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: 2006
Looking for a sporty sedan that won't break the bank? Look no further than the entry-level model of this car! With all the options of a BMW or Lexus, but without the high price tag or maintenance issues, this car handles like a true sports car and gets an average of 25 mpg (30 hwy). While road noise can be an issue, choosing the right tires can help reduce it. The gear box and clutch are super smooth, and the disc brakes on all corners are outstanding. We highly recommend the grand touring model, which is both affordable and comes with all the options you could want. Don't settle for a stripped-down model - they're a dime a dozen and have poor resale value. Our personal recommendation is the 06 grand touring with only 18,000 original miles, which we purchased for just $13,500 in northern California. Do your research and get a lot of car for your money!
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Vehicle year: 2004
I see that you bought a Canadian Version Debut 2004 in Seattle. It sounds like a really peppy car, almost like driving a BMW, definitely not like an average Corolla, Sentra, or Civic. You bought it when it was 7 years old in 2011 with 116K Kms or 70 K miles approximately. Unfortunately, the power steering hose was leaking and the mechanic couldn't find the spares from Ford. That must have been frustrating! Eventually, the car locked up in the middle of a lane change and stalled. Luckily, you were able to replace the original OEM PS Pump for 1250 and haven't had any problems since. It's great that you've been able to keep the Michelin Tires from Costco that the previous owner had. I can imagine that it struggles a bit while climbing steep hills, but the pickup is awesome and can easily challenge a Dodge or BMW. The interiors sound amazing and the stereo is superior. Overall, it sounds like a great car!
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Vehicle year: 2012
I looked at a range of hatchbacks, including all Subaru models, Nissan Rouge, GTI, Focus, and Mazda 3. After careful consideration, I decided to purchase a 2012 I-touring with Skyactiv Engine and Auto Trans. I must say, this power plant is awesome! It is the smoothest I have ever driven, and the power really comes on at 2800 to 3000 rpm, giving me the ability to choose between gas mileage or zoom zoom. Although the interior is 'Spartan', it is still an upgrade from my 2002 Wrangler. I really appreciate the BT hands-free phone function. According to the computer, I am getting 32.1 MPG since buying the car (50/50 hwy and city). I checked at the pump, and my numbers came back 31.8, which I think is pretty good.
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Vehicle year: 2023
I have the Mazda3 2.5S hatchback Select trim in platinum quartz metallic. It's a really beautiful car that looks and feels much more expensive than it actually is. It's fun to drive, has lots of power for a car of its size, and makes my daily commute pleasurable. Although the backseat is pretty cramped, it's not such an issue for me since I don't have kids and I rarely have passengers back there. The fuel economy is a little below average, which is rather unfortunate, but it's still a great car. Lots of people complain about poor visibility due to the wide C pillars and small rear window, which I get, but it doesn't feel like a huge issue with the blind spot monitoring and backup camera. Overall, I have no regrets and I'm very happy with my purchase. Civics and Corollas are good cars, but the Mazda3 is more refined and enjoyable. It's a very sophisticated and classy vehicle.
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Vehicle year: 2019
I really enjoy this car! Here's my review after driving it for 10k miles. To start off, there are a few things that could be improved. The Infotainment system is sub par and can be a bit counterintuitive. Mazda doesn't want you to touch it while driving, so you have to use a scroll wheel. For example, when you want to switch radio stations, it always starts you from the bottom of the list. However, if you add favorites, it can make things quicker, even if they aren't in numerical order. It may take some time to get used to, but after about 20 minutes of driving, you should be able to understand it. If guests take control, they may have a hard time using it, but it's always funny to see their reaction to how unusual it is. The easy solution to this is to always have Bluetooth on your phone connected. Spotify or Pandora make it a better radio than normal AM/FM. The second issue is with the Lane Departure Warning/Assist. I have actually turned the assist off because it has only ever helped me once. Many times, I move over due to a Semi Truck, or cars drifting in my lane in a turn, or to move out of the way for lane splitting motorcycles. However, doing these things will result in the wheel moving back towards the object you're avoiding. It can be countered by holding on tight, but the night I turned it off was when I was exiting the freeway. I was in the left lane of a two-lane, left turn lane. The camera picked up the wrong lines and It's not the fastest engine, but in Sport mode, it has a little kick when you step on it, which is quite enjoyable. The handling is fantastic, and its rolling suspension makes you feel like you're flying or on a boat in smooth water. Additionally, it looks amazing. There aren't many of these on the road, unlike Mazda's CX-9 and 6. With the large front scoop (although it has a horrible place to put a license) and no fake front vents, sleek aerodynamic lines (with a drag coefficient of 0.26), and nice-looking headlights and turn signals, it's definitely a head-turner. I would highly recommend at least the preferred model. This car is perfect for anyone who wants to stand out, loves an open road, and enjoys the act of driving.
Are you having problems with your Mazda Mazda3?
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.
Gennaro Dooley 2025-03-23
Vehicle year: 2004
This new Mazda is certainly a head-turner, but unfortunately, I had some issues with my previous one. After three attempts to fix it, I had to have it replaced due to it being a lemon. Unfortunately, I experienced some issues with my replacement as well, as my clutch broke just four days after acquiring it. While it's certainly exciting to drive, it's important to consider the potential for issues. How long will the excitement last for you?
Hazle Dooley 2025-03-01
Vehicle year: 2020
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.
Newton Heidenreich 2025-02-21
Vehicle year: 2004
The car looks great and is very comfortable, but unfortunately, the 2004 model has some first-year quality issues. If you're considering buying one, I would suggest waiting until 2006 when these issues have been resolved. It can be frustrating to have to keep going back to the dealership for various mechanical failures.
Gabriel McKenzie 2025-02-21
Vehicle year: 2005
Hello Mazda 2.3L engine owners, I wanted to share my experience with you. Recently, I purchased a 2005 Mazda3 with 110K km on the engine. It was in excellent condition inside and out, having been regularly maintained per the Mazda recommendations. Unfortunately, less than 2500 km after I bought it, it suddenly dropped 3L of oil in about 1500km. I had to spend 7K on a new engine. There was no evidence of a leak or that it was burning oil. It just disappeared. After speaking to the service department at the dealership, I learned that the 2004-2007 2.3L is prone to this problem. Short of replacing the engine, the only solution is to put in a heavier oil to slow consumption. I hope this information helps you avoid any similar issues.