Mazda – Electrical System & Module Failures (Various Models)

Multiple Mazda vehicles from the 2000s–2020s have experienced electrical system failures involving key modules such as the BCM (Body Control Module), PCM (Powertrain Control Module), TCM (Transmission Control Module), and ABS/DSC modules. These failures can cause no‑start conditions, stalling, loss of lighting functions, charging issues, and widespread electrical malfunctions.

Year(s)	Make	Model	Should Purchase?	Notes
2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009	Mazda	Mazda3	Caution	Component: BCM (Body Control Module), PCM Issues: intermittent no‑start, lighting failures, random electrical shutdowns Notes: BCM corrosion and internal relay failure common; PCM failures can cause stalling or misfires
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008	Mazda	Mazda6	Caution	Component: BCM, ABS/DSC Module Issues: ABS warning lights, traction control failure, BCM relay faults Notes: ABS module internal solder cracks common; BCM failures cause lighting and accessory issues
2013 2014 2015 2016	Mazda	CX‑5	Awareness	Component: TCM (Transmission Control Module), BCM Issues: harsh shifting, limp mode, intermittent electrical faults Notes: TCM overheating and BCM water intrusion documented in early CX‑5 models
2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015	Mazda	CX‑9	Caution	Component: PCM, Alternator Control Circuit Issues: stalling, charging failures, no‑start Notes: PCM failures can cause alternator over/under‑charging; stalling at highway speeds reported
2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010	Mazda	Tribute	Caution	Component: PCM, Ignition Control Module Issues: stalling, coil‑pack burnout, PCM failure due to overheating Notes: shared with Ford Escape; PCM failures often destroy ignition coils and require full replacement

Summary of Mazda Electrical Defect Patterns

BCM failures: cause lighting issues, no‑start, power window/lock malfunctions.
PCM failures: lead to stalling, misfires, charging system faults, and no‑start conditions.
TCM failures: cause harsh shifting, limp mode, and transmission performance issues.
ABS/DSC module failures: trigger ABS/traction lights and reduce braking stability.
Water intrusion & corrosion: common root cause of BCM and module failures in early models.

Legal context

While Mazda electrical module failures did not result in a major nationwide class action, numerous TSBs and regional repair programs were issued for BCM, PCM, TCM, and ABS module defects. Many owners received goodwill repairs or partial reimbursement for module replacements.

References

NHTSA – Mazda electrical system complaints
CarComplaints – Mazda electrical module failure reports
Mazda TSBs addressing BCM, PCM, TCM, and ABS/DSC module failures