2011 Mazda 2

The 2011 Mazda 2 is a subcompact car known for its fuel efficiency, nimble handling, and simple design. It was only offered with a single engine option in the US: a 1.5-liter inline-4 producing 100 horsepower and 98 lb-ft of torque. It came with a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the car’s affordability, fuel economy, and fun-to-drive nature. Downsides often mentioned include the lack of power, limited cargo space, and basic interior features.

Engine

1.5L Inline-4

• Engine Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive engine vibration, especially at idle or during acceleration. A clunking noise may also be heard.
  • Solution: Replace the worn engine mount(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Purge Control Solenoid Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light with code P0441, rough idle, and possible difficulty starting the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the purge control solenoid valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $80 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission hesitates or shifts roughly between gears, especially between 1st and 2nd.
  • Solution: A transmission fluid flush may help in some cases. In more severe instances, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid flush) - $2,500+ (rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Shock Absorber Leaks/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, reduced handling stability, and visible oil leaking from the rear shock absorbers.
  • Solution: Replace the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• ABS Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: ABS light illuminates, reduced braking performance, and possible loss of ABS functionality. Fault codes related to the ABS sensor are present.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ABS sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window may move slowly, erratically, or not at all. You may hear a grinding or whining noise from the door panel when activating the power window switch.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Corrosion near rear wheel wells
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust bubbles and eventually holes appearing in the sheet metal on the rear quarter panels, particularly near the wheel wells. This is more prevalent in areas with harsh winters where road salt is used.
  • Solution: Rust repair, which could include sanding, body filler, and repainting. If severe, cutting out and replacing the affected metal is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ (depending on severity and repair method)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2011 Mazda 2, while generally reliable, has a few common issues. The most prevalent seem to be related to engine mounts, purge control solenoid valves, rear shock absorbers, and potential corrosion. The automatic transmission can also experience issues, while the manual version appears to be robust. Most repairs are reasonably affordable, but transmission work can be costly if needed. The severity of the issues ranges from minor inconvenience to potential safety concerns if the ABS system malfunctions or suspension components fail.