Most common 1996 Mazda B-Series Truck problems
Share of the 55 complaints; one complaint can involve more than one system. "~" is the median mileage when the problem started.
Mazda B-Series Truck complaints by model year
Best B-Series Truck years: 2005, 2007, 2006. Years to avoid: 1999, 2000, 1996, 1998, 1997. Compare all years →
1996 Mazda B-Series Truck recalls (1)
Vehicle speed control › Cruise control
Mazda is recalling model year 1995 through 1997 and model year 2001 through 2003 trucks equipped with texas instruments speed control deactivation switch (scds) and/or anti-lock brake system (ABS) and manufactured on or before December 5, 2002.
Remedy: Mazda will notify owners that dealers will install a universal fused jumper harness on the cruise control deactivation switch free of charge. The safety recall began on December 11, 2009.
What 1996 Mazda B-Series Truck owners say
Windows, wipers & sunroof
Windshield wipers fail intermittently. We've taken it into the dealer several times, but they were unable to duplicate the problem. We've had the switch replaced several times, but that has never solved the problem. Since we only use wipers when it rains, the failure has causes a dangerous situation. I been in several near misses when this has occurred, one when a tractor trailer sprayed my windsheild and I couldn't see. Mazda has been unwilling to voluntarily investigate the cause detail. As a result, we've continually had to bring the vehicle back into the shop for repair. We currently have the vehicle in the shop for the same issue, but I'm concerned that Mazda will just replace the switch, collect their money, and send us on our way. From past experience, replacing the switch has not solved the problem. …
Consumer complained of ongoing problem with windshield wiper/washer intermittently turn on/off. Vehicle in/out of dealer shop on four occasions, and every time dealer repairs them another problem would arise. Also, signal light would come on/off, and air conditioning stopped running.
Wheels & tires
These have not been recalled but I do have a small slit starting just below the tire tread on the sidewall. I dont believe the tires to be safe. (I am not looking to do this for new tires, I want my family to be safe) please respond.( dot number: tire size: 265-75r15 )
Tires have worn incorrectly after short periods of use. Described as 'cupping' by several different mechanics. Two sets of tires have proven the same results. This ulitmately results in excessive vibration at highway speeds.( dot number: tire size: p265/75r15 )
Brakes
Metal brake line failed in engine compartment leading to a complete loss of all brake fluid and braking. One brake line corroded through, another line was severely corroded, and the 3rd line is just starting to corrode. There was no warning of any problem.
Consumer checked the brakes, and found that the brakes rotors on the 2 front wheels were cracked. He took vehicle to the dealer, but wanted to know if there were any recalls on them.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 1996 Mazda B-Series Truck a good car?
Based on 55 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 1996 B-Series Truck rates avoid: 2.4× as many complaints as a typical year of the B-Series Truck at the same age. It is one of the B-Series Truck years we suggest avoiding. Complaint counts don't account for sales volume or individual maintenance, so have any used car inspected before buying.
What is the most common problem with the 1996 Mazda B-Series Truck?
The windows, wipers & sunroof — 12 complaints, 22% of all complaints for this model year, most often about windshield wiper/washer. Next are the wheels & tires (7) and brakes (6).
How many recalls does the 1996 Mazda B-Series Truck have?
There is 1 recall for the 1996 Mazda B-Series Truck, the most recent from October 23, 2009 (cruise control). Recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer — check whether yours has been done with the VIN recall check.
What are the best and worst years of the Mazda B-Series Truck?
The best years by complaints, compared at the same age, are 2005, 2007 and 2006. Years to avoid or approach with caution: 1999, 2000, 1996, 1998 and 1997. See the full Mazda B-Series Truck years comparison.
At what mileage do 1996 Mazda B-Series Truck problems happen?
The median mileage reported in complaints is about 140,000 miles; 14% of problems with a recorded mileage started before 50,000 miles.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.