Several Mazda vehicles from the 2000s–2010s experienced significant structural corrosion and suspension failures, especially in salt‑belt states. Issues include rear suspension cracking on Mazda5, severe subframe corrosion on Mazda3/Mazda6, and dangerous control arm failures on the Mazda Tribute (shared with the Ford Escape platform).
| Year(s) | Make | Model | Should Purchase? | Notes | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 | Mazda | Mazda5 | Caution |
Component: Rear suspension (transverse links / control arms) Issues: cracking, corrosion, potential separation of rear suspension arms Notes: common in early Mazda5; rust‑belt vehicles at highest risk; symptoms include clunking, instability, abnormal tire wear, and visible cracks |
|
| 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 | Mazda | Mazda3 | Caution |
Component: Front subframe / engine cradle Issues: severe corrosion, perforation, structural weakening Notes: salt‑belt states heavily affected; subframe can rust through and cause alignment issues or loss of control |
|
| 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 | Mazda | Mazda6 | Caution |
Component: Front subframe / engine cradle Issues: corrosion, perforation, structural failure Notes: similar to Mazda3; NHTSA investigations documented subframes rusting through in salt‑belt regions |
|
| 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 | Mazda | Tribute | Not Suggested |
Component: Front subframe & lower control arms Issues: severe rust, control arm separation, loss of steering control Notes: shared platform with Ford Escape; subject to major recalls for subframe corrosion and control arm detachment |
Mazda and Ford issued multiple recalls and regional corrosion repair programs for subframe and control arm failures. While Mazda5 suspension cracking did not result in a nationwide class action, Mazda3/Mazda6 subframe corrosion and Mazda Tribute control arm failures were subject to NHTSA investigations and recall campaigns in rust‑belt states.