Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2004 Mazda Mpv
The 2004 Mazda MPV presents airbag safety concerns due to multiple recalls regarding faulty passenger-side inflator modules. This is a significant issue for prolonged usage, especially in humid regions. Other notable issues include incorrect tire pressure labeling, which could affect tire wear.
Known issues to inspect
Passenger airbag inflator may explode
How to check: Verify airbag recall repair with the dealer or Mazda service records.
Incorrect tire pressure label
How to check: Check if replacement labels reflect correct tire pressure values.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Loud knocking or ticking sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for dashboard warning lights.
Red flag: Persistent airbag or engine lights
- 03
City driving
What to check: Assess brake responsiveness and noise.
Red flag: Squealing or grinding brakes
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Monitor for smooth gear shifting.
Red flag: Hesitation or rough shifts
- 05
Cruising
What to check: Check for stable steering and suspension.
Red flag: Pulling to one side
- 06
Parking
What to check: Ensure handbrake engages fully.
Red flag: Handbrake fails or feels weak
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Have airbag recalls been addressed?
- Is the passenger airbag functional?
- Are there any recent service records?
- Are there any current dashboard warnings?
- Has the tire pressure label been updated?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recent service history
- Recall repair confirmation
- Title and registration
- Previous inspection reports
Generated by gpt-4o on 6/9/2026. Grounded in the NHTSA recall corpus and owner-complaint patterns for the 2004 Mazda Mpv.