During research, it generally came off as a reliable and largely trouble-free minivan. Earlier models with the four-speed automatic were known for transmission issues- a problem common with this gearbox on other Mazda and Ford models which used it as well.
Early models may display a check-engine light which indicates faulty oxygen sensors. In certain cases, this is not in fact the problem- as a mis-programmed ECU may mistakenly display the fault code.
Another problem deals with the door-mounted tire information stickers, which may incorrectly indicate the tire size. Do yourself and your local tire shop a favor, and ensure that the sticker displays the proper size.
These are the only real prevalent MPV concerns. Really, you could do worse.
There is, however, a list of recalls you'll want to be aware of to make sure your particular used MPV has had the correct work performed. Most major recall issues relate to earlier MPV models. For instance, fuel-injectors could be improperly matched to the intake manifold and allow fuel to leak, which could result in a dangerous fire.
Brake-lines may have been laid out improperly, and the affected vehicles will not meet the standard stopping distance requirement. Additionally, some models suffered from defective cruise-control components or failure-prone cables which could cause problems. In extreme cases, a broken actuator cable may fall out of position and interfere with the accelerator cable.
Other safety related issues deal with possibly ineffective child door locks which may stop working as dust and dirt accumulates in the mechanism. Improperly installed airbag modules across the life of the MPV were another concern. These modules, if not inspected or replaced, may prevent airbag deployment in the case of a crash.
Plan on having the transmission of a potential older model checked and flushed upon purchase. Your dealership will be able to check for the performance of any recall work, and carry out any repairs which may be required.
If it all checks out, you'll likely appreciate the MPV's ability to seamlessly blend car-like agility and fun with the room and versatility of a minivan for years to come.
Early models may display a check-engine light which indicates faulty oxygen sensors. In certain cases, this is not in fact the problem- as a mis-programmed ECU may mistakenly display the fault code.
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| 2003 Mazda MPV |
Another problem deals with the door-mounted tire information stickers, which may incorrectly indicate the tire size. Do yourself and your local tire shop a favor, and ensure that the sticker displays the proper size.
These are the only real prevalent MPV concerns. Really, you could do worse.
There is, however, a list of recalls you'll want to be aware of to make sure your particular used MPV has had the correct work performed. Most major recall issues relate to earlier MPV models. For instance, fuel-injectors could be improperly matched to the intake manifold and allow fuel to leak, which could result in a dangerous fire.
Brake-lines may have been laid out improperly, and the affected vehicles will not meet the standard stopping distance requirement. Additionally, some models suffered from defective cruise-control components or failure-prone cables which could cause problems. In extreme cases, a broken actuator cable may fall out of position and interfere with the accelerator cable.
Other safety related issues deal with possibly ineffective child door locks which may stop working as dust and dirt accumulates in the mechanism. Improperly installed airbag modules across the life of the MPV were another concern. These modules, if not inspected or replaced, may prevent airbag deployment in the case of a crash.
Plan on having the transmission of a potential older model checked and flushed upon purchase. Your dealership will be able to check for the performance of any recall work, and carry out any repairs which may be required.
If it all checks out, you'll likely appreciate the MPV's ability to seamlessly blend car-like agility and fun with the room and versatility of a minivan for years to come.
 |
| 2004 Mazda MPV |