2012 Mazda MAZDA5
This year had at least 30% fewer complaints than this model's typical year.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2006 | 78 |
| 2007 | 61 |
| 2008 | 67 |
| 2009 | 64 |
| 2010 | 57 |
| 2011 | 1 |
| 2012 | 36 |
| 2013 | 24 |
| 2014 | 12 |
| 2015 | 8 |
| 2016 | 2 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
22% of complaints: fuel/propulsion system — 8 distinct reports on file.
19% of complaints: tires — 7 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
Sentury Touring (Discount Tire) 205/55/R16. Both front tires have inner wear to the point of shredding in the same location on *both* front tires. Both tires went out at the same time and could have caused a serious accident.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240925
14% of complaints: structure — 5 distinct reports on file.
CRASH INJURYShow complaint excerpts
REAR-ENDED WHILE STOPPED BY TRUCK GOING UNDER 20 MPH. OUR HEADS STRUCK HEADRESTS AND DRIVER AND FRONT PASSENGER SEATS INSTANTLY RECLINED BACK ONTO FRONT OF CHILDREN'S CAR SEATS.
NHTSA ODI report, 20210515
LIFTGATE STRUTS WHICH ACCORDING TO MAZDA WERE REPLACED PURSUANT TO RECALL FAILED CAUSING LIFTGATE TO FALL RESULTING IN MINOR INJURY TO MY HAND.
NHTSA ODI report, 20180106
11% of complaints: steering — 4 distinct reports on file.
CRASH INJURYShow complaint excerpts
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2012 MAZDA 5. WHILE MAKING A TURN AT APPROXIMATELY 53 MPH, THE CONTACT LOST CONTROL OF THE STEERING WHEEL. THE VEHICLE ROLLED OVER THREE TIMES AND CRASHED INTO A DITCH. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED.
NHTSA ODI report, 20161117
11% of complaints: service brakes, hydraulic — 4 distinct reports on file.
CRASH INJURYShow complaint excerpts
The contact owned a 2012 Mazda Mazda5. The contact stated that while driving approximately 45 MPH, a deer wandered into the middle of the road, and the contact depressed the brake pedal and the wheels locked up, causing the tires to slide.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260629
SAFETY TIMELINE
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2010-2013 Mazda3 and Mazdaspeed3 vehicles manufactured November 18, 2008, to June 8, 2013, 2012-2015 Mazda5 vehicles manufactured October 26, 2010, to June 22, 2015, 2016 CX-3...
Remedy: Mazda dealers will replace the both lift gate supports, free of charge, however parts are not currently available. The recall began April 2017. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's number for this recall is 9916H.
Campaign 16V644000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2012 Mazda MAZDA5 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for fuel/propulsion system issues (8 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for tires issues (7 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for structure issues (5 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 16V644000 (structure) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2012 Mazda MAZDA5 reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2012 Mazda MAZDA5 is rated "better than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2012 Mazda MAZDA5?
The most-reported component is fuel/propulsion system, accounting for 22% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2012 Mazda MAZDA5 have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.