2018 Mazda Cx-3 problems
The Mazda CX-3 is a subcompact crossover SUV (B-segment) manufactured by Mazda. Based on the same platform as the third-generation Mazda2, it was revealed on November 19, 2014 ahead of the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show as a production vehicle for the 2016 model year.
Since mid-2022, the production in Japan was shifted to Mexico and Thailand. Since then, sales of the CX-3 in the Japanese market are served by imported units from Thailand.
Markets
United States
CX-3 sales began in the United States in the end of 2015, as a model for 2016. It replaced the similar Mazda2 subcompact in the market in North America.
Across the model lineup, power is provided by an updated (2018) 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G engine that develops 146 bhp (109 kW) and 148 lb ft (201 Nm) of torque. It is connected to a six speed automatic transmission that can be paired to an optional all wheel drive system.
In the United States, the entry level CX-3 Sport, Touring and Grand Touring all feature cruise control, power windows/lock, and a 60/40 split folding rear seat. Other highlights include a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and an infotainment system, Mazda Connect, with a 7-inch display as standard equipment.
For the 2020 model year in the United States, the Touring and Grand Touring trim levels were dropped in order to make room for the Mazda CX-30 leaving only the base Sport trim, with AWD being the only option. Newly standard equipment for the Sport trim include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as the i-Activesense safety suite.
The CX-3 was discontinued in United States for 2022, marking 2021 as the final model year. It was effectively replaced by the Mazda CX-30, which was introduced in 2020.
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Common 2018 Mazda Cx-3 problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 2018 Mazda CX-3, several common problems have been reported:
- AC / Heater Problems: Complaints have been raised regarding issues with the air conditioning and heating systems in the 2018 Mazda CX-3. This includes complaints about the AC not working properly.
- Interior Accessories Problems: Owners have reported problems with interior accessories in the 2018 Mazda CX-3.
- Engine Problems: The 2018 Mazda CX-3 has faced complaints related to engine issues, although the specifics of these problems are not extensively detailed in the search results.
- Suspension Problems: There is a report of suspension problems with the 2018 Mazda CX-3, although the frequency and severity of these issues are not as prominent as other complaints.
- Wheels / Hubs Problems: Some owners have reported problems related to the wheels or hubs of the 2018 Mazda CX-3.
- Miscellaneous Problems: Additionally, there have been miscellaneous complaints about the 2018 Mazda CX-3, covering a range of issues not specified in detail in the search results.
- Brakes Problems: Complaints have been made about brake-related issues in the 2018 Mazda CX-3.
These reported problems highlight a variety of issues that owners have faced with the 2018 Mazda CX-3. It's important for potential buyers to be aware of these common complaints to make an informed decision when considering purchasing this vehicle.
What are the most common problems with Mazda CX-3?
However, there are a few common problems to be aware of.
- Stub axle and shock absorber loose connection. The screw connection between the stub axle and the shock absorber may come loose, resulting in loss of steering. ...
- Engine control unit (ECU) defective. ...
- Fuel pump impeller failure.
Is Mazda CX-3 2018 reliable?
How Reliable Is the 2018 Mazda CX-3? J.D. Power gives the 2018 CX-3 a predicted reliability rating of three out of five, which is about average.
What are the cons of the 2018 Mazda 3?
Cons
- Ride quality can be a little stiff with optional 18-inch wheels.
- Cargo capacity ranks below the class leaders.
- Road and wind noise is noticeable at highway speeds.
- Less interior storage than rivals.
How many miles will a Mazda CX-3 last?
200,000 miles
A Mazda CX-3 can last over 200,000 miles. When it comes to determining how long your vehicle will last, you are the biggest factor. If you make sure to keep up with oil changes, brake checks, tire rotations, and drive carefully, you can expect your vehicle to stay with you for a long time.
2018 Mazda Cx-3 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mazda Cx-3 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Back over prevention problems
- Suspension problems
- Engine problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2018 Mazda Cx-3 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2018 Mazda Cx-3 complaints
The NHTSA has received 8 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2018 Mazda Cx-3.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-16
- VIN: JM1DKFC79J1
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Heavy condensation is occurring inside the driver side headlamp. A quick google search shows this is a common problem among Mazda owners and Mazda will not cover the repair. I am unable to get a Massachusetts state inspection sticker due to this.
BACK OVER PREVENTION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-26
- VIN: JM1DKFC77J1
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Mazda CX3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V487000 (Back Over Prevention) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
SUSPENSION,ENGINE,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-23
- VIN: JM1DKDB74J0
- Components: SUSPENSION,ENGINE,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Mazda CX-3. The contact stated that while driving, the vehicle was moving from left to right. The contact stated that the brakes were making an abnormal scraping sound. There was an abnormal sound coming from the engine. The local dealer was not contacted. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was unknown.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-12
- VIN: JM1DKFD7XJ0
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Was driving my grandchildren home when an alarm that I had never heard before started sounding and BRAKE! showed up on the heads up display. The car came to a stop out in the middle of the street even though there was nothing in front of or around the vehicle. It was a good thing there was not a car behind me or they would have rear-ended my vehicle and we or the people in the car that hit us could have gotten seriously hurt. I took the car to the dealer and they did a diagnostics check and said no codes came up so there was nothing wrong with the car. They actually told me that when and if it happens again to videotape it for proof.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LANE DEPARTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-09-07
- VIN: JM1DKFD77J1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LANE DEPARTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 MAZDA CX-3. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 52 MPH, THE BLIND SPOT DETECTION WARNING INDICATOR WAS NOT WORKING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO OLYMPIA MAZDA (2201 CARRIAGE SOUTHWEST OLYMPIA, WA 98502) WHERE THE FAILURE WAS DIAGNOSED AS A BLIND SPOT MONITORING SYSTEM FAILURE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED UNDER MANUFACTURER COMMUNICATIONS NUMBER: TSB:15-004-18-3539. THE CONTACT WAS UPSET THAT THE TSB WAS NOT A RECALL. THE MANUFACTURE WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 22,440.
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-12-18
- VIN: JM1DKDC7XJ1
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: I WAS SOLD A VEHICLE WITH "NEW" TIRES. I'VE ONLY HAD THE VEHICLE ABOUT 6 MONTHS AND FOUND OUT THE TIRES WERE MADE IN 2011 AND STARTING TO DETERIORATE SO I HAD TO BUY ACTUAL NEW TIRES. I DID NOT HAVE AN ACCIDENT BUT FEEL THERE COULD HAVE BEEN A TIRE BLOWOUT. LUCKILY I HAD RUN OVER A BOLT AND WAS TRYING TO GET A TIRE REPAIR WHEN THE TIRE PLACE TOLD ME ABOUT THE BAD CONDITION OF ALL FOUR TIRES. THE DEALERSHIP FIRST DID NOT BELIEVE ME BUT WHEN I SHOWED THEM A PICTURE THEY SAID THEY CAN SELL TIRES UP TO 8 YEARS OLD AS NEW IF THEY WERE NOT PREVIOUSLY ON A VEHICLE. I DON'T KNOW IF THAT IS TRUE BUT IF THE TIRES WERE STARTING TO DRY ROT IT SEEMS LIKE A BAD IDEA AND CERTAINLY UNETHICAL IF NOT ILLEGAL.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-08-19
- VIN: JM1DKFD73J0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: WHILE I WAS PARKING MY CAR AND BRAKING THE THROTTLE OPENED WIDE AND I JUMPED THE CURB. I REAPPLIED THE BRAKES HARD AND THE CAR CAME TO A STOP AFTER SKIDDING 4 FEET. (TIRE MARKS MEASURED). I HAD THE CAR TOWED TO THE DEALER WHERE THEY COULD FIND NOTHING WRONG. IN RESEARCHING THIS PROBLEM IT APPEARS THE ELECTRONIC THROTTLE SYSTEM CAN AT RARE TIMES HAVE VOLTAGE PROBLEMS THAT CAN CAUSE THIS. MY DEALER COULD NOT REPLICATE THIS BUT IT HAS BEEN DONE IN A STUDY BY THE KOREAN NATIONAL FORENSIC SERVICE. SINCE ALL NEW CARS HAVE THE SAME ELECTRONIC THROTTLE SYSTEMS I AM UNABLE TO BUY A CAR THAT WON'T BE VULNERABLE TO THIS. I AM CURRENTLY STILL DRIVING MY CAR WITH. MY HAND ON THE GEAR HANDLE TO PUT THE CAR IN NEUTRAL IF IT HAPPENS AGAIN. AS SOON AS AUTO MAKERS ADMIT THAT SUDDEN UNINTENDED ACCELERATION IS CAUSED BY ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS WITH THEIR CARS I WILL BUY A NEW CAR FROM THE COMPANY WHO FIXES THIS PROBLEM. IN MY RESEARCH OF THIS PROBLEM I FOUND MANY OTHER PEOPLE WITH NEW CARS ALL BRANDS THAT THIS HAS HAPPENED TOO. I BELIEVE THAT HUMAN ERR COULD AT TIMES BE A CONTRIBUTOR TO THE PROBLEM BUT IN MY CASE I KNOW MY FOOT WAS ON THE BRAKE WHEN THIS HAPPENED. I LOVE MY NEW CAR AND WOULD NOT COMPLAIN OTHERWISE. PLEASE LOOK AT DR. RONALD L. BELTS RESEARCH INTO THIS PROBLEM AND HIS CONCLUSIONS. THANK YOU
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-08-28
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JM1DKFB76J0
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: I WAS IN A PARKING RAMP, I ROUNDED THE CORNER GOING UP AND WAS PULLING INTO A PARKING SPOT, MY FOOT WAS ON THE BREAK, AND THE CAR ACCELERATED. I LURCHED FORWARD INTO A WALL OF THE RAMP. IT WASN'T RAINING SO PAVEMENT AND RAMP WERE NOT WET. THE DEALER HAS LOOKED AT THE CAR, SAID THEY SAW BREAK AND GAS PEDAL ACTIVE AT THE SAME TIME. THEY SAID NOTHING WAS WRONG WITH THE CAR.
2018 Mazda Cx-3 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2018 Mazda Cx-3.
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
- Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Mazda3 and 2016-2021 CX-3 vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display properly by showing a flickering or distorted image.
- Consequence: A rearview camera that does not display properly can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the rearview camera, as necessary. In addition, dealers will install a wiring harness fastening seal. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed September 13, 2023. Final owner letters for affected models and model years in the states of CT, MA, MD, NJ, NY, PA and VA were mailed August 14, 2024. The remaining owner notification letters will be mailed at a future date, anticipated on or before May 1, 2025. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, Option 6. Mazda's number for this recall is 6023G.
Negative 2018 Mazda Cx-3 car reviews
Positive 2018 Mazda Cx-3 car reviews
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I've been driving mine for 2 years now and I have no complaints at all! My 110 pound dog is comfortable in the back (seats down). It handles nicely on the highway and on side streets alike and the interior is very nice looking and comfortable. If you want all wheel drive, seating for 4/5 and only need a little storage space this is perfect.
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It's great to hear that you enjoy driving this car on the highway!
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Driving with 4 wheel drive is safer on a snowy day.
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Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my CX-3 GT. It's been 6 years since I bought it and I still love it just as much as the day I drove it off the lot. With a good set of snow tires, I've had no issues driving in the snow. The best part? This car has cost me nothing! I'm looking forward to enjoying it for another 6 years at least. So far, I've put 60000 miles on it and it's still going strong. It's definitely the best commuter car I've ever had - fantastic fuel economy and so much fun to drive!
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This is a great little SUV, but it does have limited cargo space. I personally wish it had a 3-cylinder engine with 111 horsepower, 159 torque, and better fuel efficiency. It would also be great to see engine cylinder deactivation to reduce gas consumption, as well as more paint choices for every Mazda model. Overall, though, it's a fantastic vehicle!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2018 Mazda Cx-3 problems:
2018 Mazda3 common issues to look out for? : r/mazda3
Feb 17, 2022 ... Rust is a common issue with all Mazdas. General consensus is that Mazda has ironed this issue out as they've moved to Skyactiv architecture, but ...
Here Are The Mazda CX-3 Years To Avoid - CoPilot
Aug 17, 2022 ... There's no meaningful reliability information about the 2020 Mazda CX-3, including other sources like RepairPal and Consumer Reports. Mazda did ...
Why was the Mazda CX-3 hated? : r/cars
May 27, 2022 ... They seemed to have no problems with it. My family considered one back in 2018. ... The CX-3 is based on the Mazda ... That's the common viewpoint ...
2018 MAZDA CX-3 Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2018 MAZDA CX-3? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
Mazda CX-3 2016-2021 review: pros and cons, problems
Feb 10, 2023 ... Reported problems: Common problems include a leaking A/C condenser, bad wheel bearings, minor Check Engine light issues such as a failing mass ...
Other years of Mazda Cx-3
Are you having problems with your 2018 Mazda Cx-3?
Oda Mayer 2024-09-22
This car may not be for everyone as it is quite narrow and may not provide the most comfortable ride.
Felix Rippin 2024-08-19
Although the car is cute inside and out, it may not be the best option for those who frequently carry passengers or cargo. The engine is underpowered and may struggle with more than one person inside. Additionally, the lack of a trunk release, even on the inside, is disappointing for a car at this price point. However, if you are looking for a car for personal use and enjoy the stylish 19
Gerardo Berge 2024-04-14
Owned it for 20k miles now. I've noticed that the suspension doesn't feel firm in a sporty or beneficial sort of way, but rather feels blown out and nearly dysfunctional. Additionally, the engine noise can be a bit buzzy and make it sound like it's trying too hard. Overall, I feel like the car could benefit from some improvements, but it's still a decent option. It's also deceptively small, which can be a plus for some people.
Weston Streich 2024-02-17
I've owned the CX3 for six months now, and while I'm looking forward to paying it off, I have to admit that I'm not thrilled with its gas mileage. On a full tank of gas, I'm only averaging 240-260 mpg, which means I'll need to make frequent fuel stops on my upcoming road trip. Additionally, the acceleration is a bit slow and sluggish, so passing other cars on the road requires plenty of time and space. One downside is that the CX3 doesn't have many cubbies for storing small items like change or umbrellas. However, overall, I think the CX3 is a decent car.
Selmer Terry 2024-02-12
I recently decided to try something different and purchased a Mazda CX3. Unfortunately, the car has not met my expectations. It has had a blown head gasket at 58,000 miles, but thankfully it was covered under warranty. However, the repair process may take up to 2-3 weeks and the dealership has not offered me a rental car. Additionally, the car has several other issues such as limited gas mileage, lack of console and armrest, and minimal space in the front. It also struggles to reach highway speeds and is quite noisy. In my opinion, this car falls short compared to other vehicles I have owned, such as a Honda. Once I receive the car back, I plan to sell it immediately.