Is Mazda still owned by Ford?
No. Mazda is not owned by Ford. Ford’s ownership stake in Mazda was eventually reduced and vanished, and Mazda today operates as an independent automaker with strategic partnerships, most notably with Toyota, rather than with Ford.
Current Ownership Status
Historical Ford-Mazda relationship
Current alliances and ownership structure
Timeline of Ford-Mazda Relationship
The following timeline highlights the major moments in the Ford‑Mazda relationship and Mazda’s current ownership status.
- 1979: Ford and Mazda establish a manufacturing alliance and Ford takes a significant minority stake in Mazda.
- 1980s–1990s: The partnership expands to include joint development, shared platforms, and cross‑production arrangements in multiple regions.
- 2000s–2010s: Ford gradually reduces its stake and exits direct ownership, reshaping Mazda’s ownership profile.
- 2017–present: Mazda deepens its alliance with Toyota, with Toyota owning a minority stake in Mazda and collaborating on technology and development.
- Present: Mazda operates as an independent company with governance by its own board; Ford holds no ownership stake.
This timeline illustrates the shift from a Ford‑led ownership structure to Mazda’s standalone status, complemented by a Toyota-backed partnership guiding its technology strategy today.
Summary
What is more reliable, Mazda or Ford?
Mazda is generally considered more reliable than Ford, with Mazda consistently ranking higher in dependability studies. Mazda has a strong reputation for long-term durability, whereas Ford reliability can vary significantly by model and year. Mazda's high rankings are attributed to consistent performance in areas like engine and transmission durability.
Mazda reliability
- High rankings: Mazda frequently ranks in the top 10 for reliability among mainstream brands. It has received high marks from organizations like RepairPal, Consumer Reports, and J.D. Power.
- Strong model performance: Specific models like the CX-5 and the MX-5 Miata are often highlighted for their dependability and low maintenance costs.
- Consistent quality: Mazda has invested in engine technology and manufacturing processes, leading to improved and consistent reliability across its lineup, especially in models from roughly 2010 onward.
Ford reliability
- Varying performance: Ford's reliability can be inconsistent and varies significantly depending on the specific model and year.
- Lower average rankings: Overall, Ford tends to rank lower than Mazda in reliability studies.
- Model-specific issues: While some models may be decent, they don't always reach the same reliability levels as top-tier competitors like Mazda or Toyota. For instance, some older Ford-era Mazdas had parts that were considered less reliable compared to later, self-developed models.
How to choose
- For higher and more consistent reliability: Choose a Mazda. Their models frequently score well across multiple reliability and safety ratings, notes Marin Mazda.
- For specific models: If you are considering a Ford, research the specific model and model year, as reliability can vary greatly.
- Consider other brands: It is also worth noting that other brands like Toyota often rank at or near the top in long-term dependability, with models like the RAV4 being a consistent performer, says Reddit users.
Do mazdas still use Ford parts?
No, modern Mazdas do not use Ford parts, as the two companies' partnership ended when Ford sold its remaining stake in Mazda in 2015. However, many older Mazdas, especially those from the 1990s through the early 2010s, did use shared parts and platforms with Ford due to their long-standing partnership and a period of Ford ownership. Examples of shared parts include engines, chassis components, and other smaller parts like belts and sensors.
Before the partnership ended
- Shared platforms: Mazda and Ford shared platforms, like the C1 platform used for the second-generation Mazda3 and some Ford vehicles.
- Shared engines: Some Mazdas used engines that were originally developed by Mazda but also modified and used by Ford, such as the 2.0L MZR engine used in the NC MX-5 and some Ford vehicles. Other times, Ford-developed engines were used in Mazdas.
- Shared parts: Individual components like alternators, water pumps, and even sensors were shared between the two brands.
- Joint production: Mazda and Ford also jointly operated manufacturing plants, such as AutoAlliance Thailand.
After the partnership ended
- Full independence: After Ford sold its stake in Mazda in 2015, Mazda became a fully independent company again.
- Separate engineering: Today, Mazda has its own engine and platform programs, and modern Mazdas do not share parts with Ford.
- No current use of Ford parts: Any user looking at a 2015 or newer Mazda can be assured it does not use any Ford parts.
Do Fords use Mazda engines?
It was co-developed with Ford, who owned a controlling stake in Mazda at the time. Ford uses it as their 1.8 L to 2.5 L Duratec world engine and holds a license to develop engines based on the L-series in perpetuity.
Who owns Mazda now?
Mazda is owned by the Mazda Motor Corporation, which is a publicly traded company headquartered in Japan. While Mazda is an independent company, Toyota Motor Corporation is a significant minority shareholder, owning about 5.1% of Mazda's stock.
- Independence: Mazda became fully independent after selling its remaining shares in Ford in 2015.
- Strategic Partnership: It has a strategic partnership with Toyota, which includes equity sharing.
- Major Shareholders: Besides Toyota, other major shareholders include The Master Trust Bank of Japan and Custody Bank of Japan.
