Credov's researched list of the 3 faults the Mazda Mazda 2 is known for (2007–2014), 0 of them serious or costly. Each one says what to look for when you check the car, so you can spot it before you buy. Not every car has these faults: they are the ones worth checking on this model.
What to look for: At walking pace turn the wheel lock to lock, with and without the brake on, and feel for a notch or clunk.
Why it matters: This is a very common complaint on this model, and while most cases are only a shaft replacement or re-grease, heavy play should be checked before assuming it is only the shaft, so a proper lock-to-lock test is worth doing on every DE Demio or Mazda2.
What to look for: After 20 minutes of driving, sit in Drive at the lights and watch the tacho for a dip below 600 rpm.
Why it matters: This is a very common complaint on this model that is easy to mistake for a CVT fault, so a proper 20-minute warm-up before judging the idle is the only reliable way to catch it on a test drive.
What to look for: Look at the screen edges in daylight for white cracks or bubbles, and watch for menus changing by themselves.
Why it matters: A cracked or hanging touchscreen is annoying rather than dangerous, but replacing just the touch glass is much cheaper than a whole head unit, so spotting it early is useful for negotiating the price.
Got a question about a Mazda Mazda 2? Ask Credov: a noise, a warning light, a part or how to fix it.
On top of the faults above, every Credov inspection covers the basics: fuel smell, leaks or filler rust, engine oil leaks, power steering fluid leak, drive belt cracks or squeal, rust underneath: chassis and mounts, engine mounts, engine oil level and colour, coolant level, colour and leaks, head gasket failure signs, cold start: rattle, knock or smoke, rough or hunting idle, engine running hot on gauge, gearbox or diff oil leak, swapped gearbox without lvv and more.
Researched by Credov from manufacturer recalls and service bulletins, owner reports and workshop sources. Repair prices are typical ranges, not quotes. See also fault codes and repair costs.