2001 Mazda MPV LX review from North America
"Beware of rust!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Rust is a huge issue... both rear quarter panels, bottoms of both sliding doors, both front doors, and the black trim between the windows on the doors, and the rear hatch. Our MPV was rustproofed and retreated annually, and kept clean and waxed... but we couldn't keep it rust free. All other MPV owners in our area seem to be dealing with the same issues, even with newer models..
The front wheel bearings were replaced twice. The alternator was replaced by the dealer twice ($750.00 each). Brake discs couldn't be turned and had to be replaced at the first brake job (50k). Repairs tended to be expensive as the Ford drivetrain was crammed into a small compartment.
General comments?
A compact van with a flexible interior, is easy to park, and it has and great handling. However the 2001 MPV uses a Ford Contour drivetrain which is both sluggish and gets bad mpg (17 city, 20 highway).
Newer models have a bigger 3.0 Litre Ford engine matched with a 5 speed transmission to address acceleration and mpg, but beware... those vehicles have issues with ignition coils on the plugs failing, leading to breakdowns at inopportune times.
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| Mazda on the outside Ford on the inside |
|
| Total lemon |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Model year | 2001 |
| Year of manufacture | 2001 |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2009 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.5 V6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 5 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 7 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 120000 miles |
| Previous car | Mazda 626 |
| Date of Entry | 13th September, 2009 |