2012 Mazda Mazda5: Is It Reliable?
Problems, Recalls & Buyer Verdict
Shopping for a used 2012 Mazda Mazda5? This page highlights owner-reported complaint patterns and recall history so you can inspect the right systems before buying. Current data includes 35 complaints, with Fuel/Propulsion System as the top reported area.
2012 Mazda Mazda5 Safety Ratings
NHTSA 5-Star ProgramOfficial crash test results from the NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings program. Stars reflect government-conducted tests; higher is safer.
Overall
Not RatedFrontal Crash
Not RatedSide Crash
Not RatedRollover
Not RatedSource: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings. Ratings are based on government crash tests and may not reflect all trim levels.
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2012 Mazda Mazda5 has 35 owner complaints, 3 crash-related complaints, and 1 recall campaign on record. The most frequently reported component is Fuel/Propulsion System. NHTSA reliability signal: Severe Issues.
- Make
- Mazda
- Model
- Mazda5
- Model year
- 2012
- NHTSA owner complaints
- 35
- Crash-related complaints
- 3
- Safety recall campaigns
- 1
- Top reported component
- Fuel/Propulsion System
- Reliability signal
- Severe Issues
- Electronic stability control
- Standard
Most Common 2012 Mazda Mazda5 Problems
Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.
Fuel/Propulsion System
Tire Issues
Structural Problems
Complaint patterns center on Fuel/Propulsion System, Tire Issues, Structural Problems. Use these as a pre-purchase inspection guide, then verify recall and damage history on the specific VIN.
Should You Buy a Used 2012 Mazda Mazda5?
The 2012 Mazda Mazda5 shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase.
Use the model-year trend to shortlist candidates, then confirm the exact vehicle condition with service records, recall status, and a VIN history report.
What to Check Before Buying a Used 2012 Mazda Mazda5
Inspection Focus
- Inspect the fuel/propulsion system for leaks or performance issues.
- Check tire condition and ensure proper maintenance.
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for brake and steering components.
Before You Close the Deal
- Inspect the fuel/propulsion system for leaks or performance issues.
- Check tire condition and ensure proper maintenance.
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for brake and steering components.
- Have a mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase.
Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.
Before buying a used 2012 Mazda Mazda5, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, theft checks, and open recalls for the exact vehicle.
What the Complaint Data Suggests
Editorial interpretation of NHTSA public complaint data. Source: nhtsa.gov. Complaints are owner-submitted and do not confirm a defect. Methodology
Based on 35 NHTSA complaints for the 2012 Mazda MAZDA5, issues appear concentrated in the fuel/propulsion system, tire problems, and structural concerns. Brake and steering defects are also reported, though with lower frequency. The single recall and three crash-related complaints suggest potential safety implications, but the low confidence level warrants caution in interpretation.
- Fuel/propulsion system complaints are the most numerous, with 8 reports.
- Tire issues and structural problems each account for 7 complaints.
- Brake system defects are noted in 6 complaints.
- Steering defects appear in 4 complaints.
- There is 1 recall for this model year.
- Fuel/Propulsion System issues, including possible leaks or stalling.
- Tire problems, such as premature wear or blowouts.
- Structural defects, potentially related to body integrity or corrosion.
All 2012 Mazda Mazda5 Complaints by Category
Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2012 Mazda Mazda5. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Avg Mileage | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 8 | — | — | — | |
| Tire Issues | 7 | — | — | — | |
| Structural Problems | 7 | 1 | — | — | |
| Brake System | 6 | — | — | — | |
| Steering Defects | 4 | 1 | — | — | |
| Hydraulic | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Airbag Malfunctions | 3 | 1 | — | — | |
| Seat-Related Issues | 2 | 2 | — | — | |
| Transmission / Drivetrain | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Visibility | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Electrical Faults | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Engine Problems | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Wheel Issues | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Suspension Failures | 1 | — | — | — |
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Complaint counts may exceed total complaints because one report can span multiple categories.
Real Owner Complaints
Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2012 Mazda Mazda5. Type a keyword (e.g. “transmission”, “stalling”, “brakes”) to filter.
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. Discount tire stated it was an alignment issue. The a…
The contact owns a 2012 Mazda MZ5. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal was depressed and went to the floorboard. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired and remained at the dealer. The man…
This vehicle ejects a significant amount of fuel from its fuel filler port during every refueling. The volume of fuel and the distance the gasoline travels in a hazardous environment poses an avoidable risk that can result in a catastrophic event with potential fatalities. In ad…
During July of 2021 brake pedal went all the way down with no braking. Pumping the pedal restored braking. After the 3rd incident, had the master cylinder replaced on July 30, 2021 by certified mechanics. Brakes seemed fine, but on Aug 11, 2021 brake pedal went all the way dow…
The Mazda5 has a TSB on the issue, 01-013/15. What I am attempting to find out is why this isn't a recall. When the failure occurs, the fuelling of the vehicle doesn't shut off the nozzle. What happens is fuel comes spraying out of the opening, getting over the ground, the ve…
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. THEY'RE LEGS WOULD HAVE BEEN CRUSHED AT THE KNEES IF THEY WERE IN THE ACCIDENT. OUR NECKS WERE SORE FR…
IT'S VERY COMMON IN THE MAZDA 5 CARS FOR THE EMISSION COMPONENTS TO FAIL OFTEN AND AFFECTS THE FUEL ECONOMY WHICH CAUSES LOSS OF FUEL, MONEY ETC. IT'S ALSO A SAFETY CONCERN AS THE EVAP LEAKS COULD RELEASE FUEL VAPORS TO THE ATMOSPHERE AND POLLUTING IT. AS WELL AS FIRE HAZARDS DUE…
WHILE DRIVING MY STEERING WHEEL GOT REALLY HARDEN ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO TURN. I NEARLY CRASH. I WAS LUCKY I WAS GOING SLOW. THIS HAS HAPPENED IN MORE THAN 1 OCASSION. I WAS DRIVING IN CITY.
EVERY TIME I FILL UP THE GAS TANK GAS SHOOTS OUT THE FILLER RECEPTICAL. I MUST ALWAYS STAND AWAY FROM THE FILLER TO AVOID GETTING ANY GAS ON MYSELF. GAS RUNS DOWN THE SIDE OF THE CAR. I AM CONCERNED THIS COULD CAUSE A FIRE. I HAD TO GIVE A DATE BELOW BUT THIS HAS BEEN HAPPENING…
MY ENGINE THREW A ROD. NO VISIBLE OIL LEAKS. NO SMELL OF OIL. OIL WAS DRY. NO INDICATOR LIGHTS ON. HAD TO REPLACE ENGINE ON CAR AND CAR WAS NOT VERY OLD. THIS HAPPENED LAST YEAR ON 2012 MAZDA 5.
LIFT GATE SUPPORTS - URGENT SAFETY RECALL RECEIVED- CARDINALE MAZDA PEORIA, AZ, REFUSES TO SCHEDULE REPAIRS-
WHEN PUT INTO 1ST OR 2ND GEAR, THIS VEHICLE DRIVES IN REVERSE. IT CAUSED OUR VEHICLE TO UNEXPECTEDLY BACK INTO A MAJOR HIGHWAY. AFTER GETTING OFF THE ROAD IN 3RD GEAR, MULTIPLE DRIVERS HAVE TESTED THIS WITH THE SAME RESULT... THE VEHICLE TRAVELS IN REVERSE WHILE IN 1ST OR 2ND GEA…
LIFTGATE STRUTS WHICH ACCORDING TO MAZDA WERE REPLACED PURSUANT TO RECALL FAILED CAUSING LIFTGATE TO FALL RESULTING IN MINOR INJURY TO MY HAND.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 MAZDA 5. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH, THE BRAKE PEDAL TRAVELED TO THE FLOORBOARD WHEN IT WAS DEPRESSED. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. A LOCAL DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS …
WHEN THE CAR IS AT A STOP OR MOVING SLOWLY IT PERIODICALLY ACCELERATES ON ITS OWN. I MAKE SURE TO KEEP EXTRA DISTANCE BETWEEN ME AND THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME TO PREVENT AN ANY TYPE OF ACCIDENT. IT TENDS TO ACCELERATE AS I TAKE MY FOOT OFF THE BREAK AND ABOUT TO STEP ON THE GAS FR…
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 MAZDA 5. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V644000 (STRUCTURE); 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 V…
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 MAZDA 5. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF A MANUFACTURER RECALL FOR THE AIR BAGS AND STATED THAT THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME FRAME TO SCHEDULE THE RECALL REPAIR. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE PARTS WERE ON A NATI…
WHILE DRIVING THE CAR ON THE HIGHWAY AT THE SPEED OF ABOUT 50 MPH THE FUEL LEAKED FROM THE TANK. IT TOOK ABOUT 40 MINUTES FOR HALF A TANK EMPTY. I NOTICED THE LEAK AFTER REACHING HOME WHERE I COLLECTED REST OF THE GAS BELOW THE CAR.
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. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED A CONCUSS…
VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED USED IN 2014 WITH APPROXIMATELY 47,000 MILES. FOR THE ENTIRE TIME OF OWNERSHIP, WHEN FILLING THE FUEL TANK, IF AN AUTOMATIC SHUTOFF NOZZLE FEATURE IS USED, GASOLINE WILL SPILL FROM THE TANK WITHOUT TRIGGERING THE AUTOMATIC SHUTOFF. THIS HAPPENS IRRESPECTIVE…
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2012 Mazda Mazda5.
2012 Mazda Mazda5 Recalls
1 campaignNHTSA recall campaigns for the 2012 Mazda Mazda5. 1 recall campaign is on record for this model year. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.
2012 Mazda Mazda5 Buying FAQ
Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.
Is the 2012 Mazda Mazda5 reliable?▾
Severe Issues. NHTSA currently shows 35 owner complaints, 3 crash-related complaints, and 1 recall campaign for this model year. The 2012 Mazda Mazda5 shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase. Treat this as a model-year signal, then verify the exact vehicle's condition and history before purchase.
What are the most common problems with the 2012 Mazda Mazda5?▾
#1: Fuel/Propulsion System (8 complaints). #2: Tire Issues (7 complaints). #3: Structural Problems (7 complaints)
At what mileage do problems start on the 2012 Mazda Mazda5?▾
Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.
How safe is the 2012 Mazda Mazda5?▾
Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2012 Mazda Mazda5, NHTSA complaints include 3 crash-related reports and 0 fire reports out of 35 total complaints. 6 injury reports are also on file. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Does the 2012 Mazda Mazda5 have any recalls?▾
Yes. 1 NHTSA recall campaign affect the 2012 Mazda Mazda5. A major recall area is STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE. 1 recall campaign is on record for this model year. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.
Should I buy a 2012 Mazda Mazda5?▾
The 2012 Mazda Mazda5 shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase. Use the model-year trend to shortlist candidates, then confirm the exact vehicle condition with service records, recall status, and a VIN history report. Pay extra attention to Fuel/Propulsion System during inspection. Before committing, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, and recall completion for the exact car.
Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) complaint and recall databases, aggregated by VinSpector AI.
Wider context: See the full Mazda Mazda5 reliability report with year-by-year comparison.
Owner Reliability Rating
Rate the 2012 Mazda Mazda5 based on your ownership experience.
Add your rating:
Ratings are based on owner experience and are separate from NHTSA data shown above.
Check the Exact Vehicle History Before You Buy
Model-year complaints and recalls reveal patterns. A VIN report confirms whether the exact car has accident history, title brands, mileage issues, or open recalls.