2012 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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Common 2012 Mazda Mazda3 problems
The 2012 Mazda MAZDA3 has been reported to have several common problems by its owners. The most significant issues are related to the transmission, interior accessories, and clutch.
Transmission problems are the most frequently reported issues, with 16 NHTSA complaints. The most common transmission problem is gears grinding, which has been reported by 55 owners. This issue typically occurs around 20,000 miles and can cost up to $4,800 to fix.
Interior accessories problems are also common in the 2012 MAZDA3, with 6 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported issue is the power window regulator, which has been reported by 16 owners. This problem typically occurs around 30,000 miles and can cost up to $300 to fix.
Clutch problems are another common issue in the 2012 MAZDA3, with 4 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported issue is premature clutch failure, which has been reported by 16 owners. This problem typically occurs around 40,000 miles and can cost up to $1,500 to fix.
Engine problems have also been reported by 4 owners, with issues such as the engine stalling or misfiring. Seat belts/airbags problems have been reported by 3 owners, with issues such as the airbags deploying unexpectedly or not deploying at all. AC/heater problems have been reported by 2 owners, with issues such as the AC not blowing cold air or the heater not working. Body/paint problems have been reported by 1 owner, with issues such as the paint peeling or chipping. Electrical problems have been reported by 1 owner, with issues such as the car not starting or the electrical system malfunctioning. Lights problems have been reported by 1 owner, with issues such as the headlights not working or the brake lights staying on. Steering problems have been reported by 1 owner, with issues such as the steering wheel being hard to turn or the car pulling to one side. Wheels/hubs problems have been reported by 1 owner, with issues such as the wheels not aligning properly or the hubcaps falling off. Windows/windshield problems have been reported by 1 owner, with issues such as the windows not rolling up or down properly or the windshield cracking. Drivetrain problems have been reported by 1 owner, with issues such as the car shaking or vibrating when accelerating. Brakes problems have been reported by 36 owners, with issues such as the brakes squeaking or the brake pedal feeling spongy. Fuel system problems have been reported by 29 owners, with issues such as the car stalling or the fuel gauge not working. Miscellaneous problems have been reported by 19 owners, with issues such as the car not starting or the engine making strange noises. Suspension problems have been reported by 15 owners, with issues such as the car bottoming out or the suspension making noise. Exterior accessories problems have been reported by 4 owners, with issues such as the mirrors not folding in or the door handles breaking. Exhaust system problems have been reported by 1 owner, with issues such as the exhaust making noise or the car not passing emissions.
In summary, the 2012 Mazda MAZDA3 has several common problems, with transmission, interior accessories, and clutch issues being the most frequently reported. These problems can be expensive to fix and can affect the overall safety and reliability of the vehicle.
Is a 2012 Mazda 3 a reliable car?
The 2012 Mazda 3 was a definite improvement. The Mazda 3 is a very good, reliable car.
What is the most common problem with Mazda 3?
Mazda 3 Reliability and Common Problems
- The Mazda 3 is one of the most reliable compact sedans, with a high reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0 from RepairPal.
- Common problems with the Mazda 3 include lightning issues, infotainment problems, faulty brakes, and sway bar links that need to be replaced.
Is Mazda 3 high maintenance?
The average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Mazda 3 is $433, compared to an average of $526 for compact cars and $652 for all vehicle models.
What is the transmission problem on a 2012 Mazda 3?
The problem: Affected vehicles have a six-speed manual transmission that may be hard to shift into 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th gears. In addition, the shifter may sometimes jump out of 3rd gear over bumps in the road. Faulty clutch hub assemblies and a possibly bad 3rd gear are being blamed.
2012 Mazda Mazda3 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mazda Mazda3 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Power train problems
- Engine problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Electrical system problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2012 Mazda Mazda3 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2012 Mazda Mazda3
The NHTSA has received 219 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Mazda Mazda3. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2012 Mazda Mazda3 vehicles.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-10
- 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.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-01
- VIN: JM1BL1V8XC1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Weak braking and spongy brake pedal created near accidents at highway speeds. Brake pedal needs to be pumped to get firmness. But the check engine warning light did not come on, either. So I had mechanics replace front rotors, front disc pads, and bleed/refill system with fresh brake fluid and inspect system for leaks. But spongy brake pedal problem was not fixed. So when I researched the problem on the internet, it appears that it's a systemic, long-time (10 model years or more) safety issue with Mazda that they failed to recall nationwide. Totally irresponsible. Among Mazda owners, after replacing all other brake system components and not solving the spongy brake pedal issue, it turned out to be a faulty ABS System Module, a $2,000 to $3,000 repair at Mazda dealerships.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-22
- VIN: JM1BL1L87C1
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Car started jerking and on the way home, the car lost all power to the transmission. The check engine light came on as well as the AT and traction lights. Absolutely no power to the transmission. codes P0780 and P0751.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-01
- VIN: JM1BL1V73C1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Passenger side door airbag is open
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-26
- VIN: JM1BL1M85C1
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: My issue is with computer firmware updates the manufacturer (Mazda) needs to have done occasionally to help w/traction control and other issues, that the consumer is stuck paying for it, I had a check engine light come on and took it to the dealer. The dealer said that the TCM (traction control module)and the PCM (power control module)needed to be updated. And being the car was out of warranty that I was going to be responsible for paying $330. I would think that if a manufacturer decided to make new updates to help with safety and performance that it shouldn’t fall on the consumer as we bought the car thinking they had this stuff already figured out. Like our smart phones when there updates we the consumer don’t pay for the updates to help protect our phones from security issues and other things…. So why is it acceptable for consumers to pay for auto industry’s updates to help with safety.
AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-05
- VIN: JM1BL1V79C1
- Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: The dashboard of my 2012 Mazda 3 has separated from the instrument panel causing a gap between them. The dashboard has become very sticky leaving a black sticky film on the surface. This has caused a glare on the windshield making it hard to see at times while driving. There is a letter dated May 2017 from Mazda, Special Service Program (SSP) A9. The letter states that the warranty was extended 7 years (84 months) from the original warranty start date or April 30, 2018, whichever is later, with no milage limitation. As I read it, 7 years of 84 months from 2018 should extend the warranty for repair of replacement through 2025. Mazda refuses to make repairs, or replacement of this equipment that has an impact on the proper function of the airbag system and impairs the driver's vision because of the constant windshield glare. This is an issue. that needs to be addressed as an important safety.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-09
- VIN: JM1BL1V72C1
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: [XXX] covers a safety oriented problem with my car. Jim Ellis Mazda in Marietta refuses to work on my car because it is more than 10 years old. This is a proprietary issue since it deals with the computer system in the car. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-28
- VIN: JM1BL1W87C1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Headlight flickering and turns off and on randomly.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-22
- VIN: JM1BL1L81C1
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The car started to stall, hesitate and even stop completely for no apparent reason. The mechanic first recommended a new ECU/TCU which did not help the problem and in the course of duplicating the problem check engine light has come on for the transmission with problems shifting/sticking in a gear and not returning to first gear. My mechanic has stated that there is a known problem with Mazda3 transmission, and I should reach out to Mazda. They indicate there is no recall, but mechanic provided me TSB reference number 0500814 from a service bulletin. The car is a death trap and I have stalled while driving on the streets and freeway so obviously I can't drive the car. The car is still at the mechanics since parts cannot be found. Please help any way possible. Thank you.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-25
- VIN: JM1BL1W81C1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: My brake pedal became very spongy and soft after the ABS was activated. The brake pedal has to travel all the way to the floor to stop the vehicle. My rotors, pads and other brake parts are checked by experts and there is not any issue found with other brake parts. Even though the brake system is not working properly, there are no ABS lights on the dashboard. I risk an accident every day. I killed a squirrel because the brake system didn’t work properly. Maybe one day I will die or cause to lose someone’s life because of this braking issue. I started to be affected psychologically. I've read many complaints from Mazda users on forums about this problem. In subsequent investigations, Ford has recalled 600,000 2006-2010 Fusion, Mercury Milan, and Lincoln MKZ midsized cars to fix an ABS problem. The ABS valve reacts with the brake fluid currently used in the vehicles and can significantly slow or stop the action of the ABS valve, leading to braking problems. When I took my car to my mechanic, I just learned these Mazda 3s were equipped with the same ABS Controle Units as these specific Ford models. However, there are no recalls for these Mazda’s. It cannot be a coincidence that the same ABS control module is used and the same problem occurs. It is unacceptable that Mazda did not recall any vehicle while Ford took a step in this regard. This problem needs to be solved urgently before someone dies! This is a big safety issue! All companies using this ABS Controle Unit must Recall!
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-18
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JM1BL1V79C1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owned a 2012 Mazda Mazda3. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the contact woke up to the fire department extinguishing a fire in the vehicle. The fire department stated that the fire began under the hood and that the fire was due to the electrical system. The vehicle was deemed totaled by the insurance company. A police report and a fire report were filled out. The vehicle has not been towed yet. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 160,000.
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-11-01
- VIN: JM1BL1M68C1
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: Driver seat rocks back and forth. There was a recall for 2010-2011 models for this exact issue but 2012 and 2013 are not included in the recall. This is an issue for later models and was even an issue for the 2014-2018 as a separate recall was issued for that generation. 2012 and 2013 need to be recalled for the seats rocking back and forth. This is a safety concern.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-01
- VIN: JM1BL1W68C1
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: After topping off my fuel tank at a gas station, fuel begins to leak from the top of the tank. Prior to noticing the leak, I had noticed a strong smell of gas after topping off and driving home. Symptoms include smell of gasoline, and a gasoline puddle on the ground. The fuel appears to be leaking from the top of the fuel tank, running down the side, and dripping onto the ground. Because of other nearby components that generate heat, this is a very dangerous situation that may lead to fires. Other 2012 Mazda 3 owners have experienced the same exact situation. The following threads shows comments from various people that have experienced the issue. The component that seems to have failed is the vent hose which allows gasoline to seep to the exterior of the tank. Fuel leaks are extremely dangerous as sparks, matches, cigarettes, or other heat sources can ignite the fuel leading to a total loss. https://www.mazda3revolution.com/threads/fuel-leaking-from-gas-tank-area-after-filling-up.236569/ https://www.mazdaspeeds.org/index.php?threads/resolved-fuel-leak-by-tank.14228/ Quotes for repair seem to vary with some people claiming up to $900.
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-23
- VIN: JM1BL1L51C1
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: driver seat support links are broken and seat rocks back and forth, same as recall for 2010-2011 models
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-15
- VIN: JM1BL1M71C1
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: The seat track on the drivers seat has come apart, so now the drivers seat rocks back and forth with every acceleration and brake, and feels like it's about to come off entirely. There was no incident that seemed to cause this, just one day I got in the car and the seat was loose. I took it to the dealership and they confirmed the seat track is coming apart, but there is no recall out for this VIN so I would have to pay $2400 to replace this defective part.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-07
- VIN: JM1BL1V86C1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I've only driven my car 54,000 miles in more than 10 years. Yet, I've had an abundance of brake issues. I've had to replaced my brake pads, brake master cylinder, and brake power booster unit. Now, some mechanics are suggesting that I also need to replace my brake rotors and brake calipers. It's ridiculous.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-06
- VIN: jm1bl1m84c1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Both front brake rotors fractured while braking, resulting in reduced braking distance and the need for evasive maneuvers to avoid collision. Fracture occurred in the casting, between the hub flange and braking pad surfaces. A photo of one of the rotors is available, but the hardware has been disposed of. Inspection of fracture surfaces shows some local evidence of rust, indicating that the rupture was proceeded by fatigue/corrosion cracking. No other advance warning was available.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-12
- VIN: JM1BL1UG7C1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: This was my first new car and sometimes when I would brake the brake would go all the way down to the floor. It was random so I didn’t really think about it. It’s been happening since the car was new and I searched up the issue and it’s been something common happening to other people. It recently started happening again.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-13
- VIN: JM1BL1L8XC1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Exactly as described in safety recall "2014-2016 Mazda3 and 2014-2015 Mazda6 Hand-Operated Parking Brake Concern Safety Recall 1217F NHTSA Campaign No. 17V-393" both of the rear caliper parking brakes have corroded and become stuck causing the parking brake to not hold the vehicle in place when engaged. The problem has not been inspected or confirmed by any 3rd parties. I currently have 1 of the calipers that failed but will need to return it for a core charge refund. No error or warnings were presented, but noticed the parking brake becoming less effective and eventually not effective at all over the course of a few months. the passenger side failed first and was replaced July 2021, the driver side failed over early summer 2022 and needs to be replaced now.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-26
- VIN: JM1BL1UF2C1
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Mazda Mazda3. The contact stated while driving 70 MPH, the vehicle inadvertently downshifted from 5th gear to 3rd gear with several unknown warning lights illuminated. The vehicle started to slide and the contact depressed the brake pedal and the vehicle came to a stop. The vehicle was not taken to be diagnosed. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V072000 (Power Train) however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 160,000.
STEERING,WHEELS,LANE DEPARTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-08
- VIN: JM1BL1V74C1
- Components: STEERING,WHEELS,LANE DEPARTURE
- Summary: I can be turning left from a full stop and a few times almost went up onto the median seperating traffic. The car doesn't keep straight in it's own lane unless i put a lot of pressure with both hands on steering wheel and that doesn't always keep it straight, it veers left and right going down the road. Tire pressure light keeps coming on. when backing up hear like a grinding sound in passenger front tire. I bought this used at a Ford car dealership in June 2021. thats all i can think of right now. This has happened more than once no just one time.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-09-09
- VIN: JM1BL1L86C1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Headlights flicker when brakes are applied or when slowing down.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-11
- VIN: JM1BL1V66C1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The brakes have to be pressed to the floor in order to break. They were not breaking like normal. The ABS module was deemed faulty and replaced.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-01
- VIN: Jm1bl1v84c1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: When driving at night with exterior lights on, when brake and or gas pedal is pressed the exterior lights strobe/flashes. The Mazda dealership has been contacted about this issue and there is a technician service bulletin stating that the ECM needs to be reflashed/programmed. No recall has been set for this issue and the Mazda dealership stated that I would have to pay $265 out of pocket to have the problem fixed. I believe that because it's a problem with there programming or software that the company should have to issue a safety recall and fix the factory defect. I'm currently in the process of filing a lawsuit against Mazda because of this and I have already filed a complaint with the better business bureau for this issue.
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-04
- VIN: JM1BL1L45C1
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: Driver seat has become loose and rocks forward in an up and down fashion while driving. Can be rock by hand as well when not sitting in the seat. A prior recall addressed this issue with 2010-2011 Mazda 3's. This is a 2012 that is having the same problem, but the recall does not apply to it. The recall needs to be expanded to included all vehicles experiencing this issue. NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V082 Manufacturer Mazda North American Operations Components SEATS Potential Number of Units Affected 173,859
2012 Mazda Mazda3 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2012 Mazda Mazda3.
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE
- Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2010-2013 Mazda3 and Mazdaspeed3 vehicles manufactured November 18, 2008, to June 8, 2013, 2012-2015 Mazda5 vehicles manufactured October 26, 2010, to June 22, 2015, 2016 CX-3 vehicles manufactured June 1, 2015, to December 26, 2015, and 2013-2016 CX-5 vehicles manufactured December 15, 2011, to December 26, 2015. On the affected vehicles, the lift gate support struts may corrode, possibly causing the struts to break and/or the lift gate to drop unexpectedly.
- Consequence: If the lift gate falls unexpectedly, it may hit the user, increasing their risk of injury.
- Remedy: Mazda dealers will replace the both lift gate supports, free of charge, however parts are not currently available. The recall began April 2017. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's number for this recall is 9916H.
Negative 2012 Mazda Mazda3 car reviews
Positive 2012 Mazda Mazda3 car reviews
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I drove an 02 Civic Si for 9 years and absolutely loved it! However, when I traded it in for a CX-7, I found that it didn't quite meet my expectations. So, I decided to trade it in again for the newer Mazda 3 Wagon with the I Grand Touring package, and I must say, I am absolutely in love with it! The gas mileage has been fantastic, with 38mpg while commuting on mostly freeway at 65-70mph, and 36mpg on a long trip doing 80+ most of the way. As someone who is 6'3
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After owning the car for 25K miles, I would rate its comfort as 3 out of 5. I recently had a computer recall update for high idling RPM, and now it's much better. I recommend visiting your local dealer for the update to experience the engine difference. While it's not the best for long trips due to its low height, it's great for commuting and has good MPG. The CD player has many buttons that may not be useful, and the rear seats lack legroom. However, the car is still reliable. Compared to other models, the sitting position is not as high, but the suspension is perfect for a race track. For daily use, it may be too firm. Overall, it's a good car for the price, but if you prefer a more comfortable ride, I suggest taking a look at the Corolla or Civic.
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I bought this car as a dealer demo in December 2012 with 8200 miles on it. It's almost perfect! The stick shift was smooth and short, and the acceleration with the 2.5L engine was more than enough. The car handled great and it was easily the most fun I've ever had driving a car. I also loved the dash, with buttons in easy-to-locate places. The dual climate control was a plus, and the AC was ice cold in the S-touring version. The Bose sound system is great, and I received lots of compliments on this car. The exterior and interior looks are fantastic, with clear rear lights and blinkers on the side view mirrors as nice touches. I averaged about 26 MPG combined, and could get 31-32 highway only with No AC, but that's about the best I got. The only downside was the comfort. Because it has a sporty suspension, you feel every bump, and the front seats are simply not made very well. Also, at 6'2, I'm probably an inch or 2 too tall for this particular car. I needed the seat all the way back, and the steering wheel just doesn't telescope far enough out for a comfy driving position. Also, the seat back adjusters are very cheap. You'll notice the chair takes a while to click in place when adjusting. Within the first month, I noticed it was aggravating my back and hips, and unfortunately, I finally had to move on from it last month as the discomfort just became too much for me. However, if you are under 6'0 and/or comfort is not a huge deal to you, then I would highly recommend this car. I put about 21k miles on it in the year and a half I had it and never had a single problem. It drove and handled like a dream, and the stick shift was really fun to drive. It's clear Mazda put most of the money under the hood of this car, which I don't think is a bad thing. The interior doesn't have the greatest materials, but I never had a problem with them. If you want a car that's fun to drive, reliable, safe, and good looking, this is the way to go!If you're looking for a sedan with a smooth ride, this might not be the best option for you.
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I have been driving this car for a month now and I must say, the fuel economy is really incredible! I've had five Honda Civics in the past, but this little Mazda beats them all. The car also handles the road really nicely and the Sky-activ engine is super smooth and refined. The value in this car is hands down unbeatable!
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I've driven the car for about 600 miles and I must say, it's been a fun ride! The steering is precise and gives a great feel for the road. The acceleration is plenty good for an engine this size and I've been getting 38-40 miles per gallon, with 2/3 of the driving on the highway and 1/3 in the city. The seats are comfortable with good lumbar support, making for a pleasant driving experience. The blind spot warning system and the adaptive lights are great features that function flawlessly. Although the ride is firm, it's perfect for the driver, not so much for everyone else. The Bose stereo is very good, although not outstanding, and the trunk space is limited but still okay for a commuter car.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2012 Mazda Mazda3 problems:
2012 Mazda3 Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life Expectancy ...
Oct 8, 2022 ... Very reliable. Like I said 134,000 miles and no major issues. The engine takes full synthetic oil so it is a little more expensive to upkeep but ...
2012 Mazda3 reliability? : r/mazda
Apr 7, 2017 ... It's surprisingly comfortable for long drives. Only thing to watch out for is carbon build-up in the intake manifold, as it is a direct ...
2012 MAZDA MAZDA3 Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2012 MAZDA MAZDA3? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
2012 Mazda 3 Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
Top 2012 Mazda 3 Problems · Airbag Warning Light Illuminated · Vibration Felt at 55 mph · Rattle From Rear Suspension Due to Loose Stabilizer Bar Links.
Mazda 3 2010-2013: pros and cons, common problems
Sep 5, 2021 ... Mazda 3 problems: Tire pressure sensor valve stems can break off due to corrosion; the repair is not very expensive. Rear tires can wear ...
Other years of Mazda Mazda3
Are you having problems with your 2012 Mazda Mazda3?
Adolphus Schulist 2024-09-20
I really hoped that this car would be the last one I bought for a while. It's a lot of fun to drive and has great fuel economy (averaging 30 MPG City). Unfortunately, at around 11K miles, one of the transmission valves blew. Mazda replaced all the transmission valves without any issues, but the fuel efficiency dropped to 28 MPG. Then, at 19,500 miles, the transmission completely gave out. However, Mazda Roadside was quick to respond and the dealer has been excellent. Even though I've only had the car for 2 years, the entire transmission is now being replaced. This was a $24K car, so needless to say, I'm very disappointed. I'm now considering trading it in for a more reliable brand once the repairs are done.
Leone Heathcote 2024-06-12
Hello! I recently purchased a 2012 Skyactiv engine, 4-door sedan and have been experiencing some strange engine noises. Specifically, I hear a whistling sound coming from under the hood. I initially thought it might be a serpentine belt issue and took it back to the dealer. However, they informed me that the noise is actually normal and that I just need to give the car 200-500 miles to break-in. I followed their advice, but the noise persisted, so I took it back again today. The dealer now believes that the noise is coming from the electronic steering. While I appreciate their input, I'm still not convinced that this is the case. I believe that it may be a Skyactiv issue and I'm hoping to find a solution. Thank you for your help!
Brennan Howell 2024-04-18
Last summer, I did some research to find the best used Mazda 3 model for the best price. I was impressed with the car's price and mileage, and the reviews were strong on the resale and longevity of the car. Although I initially loved the car, after a week, I noticed that the cabin noise was driving me nuts. I took it to my mechanic for an inspection, but he couldn't find anything wrong. After some online research, I discovered that the light body weight of the car that allows for speed also allows for road noise to invade the cabin. To deal with the noise, I've been amping up the radio for over a year. Recently, I received a notice from Mazda about an A 'rich' start is the first start of the car. However, if the car is not allowed to warm up for ten minutes and is turned off and started again, it may fail or experience a delay in starting. The mechanic also informed me that the repair was not actually for the 'gap' in the dashboard. Since the dash does not have clips to pull it down to the clock, this is what the repair will look like. The Mazda 3 is known for its loud cabins, cold start problems, bad motor mounts, and gapped dashboard problems. These issues can make it difficult to sell and run smoothly.
Kevin Huel 2024-01-16
This is my second Mazda 3, having previously owned a 2010 iTouring sedan which was unfortunately totaled in a rear-end accident. I thoroughly enjoyed driving the car and was quick to purchase a 2012 iTouring hatchback. The car's handling was exceptional and it felt more luxurious than other compact cars in its class. Coming from an Audi A4, the Mazda 3 felt solid and secure, with responsive steering and excellent feedback. I experienced no issues with the car during the four years I owned it. However, during routine maintenance, I discovered that the rear shocks needed to be replaced, which had caused the tires to wear unevenly. Unfortunately, the car was out of warranty at this point. About a year later, the AC stopped blowing cold, and I was informed that there was a small leak, which required almost $600 in repairs. After another routine maintenance check, I was informed that the front struts were leaking and needed to be replaced. At this point, I decided to trade in the car.