Mazda B Series Reliability by YearBest & worst years, problems & recalls — NHTSA data
Comparing used Mazda B Series options? We analyzed 10 model years (2001–2010) using real NHTSA complaint and recall data so you can spot stronger years, avoid riskier ones, and know what to inspect before buying.
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Model-year trends show patterns — they can't tell you whether this car was crashed, flooded, or rolled back. A VIN check can.
- Accident & damage history
- Odometer rollback records
- Open recalls & title brands
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the Mazda B Series has 52 owner complaints and 0 safety recalls across model years 2001–2010. The most reported issue area is AIR BAGS. 2007 drew the most complaints; 2009 drew the fewest.
- Make
- Mazda
- Model
- B Series
- Model years analyzed
- 2001–2010 (10 years)
- Total NHTSA complaints
- 52
- Safety recall campaigns
- 0
- Crash-related complaints
- 0
- Fire-related complaints
- 1
- Worst model year (by complaints)
- 2007 (37 complaints)
- Best model year (fewest complaints)
- 2009 (4 complaints)
- Top reported issue area
- AIR BAGS
- Reliability signal
- Average
By model year
Mazda B Series: which years to avoid & which to buy
Based on total NHTSA owner complaints per model year. Higher complaint counts indicate a riskier year to buy used — lower counts suggest a cleaner reliability record.
These years have the most owner complaints. Inspect carefully and always run a VIN check.
These years have the fewest owner complaints on record — lower risk starting points.
Crash test ratings
NHTSA NCAP crash test ratings
New Car Assessment ProgramNCAP crash tests measure how well a vehicle protects occupants in controlled frontal crash, side crash, and rollover scenarios. Stars are awarded per category (5 = safest). These laboratory results are independent of owner complaints and are performed by NHTSA engineers on new production vehicles.
NCAP crash test ratings for this model are not yet loaded or this vehicle was not tested in the years analyzed. NHTSA tests a subset of new vehicles each year. Check nhtsa.gov/ratings directly for the latest results.
What the complaint data suggests
AverageThe MAZDA B SERIES has 52 NHTSA complaints and 0 recalls on record. This data reflects owner-reported issues submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
- 52 total complaints filed with NHTSA
- 0 federal recall campaigns
- No crash-related complaints on record
- Review NHTSA complaint history for the most-reported components
- Check recall completion status at nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Verify service records for frequently complained components
Consult the by-year breakdown to identify model years with elevated complaint rates.
Consult the by-year breakdown to identify model years with fewer reported issues.
- Run a VIN check on the specific vehicle you are considering
- Verify all open recalls are completed at nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Request service records for the most-reported complaint components
- Have a certified mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase
Problems by model year (best vs. worst)
Source: NHTSA public complaints database. Updated: Aug 2026
Safety recalls
NHTSA safety recalls
0 recalls foundSafety recalls are mandatory repair campaigns ordered by NHTSA when a vehicle defect poses an unreasonable risk to safety. Manufacturers are required to fix recalled vehicles free of charge. Always verify open recalls before buying a used car.
No NHTSA recalls were found in our database for this model. Always verify open recalls using your specific VIN on NHTSA.gov.
Source: NHTSA Recalls Database. Data covers model years 2001–2010. Always run a VIN-specific check below for the most up-to-date open recall status.
Common problems
What goes wrong most often
The vehicle systems owners complain about most, ranked from all 52 NHTSA complaints — these are the areas to inspect first on a used car.
Owner complaints
NHTSA complaint reports
52 totalThese are consumer-submitted safety complaints filed directly with NHTSA. Each complaint describes a real owner's experience. Complaints flagged as crash-related or fire-related are highlighted.
IT SHIFTS VERY ROUGHLY FROM 1ST TO 2ND, AND THIRD SOMETIMES WON'T CATCH AT ALL(AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION) AFTER A FEW MISSED GEAR CHANGES MY O/D DASH LIGHT STARTS FLASHING. I WAS TOLD IT WAS A TRANSMISSION ISSUE, SO I HAD MY TRANSMISSION REBUILT. PROBLEM STILL PERSITS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 MAZDA B2300. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V499000 (AIR BAGS). THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT CALLED A LOCAL DEALER (CRATER LAKE FORD, 2611 BIDDLE RD, MEDFORD, OR 97504) AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
"TAKATA RECALL", MY VEHICLE IS IN MOTION, MAZDA DEALER HAS NOT REPLACED THE DAMAGED PIECE BECAUSE THEY SAY IT IS NOT AVAILABLE AND THAT WAS FOR MAY 15, 2017 AND HOWEVER, I HAVE NOT RECEIVED AN ANSWER HATA TODAY I HAVE NOT HAD ANY ANSWER.
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 MAZDA B23. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V499000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE. UPDATED 08/22/17*LJ *JS
1. Received notification in February 2024 of open Takata inflator passenger airbag recall for inspection/replacement. 2. Contacted twice by online scheduler and twice by VM messages to service dept. of only listed Mazda service dealer on the Eastside of Hawaii Island in February 2024. Dealer refused to even respond. 3. Have made 5 phone contacts/contact communications on Mazda's recall website from 3/1 on. Last on 3/21. Received VM that no dealer on Big Island except for Kona Mazda service dealer and would I drive my vehicle over and back for repair. --This is at least 100 miles each way, and if the shortest route is over the Saddle Road over the top of the island. Vehicle is older vehicle with 131,000 miles. No suggestion of payment for gas/time, or having it towed at Mazda expense; just that there is no dealer. signed up in any spot but Kona. I live in Keaau, HI. 4. Upon receiving recall notice in February I turned off the passenger airbag and have allowed neither my wife or friend to ride with me. 5. I have given info. over the phone and in contact me communications that Mazda could set up a contract for inspection/repair of passenger airbag inflator with Big Island Motors, Hilo, HI. 6. No follow-up by Mazda Recall group or communications back to me except 3/6 VM from Mazda Recall asking me if I would drive to Kona Mazda dealer. (In subsequent communications I pointed out the facts of distance to Kona Mazda dealer. I also requested communications back to me and updates. None, except 3/6 VM from Mazda Recall Center Rep. were done.) I have been patient regarding this, but I view this Takata inflator issue as a serious matter. that could harm passenger or since apparently it was installed incorrectly me as the driver. If Mazda cannot do what the recall notice states, then maybe they should arrange. and pay for a tow to the Kona Mazda dealer and provide me a rental vehicle paid for by Mazda during the repair period.
Mazda keeps sending letters about my last chance to repair the airbag problem.I have responded multiple times, they have not contacted me except to send more PR letters. They have scared my wife to the point she will not ride with me. My daughter forbids my grandson from riding with me. There is no mazda dealer on the Big Island of Hawai'i. So, what is my recourse, since they are unwilling or unable to address the issue in a meaningful way.
Read 14 more owner reports
TAKATA RECALL
TAKATA INFLATORS AND OTHER, THEY KEEP SENDING ME CARDS AND LETTERS, WHICH WARN ME NOT TO DRIVE MY CAR. THEN THEY SAY THEY WILL TOW MY CAR AND PROVIDE ME WITH A OTHER CAR. BUT THEIR NOT DOING ANYTHING. I'M VERY CONCERNED AT THIS POINT AND I NEED THEM TO TAKE ACTION AND HELP ME.
TAKATA RECALL. THE MAZDA DEALERSHIP KNOXVILLE TN HAS THE AIR BAGS AVAILABLE BUT THEY SAY I SHOULD DRIVE THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALERSHIP. THEY HAVE ALSO TOLD ME THE VEHICLE IS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE. I ASKED THAT THEY TOW THE VEHICLE TO THEIR SHOP BUT THEY REFUSE. IS THERE ANY HELP YOU CAN GIVE ON THIS MATTER?
TAKATA RECALL
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 MAZDA B-SERIES TRUCK. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V048000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CAVALIER MAZDA DEALER WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE RECALL REMEDY DUE TO PARTS BEING ON BACK ORDER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND WAS NOT ABLE TO CONFIRM WHEN THE PARTS WERE TO BECOME AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 MAZDA B23S. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 16V048000 AND 15V346000 (AIR BAGS). THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT CALLED TRACY MAZDA (2680 AUTO PLAZA DR, TRACY, CA 95304, (209) 820-7800) WHERE IT WAS CONFIRMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE RECALL REMEDY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 MAZDA B23S. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V048000 (AIR BAGS) AND STATED THAT THE PART NEEDED FOR THE REPAIR WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 MAZDA B2300. THE VEHICLE HAS MAXXIS TIRES, SIZE T145/80D16 (NA). THE CONTACT NOTICED CRACKS ON THE SIDEWALL OF THE SPARE TIRE. THE DEALER STATED THAT THERE WAS IMPACT DAMAGE TO THE SPARE TIRE AND THEY WOULD NOT REPAIR OR REPLACE THE TIRE. THE CONTACT TOOK THE TIRE TO TWO DIFFERENT TIRE DEALERS AND ONE STATED THE TIRE WAS OLD AND THE OTHER STATED THAT THERE WAS A DEFECT IN THE TIRE CASING. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THEY WOULD REPLACE THE TIRE, HOWEVER, THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO FIND A REPLACEMENT TIRE. AS OF AUGUST 14, 2007, THE DEALER HAS NOT REPLACED THE TIRE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 7,500. THE CONSUMER PROVIDED PICTURES OF THE DEFECT AND ALSO A REPAIR INVOICE. UPDATED 09/07/07 *TR
THIS VEHICLE WAS SMOLDERING BURNING AND SMOKE WITHOUT FIRE. I HAVE TAKEN MY VEHICLE IN FOR REPAIRS 5 TIMES FOR THE TRANSMISSION AND OTHER RELATED ISSUES. THIS VEHICLE AS HAD A NEW TRANSMISSION ADDED WITHIN TWO MONTHS OF OWNERSHIP AND IT STILL LEAKS. THE BRAKES PADS WEAR TO FAST. *NM
This is a complaint about Mazda. I have brought my vehicle in 3 times, after they confirmed an appointment and stated they had the part. All three times it appears whoever makes the appointment doesn’t communicate with the dealer Service Center. I have the FOURTH appointment this Wednesday at Royal Motors, San Francisco. I will call a day ahead to make sure the part is there before I bring it in. I know it’s an older vehicle and they have to order parts. They made the appointment for me, after saying the part was in. Bad communication. Sincerely Yours, [XXX] , INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Recall never fixed
Takata Recall. The contact owns a 2007 Mazda B-Series Truck. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V162000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect. The contact stated that they were finally able to get the air bags replaced.
I RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE FROM MAZDA. I AM IN HAWAII. MAZDA HAS MOVED OFF OF THIS ISLAND. I CAN NOT GET IN TOUCH WITH ANYONE AT MAZDA AS THEIR 800-222-5500 NUMBER DOES NOT ANSWER. THIS RECALL REGARDS THE INFLATOR OF THE AIRBAG EXPLODING DUE TO HUMIDITY AND TEMPERATURE FLUCTUATIONS. HAWAII = HUMIDITY. I SEEMINGLY HAVE NO RECOURSE AS NEITHER THE PROVIDED MAZDA NUMBER DOES NOT ANSWER 800-222-5500 NOR DOES ANYONE PICK UP AT THE NHTSA NUMBER PROVIDED IN THE RECALL NOTICE 888-327-4236. IS THERE ANYBODY WHO CAN GIVE ME INFORMATION?
REC'D AIRBAG RECALL LETTER IN AUG 2016. TO DATE MAZDA HAS BEEN NOT BEEN HEPLFUL WITH REPLACEMENT OF THE AIRBAG.
Showing 20 of 52 total NHTSA complaints. Source: NHTSA Complaints Database
Check the exact car
Before you buy, check the exact Mazda B Series
These pages show model-year patterns across 10 years. Enter a VIN to verify the exact vehicle's accident history, title brands, odometer records, and open recall status before purchase.
The basics
How to read this data
Complaints, recalls, investigations — here’s what each number actually tells you about a used Mazda B Series, in plain English.
What is an NHTSA Complaint?
An NHTSA safety complaint is a report filed directly by a vehicle owner or driver describing a safety-related issue. Anyone can submit a complaint at NHTSA.gov. The number of complaints is a signal of how common a problem is — but complaints per model-year matter more than raw totals, since popular vehicles naturally receive more reports. The Mazda B Series has 52 complaints on record across 10 model years.
What is a Safety Recall?
A safety recall is a mandatory campaign issued by NHTSA when a vehicle component poses an unreasonable risk to safety or does not comply with federal motor vehicle safety standards. Unlike complaints (which are owner-reported), recalls are formally investigated and confirmed by regulators. Manufacturers must fix recalled vehicles free of charge. The Mazda B Series has 0 recall campaigns in the NHTSA database.
What Are Crash Complaints?
Crash complaints are NHTSA filings where the owner indicates a crash occurred as part of the incident. 0 of the Mazda B Series's 52 complaints involved a crash. This metric is particularly important because it indicates how often defects resulted in actual collisions — a key safety signal beyond general reliability.
How Is the Reliability Verdict Calculated?
The reliability verdict (Average) is generated by analyzing the vehicle's total complaints, recall history, crash complaint ratio, fire complaint ratio, and top component failures relative to class averages. This verdict gives buyers a quick interpretation before they review year-level details and VIN-level history. It should be treated as one decision input, not a substitute for a VIN-specific report.
Why Do Newer Years Have Fewer Complaints?
Newer model years appear to have fewer complaints because there has been less time for owners to file them. Complaints accumulate over years of ownership. A 2020 model year vehicle will typically show fewer complaints than a 2015 model year even if it is less reliable — simply because fewer owners have had time to report issues. Focus on complaints per year of market presence when comparing across model years.
Fleet Data vs. Individual VIN
Everything on this page reflects aggregated data across all Mazda B Series vehicles on the road — not any specific car. Two Mazda B Series vehicles of the same year can have very different histories: one may have been in three accidents and have an open recall; another may be clean. A VIN check gives you the individual car's history: accidents, title brands, odometer records, service history, and real-time recall status.
What Are NHTSA Investigations?
When NHTSA receives a pattern of related safety complaints, it opens a formal investigation. A Preliminary Evaluation (PE) is the first stage — NHTSA determines if a safety defect may exist. If evidence is strong, it escalates to an Engineering Analysis (EA), which can result in a mandatory recall. The Mazda B Series has 0 investigations on record (0 active). Investigations listed above may have already led to the recalls shown on this page.
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How does the Mazda B Series stack up? Compare complaint history with similar vehicles.
By state
Check a Mazda B Series by state
Title-branding rules, flood-damage exposure, and salvage laws vary by state. Run a free VIN check or explore state-specific vehicle history guidance before buying a used Mazda B Series.
Research more
Keep researching before you buy
Compare brands and categories, then check the exact car's history by VIN.
Mazda B Series reliability — frequently asked questions
Is the Mazda B Series reliable?
Average. The Mazda B Series has 52 NHTSA owner complaints and 0 recall campaigns across model years. A commonly reported issue area is AIR BAGS. Use year-level data as a pattern guide, then verify the exact car with a VIN check before purchase.
Which Mazda B Series years to avoid?
Years with the most NHTSA complaints: 2007 (37 complaints), 2006 (11 complaints), 2009 (4 complaints). Use these years as a shortlist for deeper inspection, and always run a VIN check on the exact vehicle before purchase.
What are the most common Mazda B Series problems?
Top reported issues: AIR BAGS (48 complaints); UNKNOWN OR OTHER (1 complaints); SUSPENSION (1 complaints).
Does the Mazda B Series have recalls?
No NHTSA recall campaigns are currently on record for the Mazda B Series. Always verify with a VIN check as recalls can be added at any time.