Mazda Mazda3 problems
The Mazda3 (known as the Mazda Axela in Japan (first three generations), a combination of "accelerate" and "excellent") is a compact car manufactured by Mazda. It was first introduced in 2003 as a 2004 model, replacing the Familia/323/Protegé in the C-segment.
The second-generation Mazda3 for the 2009 model year was unveiled in late 2008, with the sedan premiering at the Los Angeles Auto Show and the hatchback at the Bologna Motor Show. For the 2012 model year, Mazda began offering the Mazda3 with their newly developed Skyactiv technology, including a more rigid body, a new direct-injection engine, and a new 6-speed transmission.
The third generation was introduced in mid-2013 as a 2014 model year. The third-generation model is the first Mazda3 to adopt the "Kodo" design language and a more complete Skyactiv range of technologies.
The fourth-generation Mazda3 for the 2019 model year was unveiled in November 2018 at the Los Angeles Auto Show. For the 2019 model, the all-new Mazda3 is equipped with the updated Skyactiv technologies, including a spark-controlled compression ignition engine marketed as the Skyactiv-X.
A performance-oriented version of the Mazda3 was marketed until 2013 as the Mazdaspeed3 in North America, Mazdaspeed Axela in Japan, and the Mazda3 MPS in Europe and Australia.
The Mazda3 became one of Mazda's fastest-selling vehicles, with cumulative sales in January 2019 of over 6 million units.
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Mazda Mazda3 model years
Common Mazda Mazda3 problems
The Mazda 3, a popular compact car, has had its fair share of issues across various model years. Here are some of the most common problems reported by real owners:
- Constant airbag warning light illumination: This issue is prevalent in 2004-2009, 2011, and 2013 models with at least 40,000 miles. The National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) first issued a recall on the 2004 model year Mazda3 due to a crack in the "airbag crash zone sensor housing" that may allow water inside, short-circuiting the system. The repair is free for consumers due to the recall.
- Prematurely worn motor mounts: Mazda3 owners report vibrations and excessive noise from the front of their cars, particularly in 2005-2011, 2013, and 2015 models with more than 50,000 miles. The problem lies in the car's motor mounts, which wear prematurely. The NHTSA did not issue a recall for this issue, and owners had to pay for the repairs.
- Loose stabilizer bar linkages: This issue causes a loud rattling noise from the car's rear, affecting every model year Mazda3 from 2004 to 2015, except for the 2013 model year. The rear stabilizer control link nut torque must be below the 31.8-44.8 pounds-feet threshold to ensure driver safety. The repair is low-cost, around $100.
Other common problems include headlight issues, acceleration problems, starter costs, and cold start problems. For instance, headlight failure can be caused by a bad fuse, a failed relay, or a compromised module. Acceleration problems, such as hesitation when going up a hill, can be due to a clogged fuel pump or a lean engine running due to insufficient fuel. Starter issues can be caused by a faulty switch, bad connection, a faulty starter, or a problem with the safety switch. Cold start problems, particularly in 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, and 2010 models, can be due to a faulty thermostat or extremely cold conditions.
The 2016 Mazda 3 has also had issues with brake problems, such as losing pressure on the brake pedal when applying the brakes and water entering the brake caliper, causing the parking brake to malfunction. Additionally, there were concerns about 2016 rear brake excessive wear issues.
In summary, the Mazda 3 has had various issues across different model years, affecting the airbag system, motor mounts, stabilizer bar linkages, headlights, acceleration, starter, and brakes. Proper handling, regular maintenance, and staying informed about these common problems can help Mazda 3 owners keep their cars in top condition and make the most of their service life.
What years of Mazda 3 are best?
The best bang-for-buck Mazda 3 you can buy is the facelifted third-generation model (2017–2018) in any trim level above the Neo. The 2017–2018 models hover around the $15,000–$25,000 mark depending on the trim level you choose.
Is Mazda 3 a high maintenance car?
Mazda 3 Cost of Ownership and Reliability
The average cost of annual ownership comes out to $433. Much cheaper than the $652 average for all other vehicles. The Mazda3 visits the repair shop at an average of 0.3 times a year for unscheduled repairs. Less than the 0.4 average for all other vehicles.
How many miles will a Mazda Mazda 3 last?
between 200,000 and 250,000 miles
A Mazda vehicle can last a long time. Mazda vehicles are known for lasting over a decade and between 200,000 and 250,000 miles, with some going even longer than that. The key to a long-lasting Mazda vehicle is to keep it running with proper maintenance and regular service.
What is the common problem of Mazda?
1) Defective Mazda Clutch Systems
Numerous Mazda drivers have reported these problems, which can cause significant safety concerns. The most common symptoms of a defective Mazda clutch system include slipping or sticking gears, difficulty shifting gears, and grinding noise when shifting.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Mazda Mazda3 years
We have researched Mazda problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Mazda Mazda3 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Mazda Mazda3 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Mazda Mazda3 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Mazda Mazda3 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Mazda Mazda3 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Mazda Mazda3 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Steering problems
- Electrical system problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Structure problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Mazda Mazda3 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Mazda3 model years
A total of 217 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Mazda3 model years
There were a total of 31 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Mazda3 model years
There were a total of 159 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Mazda3 model years
There were a total of 2 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 2845 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Mazda Mazda3 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Mazda Mazda3 vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Mazda Mazda3 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: JM1BM1N31G1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: NHTSA Recall # 23V-487 Manufacturer Recall # 6023G issued July 14, 2023 After repeated phone calls to the Manufacturer and the Mazda Dealership, the recall has not been fixed. I have been told that the parts are not available. As of this date, 16 months after the recall, Mazda has not fixed the problem. I have been told by the Manufacturer and the Mazda Dealership, that parts are not available. The manufacturer told me that they have no date when parts will be available. I have asked to speak with a Manager at the Manufacturer and was told that there is no one else to talk to except Customer Service. I asked for a contact at the Corporate level that I could send an email to, and was told that there was no email address available. They have suggested that I get it fixed at my own cost and submit a claim that may or may not be reimbursed. I consider the distorted rear view camera picture to be a safety hazard when backing up. I believe that 16 months should be plenty of time to fix this problem and that Mazda just does not want to fix a manufacturing problem on a 8 year old car.
Mazda Mazda3 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-12
- VIN: JM1BL1UF2C1
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The Mazda dealership reported to me the push rod was broken, that it ‘just snapped’. The car was towed by Zaben towing company courtesy of the auto insurance company associated with the vehicle to the Mazda dealership, however the towing company was on its way to another Mazda dealership per their app despite a clear address location given by the purchaser of the auto insurance. I found one of the hubcaps missing and placed in back seat of the Mazda after delivery and the Mazda not parked properly at Mazda dealership. The hubcap was not in back seat prior to the drop off. The clutch snap, as described by Mazda, did not happen while I was driving the vehicle. It was working perfectly fine two days prior to the discovery of collapsed clutch when I was driving around town. The clutch was found not working, collapsed after the car was parked for two days. Also, Texas Mazda dealership recommended another eight hundred dollar worth of work totaling near two thousand dollars yet I have between ninety and ninety six thousand miles on a twenty twelve Mazda three sport sedan. I mainly drive it in the city. The Mazda dealership recommended the valve cover and slave cylinder be replaced as well. They need to clean out air system, ‘bleed system’ too.
Mazda Mazda3 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-11
- VIN: 3MZBM1N7XGM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER,BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: It’s been over a year since recall number 23v-487 was issued Need to get it taken care of
Mazda Mazda3 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2021-04-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
- VIN: 3MZBN1L32HM
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Mazda Mazda3. The contact stated that while reversing, the rearview camera image was distorted or showed a black screen occasionally and failed to engage on other occasions. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the rearview camera was replaced several times; however, the failure persisted. Additionally, the contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V487000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 42,098. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Mazda Mazda3 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-05
- VIN: 3MZBN1K70HM
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I am experiencing an issue with the infotainment system in my vehicle where it behaves erratically and intermittently without any input from me. Radio Stations Change Automatically: The system switches between radio stations on its own, even when I haven’t touched the controls. Unwanted Phone Calls: The system will sometimes dial random contacts from my phone without any command or input from me. This has led to accidental calls. Dropped Calls: When I’m on a phone call via the car's Bluetooth connection, the system frequently drops the call or switches to a different function, like the radio or media player, cutting off the conversation. Erratic Behavior During Media Playback: Occasionally, the system will change media sources (e.g., switching from Bluetooth audio to the radio) or pause/unpause media randomly. These issues are not tied to any specific driving conditions or user actions. It seems like the infotainment system has "a mind of its own" and is functioning independently, which creates safety concerns, especially when I'm driving.
Mazda Mazda3 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-01
- VIN: 3MZBM1K73GM
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Mazda Mazda3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V487000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while shifted into reverse, the digital display screen flickered before going black and failed to display a proper rearview image. Upon further inspection, the contact noticed that when the A/C was activated, the rearview image was flickering quickly. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unavailable. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Mazda Mazda3 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-01
- VIN: JM1BM1K71G1
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Mazda Mazda3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V487000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while in reverse, the digital display screen flickered before going black. The display screen failed to produce a proper image after powering on independently. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Mazda Mazda3 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-01
- VIN: 3MZBN1M35JM
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Recall 23V-487 has been un-remedied for over a year. And it sounds like a zip tie would fix it. That's too long.
Mazda Mazda3 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-27
- VIN: 3MZBN1L33JM
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I was parked in a downtown garage, and the vehicle would not start after many attempts, after about 45 minutes of trying (waiting 5 minutes between tries). The engine would turn normally and sounded like it was trying to start, but didn't fully engage. It finally did after 45 mins, and I drove it to the local Mazda dealer in Honolulu. I noticed the check-engine light was on at that time (but not before the incident). They ran a diagnosis, and couldn't replicate the issue, and said it may be a battery problem with low voltage, due to the engine's error codes. But I questioned that since the engine was able to turn normally and adequately at all starting attempts. And the battery was only 2 years old. So I replaced the battery at their recommendation. About 2 hours after picking up the car from the dealer, the same issue happened again. I recorded the issue on my phone this time, and gave it to the dealer. And this time I didn't want to chance it, so had the car towed back to the same dealer. They couldn't replicate the issue immediately, but after several attempts (over a day), they finally experienced it. They said the issue is the fuel pump. I am the original owner, and had purchased the car new from a Mazda dealership, and it has less than 26K miles on it. I researched previous recalls with this same issue on Mazdas, even the same year and model, and it appears to related: [XXX] [XXX] No one was physically harmed due to this issue, but it was certainly a safety risk. If the fuel pump fails while driving, the driver could lose control of the vehicle while in motion. I have attached the invoices for the repairs. I have contacted Mazda Customer Experience and they assigned a case number # [XXX]. However, I was informed that the repairs are unlikely to be covered as there is no open recall on the VIN regarding this issue. Thank you. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Mazda Mazda3 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-26
- VIN: JM1BM1M78G1
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Mazda Mazda3. The contact stated that the digital screen went blank and was repaired previously under an extended warranty. The contact then received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V487000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while in reverse, the digital screen displayed a distorted image. In addition, the failure was occasionally self-corrected after opening and closing the trunk of the vehicle. The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired due to the cost. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 125,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Mazda Mazda3 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-24
- VIN: 3MZBM1L74FM
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Mazda Mazda3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V487000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the part was not yet available. 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 stated that the back-up camera screen image was flickering and became distorted while reversing. The cause of the failure was not determined. The failure mileage was 60,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Mazda Mazda3 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-22
- VIN: 3MZBM1L79FM
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I am filing this complaint regarding existing Manufacturer Recall Number 6023G (NHTSA Recall Number 23V-487). This recall has been posted since Jul 14, 2023 and the manufacturer has failed to remedy the recall in a timely manner. The remedy is noted on the recall page: "If inspections verify there is image distortion or flickering, the rearview camera will be replaced with a new part and a wiring harness fastening seal will be added." However, the manufacturer continues to state that the remedy is not yet available.
Mazda Mazda3 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-21
- VIN: JM1BPBJY6M1
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Low oil light - car is burning oil and only has 11,400 miles. Approx 3/4 to 1 quart missing...
Mazda Mazda3 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-20
- VIN: 3MZBPBCM4RM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: My Mazda3, odometer reading about 3000 miles, would not start. I have been driving normally daily, do not leave lights on or any other equipment connected when the car is off. I have not had any warning lights displayed other than startup. Monday I drove to my local CT. golf course, 20 miles from home, arrived at 9am. 5 hours later I after golf, I can’t open trunk. Fortunately I left the car unlocked. The car would not start. Road Service tried to jump battery unsuccessfully. Dragged the car onto truck-bed and transports to dealer. Service tech contacts me next day … charged battery, checked electric system and found no malfunctions. This is a scary situation when one never knows when this will happen again. Is there a solution??
Mazda Mazda3 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-18
- VIN: JM1BM1W77G1
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Fuel Tank has corrosion that allows vapors to enter the passenger compartment.
Latest 5 recalls Mazda Mazda3
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 56 recalls for different components of the Mazda Mazda3.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Mazda Mazda3 2024
- Report Received Date: 2024-09-03
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Components: LANE DEPARTURE: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
- Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2024 Mazda 3, CX-30, and 2025 CX-50 vehicles. A malfunction in the forward sensing camera (FSC) may prevent the automatic emergency braking system and the lane-keep assist system from functioning. In addition, the headlights will not automatically adjust from high beams to low beams as intended.
- Consequence: Automatic braking, steering assist, and headlight control systems that do not function as intended can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the forward sensing camera as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 24, 2024. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, Option 6. Mazda's number for this recall is 6824H.
- Model: Mazda Mazda3 2024
- Report Received Date: 2023-10-26
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
- Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2024 CX-90 and MAZDA3 vehicles. Due to a software error, the rearview, front, and/or side camera images may not appear on the display. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
- Consequence: A camera that does not display an image can reduce the driver's view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the view monitor control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 20, 2023. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500 Option 6. Mazda's number for this recall is 6223J.
- Model: Mazda Mazda3 2016
- Report Received Date: 2023-07-14
- 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.
- Model: Mazda Mazda3 2014
- Report Received Date: 2023-07-14
- 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.
- Model: Mazda Mazda3 2017
- Report Received Date: 2023-07-14
- 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.
Latest negative Mazda Mazda3 car reviews
Latest positive Mazda Mazda3 car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2024
This car has more standard features than its competitors in its class, such as Toyota, Honda, and Kia. One of my favorite features is the extra horsepower, even with a naturally aspirated engine.
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Vehicle year: 2024
I'm so glad you're enjoying the new interior design changes from the 2017 model. It's great to hear that you find it a bit more spacious than the previous version too!
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Vehicle year: 2022
This car has more standard features than its competitors in its class, such as Toyota, Honda, and Kia. One of my favorite features is the extra horsepower, even with a naturally aspirated engine.
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Vehicle year: 2020
When I was in college, my parents got me a Mazda GLC to commute. It was a great car, but I never really considered Mazda again until now. Recently, I purchased a 2020 Premium Hatchback with all the bells and whistles. It's machine gray with the black trim kit and it's a real beauty! I couldn't be happier with my decision. I was tired of trying to keep up with the Joneses, so I decided to switch from my previous five Lexus models to the Mazda. And you know what? It wasn't a downgrade at all! This car is everything I could ask for and more. The interior is premium and high-end, the ride and handling are amazing, and I've received lots of compliments on how good it looks. Mazda, I'm back and I'm hooked!
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Vehicle year: 2020
I bought a new Mazda3 in April 2019. During my search, I test drove a 2016 Mazda3 GT, thinking I wanted a used car. However, after driving both, I decided to go for the new 3 premium package. Although I had a small issue with the car, the dealership promptly corrected it. I really enjoy how comfortable the car is and the gas mileage is great too. The only downside is that the piano black interior trim scratches easily. It seems like the trim should be more scratch-resistant. The Radar controlled cruise control takes a little getting used to as well. Overall, it's an awesome little car :) UPDATE: Unfortunately, at the 8000 mile mark, something went wrong with the car and it slammed on the brakes all by itself, causing injury to my neck and teeth. It has been at the dealership for 26 days now with no date given for repair. Apparently, my car was one of two that has done this in the US. If you have kids or are an older adult who can't afford to take the risk, I would advise against buying this car until the Mazda engineers can assure you it's not going to develop a mind of its own. However, I must say that Mazda USA ultimately bought this car back and I turned around and purchased a 2019 Mazda 6 Signature edition, which has been a true dream car to own and drive. My experience with the redesigned 3 did NOT sour me on Mazda products! They absolutely stand behind their product and it was greatly appreciated by me 😉
Are you having problems with your Mazda Mazda3?
Lester Rodriguez 2025-04-14
Vehicle year: 2018
The Mazda3 looks great on paper, with a powerful yet fuel-efficient powertrain and a range of features that are hard to find in this class, such as LED lighting, navigation, leather interior, and radar cruise control. The addition of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay in 2018 is also a big plus. However, my real-world experience has been mixed. The ride quality around town can be harsh and bumpy, while the steering at highway speeds is light and almost darty. I've also noticed some intermittent interior rattles, poor radio reception, and excessive NVH, as well as some chipping in the premium paint. Despite these concerns, I still want to love this car, as it's my third Mazda. However, I may have to consider other options next time.
Efrain Orn 2025-04-13
Vehicle year: 2019
Hello! I recently purchased a 2019 Mazda 3 AWD for my daughter, but unfortunately we've been experiencing some issues with the 'smart brake system'. It seems to malfunction and suddenly slam on the brakes, even when there's no car in front of us. As you can imagine, this has been quite concerning and even dangerous at times. We took it to the dealer and they completed a recall, but the issue still persists. Although they couldn't replicate the problem during their testing, we're still experiencing the same issue. We're currently working with a lemon law attorney to resolve this, as we're worried about the safety of anyone driving the car. Thank you for your understanding.
Kenyon Schoen 2025-04-11
Vehicle year: 2021
After owning the car for a year and driving about 3500 miles, the rear edges of my hood started to experience paint peeling, despite the car being parked in a heated garage year-round. Despite Mazda denying our warranty claims, I did some research and found that Mazda uses a thin layer of water-based paint to cut costs and reduce emissions. While this is disappointing, I still believe the car is a good choice overall. However, it is important to note that without proper care, the bare metal may begin to rust in the winter.
Barry Kessler 2025-04-10
Vehicle year: 2024
After owning the car for a year and driving about 3500 miles, the rear edges of my hood started to experience paint peeling, despite the car being parked in a heated garage year-round. Despite Mazda denying our warranty claims, I did some research and found that Mazda uses a thin layer of water-based paint to cut costs and reduce emissions. While this is disappointing, I still believe the car is a good choice overall. However, it is important to note that without proper care, the bare metal may begin to rust in the winter.
Wilfred Smith 2025-03-28
Vehicle year: 2008
I purchased the 2008 S GT 2.3L sedan brand new because of its fun handling. My family has been loyal to Mazda for years due to their reputation for quality. Unfortunately, we were disappointed with the quality of this particular vehicle. Shortly after taking delivery, we noticed that the paint was thin and chipped easily. We had to put a 3M film over the hood to protect it. The carpet also wore out within the first few months. We experienced issues with the auto door locks, engine mounts, and struts, which all needed replacement. At 60K miles, we needed a new ABS system, and around 75K miles, the control arm, CV joint, and other parts broke. The worst issue was the transmission failure at 79K miles. Despite taking great care of the car and always maintaining it at the dealership, we were disappointed with the many issues we faced over the years. Unfortunately, we have decided to part ways with the car at less than 90K miles. While we won't be purchasing another Mazda, we hope that they will improve their reliability in the future.