2015 Mazda 5

The 2015 Mazda 5 is a compact multi-activity vehicle (MAV), offering a blend of minivan practicality and car-like driving dynamics. It came with a single engine option: a 2.5-liter inline-4 cylinder engine producing 157 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with either a 5-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual transmission, though the manual was only available on the base Sport trim and is far less common. People generally appreciate the Mazda 5 for its maneuverability, relatively good fuel economy for its class, and sliding rear doors, which make access in tight parking spaces much easier. However, some common complaints include its somewhat dated interior, limited cargo space compared to larger minivans, and occasionally lackluster performance, especially when fully loaded.

Engine

2.5L Inline-4 (L5-VE)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various locations, including the valve cover gasket and the oil pan gasket. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Purge Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The purge control solenoid valve can fail, causing a check engine light with codes related to the evaporative emission control system (EVAP), rough idling, and potential difficulty starting the engine.
  • Solution: Replacing the purge control solenoid valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported harsh or jerky shifting between gears. This can be more noticeable during cold starts or under heavy acceleration.
  • Solution: In some cases, a transmission fluid flush and filter change can alleviate the issue. However, more severe cases may require valve body repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid flush) - $800+ (valve body)
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear or failure of the rear shock absorbers can lead to a bouncy ride, reduced handling stability, and increased body roll during cornering.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Sliding Door Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The power sliding doors can occasionally malfunction, failing to open or close properly, or becoming stuck. This can be due to issues with the door motor, wiring harness, or the door latch mechanism.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the specific cause and replacing the faulty component. This could involve replacing the door motor, repairing the wiring harness, or replacing the door latch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the part that needs replacing
  • Recalls: None Found
• TPMS Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) sensors can fail, leading to inaccurate tire pressure readings or a TPMS warning light on the dashboard even when tire pressures are correct.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty TPMS sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150 per sensor installed
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sliding Door Rollers
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn or damaged sliding door rollers can cause the doors to be difficult to open or close smoothly. They may also produce grinding or squeaking noises.
  • Solution: Replacing the sliding door rollers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Center Console Latch
  • Description/Symptoms: The latch mechanism for the center console storage compartment can sometimes break, preventing the console from closing securely.
  • Solution: Replacing the latch mechanism or the entire center console lid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2015 Mazda 5 has a mix of potential issues. Some, like oil leaks and TPMS sensor failures, are relatively common and inexpensive to address. Others, such as power sliding door malfunctions or harsh shifting in the automatic transmission, can be more costly to diagnose and repair. While the Mazda 5 is generally a reliable vehicle, prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and have a mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchasing. The severity of the issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially impacting the vehicle’s drivability and safety, with repair costs varying widely depending on the specific problem.