1998-2007 Mazda B-Series Full Review - Consumer Guide Automotive

Our in-depth review covers everything you need to know about this generation Mazda B-Series. Get the latest news, find a local dealer, and get a free price quote for this generation Mazda B-Series.

1998-2007 Mazda B-Series/Truck Review

Both the Mazda B-series and the similar Ford Ranger compact pickup trucks were redesigned for 1998. Mechanically, the two were nearly identical, but they differed in styling details. Mazda offered no flare-fendered model comparable to Ford's Ranger Splash. However, Mazda's swept-back look was thought to be favored by import-brand truck buyers. Improvements included a stiffer, fully boxed frame. An independent front suspension replaced the solid axle, and rack-and-pinion steering edged aside the old recirculating-ball system. In this generation, both the B-Series and the Ranger added a 4-door extended-cab body style. That made Mazda the first import-brand pickup to offer a 4-door cab, called the Cab Plus 4. Standard cabs were 3 inches longer than before. Mazda offered 2- and 4-wheel-drive regular-cab and Cab Plus extended-cab 2-door models, in either SX or upscale SE trim. The Cab Plus 4 was an SE option. Rear doors were hinged at the back and could not be opened or closed independently of the front doors. Both the regular Cab Plus and the 4-door variant had two fold-down rear jump seats. Engines were the same as those in Ford's Ranger. The B2500 got a larger (2.5-liter) 4-cylinder engine that made 119 horsepower. A 3.0-liter V6, producing 150 horsepower, went into the B3000 series. The B4000 got a 4.0-liter V6, rated at 160 horsepower. A 5-speed manual transmission was standard. Automatic was optional in the SE and regular-cab SX. With the 4.0-liter V6, the optional automatic transmission was a new 5-speed unit; other engines came with an available 4-speed automatic. Four-wheel-drive models could now be shifted between 2WD and 4WD High at up to 70 mph, and changed between 4WD High and Low at up to 35 mph. Mazda's 4-wheel-drive system, like that of the Ranger, was not for use on dry pavement. "Depowered" airbags were installed, with an on-off switch on the passenger side.

Year to Year Changes

1999 Mazda B-Series: Mazda's top-line SE V6 model now was available in regular-cab form, as the major change for 1999. Previously, that model was offered only as an extended-cab truck. All SE V6 models gained a standard antitheft system. All B4000 trucks got standard fog lamps, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and an upgraded audio system.

2000 Mazda B-Series: Trim and equipment revisions marked the 2000 models. An automatic transmission became standard in B4000 2-wheel-drive pickups, remaining optional in other B-Series trucks. SX, SE, and TL trim levels were offered, the latter named for Troy Lee, a designer of extreme-sports equipment. Available only in Cab Plus 4 form, the TL included bodyside graphics, fender flares, fog lights, and unique alloy wheels. A trailer hitch now was standard on 4WD B4000 models, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and fog lights went on all 4x4s.

2001 Mazda B-Series: Major changes for 2001 included new 4- and 6-cylinder engines and a 4-wheel-drive-look 2WD model. B4000s continued with a 4.0-liter V6 engine, but in a new 207-hp overhead-cam design rather than the previous 160-hp overhead-valve unit. B2500s get a new name and new four cylinder in midyear, as a new 2.3-liter 4 with 135 horsepower becomes standard on the B2300.

2002 Mazda B-Series: Mazda changed the name of its compact pickup for 2002, from the B-Series to simply the Truck. New off-road equipment highlighted this year's changes.

2003 Mazda B-Series: Base and 3.0-liter V6 gain 8 horsepower this year. All models get thicker glass and added insulation.

2004 Mazda B-Series: Mazda's pickup truck is once again called the B-Series for 2004. Other changes this year include a steering wheel and dashboard redesign.

2005 Mazda B-Series: No changes were made to the B-Series in 2005.

2006 Mazda B-Series: 2006 brought no significant changes to the B-Series.

2007 Mazda B-Series: B-Series carries over unchanged.

1998-2007 Mazda B-Series/Truck Road Test

Pros	Cons

Acceleration (B4000)	Engine noise

Build quality	Acceleration (B2500)

Passenger room (regular cab)	Rear-seat comfort (extended cab)

Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation

Engines make the difference under B-Series hoods. Four-cylinder trucks struggle to gain speed when loaded with cargo or aimed uphill, especially with an automatic transmission. Even with manual shift, a 2WD 4-cylinder model took nearly 13 seconds to reach 60 mph. Fuel economy is more pleasing. We averaged 20.1 mpg in a 4-cylinder B2500. We recommend the 4.0-liter V6, which uses only slightly more fuel than the 3.0 V6 and costs only slightly more. Although the 4.0 liter is a bit coarse and noisy, it offers plenty of low-speed torque and should perform most tasks with ease. That engine also works well with the 5-speed automatic transmission and furnishes prompt passing power. None of these engines is quiet, though the sixes are slightly smoother than the four. The OHC V6, added in 2001, is smooth, quieter than previous gruff 4.0. Like its Ford Ranger cousin, the Mazda B-Series rides and handles admirably for a truck. Yes, it jiggles more on rough roads than most cars. Still, the suspension absorbs most bumps without jarring the occupants, and provides stable cornering with moderate body lean. The 4WD system cannot be used on dry pavement, but is otherwise as convenient as they come. A dashboard knob switches between 2- and 4-wheel drive while on the move. Slightly roomier than before, with more behind-the-seat storage space, the regular-cab interior is still not spacious. The longer regular cab allows the seatback to be tilted farther back than before, and seat travel is greater than in some rivals. Still, taller drivers may find the Cab Plus layout a necessity for comfort. Some shorter drivers may declare the bottoms of the bucket seats to be too long, catching them behind the knees. The 4-door Cab Plus 4 option is a big plus, but those rear-hinged back doors are narrow and cannot be opened unless the front door has been opened first. Even with a bench seat, three adults would be a tight squeeze up front. Entry/exit borders on awkward in the higher-riding 4x4s. Cab Plus models have a pair of child-sized rear seats that flip down from the sidewalls, but that area is more useful for cargo than people. Controls are positioned within easy reach, in a carlike interior, though the climate panel is recessed too much for quick adjustment. Radio controls are easier to use than in the past. Solid in build, Mazda trucks use better quality interior materials than might be expected in a compact pickup.

Value for the Money
Yes, Mazda pickups lack a few features available on rivals, including a third door (on extended-cab GM pickups) and the V8 option and full-time 4WD of a Dodge Dakota. Nevertheless, the B-Series is refined, well-built, and priced sensibly. No wonder Ranger has been the top-selling compact truck. Because Mazda's B-Series does not sell as well as the Ford Ranger, prices are likelier to be a bit lower than trucks wearing a Ford badge.

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Mazda B3000 SE 2WD	Rating

Performance	3

Fuel Economy	5

Ride Quality	2

Steering/Handling/Braking	3

Quietness	3

Controls/Materials	7

Interior Room	3

Room/Comfort (rear)	0

Cargo Capacity	1

Value within Class	5

Total:	32

Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room, Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.

1998-2007 Mazda B-Series/Truck Reliability

Trouble Spots

Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer, however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.

Check-engine light: Lack of heat and/or check-engine light may be traced to sand, or other debris stuck in the thermostat. (1998-99)

Engine temperature: The powertrain-control module (computer) will be replaced if the engine idles too high, surges or hesitates when the A/C cycles or the vehicle decelerates harshly. (1998)

Vehicle noise: A creaking noise may be caused by the mounts between the cab and the frame allowing metal-metal contact. New mounts are available. (1998)

Vehicle noise: 4WD models may make a pinging noise when accelerating due to a loose yoke nut on the transfer case. (1998-2000)

Wipers: Poor connections in multifunction switch may prevent wipers from being switched off. (1999-2000)

Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs

This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership to be slightly higher.


Item Name	Repair Cost

A/C Compressor	$450

Alternator	$250

Automatic Transmission or Transaxle	$580

Brakes	$420

Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing	$415

Constant Velocity Joints	$145

Exhaust System	$245

Radiator	$430

Shocks and/or Struts	$445

Timing Chain or Belt	$95

NHTSA Recall History

1998 B4000 w/2WD and 4.0-liter engine: Flexible section of fuel line is too close to exhaust manifold; could result in damage to fuel line, and possible leakage.

1998-02 B-Series w/speed control system: The speed control deactivation switch may, under certain conditions, leak internally and then overheat, smoke, or burn. This could result in an underhood fire. Dealers will install a fused wiring harness.

1998-99 w/cruise control: Cable can interfere with speed-control-servo pulley and not allow throttle to return to idle when disengaging cruise control.

2000: Seatbelt assemblies were not properly heat treated and therefore do not meet the load-bearing requirement of the standard.

2001: Passenger's seatbelt buckle may not fully latch.

2006 B-Series: Windshield wiper motor may not be greased properly, resulting in a loss of wiper function. Dealers will inspect and grease motor, if necessary.

1998-2007 Mazda B-Series/Truck Prices

Prices	Good	Average	Poor

1998
B2500	$2,400-3,700	$1,700-2,700	$500-700
B3000 2WD	$3,900-4,600	$3,200-3,800	$1,200-1,400
B3000 4WD	$3,700-4,800	$3,000-3,900	$1,100-1,400
B4000 2WD	$4,200-5,000	$3,400-4,100	$1,400-1,700
B4000 4WD	$5,500-6,200	$4,700-5,300	$2,300-2,500

1999
B2500	$2,800-4,400	$2,100-3,300	$600-1,000
B3000 2WD	$4,300-5,000	$3,600-4,200	$1,500-1,700
B3000 4WD	$4,700-5,800	$3,900-4,900	$1,800-2,200
B4000 2WD	$3,800-5,300	$3,100-4,300	$1,200-1,600
B4000 4WD	$6,200-6,900	$5,400-6,000	$2,700-3,000

2000
B2500	$3,300-5,300	$2,600-4,200	$800-1,300
B3000 2WD	$3,700-5,800	$3,000-4,700	$1,100-1,700
B3000 4WD	$5,700-6,300	$4,900-5,400	$2,300-2,600
B4000 2WD	$6,400-7,200	$5,600-6,300	$2,800-3,200
B4000 4WD	$8,000-8,800	$7,200-7,900	$4,100-4,500

2001
B2500	$3,900-4,800	$3,200-3,900	$1,200-1,500
B3000 2WD	$4,600-6,500	$3,900-5,500	$1,700-2,400
B3000 4WD	$6,500-8,100	$5,700-7,100	$2,900-3,600
B4000 2WD	$7,500-8,300	$6,800-7,500	$3,800-4,200
B4000 4WD	$8,800-9,700	$7,900-8,700	$4,600-5,000

2002
B2500	$4,600-6,000	$3,900-5,000	$1,700-2,200
B3000 2WD	$5,600-7,300	$4,800-6,300	$2,300-3,000
B3000 4WD	$8,500-9,500	$7,700-8,600	$4,400-4,900
B4000 2WD	$8,400-9,300	$7,600-8,400	$4,400-4,800
B4000 4WD	$9,800-10,800	$8,800-9,700	$5,100-5,600

2003
B2500	$5,300-8,000	$4,600-6,900	$2,200-3,300
B3000 2WD	$6,500-8,500	$5,700-7,500	$2,900-3,800
B4000 2WD	$9,000-10,000	$8,100-9,000	$4,700-5,200
B4000 4WD	$10,000-11,200	$9,000-10,100	$5,200-5,800

2004
B2500	$6,000-9,000	$5,200-7,800	$2,500-3,800
B3000 2WD	$7,700-9,800	$6,900-8,800	$3,900-4,900
B4000 2WD	$10,000-11,000	$9,000-9,900	$5,200-5,700
B4000 4WD	$10,700-12,200	$9,600-11,000	$5,700-6,500

2005
B2300	$7,200-8,500	$6,400-7,600	$3,500-4,200
B3000 2WD	$9,000-11,000	$8,100-9,900	$4,700-5,700
B4000 4WD	$12,200-13,500	$11,000-12,200	$6,800-7,600
B4000 4WD SE	$13,700-15,000	$12,500-13,700	$8,200-9,000

2006
B2300	$8,500-10,000	$7,700-9,000	$4,400-5,200
B3000 2WD	$10,500-13,000	$9,500-11,700	$5,600-6,900
B4000 4WD	$14,000-15,300	$12,700-13,900	$8,500-9,300
B4000 4WD SE	$15,700-17,000	$14,300-15,500	$10,000-10,900

2007
B2300	$10,500-12,000	$9,500-10,800	$5,600-6,400
B3000 2WD	$12,200-14,500	$11,000-13,100	$6,800-8,100
B4000 4WD	$15,000-16,500	$13,700-15,000	$9,500-10,400
B4000 4WD SE	$17,000-18,500	$15,600-17,000	$10,900-11,800

This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:

Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.

Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings; engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.

Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo, etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from region to region.

1998-2007 Mazda B-Series/Truck Specs & Safety

Vehicle Dimensions

Specification	ext. cab	reg. cab

Wheelbase, in.	125.7	111.6

Overall Length, in.	202.9	187.5

Overall Width, in.	69.4	69.4

Overall Height, in.	64.7	64.9

Curb Weight, lbs.	3497	3242

Cargo Volume, cu. ft.	--	--

Standard Payload, lbs.	--	--

Fuel Capacity, gals.	20.5	17.0

Seating Capacity	5	3

Front Head Room, in.	39.2	39.2

Max. Front Leg Room, in.	42.2	42.4

Rear Head Room, in.	35.6	--

Max. Rear Leg Room, in.	40.3	--

Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.

Powertrain Options and Availability

B-Series pickups came with a choice of three engines: 4-cylinder in the B2500, 3.0-liter V6 in the B3000, and 4.0-liter V6 in the B4000. A 5-speed manual transmission was standard. When equipped with automatic, the B4000 got a 5-speed unit, while trucks with the smaller engines got a 4-speed transmission. For 2001, B4000s got a new 4.0-liter overhead-cam V6 engine and B2300 got a 2.3-liter 135 horsepower four. The automatic for this new four was a 5-speed unit. For '03 base and smaller V6 gained 8 horsepower.

Engines	Size liters / cu. in	Horse- power	Torque	Transmission: EPA city/hgwy	Consumer Guide Observed

ohc I4	2.5 / 152	119	146	5-speed manual: 22/27 4-speed automatic: 20/25	5-speed manual: 20.1 4-speed automatic: --

ohv V6	3.0 / 182	150-154	180-185	5-speed manual: 17/23 4-speed automatic: 17/22	5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: 18.2

ohv V6	4.0 / 245	160	225	5-speed manual: 17/21 5-speed automatic: 16/21	5-speed manual: -- 5-speed automatic: 15.9

ohc V6	4.0 / 245	207	238	5-speed manual: 18/22 5-speed automatic: 16/22	5-speed manual: -- 5-speed automatic: --

dohc I4	2.3 / 138	135-143	153-154	5-speed manual: 24/28 5-speed automatic: 21/25	5-speed manual: -- 5-speed automatic: --

Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.

NHTSA Crash-Test Results

Test	1999 B-Series	1999 B-Series

Front Impact, Driver	4	4

Front Impact, Passenger	4	4

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.

Built In: USA

Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/rear- or 4-wheel drive

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Also in the 1998-2007 Mazda B-Series/Truck Review:

Mazda B-Series

Mazda B-Series Road Test

Mazda B-Series Reliability

Mazda B-Series Prices

Mazda B-Series Specs & Safety

Mazda B-Series Photos

Mazda B-Series Full Review