.3L unit is prone to VVT actuator problems and oil leaks from the valve cover gasket. Suspension components like control arm bushings and rear shocks may require attention over time. Electrical gremlins, particularly with power windows and the HVAC blower resistor, are not uncommon. Exterior rust can be a concern in certain climates. Overall, the Mazda 5 can be a practical choice, but potential buyers should factor in the possibility of addressing these common issues to maintain its reliability.