Before you buy
This 2003 Mazda Mpv has 114 NHTSA complaints — top issue: Transmission / Drivetrain.
A model-year pattern isn't the car in front of you. Check this exact VIN for accidents, open recalls, odometer rollback, and salvage titles.
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2003 Mazda Mpv Fuel Economy
✓ EPA Official DataEPA official fuel economy rating for the 2003 Mazda Mpv.
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov. Figures reflect EPA lab testing; real-world results vary by driving style, load, and conditions.
2003 Mazda Mpv 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 2003 Mazda Mpv has 114 owner complaints, 12 crash-related complaints, and 4 recall campaigns on record. The most frequently reported component is Transmission / Drivetrain. NHTSA reliability signal: Severe Issues.
- Make
- Mazda
- Model
- Mpv
- Model year
- 2003
- NHTSA owner complaints
- 114
- Crash-related complaints
- 12
- Safety recall campaigns
- 4
- Top reported component
- Transmission / Drivetrain
- Reliability signal
- Severe Issues
- EPA MPG combined
- 18
- EPA MPG city / highway
- 16 / 23
- Fuel type
- Regular Gasoline
- Electronic stability control
- No
Common problems
Most common 2003 Mazda Mpv problems
Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.
Transmission / Drivetrain
Engine Problems
Electrical Faults
Complaint patterns center on Transmission / Drivetrain, Engine Problems, Electrical Faults. Use these as a pre-purchase inspection guide, then verify recall and damage history on the specific VIN.
Buyer verdict
Should you buy a used 2003 Mazda Mpv?
This MAZDA MPV year shows a meaningful number of reported issues, so buyers should only proceed after a careful records review and inspection.
Model-year complaint trends can reveal recurring trouble spots before you spend money on inspections, financing, or repairs.
May Suit
This year may suit buyers who prioritize complete maintenance records and pass a pre-purchase inspection.
May Want to Avoid
Buyers who want a lower-risk ownership profile may prefer comparing nearby model years before committing.
Pre-purchase
What to check before buying a used 2003 Mazda Mpv
Inspection Focus
- Inspect the most frequently reported complaint components on this model year
- Confirm recall repairs were completed and documented
- Check for accident damage, title brands, and mileage inconsistencies on the exact VIN
Before You Close the Deal
- 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
Check the exact car
Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.
Before buying a used 2003 Mazda Mpv, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, theft checks, and open recalls for the exact vehicle.
AI verdict
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
The MAZDA MPV has 114 NHTSA complaints and 4 recalls on record. 12 complaints involve crash-related incidents. This data reflects owner-reported issues submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Recall context: 4 recall campaigns are on record, so recall completion status should be confirmed on the exact VIN before purchase.
- 114 total complaints filed with NHTSA
- 4 federal recall campaigns
- 12 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
Full breakdown
All 2003 Mazda Mpv complaints by category
Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2003 Mazda Mpv. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Avg Mileage | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Transmission / Drivetrain | 35 | 2 | 1 | — | |
| Engine Problems | 27 | — | — | — | |
| Electrical Faults | 16 | — | — | — | |
| Airbag Malfunctions | 10 | 5 | — | — | |
| Unintended Acceleration | 9 | 3 | — | — | |
| Structural Problems | 8 | 1 | — | — | |
| Brake System | 7 | — | — | — | |
| Uncategorized Issues | 5 | — | — | — | |
| Hydraulic | 5 | — | — | — | |
| Steering Defects | 3 | 1 | — | — | |
| Tire Issues | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Seat Belt Issues | 3 | 2 | — | — | |
| Wheel Issues | 2 | 1 | — | — | |
| Suspension Failures | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Equipment | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Fuel System | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Gasoline | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Electronic Stability Control (Esc) | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Equipment Adaptive/Mobility | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Door Lock Issues | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Electric | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Visibility | 1 | — | 1 | — | |
| Seat-Related Issues | 1 | — | — | — |
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Complaint counts may exceed total complaints because one report can span multiple categories.
In their words
Real owner complaints
Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2003 Mazda Mpv. Type a keyword (e.g. “transmission”, “stalling”, “brakes”) to filter.
MY 2003 MAZDA MPV HAS A HORRIBLE TRANSMISSION SHIFTING PROBLEM. TOOK IT TO DEALER AND THEY SAID IT'S THE TRANSMISSION CONTROL MODULE. THEY CHARGED ME 1,500 DOLLARS TO INSTALL NEW AND AND REFLASH IT AND THE TRANSMISSION STILL DOESN'T SHIFT PROPERLY.
I WOULD LIKE TO REPORT THE VANCE WHO IS THE AUTO MANAGER AT SEARS AUTO IN SALEM, OREGON AT 955 LANCASTER DRIVE NE SALEM, OREGON 97301. I BOUGHT 4 NEW TIRES IN JUNE 2018 AND PURCHASED A ROAD HAZARD PLUS WARRANTY. IN BETWEEN THIS INCIDENT I AM REPORTING TO YOU; I REPORTED VANCE F…
IT STALLS WITH NO APPARENT REASON WHILE DRIVING ON CITY STREETS
BOTH SUNVISORS MIRROR HOUSINGS DROPS HANGING FROM THE CABLES EVERY TIME YOU LOWER THE SUNVISORS. IT HAPPENS STATIONARY AND IN MOTION. CAN'T VIRTUALLY USE SUNVISORS. *JS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MAZDA MPV. THE CONTACT STATED THAT 48 HOURS AFTER PURCHASING THE VEHICLE FROM HONDA OF WINTER HAVEN IN WINTER HAVEN, FLORIDA, THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED WHEN THE KEY WAS INSERTED INTO THE IGNITION. THE FRONT PASSENGER'S RIGHT ARM AND LUNG WERE…
TAKATA RECALL IT SAY SR ON THE SEAT.... THIS IS WHAT HAPPENS, MY WIFE AND I WORK FOR A SATELLITE COMPANY AS INSTALLERS. SAT AT 4:30PM WE ARRIVE AT CUSTOMER HOUSE TO PERFORM THE INSTALLATION. .. TURN THE CAR OFF I TAKE THE KEYS AS NORMAL.GREET THE CUSTOMER AND DID A SITE…
CAR WAS STATIONARY AND IN PARK. UPON TURNING KEY IN IGNITION, THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED. MAZDA SERVICE AGENT COULD FIND NO MECHANICAL CAUSE. IT IS NOT NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR. RESULTING AIRBAGS CANNOT BE TURNED ON, LEAVING US WITH A VEHICLE WITH NO AIRBAG PROTECTION. MA…
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MAZDA MPV. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ENGINE WAS MISFIRING DUE TO A COIL SPRING FRACTURE THAT RANDOMLY OCCURRED SEVERAL TIMES. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PREVIOUS OWNER HAD TO REPLACE FOUR COIL SPRINGS THAT PREMATURELY FRACTURED. THE CONTACT LATER OW…
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MAZDA MPV. WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH ON A HIGHWAY, THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG EXPLODED AND MADE A LOUD SOUND WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED INJURIES AND RECEIVED MEDICAL ATTENTION DUE TO THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED.…
EVERY TIME THIS MAZDA MPV GETS A LITTLE WET IT WILL NOT GO OVER 40 MPH. I HAVE CONTACTED THE DEALERSHIP WITH NO RETURN PHONE CALL OR EMAIL. THE COILS ALLOW MOISTURE TO GET IN WHICH WILL CAUSE THE VEHICLE TO THINK IT IS OVERHEATING AND WILL NOT GO NO MATTER WHAT YOU DO. I WAS ON T…
WE DRIVE TO LAKE TAHOE IN MY MPV VAN WITH 5 PEOPLE IN IT. THE VAN JERKED WHEN DRIVING ACCELERATING FROM 40 TO 50 MPH. WE CHANGED DRIVER ON THE WAY, AND BOTH DRIVER FELLED THE SAME THING. IT SEEMS A TRANSMISSION SHIFT SHOCK OR SHIFT FLARE. THEN WHEN "GOOGLE" THE PROBLEM ON INTERNE…
2003 MAZDA MPV. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO UNSATISFACTORY CUSTOMER SERVICE FROM DEALERSHIP AND VEHICLE COMPANY. *SMD THE CONSUMER STATED HIS VEHICLE DID NOT PASS A SAFETY INSPECTION, DUE TO A FAULTY CATALYTIC CONVERTER, DESPITE SPENDING OVER $3,000 TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM.
WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE ON HIGHWAY AT 60MPH IN TRAFFIC VEHICLE SHUT OFF. MAZDA MECHANIC TOLD ME COIL ON NUMBER ONE CYLINDER WAS BAD. THIS HAD BEEN REPLACED JUST A YEAR OR SO AGO BUT APPARENTLY WAS BAD AGAIN. *TR
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MAZDA MPV. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 20 MPH, SHE HEARD A LOUD POPPING NOISE. THE CONTACT STOPPED THE VEHICLE AND NOTICED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE TIE ROD WAS FRACTURED. THE WHEEL WAS ALSO POINTED OUTWARD. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN IND…
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MAZDA MPV. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE TRUNK LATCH FRACTURED, CAUSING THE HOOD TO STRIKE HER ON THE HEAD. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A MINOR CONCUSSION. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND THEY OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NEITHER INSPECTED NOR REPA…
UNIROYAL 2256016 AWP II ON ALL FOUR WHEELS. VAN STARTED PULLING TO THE RIGHT AND GOT PROGRESSIVELY WORSE UNTIL I TOOK IT IN FOR ALIGNMENT. ALIGNMENT WAS FINE. KEPT DRIVING. PULLING GOT SO BAD THAT VAN WOULD START CAREENING OFF ROAD IF STEERING WHEEL WAS LET GO (EVEN AT SLOW S…
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MAZDA MPV. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE WOULD BEGIN TO JERK AND IT WOULD NOT RESPOND TO THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL. THE FAILURE RECURRED WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WOULD ALSO ILLUMINATE ON THE INS…
VEHICLE HAS ABOUT 112, 500 MILES WHEN IT HAD A CATALYTIC CONVERTER FAILURE. COST TO REPAIR $1800. SERVICE MANAGER SAID THIS REPAIR IS TIED TO DRIVING WITH THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON DUE TO ENGINE COIL FAILURES. ALL ENGINE COILS HAD BEEN REPLACED BEFORE 89000 MILES. SINCE THE COI…
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MAZDA MPV WAGON. WHILE DRIVING 75 MPH WITH THE CRUISE CONTROL ACTIVATED, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED UP TO 90 MPH WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER WHERE THEY INSPECTED IT AND WAS UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE …
ONE TAILGATE STRUT BOLT ON MY MAZDA MPV FAILED WHILE I WAS OPENING THE TAILGATE CAUSING THE TAILGATE TO FALL UNEXPECTEDLY. I WAS LUCKY THAT I WASN'T HURT. *TR
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2003 Mazda Mpv.
Safety recalls
2003 Mazda Mpv recalls
4 campaignsNHTSA recall campaigns for the 2003 Mazda Mpv. 4 recall campaigns are on record, so recall completion status should be confirmed on the exact VIN before purchase. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.
EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:FOG LIGHTS
EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:FOG LIGHTS
Research more
Keep researching before you buy
Compare brands and categories, then check the exact car's history by VIN.
Questions
2003 Mazda Mpv buying FAQ
Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.
Is the 2003 Mazda Mpv reliable?▾
Severe Issues. NHTSA currently shows 114 owner complaints, 12 crash-related complaints, and 4 recall campaigns for this model year. This MAZDA MPV year shows a meaningful number of reported issues, so buyers should only proceed after a careful records review and inspection. 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 2003 Mazda Mpv?▾
#1: Transmission / Drivetrain (35 complaints). #2: Engine Problems (27 complaints). #3: Electrical Faults (16 complaints)
At what mileage do problems start on the 2003 Mazda Mpv?▾
Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.
How safe is the 2003 Mazda Mpv?▾
Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2003 Mazda Mpv, NHTSA complaints include 12 crash-related reports and 2 fire reports out of 114 total complaints. 18 injury reports are also on file. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Does the 2003 Mazda Mpv have any recalls?▾
Yes. 4 NHTSA recall campaigns affect the 2003 Mazda Mpv. A major recall area is EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS. 4 recall campaigns are on record, so recall completion status should be confirmed on the exact VIN before purchase. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.
Should I buy a 2003 Mazda Mpv?▾
This MAZDA MPV year shows a meaningful number of reported issues, so buyers should only proceed after a careful records review and inspection. Model-year complaint trends can reveal recurring trouble spots before you spend money on inspections, financing, or repairs. Pay extra attention to Transmission / Drivetrain 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 Mpv reliability report with year-by-year comparison.
Owner Reliability Rating
Rate the 2003 Mazda Mpv based on your ownership experience.
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Ratings are based on owner experience and are separate from NHTSA data shown above.
Before you buy
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.