2012 Mazda 5

Introduction:

The 2012 Mazda 5 is a compact minivan with seating for up to six passengers. It is offered with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 160 horsepower and 165 lb-ft of torque, paired with a five-speed manual or optional five-speed automatic transmission. Owners appreciate its spacious interior, practical features, and responsive handling, but some dislike its lack of modern safety features and somewhat cramped third row.

Engine:

• 2.5-liter Four-Cylinder with Five-Speed Manual Transmission
  • Intake Valve Carbon Buildup: Carbon can accumulate on the intake valves, causing decreased engine performance, rough idle, and check engine light (CEL) illumination.
    • Solution: Cleaning the intake valves and replacing the spark plugs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 2.5-liter Four-Cylinder with Five-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • Transmission Slippage: The transmission may slip or hesitate during gear shifts, resulting in jerky acceleration and delayed engagement.
    • Solution: Replacing the transmission valve body or rebuilding the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission:

• Five-Speed Manual Transmission
  • No Issues Found
• Five-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • See “Transmission Slippage” issue under “Engine” section.

Suspension:

• No Issues Found

Electrical:

• Battery Discharge: The battery may drain prematurely, causing the vehicle to not start or experience electrical issues.
  • Solution: Replacing the battery or inspecting the electrical system for parasitic drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior:

• Tail Light Condensation: Moisture can accumulate inside the tail lights, causing condensation or fogging.
  • Solution: Replacing the tail lights or using moisture-absorbing packets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior:

• Front Seat Adjustment Issues: The front seat adjusters may malfunction, preventing the seat from moving forward, backward, or reclining properly.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the seat adjusters.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Seat Latch Failure: The rear seat latches may fail to engage or release properly, potentially compromising passenger safety.
  • Solution: Inspecting and repairing or replacing the seat latches.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: #12V036000 (Rear Seat Outer Lap/Shoulder Belt Anchorage)

Summary:

Overall, the 2012 Mazda 5 has a relatively low number of reported issues. The most severe and costly issue is transmission slippage, affecting models equipped with the five-speed automatic transmission. Other issues, such as intake valve carbon buildup, battery discharge, and interior latch failure, can also be significant but are less common. Regular maintenance and inspections can help mitigate these issues, ensuring the vehicle’s longevity and safety.