When did Ford split from Mazda?

Ford completed its exit from Mazda’s equity and direct ownership in 2015, ending Ford’s formal control of Mazda Motor Corporation. The two brands, however, continue to collaborate in limited, non-equity ways.

Background: how the alliance formed

The relationship between Ford and Mazda began in the late 20th century as both companies sought to strengthen their positions in a competitive global market. Ford initially took a significant equity stake in Mazda to secure a stable supply of vehicles and to share development costs for new platforms and technologies. Over the ensuing decades, Ford's involvement grew, and Mazda operated with Ford as its major shareholder for much of this period. The collaboration extended across product development, manufacturing, and distribution, helping both companies navigate economic cycles and market shifts.

Origins and growth of the partnership

In the 1970s and 1980s, the partnership evolved from a supplier relationship into a more integrated alliance. Ford’s investment provided Mazda with capital and access to Ford’s global distribution network, while Ford gained access to Mazda’s engineering strengths, especially in small and subcompact vehicles and in areas where Mazda had particular expertise. The alliance supported joint platforms, shared technology, and cross-production opportunities that helped both brands expand into new markets.

The move toward disengagement: shifting ownership

As the automotive industry underwent restructuring and Ford recalibrated its global strategy, the financial and strategic logic of maintaining the equity-heavy relationship with Mazda diminished. Ford began reducing its stake and influence over Mazda through the 2000s and 2010s, culminating in a formal exit that was completed by 2015. After this point, Mazda returned to full independence in corporate governance and capital structure, while still maintaining some collaborative ties with Ford on select projects and supply arrangements.

What happened in 2015

In 2015 Ford publicly confirmed that it had completed the divestment of its remaining Mazda shares. This marked the end of Ford’s role as Mazda’s parent company and largest shareholder. The two companies continued to collaborate, but the relationship was no longer driven by equity ownership or board representation.

Current status and implications

Today, Mazda operates as an independent automaker with its own governance, strategy, and product lineup. Ford has reorganized its global operations around its own core brands and other partnerships, rather than equity-based ties with Mazda. The historical alliance no longer centers on ownership, but the two brands maintain limited collaboration in areas such as technology sharing and manufacturing partnerships where mutually beneficial.

Summary

The Ford–Mazda equity relationship ended with Ford’s complete divestment in 2015, ending Ford’s direct ownership and control. Since then, Mazda has operated independently, and while limited collaboration persists, there is no longer an equity-based connection between the two automakers.

Is Mazda now owned by Ford?

No, Ford does not own Mazda, although they had a significant partnership for decades. Ford began selling its shares in Mazda in 2008 and had completely divested its ownership by 2015, making Mazda a fully independent company. Mazda is now a separate, publicly traded Japanese automaker.
 

• Past partnership: Ford and Mazda had a long-standing alliance where Ford held a major stake and they shared platforms and technology. 
• Divestment: Following the 2008 financial crisis, Ford began selling its shares in Mazda. This process was completed by 2015. 
• Current status: Mazda is now an independent company with its ownership dispersed among various shareholders, including Japanese banks and investment companies. 
• Strategic alliances: While not owned by Ford, Mazda has formed new alliances, including a strategic partnership with Toyota, which holds a small stake in Mazda. 

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. 

When did Ford leave Mazda?

Ford sold its stake in Mazda by 2015, officially ending its significant partnership. The divestment process began in 2008 after the global financial crisis, and by 2015, Ford no longer held a controlling or significant interest in Mazda. 

• Divestment timeline: Ford started selling its shares in 2008 and continued until 2015. 
• Reason for split: The 2008 financial crisis prompted Ford to sell off its stake to raise cash and focus on its core business. 
• Partnership status: By 2015, Ford had sold nearly all its shares, ending the long-standing alliance that began in 1979. 
• Independent Mazda: Following the sale, Mazda became an independent company. 

What is the connection between Ford and Mazda?

Ford and Mazda have a former alliance that ended in 2015 when Ford sold its stake after a period of ownership that began in 1979. During this time, they collaborated on vehicle development, sharing platforms and parts to produce models like the Ford Ranger and Mazda B-Series pickup trucks and the Ford Escape and Mazda Tribute. Today, they are independent companies, though Mazda has a separate strategic alliance with Toyota. 
The history of the alliance

• Partnership begins: Ford initially acquired a stake in Mazda in 1979 and increased its ownership over time. 
• Ford's controlling stake: By 1996, Ford's stake had grown to 33.4%, giving it control of the Japanese automaker. 
• Collaboration: The alliance led to successful joint programs where they shared platforms and components, such as the Mazda6/Ford Fusion and the Mazda Tribute/Ford Escape. This helped Mazda save on development costs and allowed Ford to access specific vehicle designs. 

The relationship's end

• Economic downturn: The 2008 financial crisis forced Ford to sell off a large portion of its stake in Mazda to raise capital. 
• Gradual divestment: Ford gradually sold its shares in the following years. 
• Full divestment: By 2015, Ford had sold its remaining shares, and Mazda became a fully independent company again. 

Current status

• Independent companies: Ford and Mazda are now separate, independent companies. 
• No ongoing stake: Ford no longer owns any stake in Mazda. 
• Toyota alliance: Mazda has since formed a separate strategic alliance with Toyota, which holds a stake in Mazda.