Mazda Bongo Common Problems (Tips for Owners)
Mazda Bongo is hailed for its practicality and versatility in the camper van world. However, like any other vehicle model, it’s not immune to various problems that may arise with time and continued use. So, what are the most common problems owners of this van usually encounter?
Mazda Bongo most common problems include:
- Rust and corrosion
- Engine related issues
- Fuel system problems
- Cooling system problems
- Electrical system problems
- Transmission and gearbox issues
- Suspension and steering problem
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll be taking a closer look at the most common problems frequently encountered by Mazda Bongo owners. By understanding these issues, you’ll be able to easily identify, address, and even prevent them, ensuring you have a smooth experience with your Mazda Bongo.
Mazda Bongo Common Problems:
Below, we’ll discuss more details about the various common problems in Mazda Bongo we have listed above. We’ll also look at potential solutions to consider and prevention tips in each case.
Mazda Bongo rust issues
One of the most common problems encountered by Mazda Bongo owners is rust. This issue is even more prevalent in the older Bongo models probably due to poor rustproofing they used back in the era.
The vehicle’s susceptibility to rust may be influenced by factors like the vehicle’s age, exposure to harsh environmental conditions, or maintenance history.
One particular area where rust tends to attack is the wheel arches. The area easily accumulates moisture, debris, dirt, etc., creating just the ideal environment for rust to form. The underside of the vehicle and the sill are also prone to rusting.
If you live in areas with high humidity levels or where road salt is applied during winter, your van is even more likely to rust!
When rust catches up with your Bongo, we advise you to treat it as soon as possible before it causes further damage. If the rust is so severe, you may need to take your vehicle to a professional at a body shop for repairs of the affected areas.
To deal with rust in your Mazda Bongo, we advise you to perform regular inspections of your vehicle. Pay closer attention to areas where rust is more likely to occur. Clean these areas regularly and apply a protective coat to help minimize rust formation.
Installing an underseal to your Bongo can also help prevent rust issues by keeping away items like salt, moisture, debris, etc., that help in rust formation.
Check the video below on how bad rust can get in a Mazda Bongo and how to get it repaired
Video:
Cooling system problems
Mazda Bongos also have a reputation for overheating due to cooling system problems. The major causes behind this issue include issues with cooling system components including the cooling fans, water pump, thermostat, or radiator.
If not addressed on time, these problems often lead to engine damage and attract costly repairs.
Signs of cooling system problems to look out for in your Bongo include coolant leaks, rising temperature gauges, and steam from the engine compartment
Head gasket failure, especially in vehicles with higher mileage, is another potential culprit behind the overheating problem in Bongo. It allows coolant to mix with engine oil—disrupting the engine cooling process.
Notable symptoms of head gasket failure include overheating, white smoke from the exhaust and even coolant loss.
We advise you to address cooling system issues in your vehicle to help maintain a healthy engine and prevent costly damage that may cost you more to fix.
Regular maintenance of your cooling system is also crucial to keeping away most of the system issues. These include checking coolant levels, checking coolant condition, inspecting the fan for proper operation, and inspecting hoses for cracks.
Electrical and writing issues
If you’re planning to get your first Bongo, you should also keep in mind that these vehicles’ electrical systems are known to be problematic.
The older Mazda Bongo vehicles’ electrical systems would experience issues like blown fuses, faulty wiring, electrical shorts, alternator issues, malfunctioning batteries, and malfunctioning dashboard lights.
The electrical charging system is the most common issue across various generations of Mazda Bongo. The alternator may fail or be unable to properly charge the battery. This leads to a dead battery or total electrical power loss.
The dashboard lights are another electrical system issue common in Bongos. The warning lights for various systems including check engine light, ABS light, etc., may stop working. This can be attributed to wiring problems or faulty sensors.
Electrical system-related issues usually cause various vehicle electrical components like wipers, headlights, radio, etc. to stop working correctly.
Some of the key symptoms of electrical system issues include flickering lights, intermittent electrical failures, and non-responsive windows.
Such electrical system issues can be fixed by repairing the faulty wiring, replacing the faulty components, and ensuring your vehicle has proper grounding.
Diagnosis of electrical and wiring issues may require a professional to diagnose your vehicle and fix any underlying issues.
Transmission and gearbox problems
Many Mazda Bongo owners also deal with transmission and gearbox-related problems. These issues are more common in automatic transmissions.
Most owners usually complain about rough shifting, slipping issues, or even total failure.
These issues may be caused by fluid leaks, worn-out transmission components, or even malfunctioning electronic control modules.
Some of the key symptoms to look out for include delays in shifting, erratic gear changes, and unusual noises when accelerating.
Performing timely repairs when faced with tranny and gearbox issues in your Bongo is advisable to prevent further damage and maintain your vehicle’s drivability.
Still at it, we advise you to perform timely maintenance such as regular tranny fluid checks and replacements to keep these problems from catching up with your vehicle.
Suspension and steering problem
Your Mazda Bongo van is also likely to experience suspension and steering troubles. This could arise from worn-out components such as bushings, ball joints, tie rods, shock absorbers, etc.
These usually lead to poor handling, discomfort while driving your car, and uneven tire wear. Driving your car on rough roads or towing heavy roads can make this issue even worse.
Problems with the Bongo steering system may also manifest in symptoms such as difficulties turning your vehicle unresponsive or loose steering wheel, and vibrations while driving your car. In particular, many car owners complain about steering wheel vibration.
If you start noticing unusual noises, steering responsiveness changes, or differences in how your vehicle handles when driving your Bongo, we advise you to have a qualified Mazda technician diagnose your vehicle and resolve any underlying problems.
In this case, we advise you to do regular inspections of your steering and suspension components to keep the system running smoothly. This can also help you detect any issues early on and fix them on time.
Proper alignment and timely replacements will help restore your vehicle’s proper handling while at the same promoting a smoother driving experience.
Engine issues
Engine issues are also frequently reported by Mazda owners. These issues can range from oil leaks to overheating, and timing belt issues.
Needless to say, these issues end up affecting your vehicle’s performance and reliability.
Oil leaks, in particular, are a result of deteriorating gaskets and seals, and they tend to cause decreased engine efficiency.
Timing belt problems, on the other hand, will cause engine misfires and even total breakdowns if you do not replace them on time.
We have already touched on the overheating problem, so we won’t go into the details again.
If faced with engine-related issues, we also advise you to respond to them promptly to prevent further damage and keep your engine running smoothly.
Be on the lookout for key symptoms such as warning lights, engine noises, or increased temperatures.
Regular maintenance of your Mazda Bongo, including timely timing belt replacement and oil change, can go a long way in preventing these engine problems.
Fuel system problems
Yes, fuel system problems are also common in Mazda bongo vehicles. Some of these issues include clogged fuel filters, malfunctioning fuel injectors, or fuel pump failure.
These issues affect overall engine performance, decrease fuel efficiency, and may even cause your engine to stall or fail to start.
If you notice your bongo displaying symptoms such as decreased fuel economy, rough idling, and difficulty starting, we advise you to have your fuel system inspected by a professional mechanic and the underlying issues resolved.
Note that regular maintenance such as fuel filter replacements, using high-quality fuel, etc. can help prevent your bongo from experiencing problems related to its fuel system.
If you’re interested in learning more about common problems in Mazda vehicles, you might also find our articles on Mazda 3 common problems and how to fix the AT light on Mazda 3 helpful. These resources provide insights into the issues faced by Mazda vehicle owners.Conclusion
Mazda Bongo isn’t without its share of problems, just like any other vehicle. The most common issues experienced by Mazda bongo owners include rust issues, cooling system problems, engine problems, steering and suspension issues, electrical system issues, fuel system problems, and transmission and gearbox issues.
By being aware of the key symptoms exhibited by these issues, you’ll be able to act on time when they show up. This will ensure a smooth experience with your vehicle. Regular maintenance and adhering to the manufacturer-recommended vehicle servicing schedule can also help you identify and prevent these problems in your Mazda Bongo.