Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (222 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2002
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
The sentiment among long-term owners is predominantly negative, with a strong consensus on poor reliability, high maintenance costs, and significant mechanical failures, particularly as the vehicle ages.
8 problems reported (3 very frequent, 4 recurrent, 1 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentTransmission failures
Including complete replacement under 37,000 miles, delayed shifting, metal shavings in fluid, and general unreliability.
- Very frequentIgnition system failures
Faulty ignition coils (noted as expensive, with reports of $500 per coil), spark plugs, wires, rotors, and caps causing rough idle, shaking on startup, and misfires.
- Very frequentGeneral high maintenance cost
Characterized as a "horrible car for the long term" with expensive parts and frequent, costly repairs exceeding the vehicle's value.
+ 5 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentCooling system problems
Overheating, coolant leaks (including from cylinder head), suspected water pump or thermostat failures.
- RecurrentElectrical system and parasitic battery drain
Causing the vehicle to die overnight despite a new battery, along with complex electrical diagnostics for no-start conditions.
- RecurrentEngine failures (Miller Cycle V6)
Described as temperamental, with major issues and hard-to-find parts.
- RecurrentRough idle and stalling
Related to ignition and possibly compression issues, particularly when the engine is cold.
- IsolatedCatalytic converter failure
Cited as a very expensive repair (approximately $1,200).
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data to declare a consensus "best" version. However, there is a clear distinction made between trims. The base 2.5L V6 is noted as the more straightforward engine, while the supercharged Miller Cycle V6 in the Millenia S is described as a "decent vehicle" if functioning but is more complex, temperamental, has parts that are no longer available, and is a "HUGE pain in the ass to work on." Japanese-built models are universally preferred over US-built ones for their superior build quality and reliability.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Toyota, Ford and and GM.
Is the Millenia right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Full owner reportHide full owner report
Overall sentiment
The sentiment among long-term owners is predominantly negative, with a strong consensus on poor reliability, high maintenance costs, and significant mechanical failures, particularly as the vehicle ages. The car is acknowledged for its initial quality and driving experience when new or at low mileage, but it is widely characterized as a problematic and expensive vehicle to own beyond approximately 75,000-100,000 miles. A recurring theme is the distinction between Japanese-built and US-built models, with the Japanese-built versions praised for superior build quality and longevity, while the US-built models are heavily criticized for numerous issues and are described as being heavily influenced by Ford, which is linked to their unreliability. The supercharged Miller Cycle V6 engine in the 'S' model is singled out as particularly temperamental and difficult to work on.
Positioning vs competitors
Insufficient specific competitor data from owner discussions. The vehicle is generally positioned by owners as an unreliable and costly alternative compared to more dependable Japanese brands like Honda and Toyota, especially in the used car market. It is also characterized as a failed attempt by Mazda to enter the luxury segment, with owners noting that buyers were unwilling to spend luxury-brand money on a Mazda due to brand prestige.
Recommended configurations
Japanese-built model (highly recommended over US-built). Avoid the supercharged Miller Cycle V6 engine due to complexity and part scarcity. Consider only if under 75,000 miles, as reliability is reported to decline sharply thereafter. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is considered essential, with a specific focus on the transmission, ignition system, and cooling system.
General recommendations
NOT recommended as a first car or for buyers on a budget due to predictable high repair costs. Suitable only for enthusiasts or very short-term ownership at low mileage. If purchasing, budget significantly for immediate and ongoing repairs. Parts are noted to be expensive and sometimes difficult to source, especially for the 'S' model. Strongly consider an extended warranty if available. Owners who performed their own repairs note that the vehicle spurred them to learn automotive work due to frequent shop visits.
Remarks
A significant point of consensus is the impact of manufacturing origin. Owners repeatedly and emphatically state that Japanese-built Millenias exhibit far superior build quality, with tight construction and longevity, while US-built models are associated with numerous problems, loose components, and poor workmanship. The model is historically significant as Mazda's attempt at a luxury sedan, but owner feedback confirms its commercial failure was linked to a mismatch between its price and the Mazda brand's perceived prestige. The powertrain, especially the innovative but complex supercharged Miller Cycle V6, is a primary source of its notorious reliability issues. Analysis based on owner experiences spanning from approximately 1999 to 2002 model years.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearNo year grades F. Best year: 2000Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score.
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2003 | 1 | 0 | visibility |
| 2002 | 22 | 0 | engine and engine cooling |
| 2001 | 30 | 0 | power train |
| 2000 | 20 | 0 | engine and engine cooling |
| 1999 | 29 | 0 | engine and engine cooling |
| 1998 | 29 | 0 | engine and engine cooling |
| 1997 | 18 | 0 | power train |
| 1996 | 18 | 0 | power train |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Specifications
Enthusiast code: TA221
2.5 i V6 24V 4WS
2.5L 6-cylinder · 200 hp · FWD · automatic
Built 1997–2003