The 2006 Mazda MAZDA5 introduced North America to a fresh concept: a compact multi-activity vehicle (MAV) offering the practicality of sliding doors and three-row seating for six, but with the nimble handling characteristic of Mazda's "Zoom-Zoom" philosophy. This first-generation model, available in Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring trims, typically ranged from $18,000 to $22,000 new. Its smaller footprint combined with impressive versatility made it a unique and popular choice for urban families seeking efficiency and driving enjoyment.
The Good
The 2006 Mazda MAZDA5 offered an engaging "Zoom-Zoom" driving experience, appealing to emotional buyers seeking fun behind the wheel. Practically, its compact size, ingenious sliding doors, and flexible three-row seating for six provided excellent urban maneuverability and versatility. It delivered better fuel efficiency than larger minivans, representing strong value and a smart, family-friendly design.
The Bad
Key weaknesses for the 2006 Mazda MAZDA5 include a somewhat underpowered engine when fully loaded, limited third-row space for adults, and restricted cargo room with all seats in use. Owners also reported noticeable road noise, potential issues with A/C evaporators, and susceptibility to rust in some regions, requiring careful inspection.
2006 Mazda MAZDA5: Quick Overview
The 2006 Mazda MAZDA5 was equipped with a singular engine option across all trims: a 2.3-liter DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder engine, delivering 157 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 148 lb-ft of torque at 3500 rpm. Fuel economy estimates were competitive for its class, with the manual transmission achieving approximately 22 city/27 highway MPG, and the automatic slightly less at 21 city/26 highway MPG. While not a speed demon, 0-60 mph times were typically in the 9.0-9.5 second range. For those needing light utility, it boasted a modest towing capacity of 1,500 lbs when properly equipped.
Trim levels offered a progressive array of features:
- Sport: The base model came standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, power windows/mirrors/locks, manual air conditioning, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel, and a four-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system. Six-passenger seating with cloth upholstery and manual transmission were standard.
- Touring: Building on the Sport, the Touring added an automatic transmission as standard, automatic climate control, fog lights, a 6-disc CD changer, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, and a rear spoiler.
- Grand Touring: The top-tier Grand Touring further enhanced luxury and convenience with leather upholstery, heated front seats, HID (High-Intensity Discharge) headlights, a power moonroof, rain-sensing wipers, and a trip computer. Side air bags and side curtain air bags were often standard or part of an optional package on this trim, enhancing safety.
2006 Mazda MAZDA5 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2006 |
| Make | Mazda |
| Model | MAZDA5 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Wagon |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Japan |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | - |
| Engine Size | - |
| Engine Cylinders | - |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
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Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2006 Mazda MAZDA5 Have?
The 2006 Mazda MAZDA5, while generally a commendable vehicle, does have several frequently reported problems and long-term reliability concerns worth noting. Perhaps the most significant and widespread issue is rust, particularly evident on rear wheel arches, rocker panels, and even subframe components, especially in regions exposed to road salt. This can lead to structural integrity concerns and costly bodywork.
Another common and often expensive problem involves the air conditioning system's evaporator core. When it fails, replacing it requires extensive dashboard disassembly, resulting in high labor costs. Owners have also reported issues with the automatic transmission, including rough shifts, delays in engagement, and in some cases, outright failure, which could be related to torque converter problems. The power steering system is prone to leaks from lines or the pump, which if neglected, can lead to pump failure.
Suspension components, such as control arm bushings, sway bar links, and shock absorbers, tend to wear out prematurely, leading to clunking noises and diminished ride quality. Similarly, engine mounts can fail, causing excessive vibrations. Less common but reported are issues with oxygen sensors or the catalytic converter triggering "Check Engine" lights. The clever sliding doors can also develop problems with their mechanisms, rollers, or cables over time.
Regarding recalls, the 2006 MAZDA5 had at least two significant ones: NHTSA Campaign Number: 06V398000 addressed a potential crack in the fuel pump casing leading to fuel leaks. Later, NHTSA Campaign Number: 08V524000 concerned front lower control arm ball joints that could wear prematurely due to insufficient heat treatment, potentially leading to separation and loss of steering control. Additionally, like many vehicles of its era, some 2006 MAZDA5s were later included in the widespread Takata airbag inflator recalls, primarily affecting the driver-side airbag, necessitating replacement for safety.
Another common and often expensive problem involves the air conditioning system's evaporator core. When it fails, replacing it requires extensive dashboard disassembly, resulting in high labor costs. Owners have also reported issues with the automatic transmission, including rough shifts, delays in engagement, and in some cases, outright failure, which could be related to torque converter problems. The power steering system is prone to leaks from lines or the pump, which if neglected, can lead to pump failure.
Suspension components, such as control arm bushings, sway bar links, and shock absorbers, tend to wear out prematurely, leading to clunking noises and diminished ride quality. Similarly, engine mounts can fail, causing excessive vibrations. Less common but reported are issues with oxygen sensors or the catalytic converter triggering "Check Engine" lights. The clever sliding doors can also develop problems with their mechanisms, rollers, or cables over time.
Regarding recalls, the 2006 MAZDA5 had at least two significant ones: NHTSA Campaign Number: 06V398000 addressed a potential crack in the fuel pump casing leading to fuel leaks. Later, NHTSA Campaign Number: 08V524000 concerned front lower control arm ball joints that could wear prematurely due to insufficient heat treatment, potentially leading to separation and loss of steering control. Additionally, like many vehicles of its era, some 2006 MAZDA5s were later included in the widespread Takata airbag inflator recalls, primarily affecting the driver-side airbag, necessitating replacement for safety.
How long will the 2006 Mazda MAZDA5 last?
A well-maintained 2006 Mazda MAZDA5 can typically serve its owners for an impressive 150,000 to 200,000 miles, often translating to 10 to 15 years of service. With diligent maintenance, including regular oil changes and addressing known issues proactively, some examples have been known to exceed 250,000 miles. The 2.3L MZR engine is generally robust, contributing to its long-term durability.
However, long-term weaknesses primarily revolve around rust, which can become a severe structural concern over time, particularly in salt-prone environments. Other age-related wear items include frequent replacement of suspension and steering components like bushings and sway bar links. The automatic transmission can be a long-term reliability concern if maintenance has been neglected, and the costly A/C evaporator failure is often an event that occurs as the vehicle ages, prompting owners to consider replacement or live without.
However, long-term weaknesses primarily revolve around rust, which can become a severe structural concern over time, particularly in salt-prone environments. Other age-related wear items include frequent replacement of suspension and steering components like bushings and sway bar links. The automatic transmission can be a long-term reliability concern if maintenance has been neglected, and the costly A/C evaporator failure is often an event that occurs as the vehicle ages, prompting owners to consider replacement or live without.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2006 Mazda MAZDA5, a product of its time, featured a relatively modest array of built-in technology and entertainment. Standard amenities included an AM/FM/CD audio system with four speakers for the Sport trim, while higher Touring and Grand Touring models upgraded to a 6-disc in-dash CD changer. Manual air conditioning was standard on the Sport, with automatic climate control available on the Touring and Grand Touring trims. Advanced infotainment features like touchscreen displays or integrated navigation were not offered, nor was a standard auxiliary input for external media devices, reflecting the technology landscape of the mid-2000s.
Driver-assistance features were minimal by today's standards, primarily consisting of core active safety systems. All models came standard with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) to aid in controlled stopping. More sophisticated aids like adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assistance were non-existent.
In terms of passive safety, dual front airbags and front seatbelt pretensioners were standard. Crucially, front side-impact airbags and side-curtain airbags (extending to all three rows) were optional or standard on higher trims like the Grand Touring, significantly enhancing occupant protection. Active safety was bolstered by available Traction Control System (TCS) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), often bundled in a package or standard on the Grand Touring.
Crash-test ratings provided reassurance:
Driver-assistance features were minimal by today's standards, primarily consisting of core active safety systems. All models came standard with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) to aid in controlled stopping. More sophisticated aids like adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assistance were non-existent.
In terms of passive safety, dual front airbags and front seatbelt pretensioners were standard. Crucially, front side-impact airbags and side-curtain airbags (extending to all three rows) were optional or standard on higher trims like the Grand Touring, significantly enhancing occupant protection. Active safety was bolstered by available Traction Control System (TCS) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), often bundled in a package or standard on the Grand Touring.
Crash-test ratings provided reassurance:
- NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration):
- Frontal Crash: 5 stars (Driver), 4 stars (Passenger).
- Side Impact: 5 stars (Front seat), 5 stars (Rear seat) – when equipped with side airbags.
- Rollover: 4 stars.
- IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety):
- Moderate Overlap Front: "Good" rating.
- Side Impact: "Acceptable" without side airbags, improving to "Good" with the optional side airbags.
- Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraints: Rated "Poor."
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
2006 Mazda MAZDA5 Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2006 Mazda MAZDA5 offered competitive pricing, with the Sport trim starting around $18,000, the Touring model typically ranging from $19,500 to $20,000, and the top-tier Grand Touring fetching approximately $21,500 to $22,500. Today, nearly two decades later, current used market prices are significantly lower, generally fluctuating between $2,000 and $6,000+, heavily dependent on the vehicle's condition, mileage, and geographical location.
Depreciation has been substantial, as is typical for non-luxury, mainstream vehicles, with the steepest drops occurring in its initial years. At this age, the MAZDA5 is well past its major depreciation curve, with its resale value now primarily driven by its overall condition, particularly the presence (or absence) of significant rust, the mechanical soundness of its engine and transmission, and documented maintenance history. Lower mileage, rust-free examples from dry climates command the higher end of the used price spectrum, while models with major deferred maintenance or extensive rust will be valued considerably less.
Depreciation has been substantial, as is typical for non-luxury, mainstream vehicles, with the steepest drops occurring in its initial years. At this age, the MAZDA5 is well past its major depreciation curve, with its resale value now primarily driven by its overall condition, particularly the presence (or absence) of significant rust, the mechanical soundness of its engine and transmission, and documented maintenance history. Lower mileage, rust-free examples from dry climates command the higher end of the used price spectrum, while models with major deferred maintenance or extensive rust will be valued considerably less.
2006 Mazda MAZDA5 Cost of Ownership
Long-term ownership of a 2006 Mazda MAZDA5 can be a mixed bag, leaning towards economical with proper care. Insurance costs are generally affordable due to its compact size, family-oriented nature, and moderate performance. Fuel costs are reasonable, as it uses regular unleaded gasoline and offers better MPG than larger minivans. Routine maintenance, such as oil changes, tires, and brakes, is comparable to other compact cars.
However, repair costs can become significant if known issues like the A/C evaporator, power steering leaks, or transmission problems arise, as these often involve considerable labor. Rust repair, if needed, can also be expensive. Therefore, while it can be an economical choice for its utility, prospective owners should budget for potential "big ticket" repairs associated with aging vehicles, especially if prior maintenance is lacking. Overall, a well-cared-for MAZDA5 is economical, but neglected ones can be costly.
However, repair costs can become significant if known issues like the A/C evaporator, power steering leaks, or transmission problems arise, as these often involve considerable labor. Rust repair, if needed, can also be expensive. Therefore, while it can be an economical choice for its utility, prospective owners should budget for potential "big ticket" repairs associated with aging vehicles, especially if prior maintenance is lacking. Overall, a well-cared-for MAZDA5 is economical, but neglected ones can be costly.
2006 Mazda MAZDA5 Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
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Fuel Capacity
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City Mileage
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Highway Mileage
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2006 Mazda MAZDA5 Safety Rating
NHTSA
2006 Mazda MAZDA5 Insurance
Insurance for a 2006 Mazda MAZDA5 is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Wagon with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2006 Mazda MAZDA5 Compare to Other Wagon?
The 2006 Mazda MAZDA5 occupied a unique niche, making direct comparisons challenging. It was smaller than traditional minivans like the Honda Odyssey or Toyota Sienna, yet offered more utility and seating than most compact SUVs like the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4 of the same era. Its blend of compact size and sliding doors set it apart.
In terms of performance, the MAZDA5 stood out for its "Zoom-Zoom" handling dynamics, feeling more agile and engaging to drive than the typically more sedate compact SUVs or lumbering full-size minivans. However, its 157-hp engine could feel underpowered, especially when fully loaded, unlike the stronger V6s in larger minivans.
For features, the MAZDA5's defining attribute was its dual sliding rear doors combined with three-row seating in a compact footprint – a unique proposition. While its built-in tech was basic for 2006, it offered practical family solutions that smaller CUVs lacked and larger minivans oversized. Compared to rivals like the Scion xB or Chrysler PT Cruiser, the MAZDA5 offered genuine 3-row utility.
Reliability is where the MAZDA5 can be a mixed bag compared to its segment stalwarts. While its core engine is decent, known issues like rust, A/C evaporator failures, and potential automatic transmission woes can make it less "bulletproof" than a Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V of the same vintage. These issues, if left unaddressed, can lead to higher long-term ownership costs, despite its initial lower price.
Alternatives:
In terms of performance, the MAZDA5 stood out for its "Zoom-Zoom" handling dynamics, feeling more agile and engaging to drive than the typically more sedate compact SUVs or lumbering full-size minivans. However, its 157-hp engine could feel underpowered, especially when fully loaded, unlike the stronger V6s in larger minivans.
For features, the MAZDA5's defining attribute was its dual sliding rear doors combined with three-row seating in a compact footprint – a unique proposition. While its built-in tech was basic for 2006, it offered practical family solutions that smaller CUVs lacked and larger minivans oversized. Compared to rivals like the Scion xB or Chrysler PT Cruiser, the MAZDA5 offered genuine 3-row utility.
Reliability is where the MAZDA5 can be a mixed bag compared to its segment stalwarts. While its core engine is decent, known issues like rust, A/C evaporator failures, and potential automatic transmission woes can make it less "bulletproof" than a Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V of the same vintage. These issues, if left unaddressed, can lead to higher long-term ownership costs, despite its initial lower price.
Alternatives:
- For similar compact utility without the 3rd row, a 2006-2008 Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4 would offer potentially superior reliability and available AWD, albeit without sliding doors.
- If the 3rd row is paramount and budget allows for slightly larger, a well-maintained 2006 Honda Odyssey or Toyota Sienna would provide vastly more space, comfort, and generally higher reliability, but at a higher purchase price and increased running costs.
- For those prioritizing the "Zoom-Zoom" over space, a Mazda3 would be a better choice.
Final Verdict: Is the 2006 Mazda MAZDA5 a Good Wagon?
The 2006 Mazda MAZDA5 is ideal for urban and suburban families who need the occasional flexibility of three-row seating and the convenience of sliding doors, but desire a more compact, nimble vehicle than a traditional minivan. It caters well to budget-conscious buyers who appreciate Mazda's "Zoom-Zoom" driving dynamics and seek practical utility without the bulk of larger vehicles.
Is it worth buying today? Yes, but with significant caveats. As a used vehicle, its value proposition is high, offering a lot of utility for a low purchase price. However, a thorough pre-purchase inspection is absolutely critical, focusing intensely on rust – particularly the rocker panels, wheel wells, and subframe – as well as the functionality of the A/C system, the smoothness of automatic transmission shifts, and the condition of the power steering and suspension. Finding a model with comprehensive maintenance records is paramount.
Opting for a Touring or Grand Touring trim can provide a better equipped and more comfortable experience, often including valuable safety features like side airbags. Buyers should budget for potential repairs typical of an almost two-decade-old vehicle, especially the common A/C evaporator replacement or rust remediation, which can quickly negate initial savings. It's best sought from dry climates to minimize rust concerns.
Is it worth buying today? Yes, but with significant caveats. As a used vehicle, its value proposition is high, offering a lot of utility for a low purchase price. However, a thorough pre-purchase inspection is absolutely critical, focusing intensely on rust – particularly the rocker panels, wheel wells, and subframe – as well as the functionality of the A/C system, the smoothness of automatic transmission shifts, and the condition of the power steering and suspension. Finding a model with comprehensive maintenance records is paramount.
Opting for a Touring or Grand Touring trim can provide a better equipped and more comfortable experience, often including valuable safety features like side airbags. Buyers should budget for potential repairs typical of an almost two-decade-old vehicle, especially the common A/C evaporator replacement or rust remediation, which can quickly negate initial savings. It's best sought from dry climates to minimize rust concerns.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.