2010 Mazda B2300

The 2010 Mazda B2300 is a compact pickup truck known for its affordability, practicality, and relatively good fuel economy for its class. It’s essentially a rebadged Ford Ranger. The B2300 came standard with a 2.3-liter Duratec inline-four engine producing around 143 horsepower and 154 lb-ft of torque. It was available with either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission. While owners appreciate its simple design and utility, common complaints often revolve around its basic features, less refined ride quality compared to newer trucks, and the age-related maintenance issues that come with owning a used vehicle of this era.

Engine

2.3L Duratec Inline-Four

• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, loss of power, check engine light illuminated. Often caused by worn spark plugs, faulty ignition coils, or vacuum leaks.
  • Solution: Replace spark plugs, replace faulty ignition coil(s), locate and repair vacuum leaks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ depending on the cause and if DIY is involved.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Stalling, rough running, check engine light. The engine may fail to start.
  • Solution: Replace the camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $80 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Hard Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, especially into first or second gear. May be due to worn synchronizers, clutch issues, or low transmission fluid.
  • Solution: Replace clutch, replace synchronizers, check and top off/replace transmission fluid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $800+ depending on the extent of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic

• Erratic Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, slipping between gears.
  • Solution: Flush and replace transmission fluid, replace faulty solenoids, valve body replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $2000+ depending on severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Ball Joints/Tie Rod Ends
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front end, especially when going over bumps. Loose steering and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace worn ball joints and/or tie rod ends. Alignment recommended after repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per side.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Leaf Spring Sagging/Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the truck sitting lower than normal. Visible cracks or breaks in the leaf springs.
  • Solution: Replace leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per side.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of gauges (speedometer, fuel gauge, etc.). May also experience flickering lights.
  • Solution: Replace the entire instrument cluster or repair the faulty circuit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power door locks not working consistently or at all.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 per door.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust on the rocker panels, cab corners, wheel wells, and frame.
  • Solution: Cut out and weld in new metal, or apply rust converter and paint. Frame rust can be a major safety issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+, depending on the severity and extent of the rust.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Dashboard develops cracks, particularly in sun-exposed areas.
  • Solution: Install a dashboard cover, replace the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2010 Mazda B2300 is a reliable, utilitarian compact pickup truck. However, common issues stem from its age, including engine misfires and worn suspension components. Rust is also a common problem, especially in areas with harsh winters. Repair costs can vary widely depending on the issue and the shop doing the work, with rust repair being potentially the most expensive. Overall, potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for rust and be prepared for age-related maintenance.