2013 Mazda Mazdaspeed3 problems

General information about Mazda-Mazdaspeed3
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list
Negative car reviews
Positive car reviews

The Mazdaspeed3 is a sport compact hatchback introduced for the 2007 model year by Mazdaspeed and produced until 2013. The Mazdaspeed3 is a performance-enhanced version of the 5-door Mazda3.

Mazda unveiled the Mazda3 MPS (Mazda Performance Series) at the 2006 Geneva Motor Show in February. The same model is sold in North America as the Mazdaspeed3 and as the Mazdaspeed Axela in Japan. The vehicle is front-wheel drive and powered by a 2.3 litres (2,261 cc) turbocharged inline-four gasoline engine. The Mazdaspeed3 was designed prior to the latest generation of hot hatches, including the Dodge Caliber SRT-4, Ford Focus ST, and the Volkswagen Golf/Rabbit GTI. The engine produces a power output of 263 hp (196 kW) and 280 lb⋅ft (380 N⋅m) of torque. The Mazdaspeed3 also features a limited slip differential.

The Mazdaspeed3 is the company's first hot hatchback since the BG Familia GT-X of the early 1990s.

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Common 2013 Mazda Mazdaspeed3 problems

The 2013 Mazda Mazdaspeed3 is known for several common issues that have been reported by its owners. Here are some of the most frequently mentioned problems:

Broken dashboards: This problem has been reported by some owners of the 2013 Mazda Mazdaspeed3, but the average cost to fix it is not available. The problem typically occurs at an average mileage of 37,000 miles.

Lack of power while accelerating: This issue has been reported by some owners of the 2013 Mazda Mazdaspeed3, but the average cost to fix it is not available. The problem typically occurs at an average mileage of 37,000 miles.

Excessive vibration: This issue has been reported by some owners of the 2013 Mazda Mazdaspeed3, and it typically occurs during acceleration. Many owners have reported that replacing the tires, brake rotors, and brake pads fixed the problem. However, the issue was typically traced back to a faulty motor mount.

Clutch failure: This issue has been reported by some owners of the 2013 Mazda Mazdaspeed3, and it typically leads to acceleration and stalling problems. This problem was more frequent in 2010 and 2011 models, but it can still occur in 2013 models.

Solenoid problems: The solenoid controls the flow of fluid throughout the transmission. Many times, the solenoid can become damaged because of insufficient fluid levels or other electronic problems with the solenoid. Problems with the solenoid are usually similar to those of inadequate fluid levels or fluid leaks. If your 2013 Mazda Mazdaspeed3's transmission is not functioning properly, it may be due to a solenoid problem.

Check engine light issues: The check engine light illuminates on a Mazda to indicate the powertrain control module has detected a problem in the engine or transmission of the vehicle. The powertrain control module can detect a variety of problems, including issues with the ignition system, fuel system, or emissions system. If the check engine light is illuminated on your 2013 Mazda Mazdaspeed3, it is important to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to diagnose and repair the problem.

These are some of the most common problems reported by owners of the 2013 Mazda Mazdaspeed3. While these issues can be frustrating, many of them can be addressed with routine maintenance and repairs. If you are experiencing any of these problems with your 2013 Mazda Mazdaspeed3, it is important to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to diagnose and repair the problem.

What are the most common problems with 2013 Mazda 3?

Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.

Was 2013 a good year for Mazda3?

2013 MAZDA MAZDA3 Review

If you want a compact sedan or hatchback that's both fun to drive and fuel-efficient, the 2013 Mazda3 makes an excellent choice. Strong resale value means it's a good bet in the long run, too.

How long does a Mazdaspeed3 engine last?

When properly maintained, a Mazda3 can easily reach 100,000 miles without any serious problems. Many owners even report mileages of 200,000 to 300,000 miles with no serious issues. Obviously, the Mazda3 engines can last a very long time.

What problems does the 2012 Mazdaspeed3 have?

2013 Mazda Mazdaspeed3 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mazda Mazdaspeed3 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Seats problems
Structure problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2013 Mazda Mazdaspeed3 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2013 Mazda Mazdaspeed3 complaints

The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2013 Mazda Mazdaspeed3.

2017-12-24

SEATS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2017-11-09
VIN: JM1BL1L30D1
Components: SEATS
Summary: THE SWING ARM THAT ATTACHES THE DRIVER'S SEAT TO THE LEFT-SIDE SEAT RUNNER UNEXPECTEDLY DETACHED. CLOSE INSPECTION REVEALED THAT THIS WAS CAUSED BY A WELD FAILURE / METAL FATIGUE AT THE POINT WHERE THE ARM WAS WELDED TO THE ROD THAT RUNS BELOW THE CUSHION. THE SEAT IS NOW UNSTABLE AND ROCKS IN AN ALARMING WAY, BOTH WHEN ACCELERATING AND DECELERATING. COPIED FROM AN EXISTING COMPLAINT FOR THE 2010 MODEL YEAR BECAUSE IT IS THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM

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2017-07-25

SEATS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2017-07-10
Number Of Injuries: 2
Crash: 1
VIN: JM1BL1L31D1
Components: SEATS
Summary: DRIVER SEAT COLLAPSES BACKWARDS WHEN REAR-ENDED WHILE STATIONARY ON INTERSTATE AND REMAINS FULLY RECLINED AFTER COLLISION. ATTEMPTS TO RETRACT THE SEAT INTO NORMAL DRIVING POSITION IS UNSUCCESSFUL AS THE SEAT NO LONGER LOCKS INTO POSITION. THE ONLY POSITION WHERE THE SEAT LOCKS INTO PLACE IS IN THE FULLY RECLINED POSITION.

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2017-01-18

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2016-09-01
VIN: JM1BL1L36D1
Components: STRUCTURE
Summary: SUMMARY: INSUFFICIENT CORROSION PROTECTIVE COATING WAS APPLIED TO THE ENDS OF THE EXTERNAL CYLINDERS OF THE REAR HATCH/LIFT GATE GAS STAY DAMPERS (LIFT SUPPORTS). IF WATER CONTAINING ROAD SALT ENTERS, IT CAN CAUSE CORROSION. OVER TIME, INCREASED CORROSION MAY EVENTUALLY CAUSE IT TO BREAK AS THE REAR HATCH OR LIFT GATE IS OPENED. SAFETY RISK: THE REAR HATCH OR LIFT GATE MAY DROP SUDDENLY, AND/OR THE BROKEN PARTS MAY HIT THE CUSTOMER, CAUSING INJURY.

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2013 Mazda Mazdaspeed3 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2013 Mazda Mazdaspeed3.

2016-09-06

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 2013 Mazda Mazdaspeed3 car reviews

Noel Kuhic 2024-11-24

Hi there! I have a 2011 Mazdaspeed3 and I was hoping to get some feedback from the Mazda dealership. Unfortunately, I didn't receive the help I was looking for. I asked about the service intervals for my car, specifically when it comes to cleaning out the carbon, but was directed to the owners manual which didn't provide the information I needed. I ended up taking my car to a mechanic I trust, but unfortunately, the carbon cleaning didn't work as my car is Direct Injection and two intake valves broke a year later, costing me $2500 to repair. Additionally, my shocks blew out six months later, which was another $1000 repair. Despite these issues, I still find the car fun to drive if you don't mind the occasional repair for its turbocharged engine.

Positive 2013 Mazda Mazdaspeed3 car reviews

Geovanny Blanda 2025-10-20

I recently traded in my 04 Mazda 3 5-dr for this car. I test drove it and drove it home. The staff at the dealership were disappointed that they didn't get a chance to drive it before it was sold, haha. The clutch takes a little getting used to as it catches very early, but it's not a major issue. The ride is a little harsher than my 3, but I attribute that to the 18
Nils Metz 2025-10-03

Congratulations on your new 2011 MS3! It's great to hear that you're enjoying the handling and power, and that the Velocity Red color is turning heads in your neighborhood. While styling is subjective, it's hard to argue with the impressive price-to-performance ratio of the car. I'm glad to hear that you're finding the multi-function nav screen to be of high quality and great resolution, and that it's getting you where you need to go without any issues.
Lucio Collins 2025-10-02

I just bought this car (July 2012) after doing lots of research on fun sporty cars on Edmunds. I needed passenger room, but wanted something enjoyable to drive. There are only a few cars that fit that category. This happens to be the most affordable and the best. No other car offers such speed, handling, technology (like Bluetooth and Bose radio), solid design and build quality, in a multi-passenger vehicle. I absolutely love it. The closest competitor costs at least 5K more money.
Trace Walter 2025-10-02

Since I got my Speed3 in March, I've really come to appreciate what a great sports car it is. The power delivery and overall athleticism are impressive, and it always does exactly what it's supposed to, no matter how hard you push it. I look forward to driving it every day! The seats could be more comfortable and stylish, though - those are my two biggest complaints. (Come on, Mazda - give us all black leather with power!) As for the front grille, all the new Mazdas have a grin, so why not embrace it? I actually enjoy the torque steer on this Gen - it makes the car more fun, and I wouldn't want it any other way. I drove a 2012 GTI yesterday, and it just didn't compare - it felt really lethargic in comparison.
Jaren Reynolds 2025-09-28

I hope you're doing well! I had the pleasure of test driving the Focus ST, VW GTI, and GLI, but ultimately came back to the Speed3. While the Focus was a bit slow to build boost and make power, and the GTI didn't quite live up to the MKV, the Speed3 was a blast to drive. It immediately delivers power and has a well-dampened, yet aggressive suspension that makes for an entertaining ride. The GLI, on the other hand, was a bit too vanilla and didn't stand out in any particular way, aside from its neat interior. Thanks for letting me share my thoughts with you!

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2013 Mazda Mazdaspeed3 problems:

My 2013 Mazda 3 has been incredibly reliable, but… : r/mazda3

https://www.reddit.com/r/mazda3/comments/wnw4xz/my_2013_mazda_3_has_been_incredibly_reliable_but/

Aug 14, 2022 ... Besides oil changes, transmission fluid sometimes, new brakes every 2 years or so, brake fluid, etc. I've had no major issues. I had one friend ...

Top 5 Common Problems with the Mazdaspeed 3 ...

Mazdaspeed 3 common problems : r/mazda

https://www.reddit.com/r/mazda/comments/st5pz4/mazdaspeed_3_common_problems/

Feb 15, 2022 ... I'm going to buy a Mazdaspeed3 (mazda 3 MPS). I wanted to know the common problems with these cars before buying them. Thanks.

2013 Mazda3 Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life Expectancy ...

https://www.vehiclehistory.com/report/mazda/mazda3/2013

Sep 10, 2022 ... The most common problems reported with the 2013 Mazda3 include flickering headlights, broken dashboards, and a lack of power while accelerating.