4 Common Problems You May Experience With a Mazda

Known for their reliability, style, and integration of technology into their cars, Mazda has manufactured some impressive vehicles. Like most cars, Mazdas also have some relatively common issues that they tend to struggle with eventually. As a Mazda owner, knowing how to avoid these issues, what to do when they happen, and where to get spares from is important and will make your life much easier. Here are some of the most common problems with Mazdas. 

Transmission Issues

When someone says a car often has clutch issues, it’s best to take it with a pinch of salt because many variables surround clutch failures. For instance, how do you drive a car? Do you ride the clutch? Mazda owners have mentioned struggling with clutch issues. When the issue was diagnosed, it turned out that some Mazdas had faulty release levers, pins, and bearings, which, over time, led to the deterioration of the vehicles' flywheels, clutch disks, and pressure plates.

Car parts deteriorate, but that’s what they do. Unfortunately, these transmission system parts were wearing down long before they should have. Leaving Mazda owners in need of repairs earlier than expected. 

Engine Issues

Mazda has certainly secured itself a spot amongst the world's more sporty and luxurious cars with the newer models it’s released. However, it just takes one bad apple to ruin the bunch. In this case, that bad apple is the Mazda L-series. Unfortunately, some customers have reported that their L-series has had several issues related to the engine, like loose chains, leaks, valve timing defects, and even catastrophic engine failures.

Owners reported that most of these issues start to rear their heads with a loud “ticking” noise that would occur when their car started. Thankfully, Mazda extended their warranty on these vehicles, which means they are aware of the issue and have likely fixed it in their newer models. But it’s still helpful to know. 

Brake Issues

According to some Mazda owners, the CX-9 has faced some difficulties with its braking system. People reported that the CX-9’s brakes failed to stop the car in some situations, particularly in hotter climates. Now, brakes do tend to struggle to catch a bit in hotter climates; it’s basic physics. But, this should have been taken into consideration by the manufacturers.

With some research, the root of the issue came down to the climate reducing the power assist, which resulted in the brakes being harder to push for the drivers to get the same braking power. The signs of this issue were a reduction in stopping power and an odd noise when trying to stop the vehicle. In the end, the findings pointed to a torn brake boost.

Melting Dashboards

This isn’t one we expect to read. Over the last few years, reports have come in regarding the Mazda 3 and 6, saying their dashboards melted. The reason for this was the aesthetic and make-up of the dashboards combined with Mazda owners leaving their cars in direct sunlight with the dash exposed. Now, by melt, we don’t mean they are almost liquified.

As the cars sat in the sun, the surface layer of the dashboard got hot and melted slightly, making it more glossy and causing an uncomfortable glare for the driver. This posed a potential safety issue for drivers on the road, too. Because of this, Mazda 3 and 6 owners were given an increased warranty of almost 10 years.

What should you do if there is an issue with your Mazda?

Should your Mazda have any of the above issues, you should first take it to an expert. Should your car be out of warranty and you can fix it yourself, consider looking at Mazda parts Australia to get your parts. However, it’s always ideal to take it to a mechanic. Ultimately, Mazda needs to be well-maintained, just like any other car. The better you look after it, the fewer issues you’ll likely have.

Final Thoughts

Some Mazdas make it well over 150,000km before these potential issues arise, while others barely make it over 100,000km. Regular maintenance by a professional is the best way to avoid these issues developing. So, keep up with your services; you shouldn’t have an issue. But, if you do, you know where to get parts from.