Mazda 2
Ford diesel engine (DV4TD) in the Mazda2. Frugal on fuel but at its limit power-wise. Turbo and injectors are wear items.
Diesel Pragmatism in a Small Car
The 1.4-litre diesel with 68 hp doesn't really suit the lively character of the Mazda 2 DE. For a city car the output is borderline, and the diesel temperament robs the agile chassis of all joy. The only argument for this engine is low consumption.
Engine Weaknesses 4
The metering valve on the Denso high-pressure pump fails, with metal particles contaminating the entire fuel system including all injectors. Total failure possible.
Symptoms: Engine won't start, severe juddering, power drop to zero
Copper sealing rings on the injectors fail under pressure and heat. If the seat is not properly cleaned during replacement, the problem recurs. Repeated repair is often necessary.
Symptoms: Exhaust smell inside the cabin, hard soot deposit visible around injectors, smoke from engine bay
The glow plugs of the Y4 TDCi diesel corrode in the threads and snap off when being removed. Welded or milled-out thread remnants generate considerable additional costs. Preventive replacement every 60,000 km recommended.
Symptoms: Hard cold start; juddering after starting in winter; diagnosis: glow plug fault code; one or more plugs snap off during removal.
The glow plug control unit fails and prevents correct pre-glow. Glow plugs can seize from corrosion and snap off when removed — costly repair.
Symptoms: Pre-glow light goes out immediately, difficult cold start, warning symbol in instrument cluster
Vehicle Weaknesses 6
All Mazda 2 DE (2007–2014) are affected by the worldwide Takata airbag recall. Defective inflators can propel metal fragments when the airbag deploys. Free repair at Mazda dealers.
Tie rod ends on the Mazda 2 DE wear comparatively early, causing clicking when turning from standstill. MOT/TÃœV reports list worn steering as a recurring defect. Replacing both sides including wheel alignment is recommended.
Early DE models up to model year 2008 showed premature wheel bearing wear, with some replacements carried out under warranty. Later model years are largely unaffected.
The air conditioning condenser on the Mazda 2 is exposed and vulnerable to stone damage causing refrigerant loss. On older vehicles corrosion at solder joints can also occur. Repair typically includes recharging the refrigerant.
Older DE examples show underbody rust from around 10 years of age, particularly on brake lines, strut towers and longitudinal members. Mazda skimps on factory underseal. Without follow-up treatment winter salt use accelerates corrosion.
ADAC breakdown statistics list the starter battery of the Mazda 2 DE as a major failure point. Particularly with short-trip use the battery discharges. On older vehicles batteries wear out faster than usual.
Reports & Tests
31 owner complaints filed with NHTSA (2007–2014). Most reported: Steering (9), Suspension (5), Airbags (5).