Seeking Advice on 2012 Mazda 5 Diesel's Erratic Shifting and Potential Converter Lockup Clutch Issues

Hey! I had a very close experience with my 2010 Mazda 3 Diesel. I have some hands-on experience with cars, not a pro but not a total novice either. The symptoms you described sound identical to what I went through with my Mazda. You're spot on suspecting the Converter lockup clutch. In my case, it was a defective automatic transmission converter. The car was, you could say, misbehaving similar to yours, with all that erratic shifting and annoying noise. To kick it into gear again, I had to send it to my trusty workshop. They know their way around Mazdas really well. And yes it did cost a pretty penny. Shelled out about 2120€ to be exact. It was a bit steep but at least the issue got sorted out! Can you provide more info on your car, perhaps any past issues you've had or some more specific symptoms? Might be able to assist you more accurately then. Cheers!

Hey! Good to hear from someone who's been in the same boat. To give you a bit more in-depth knowledge, I did my latest service just about 1000 KM ago. The mechanic said everything looked fine then, but you know how it is - things can go south really quickly. My Mazda has been through some serious mileage, about 155802 KM, but I never had a serious problem like this before. Guess I'll have to look for a workshop specialized in Mazdas in my area. Thanks for the helpful advice and ballpark figure on the repair cost. Appreciate it! Cheers.

Hey, no worries at all! Looks like your Mazda has quite a few layers on its old bones, just like mine did. Funnily enough, my issues also started showing up right after a service. Guess those machines have a sense of impeccable timing, don't they? If yours is acting up just like mine did with the same noise and erratic shifting, it does smack of the transmission converter issue. I'd absolutely recommend looking for a Mazda-specialist workshop as you mentioned. With the given mileage and symptoms, they should be able to sort it out. And, oh, the cost might vary from one workshop to another. 2120€ is what I spent, but could be higher or lower for you based on how much work needs to be done. And a heads up, be prepared for a few days without the car - the overhaul did make my Mazda sit in the garage for about a week. Frustrating, but worth it. Wishing your Mazda a full recovery! Don't hesitate if you need any other pointers, happy to help. Cheers!

Hey! I feared as much, but you confirmed it. I gotta admit, your insight has been very helpful! You've given me a good idea of where to focus my attention now and helped loop in my mechanic about the possibilities. Sigh, the thought of a week without my Mazda is already grating on me, but I guess we all gotta do what we gotta do, right? Just gotta bite the bullet and get it over with. Really appreciate your advice and well-wishes for my old faithful! I'll definitely come back if I need some more guidance. Stay safe and cheers to you too!