2018 Mazda Mazda3 Mazda Mazda3 2018

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2018 Mazda Mazda3 repairs by problem area

Engine (13%)

Transmission and Drivetrain (25%)

Brakes and Traction Control (13%)

Suspension and Steering (25%)

Electrical and Air Conditioning (13%)

Paint, Rust, Leaks, Rattles, and Trim (13%)

Other (0%)

Chart based on 8 repairs.
See TSBs and recalls for the 2018 Mazda Mazda3.

2018 Mazda Mazda3 repair cost distribution

$2500+ (0%)

$1000 - $2499 (14%)

$500 - $999 (0%)

$100 - $499 (14%)

< $100 (71%)

Worried about potential repair costs? An extended warranty can provide peace of mind.

Chart based on 7 repair trips. The repair cost chart excludes repairs made under warranty, do-it-yourself repairs, and repair trips that include maintenance.

2018 Mazda Mazda3 4dr Sedan

184-horsepower 2.5L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Mazda Mazda3 in Texas, United States
Jun 2021 - Jun 2022
Jan 2022

60000 mi

US $170
Thermostat replacement 

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2018 Mazda Mazda3 4dr Hatch

184-horsepower 2.5L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Mazda Mazda3 in North Carolina, United States
May 2018 - Jan 2022
Jul 2018

1600 mi
Part # B45A-34-11A [front suspension strut bumper] failed and was causing clunks when going over bumps or dips. 
Sep 2018

7000 mi
Trunk light housing wouldn't fit back. Still had play in it. Dealer replaced it. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Georgia, United States
Nov 2018 - Feb 2022
Apr 2019

4000 mi
Front passenger side wheel squeaked when not warmed up. Dealership could not find fault. 
May 2019

6000 mi
Followup to earlier issue of wheel squeaking. Again, could not fix it, but this time, the noise did not come back, or so I think. Could actually be the warm summer weather. Car suspension was uneven and car started tracking to the left. Dealership acknowledged the issue and fixed the suspension height and made sure the steering wheel stayed true and center. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Michigan, United States
Nov 2017 - Jun 2022
Feb 2018

2250 mi
Navigation and infotainment system rebooted after a couple of hours driving. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Ontario, Canada
Sep 2017 - Jun 2022
Jan 2022

29760 mi

C $1400
brakes started making noises due to long periods without use (covid). 

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2017 Mazda Mazda3 4dr Sedan

184-horsepower 2.5L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Mazda Mazda3 in Arizona, United States
Jan 2017 - Mar 2018
May 2017

5000 mi

US $75
Center Console arm rest squeaks. Applied felt in between leather surface to prevent squeak 
Mazda Mazda3 in Ontario, Canada
Jul 2017 - Jun 2022
Jan 2018

2637 mi
Service technician at dealership failed to tighten oil filter after routine oil change. Engine immediately lost all oil and seized. Total engine replacement required. Took nearly 1 month to locate a brand new engine. 
Oct 2021

20460 mi

C $365
Broken rear coil spring discovered on inspection. Definite premature failure, but car is out of warranty. Replaced both. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Quebec, Canada
Sep 2016 - May 2021
Sep 2017

9300 mi
Passenger fog light not working, might be from taking ownership. Wasn't plugged properly, took 10 min to diagnose and repair. 

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2017 Mazda Mazda3 4dr Sedan

155-horsepower 2.0L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Mazda Mazda3 in Wisconsin, United States
Aug 2017 - Jun 2022
Jan 2018

6000 mi
Battery installed at factory had a bad cell, and needed to be replaced. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Pennsylvania, United States
Jun 2017 - Feb 2022
Nov 2018

17000 mi
when turning front wheels front or left, or going over bumps rattle type of sound heard in front of car, issue was install bump stops in the two front shock absorbers.......for the most part this solved the problem once in awhile there is a rattle but not a constant rattle as was before this repair... 
Feb 2019

17000 mi
bump stops rattle in front suspension when driving, turning....item under warranty was bump stops another trip to dealer.....front suspension tie rod bushings...... 2nd repair suspension bushings...... suspension still makes rattle at times.....think i am screwed and have to live with what i feel manufacturer defect.....not sure if I would purchase mazda again.. 
Mazda Mazda3 in New Jersey, United States
Jan 2021 - Jun 2022
Apr 2022

65000 mi

US $500
Front wheel bearings worn out and replaced 

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2017 Mazda Mazda3 4dr Sedan

155-horsepower 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD

Mazda Mazda3 in Ontario, Canada
Mar 2017 - Jun 2018
Jan 2018

11594 mi
After only 6 months and 17,800km of use the catalytic converters of the car disintegrated and car could no longer run properly. 

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2017 Mazda Mazda3 4dr Hatch

184-horsepower 2.5L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Mazda Mazda3 in North Carolina, United States
Mar 2017 - Jun 2018
Jul 2017

7000 mi
Had a buzzing noise coming from a loose electrical connector. 
Mazda Mazda3 in California, United States
Jan 2020 - Oct 2023
Jun 2020

24000 mi
Squeaky noise when going over speed bumps or any bump at low speed. Replaced lower arm bushing and both bump stoppers. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Arizona, United States
Jan 2017 - Mar 2018
Sep 2017

3000 mi
Blind spot warning system on passenger side of car stuck "on". 
Mazda Mazda3 in Wisconsin, United States
Mar 2017 - Feb 2022
Oct 2017

15000 mi
TPMS light on. Would not reset. Performed TPMS master reset. 
Jun 2018

39000 mi
The right seatbelt was making noise. Replaced seatbelt retractor. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Pennsylvania, United States
Dec 2017 - Jun 2018
Feb 2018

347 mi
Brake pads  and wheel bearing issues. 

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2017 Mazda Mazda3 4dr Hatch

184-horsepower 2.5L I4 6-speed manual FWD

Mazda Mazda3 in California, United States
May 2017 - Jun 2022
Jul 2021

22000 mi

US $200
Backup camera failed 
Mazda Mazda3 in Massachusetts, United States
May 2017 - Jan 2022
Feb 2018

14000 mi
Exterior trim panels between the driver side door and rear passenger door are melted at the top 4 inches. The dealer would not repair under warranty, and stated Mazda will not replace it since trim is not covered. They told me to contact Mazda corporate to see if they would sell the parts at cost. Dealer price would be $200 for just the two plastic panels and me installing them at home. This was probably caused by a reflection from a building window onto the plastic trim. passenger seat belt warning light would intermittently come on even when no one was in the seat. Only way to stop the warning was to click the seat belt. The seat sensor seems to be very sensitive to anything on the seat including just a pen or tissue box. No fix. 
Apr 2019

27000 mi
The windshield wiper auto module was replaced under warranty. My wipers did experience failure while driving in a rainstorm. 
Jul 2021

37000 mi

US $65
Replaced melted exterior door trim panels on my own dime. Bought OEM parts off eBay and installed myself. 

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2017 Mazda Mazda3 4dr Hatch

155-horsepower 2.0L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Mazda Mazda3 in Quebec, Canada
Jun 2017 - Jul 2022
Mar 2018

8680 mi
Passenger heated seat was defective and upholstery seat clip was not holding properly to the seat frame. Front seat cushions was lifting on both driver and passenger side. Seat cushion and heat pad needed to be changed.. City braking light warning light on intermittently. Dealer cleaned the sensor located on the windshield. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Nevada, United States
Nov 2016 - Jun 2022
Aug 2019

74918 mi

US $602
Rear shocks were leaking, replaced shocks. 
Jan 2020

84009 mi

US $170
Drive side rear seat belt was not retracting properly. Retractor was replaced. 
Jan 2022

101000 mi

US $928
Rear brake pads were at 3mm. Rear rotors, pads replaced. 
Apr 2022

106111 mi
Rear shock leak (see 8/2019) - covered under shock manufacturer lifetime warranty. 

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2017 Mazda Mazda3 4dr Hatch

Mazda Mazda3 in British Columbia, Canada
May 2017 - Jan 2022
Jan 2022

32240 mi

C $717
The shifter button was getting stuck. When stuck, the car cannot turn off properly because the car won't turn off in gear. This happened and drained the battery. Both the battery and shifter required replacement (the battery may have need to be replaced from general wear and tear within the next couple years anyway, but this killed it slightly premature). It's not a true transmission problem, it might be considered trim. 

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2016 Mazda Mazda3 4dr Sedan

184-horsepower 2.5L I4 6-speed manual FWD

Mazda Mazda3 in British Columbia, Canada
Nov 2015 - May 2018
May 2016

6200 mi
Driver's rear door power lock was noisy on lock/unlock; part replaced by dealership. 
Oct 2016

12400 mi
Car's been in the shop one week so far - needs an entirely new transmission! Part is 4 weeks minimum away - coming from Japan. Car still out of service. 
Nov 2016

13100 mi
Transmission replaced. Car wouldn't shift into reverse; returned to dealership for shift linkage adjustment. Car now gets 0.3L/100km poorer fuel economy on average since transmission replacement. Glad it's a lease, because I can't wait to get rid of it! 
Dec 2016

13640 mi
Unreliable Bluetooth connection. Also can't run the car's nav while streaming BT w/out the car's voice nav directions skipping. CMU software updated - problems remain, and now the backup camera display shows in forward gears from rest. 
Apr 2017

16740 mi
Rear right power door lock replaced due to noisy operation. Body Control Module replaced due to trunk light being stuck on 100% of the time, even when trunk lid and all doors are closed. Driver's door weatherstripping replaced due to rips / tears in two spots. Very poor Bluetooth connectivity and general system performance. Trouble ticket still open with Mazda corporate - ongoing. 
May 2017

18600 mi
Infotainment CMU (the "brain") replaced. Zero improvement to poor system performance and Bluetooth connectivity. Total garbage - this is my first and my last Mazda. Another power door lock actuator replaced, but they're ALL noisy at random intervals. Crap design maybe? Squeaky and noisy and sound like utter trash. 
Sep 2017

23560 mi
Infotainment still demonstrates laggy, glitchy, and overall poor performance. I've given up on trying to get the system to perform as it should and have just accepted that it's garbage. All four power door locks squeak and groan intermittently when locking. I've given up on trying to fix this problem and am just waiting for the lease to be over so I can give this heap back to Mazda. 

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2016 Mazda Mazda3 4dr Sedan

155-horsepower 2.0L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Mazda Mazda3 in Ohio, United States
Jul 2016 - Sep 2017
Jun 2017

15000 mi
Tire Blowout. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Queretaro, Mexico
Jul 2017 - Sep 2018
Oct 2017

27900 mi
Car didn't pass emissions test. Recalibration in dealer was necessary. 

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2016 Mazda Mazda3 4dr Sedan

155-horsepower 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD

Mazda Mazda3 in Missouri, United States
Sep 2016 - Jun 2018
Jan 2018

22000 mi
Tire deflated due to bead leak. Probably with the wheel. 
Mazda Mazda3 in California, United States
May 2017 - Jun 2018
Mar 2018

71000 mi

US $1600
Wheel bearings, rims, brake parts. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Quebec, Canada
Jun 2017 - Apr 2021
Mar 2018

24180 mi
Rust forming on the trunk lid on each corner where the license plate is located. Seam where the trunk meets the top part close to the license plate lights. 
Mazda Mazda3 in New Jersey, United States
Sep 2015 - Jan 2018
Aug 2016

10000 mi
The cable for folding down the rear seat, on the right side, failed. Pulling cable no longer releases seat. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Minnesota, United States
Jul 2016 - Mar 2017
Sep 2016

1000 mi
The Bose infotainment system kept glitching and would not work properly since I took delivery. The dealer ordered a new central control module. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Georgia, United States
Oct 2016 - Feb 2021
Oct 2017

9500 mi
Experiencing rough idling when stopped. Dealer says issue was related to AC and they adjusted, but still feeling a light rough idling. 

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2016 Mazda Mazda3 4dr Hatch

184-horsepower 2.5L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Mazda Mazda3 in Oregon, United States
Jan 2016 - Feb 2017
Sep 2016

7000 mi
One rear cover plastic connectors was poorly cast causing a rattle on freeway. 
Mazda Mazda3 in California, United States
Apr 2016 - Jun 2018
Feb 2017

5000 mi
Updated software for nav and entertainment 
Mazda Mazda3 in Texas, United States
Jul 2016 - May 2021
Sep 2018

25500 mi
never had that problem 
Mazda Mazda3 in California, United States
May 2016 - May 2017
Dec 2016

12600 mi
Spoiler was loose, dealer tightened it. 

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2016 Mazda Mazda3 4dr Hatch

155-horsepower 2.0L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Mazda Mazda3 in California, United States
Apr 2016 - May 2019
Jun 2017

11000 mi

US $6
Replace tire 
Mazda Mazda3 in Tennessee, United States
Jul 2021 - Jun 2022
Jun 2022

58000 mi

US $110
Battery failed, was apparently the original battery. Temporarily replaced with one from project car, until a replacement was purchased. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Texas, United States
Jun 2016 - Jun 2022
Jun 2022

57000 mi

US $1500
condenser was leaking 
Mazda Mazda3 in Texas, United States
Mar 2016 - Jul 2019
Nov 2018

35 mi

US $120
OEM battery died in under 3 years. Replaced with an aftermarket battery due to previous experience with Mazda batteries not lasting 3 years. 
Mazda Mazda3 in British Columbia, Canada
Jun 2016 - Jun 2022
Oct 2021

16120 mi

C $180
Original battery died. Installed a new one myself. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Texas, United States
Mar 2018 - Dec 2019
Apr 2018

40000 mi
About a week after I bought my car as a certified pre owned I noticed that I was able to lift the front driver and passenger seats up with my pinkie. Doing so exposed the subframe of the seats below. I brought the car to another dealership besides the one I purchased the car from and they replaced the seat cushions for both the driver and passenger side free of charge. I was able to see a copy of what they were to bill Mazda corporate and it came out to around $400 covered by the warranty. 
Dec 2019

63000 mi
I randomly checked my coolant level on a cold Christmas Eve and discovered my coolant level was extremely low below the low fill line on my coolant reservoir. This car has been dealer maintained as its a CPO, and according to my paperwork the coolant level had been checked by the dealer 2 months prior. Fearing a coolant leak I had the dealership perform a leak test and none was found. Additional coolant was used to top off the level and according to the service dept the temperature drop caused the coolant to contract. This inspection was completed free of charge. 

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2016 Mazda Mazda3 4dr Hatch

155-horsepower 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD

Mazda Mazda3 in Washington, United States
Jun 2016 - Jun 2018
Jun 2017

10000 mi
Hands free unlocking not working. Replaced driver door handle sensor 
Mazda Mazda3 in Vermont, United States
Jun 2017 - Jul 2022
Jul 2017

34000 mi

US $60
Friday afternoon developed sudden rear brake grinding noise, intermittent. Removed tire for inspection. One brake pad was completely worn away, the other pad was fine. Auto store gave us the wrong pads, need to go back today. Will be calling auto dealer on Monday concerning brake issues. Had the same issue with my 2014 Mazda 3. 8.10.17 update: My dealer replaced the pads and rotors and did an 'upgrade' in the middle of July. Today I received a call from a customer service rep from the Mazda Corp. He informed me that there was now a new TSB on the brake issue and a new redesigned caliper support. My dealer had been informed and all I have to do is bring the car in for the new fix. I am happy with the response from Mazda. 
Jul 2018

64000 mi

US $40
On going issue. 'Fix' that was applied to my rear brakes last July 2017 was either bs or failed. Started to hear a noise from the rear brakes Sunday morning. 30,000 miles since the repair paid for by Mazda. BF checked them out. Same problem as July 2017 and on my 2014. The outer pads were worn down to metal and the inside pads didn't even show wear on the indicators. I am pissed. I specifically asked the head of the maintenance department at Autex Mazda in Keene, NH to have the technician check out the wear on my brakes when they replaced my tires on my visit on 6/19/18. I was told that I had a little life left in the brakes but the wear was even, that I did not have the issue that I did last time. They out right lied to me. I have the pics to prove it. Mazda made changes to the brakes with the 2014 model and never fixed it. I contacted the Mazda Corporation again. Not sure if they will respond, but I am done with Mazda. 
Jun 2021

141000 mi

US $100
Every year the brakes need a either the rear pads replaced or the entire brakes need to be redone. The rear pads always, always have uneven wear. Inside pad is down to metal, outside is like new. Every year, with ~ 25-30,000 highway miles, very little stop and go. Whatever Mazda did to their brakes back in 2014 really messed things up. This car is now a back up car. 
Jul 2022

165000 mi

US $105
Replaced brake pads and frozen calipers. 
Mazda Mazda3 in New York, United States
Apr 2016 - Jun 2022
Jun 2016

2000 mi
Headlights were aimed too low. Dealer raised them. 
Mar 2018

56000 mi

US $38
12V outlet stopped working, but think was blown by 3rd party plug-in heated seat cushion. Purchased and replaced with OEM outlet, plug and play. 
Nov 2020

114000 mi

US $485
Began to hear grinding/rattling noise at idle that increased with engine RPMs. Gradually got louder over several thousand miles and it was eventually diagnosed as a bearing starting to fail on the water pump. Mazda dealer told me I could wait until it got louder so I did. It never leaked, was just noisy. Upon replacement, dealer told me the bearing was "definitely bad" and I had been right to replace the pump. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Alabama, United States
Apr 2016 - Jun 2022
Mar 2021

60000 mi

US $700
new brake pads & rotors on front & back 
Dec 2021

72000 mi

US $500
new front brake pads, rotors  rear struts 
Mazda Mazda3 in South Carolina, United States
Aug 2016 - Jun 2022
Sep 2020

37000 mi

US $500
New pads and rotors 

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2015 Mazda Mazda3 4dr Sedan

184-horsepower 2.5L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Mazda Mazda3 in California, United States
Feb 2016 - Jun 2017
May 2017

80000 mi

US $465
Infotainment issues 
Mazda Mazda3 in Illinois, United States
Jul 2015 - Jun 2022
Apr 2018

57000 mi

US $400
Replaced both rear disk rotors and brake pads as worn 
Mazda Mazda3 in Virginia, United States
Mar 2015 - Jun 2022
Sep 2018

21000 mi

US $950
Display monitor was "GHOSTING", that is the touch screen was reacting when there was no input from the operator. I am led to believe that this is a manufacturing defect that is mainly prevalent in a certain range of production dates. 

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2015 Mazda Mazda3 4dr Sedan

184-horsepower 2.5L I4 6-speed manual FWD

Mazda Mazda3 in New York, United States
Apr 2015 - Sep 2016
Sep 2015

3000 mi
Software update yielded a bug with the navi system. Subsequent update cleared it up. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Georgia, United States
Apr 2015 - Feb 2016
Aug 2015

2400 mi
Start button would only flash amber. Car would not start. Ended up being a blown fuse for the immobilizer. They had *no* idea how/why. 

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2015 Mazda Mazda3 4dr Sedan

155-horsepower 2.0L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Mazda Mazda3 in California, United States
Nov 2017 - Oct 2023
May 2018

22000 mi
Plastic in steering column was rattling. Dealer tightened a few bolts and the noise stopped. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Texas, United States
Dec 2017 - Jul 2018
Nov 2017

22300 mi

US $120
Battery replacement 
Mazda Mazda3 in Michigan, United States
Oct 2020 - Jun 2022
Feb 2021

119000 mi

US $150
replaced front pads and rotors 
Jan 2022

120000 mi

US $50
oil leak and it ended up being from the oil change 
Mazda Mazda3 in Ohio, United States
Apr 2015 - Aug 2017
Aug 2016

8400 mi
recall to check fluid in radiator, had slightly loose seat trim re attached, oil change (dealer does for free) tires rotated and balanced, and 10,000 mile service done. Car still rides handles and looks like new. 
Mar 2017

14000 mi
car taken to dealer for oil change and have passenger side seat belt buckle replaced, (would not buckle well if cold) the rubber seal around drivers door was replaced (it was falling apart) The front end checked. During cold weather the front end made a loud creaking noise over every bump) Since would only occur when cold they kept it until the squeak occurred. They replaced some bushings and did a TSB modification to the passenger side and drivers side. However after having the car a couple days the car had to be taken back to dealer due a new noise from the front end that sounded like grinding or creaking noise. The dealer said the had to re-torque some loose suspension components and was very vague. The car drives fine and I still love it but the steering wheel is now not completely straight. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Texas, United States
May 2018 - Jun 2022
Mar 2022

54000 mi

US $100
Brake job was put off , the front rotors were replaced as well as the disc brake pads 
Mazda Mazda3 in Ontario, Canada
May 2015 - Jun 2022
Mar 2021

44020 mi
right rear shock was making noise, found to have a joint worn out, replaced 

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2015 Mazda Mazda3 4dr Sedan

155-horsepower 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD

Mazda Mazda3 in Tennessee, United States
Jul 2016 - Jul 2019
Aug 2016

18200 mi
OEM battery failed on warranty. Replaced. 
Feb 2017

20000 mi
Heater core failed. Replaced on warranty. Dealership indicated that this was extremely uncommon. Cable that connected the air direction knob to the door that directs the air came partially disconnected. Dealership said that this was because it was not properly installed at the factory. Fixed on warranty. 
Oct 2017

25500 mi
Reverse gear on the manual trans exploded and the whole thing had to be replaced. Was covered under warranty. During a previous repair, the tech forgot to plug the USB ports back into the radio. 

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2015 Mazda Mazda3 4dr Hatch

184-horsepower 2.5L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Mazda Mazda3 in Massachusetts, United States
May 2015 - Apr 2017
Mar 2017

29000 mi

US $250
Tire failure 
Mazda Mazda3 in Utah, United States
Jun 2015 - Jun 2022
Sep 2017

10000 mi
Intermittent backup camera issues (distortion or failure to activate); dealer replaced the camera 

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2015 Mazda Mazda3 4dr Hatch

184-horsepower 2.5L I4 6-speed manual FWD

Mazda Mazda3 in New Hampshire, United States
Aug 2015 - Dec 2016
Aug 2016

21600 mi
Driver's seat exhibited looseness and could rock back and forth about half an inch. Dealer replaced seat rails under warranty. 
Mazda Mazda3 in New Hampshire, United States
May 2015 - Mar 2019
Jan 2016

11500 mi
Cracked gasket on oil drain plug. Oil was leaking. 
Jun 2017

33700 mi
Rotors were warped, shop resurfaced under warranty. 
Jun 2018

51000 mi

US $400
A brake caliper was sticking in the rear, causing a prematurely worn rotor. They greased the caliper and had to replace the rotors and pads. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Maryland, United States
Jan 2015 - Jan 2016
Apr 2015

6500 mi
The radio was rebooting after purchase. A s/w update eliminated most of the reboots. However, the system still froze when trying to listen to music on an iPhone attached via USB. Bluetooth audio also stopped. Dealer is replacing entire entertainment system based on previously problem. 
Jun 2015

10000 mi
Same problem continues. The dealer has tried updating the s/w, replacing the head unit and even the memory card with nav maps. It has now been escalated to Mazda corporate. Same as all other trips. Tried one new s/w update but no change. Likely this is a lemon. Mazda is researching this issue but has no definitive solution. 
Aug 2015

14500 mi
Same problem continues. The dealer tried updating the s/w one last time. Unsuccessful. Next step is to pursue return via lemon law. 
Oct 2015

16200 mi
The same issue as above. The dealer informed Mazda that one last s/w update did not resolve the issue. Now in discussion with Mazda corporate to designate car as a lemon and discuss financial resolution. 
Jan 2016

17000 mi
Car bought back because audio system kept rebooting and they could not fix it. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Districto Federal, Mexico
Dec 2015 - Jun 2018
Jan 2016

3100 mi
Very noisy 
Jul 2016

5880 mi
Extremely noisy on rough pavement. 
Mar 2017

9300 mi
Noise in suspension continues. 
Jun 2017

11160 mi
Knocking sound on rough pavement. Steering column was replaced. 
Oct 2017

12400 mi
Noise in steering column. 
Jun 2018

16120 mi

$200
Heavy vibration upon braking. [rotors] 
Mazda Mazda3 in Colorado, United States
Jun 2015 - Oct 2021
Aug 2015 Heads-up speed display failed to deploy or retract properly. Replacement needed. Car spent an extra day in shop waiting for part to arrive. 
Jul 2017

21200 mi
I took my Mazda 3 to the shop twice in July 2017 for problems with the TPM system. The TPM alarm would go on even if all tire pressures were proper and equal. On the second trip the Mazda dealer solved the problem. 
Jun 2020

50 mi

US $200
The cam chain housing was weeping oil. The Mazda dealer found this around 45,000 miles and advised me that it would cost around $850 to repair. They didn't say it was covered under warranty. Since the oil wasn't dripping and the oil level wasn't going down, I declined to have the repair done. I returned to the dealer after the warranty was up (just after 50,000 miles) and the dealer said they would fix it under warranty. They said that the hydraulic tensioner for the serpentine belt was leaking. I told them to fix the slight leak in the cam chain cover, and also replace the hydraulic serpentine belt tensioner, and replace the serpentine belt while they were at it. The replacement of the hydraulic serpentine belt tensioner and the new serpentine belt cost me around $210. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Colorado, United States
Dec 2014 - Jan 2022
Oct 2017

33000 mi
Bluetooth stopped working for iphone. Update to Mazda OS. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Massachusetts, United States
Jan 2017 - Jan 2024
Aug 2022

75000 mi

US $40
Brought in for ghost touches on touch screen (touch screen reacting without being touched). Touch screen was replaced under warranty (with $40 deductible because I brought it in past the warranty expiration date). 
Sep 2023

80000 mi

US $1000
Car had no electrical power and would not start. If jumped, it would only work as long as the external battery was still connected. It would shut down as soon as the jumper cables were removed. Car had no electrical power and would not start. If given a jump start, it would shut down as soon as the jumper cables were removed. Replaced alternator, and battery. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Kentucky, United States
Oct 2016 - Jul 2022
Dec 2021

60000 mi

US $200
Backup camera 
Mazda Mazda3 in Florida, United States
Sep 2015 - Jun 2018
May 2018

36000 mi
inoperable navigation system 
Jun 2018

36000 mi
Nav still broken 
Mazda Mazda3 in Colorado, United States
Oct 2014 - Jun 2018
Mar 2015

6000 mi
The infotainment system quit working. Dealer performed a system update while I waited. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Nova Scotia, Canada
Jan 2015 - Jun 2018
Jun 2017

17980 mi
Steering wheel replaced due to peeling of the coating. 
Jun 2018

26660 mi

C $300
The original battery failed after just 3 years and 4 months. 
Mazda Mazda3 in British Columbia, Canada
Jun 2017 - Jul 2022
Aug 2021

107880 mi

C $600
4th gear pops out from time to time 
Mar 2022

115940 mi

C $650
both rear shocks. The car was oscillating a little bit going undulating road surface. found broken coil spring during work. found seized bottom mounted stud for both shocks. when fully compressed, neither shocks rebounded. Diy cost: $600-650 including tools, both shocks, both springs. need specialty tool to break the stud lose. dealer cost: $850, just shocks and labour. 
Jul 2022

117181 mi

C $150
rear pads and rotors replaced. front glide pins serviced and lubed. check your caliper pins every year. the rubber seal may swell. but this was never replaced before so after 7 years, its done great. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Pennsylvania, United States
Aug 2014 - Dec 2016
May 2016

31900 mi
Common problem to '14 & '15 3 models. Ticking sound in passenger A-pillar. Mazda figured out the problem & issued a TSB. Repair performed in exterior cowl area. Minor nuisance I simply wanted corrected before the b2b warranty is up. 
Aug 2016

36600 mi
Known TSB to correct some suspension noises. Fixed in production in later cars, retroactive fit available for owners who are complain-y like I am. This was NOT a safety issue. Merely a noise thing, same as 1st repair, for a picky owner. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Oregon, United States
Oct 2014 - Mar 2018
Jun 2016

11000 mi
GPS system refused to start or could not find sattelites. 

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2015 Mazda Mazda3 4dr Hatch

155-horsepower 2.0L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Mazda Mazda3 in Texas, United States
May 2015 - Jun 2017
Mar 2016

21000 mi
lost the center console....ie tel, maps etc. replaced a module that controlled the cruise control, radio and anything else that affected the visual controls. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Quebec, Canada
Aug 2014 - Jun 2018
Apr 2015

7840 mi
Water in right front when raining 
Sep 2017

40300 mi
Engine is more noisy than before. As per dealer, everything is ok. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Florida, United States
Nov 2014 - Jan 2015
Dec 2014

3000 mi
The infotainment system repeatedly crashed on a road trip. While at our destination we took it to the dealer who installed a software update. The infotainment system repeatedly crashed on the return trip as well. 
Mazda Mazda3 in California, United States
May 2016 - Jun 2018
Nov 2016

20800 mi

US $300
Brake pad on rear driver's side was worn out. Suspect a seized caliper. Brakes were making screeching noise. Dealer replaced both rear brake pads and resurfaced rotors. 
Jul 2017

28000 mi
There was a clunking or knocking noise from the front left when going over bumps and when turning left under acceleration. The dealer replaced a suspension strut on the front left and the problem went away. Most of the time in the shop was spent waiting on parts to be delivered. 
Oct 2017

28000 mi
The back up camera was working only intermittently. Dealer updated the infotainment system and the problem hasn't appeared since then. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Colorado, United States
Nov 2014 - Jun 2022
Dec 2016

20000 mi
Center Console lid hinge loose 
Feb 2022

48000 mi

US $500
Wheel bearing was growling. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Quebec, Canada
Oct 2016 - Mar 2018
Nov 2016

7420 mi
There was a noise at the rear right suspension. New link kit was intalled. 
Jan 2017

9920 mi
A defrost line burned and cut off. It was repaired with a conductive paint but it did not resist. 
Jan 2018

15500 mi
The battery was changed because it did not charge anymore. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Oklahoma, United States
Apr 2015 - Jun 2022
Jul 2016

10300 mi
I noticed the front of the seat material hanging down about 6 months after I took the car from the lot. Not sure if it was that way then. The fastener had failed and would no longer stay put. Cover is now replaced and no problems at this time. 
Sep 2017

19000 mi
Console cover hinge pin slipped. Cover was almost off. Temporary fix added until corrective parts arrive. 
Nov 2017

21000 mi
Replacement hinge pin for center console installed 
Mar 2022

35400 mi

US $100
Replaced leaking belt tensioner 
Mazda Mazda3 in Indiana, United States
Dec 2014 - Mar 2018
Jan 2015

8700 mi
Backing plate was bent, causing it to rub on rotor and make numerous sounds depending on speed. 
Aug 2015

5800 mi
Bad wheel bearing, replaced under warranty. 
Mazda Mazda3 in California, United States
Nov 2014 - Jun 2018
May 2017

25000 mi
Driver's seat-back creaking 
Jul 2017

26000 mi
Replaced bushing of lower front control arm to eliminate creaking e.g. when climbing a driveway. Creaking driver's seat back 
Mazda Mazda3 in North Carolina, United States
Feb 2015 - Mar 2018
Mar 2018

37000 mi
Oil leak at the timing cover. Replaced the timing cover seal under warranty. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Ontario, Canada
Apr 2017 - Jun 2022
Feb 2022

89280 mi
Outside temperature no longer reading accurately (-22F outside and guage says +95F). Repair not done. It would have required removing front bumper (1-hour labour). 

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2015 Mazda Mazda3 4dr Hatch

155-horsepower 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD

Mazda Mazda3 in Washington, United States
Sep 2016 - Jun 2022
Jan 2022

73530 mi

US $30
Headlight, drivers side, not easy access. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Massachusetts, United States
Oct 2015 - Jul 2017
Jul 2017

30000 mi

US $5
replaced battery in key fob- key fob failing: CR2025 
Mazda Mazda3 in Ontario, Canada
Aug 2014 - Jun 2016
Mar 2016

11160 mi
The Bluetooth system was not linking to my phone properly 
Mazda Mazda3 in Virginia, United States
Jul 2015 - Dec 2016
Aug 2016

14400 mi
Exterior chrome trim on passenger door was coming off. Replaced under warranty. 
Mazda Mazda3 in New York, United States
Jan 2015 - Jul 2018
Dec 2015

16000 mi
The infotainment system was freezing on a regular basis. I upgrade the system from v31 to v55. The system now works perfectly! While I did this upgrade myself, I'm pretty sure any dealer will do it for you at N/C. 
Jul 2018

55000 mi
Recall for sticking parking brake. Dealer replaced caliper at no charge. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Connecticut, United States
Oct 2014 - Jun 2018
Aug 2015

15000 mi
Software was not syncing the phone with car, radio sometimes does not work. Updated software. Had to "lose" the phone in the software and reprogram the car software to recognize the phone 
Oct 2015

17000 mi
Software issues with syncing my phone and getting the radio to work 
Aug 2016

28000 mi
Issues with radio. Does not always go on when you turn on car. Need to turn car and off to get it going. Sometimes phone and care do not sync. 
Feb 2017

33000 mi

US $300
Back brakes had worn out 
Mazda Mazda3 in New Brunswick, Canada
Dec 2014 - Jan 2018
Feb 2016

14880 mi

C $10
It was noted that a few clips under my car were missing so they needed to replace them. Also, the emissions recall was done, all is OK now. 

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2014 Mazda Mazda3

Engine not specified

Mazda Mazda3 in Texas, United States
Dec 2015 - Dec 2016
May 2016

17100 mi
Battery was dead. Car wouldn't start. 
Sep 2016

20000 mi
Battery just replaced in May was dead. I suspected electrical problems. Dealer checked, said bad battery, replaced it. 

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2014 Mazda Mazda3 4dr Sedan

184-horsepower 2.5L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Mazda Mazda3 in District of Columbia, United States
Apr 2015 - Jan 2022
Jun 2015

7000 mi
rattle in suspension when hitting bumps or beginning to move. Replaced top of strut tower. 
Jul 2018

59000 mi
Battery was testing at 400 cca which was causing a battery management system malfunction light to illuminate. Dealer replaced battery to resolve 
Mazda Mazda3 in Washington, United States
Sep 2014 - Feb 2018
Oct 2016

22300 mi
Blind spot monitoring turned on and off by itself. Popping noise from audio when car is started 
Mar 2017

27000 mi
On start up, popping noise from speakers. Only for a second. Happens almost every time. Dealer could not determine the cause. Will try another dealer next month. It is still under warranty. 
May 2017

27000 mi
Different dealer, Milam Mazda, diagnosed the power amplifier was bad on the audio system causing static and popping noises from speakers upon start up. Replaced under warranty. All seems fine now. Update: failed again within a week. 
Oct 2017

32000 mi
Same problem and repair as in May, 2017. Audio system amplifier replaced. Again not successful. Shop will investigate further. 
Dec 2017

33000 mi
Return visit for audio problem previously detailed. To Mazda's credit, they called in a regional Mazda engineer and he determined that the problem was a malfunctioning Bose audio amplifier and not the system amplifier that had been previously replaced twice. Problem solved! 
Mazda Mazda3 in Texas, United States
Feb 2016 - Mar 2018
Mar 2016

7000 mi
Audio/Nav display went blank. 
Mazda Mazda3 in British Columbia, Canada
Jan 2016 - Feb 2016
Jan 2016

6820 mi
issues with clunking noise on making turns infotainment: chronic 
Feb 2016

6820 mi
Trunk difficult to open. Sticks closed, takes force to open it. Infotainment: USB partially working, unit seizes needs reset. Air bag sensor on passenger side won't go off Beeping for unknown reason when opening or closing door, keycontrol in hand. no other reason. completely random. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Ontario, Canada
Aug 2014 - Jun 2022
May 2015

8040 mi
Clicking sound by passenger window. Front cowl removed and aduustment made to body. 
Sep 2017

35340 mi
Click noise from passenger side when going over slow speed bumps 
Oct 2017

35402 mi
Second trip to the dealer. They took it out for another test drive and while it was on the rack doing an oil change said they couldn't find anything. The mechanic said that all Mazda 3's have this suspension clicking over low speed bumps. This seem's odd since the noises only starting at the end of the third year. I guess I could suggested that the mechanic try a new one out and see if it makes the noise. Hardly reassuring but may have to live with it until something falls off. 
Sep 2021

65100 mi

C $300
Front alignment. Did have a few brushes with the curb. Snow tires needed rebalancing 
Mazda Mazda3 in Arizona, United States
Aug 2017 - Dec 2017
Sep 2017

25000 mi

US $300
car wouldn't start. e-loop battery needed to be replaced. Still under partial warranty which paid 25% pro-rated 
Mazda Mazda3 in Texas, United States
Jul 2014 - May 2017
Mar 2015

6000 mi
Maintenance reminder light would not clear. 
Dec 2016

26000 mi
Driver seat slightly loose - rocks forward and backwards 
Mazda Mazda3 in Indiana, United States
Nov 2013 - Jul 2014
Apr 2014

5000 mi
Drive belt slipping in rain. Tripped computer into sending out problem with charging system. There was a computer update to fix this problem. 
Jul 2014

8000 mi
rear glass gasket needing replacement audio crashing, navigation reseting 
Mazda Mazda3 in Wisconsin, United States
Sep 2014 - Jun 2017
Dec 2014

7000 mi
Front seat leather fell apart, Alltrim on front passenger seat fell apart 
Jun 2015

25000 mi
Garage door holder/compartment fell out of headliner and onto car floor 
Mazda Mazda3 in Maryland, United States
Jan 2014 - Jun 2016
Aug 2015

17400 mi
Frozen mazda connect system 
Mazda Mazda3 in Arizona, United States
Aug 2015 - Feb 2017
May 2015

18000 mi
Suspension clunk when reversing or going forward. Replaced both struts, both strut bearings, reset suspension components. Installed service bulletin for strut noise. 
Nov 2015

24500 mi
AUTO AC button broke. HVAC controller replaced. 
Apr 2016

27500 mi
Driver seat leather tore has piece missing. 
Aug 2016

30000 mi
A/C fan speed not constant in manual or auto mode. Technician worked with Mazda for repair. First repair attempt, replaced alternator. Still have issue. Car goes back in on 8/27/16 
Feb 2017

32000 mi
I never received a satisfactory response from the dealership about the varying fan speed. I simply got "this is how it works." I knew I was going to be trading in the vehicle so I just let it go.  

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2014 Mazda Mazda3 4dr Sedan

155-horsepower 2.0L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Mazda Mazda3 in New York, United States
Mar 2014 - Jun 2018
Nov 2015

30100 mi

US $1
Previous repair by dealer did not fix problem with dragging rear brakes. Removed calipers and lubricated caliper slides. This fixed problem with dragging rear brakes. 
Nov 2016

49000 mi

US $100
Rear brakes were not fully releasing. Discovered that brake pad bracket was not machined properly, resulting in very tight fit of pads. Replaced both rear brake pad brackets. This has fixed the recurring problem that was present since the car was bought new. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Massachusetts, United States
Apr 2014 - Jan 2017
Aug 2014

4000 mi
Screen/radio/camera/nav/etc shut off and needed to be 'rebooted' 
Mazda Mazda3 in Ontario, Canada
Sep 2014 - Jun 2022
Sep 2015

13640 mi
Emergency brake seized then broke loose making grinding noise. Invoice states Inner pad worn into rotors. Both rear rotors and brake pads replaced. Caliper mounting brackets serviced. 
May 2017

37200 mi

C $50
Regular servicing by owner noted seized, rear brake pads that along with the rotors were totally worn out.Dealer agreed wear was abnormal /premature and completely replaced them for the second time in 2.5 years. This was called a " good will" repair. 
Jun 2017

39060 mi

C $9
Small rust spot on rear trunk lid. It took some persistence but it was covered. The caliper bushings had swelled too tight on the front brake calipers. Mazda Canada doesn't supply them so the calipers are replaced instead at a product cost of $275 per pair. My annoyed husband found an after market set of bushings for 8.99. It is possible, according to Google ,that the wrong lubricant contributed but the bushings on the other Mazda 3 were fine. The dealer actually offered to replace those calipers for free but we decided to leave well enough alone because some people online are suggesting that the brake issues "some"are having may relate to that part.  
Feb 2019

59954 mi
The infotainment system malfunctioned and the screen was replaced at no cost even though the warranty had expired.  
Nov 2019

71300 mi
The gear shifter was slipping from drive to neutral.  
Mar 2020

75020 mi
The fuel pump was replaced due to a fuel leak. They damaged the gas tank while removing the pump so that was replaced, as well. 
May 2022

95480 mi

C $259
The hinge for the drivers side door was loose and had to be replaced. 
Mazda Mazda3 in California, United States
Nov 2014 - Jun 2022
Aug 2017

25000 mi

US $400
Rear rotors warped, brake pads worn off 
Mazda Mazda3 in California, United States
Nov 2016 - Jun 2022
Jan 2021

38344 mi

US $361
replace valve cover gasket 
Mazda Mazda3 in Ontario, Canada
Mar 2016 - Apr 2017
Jan 2017 No heat, engine temp no higher than 60 celcius (140 F) Coolant FL22 type density was at -65C, dealer adjusted the density to -45C as per specification, engine temperature now average 80-83C (outside temp. is 5C today January 11, 2017. Premature wear of bolster tissue front driver seat (left side). dealer ordering a new driver front seat. To be replace next appointment. 
Mazda Mazda3 in New York, United States
Jan 2014 - Jun 2022
Sep 2019

72000 mi

US $260
Rear springs replaced 
Mazda Mazda3 in California, United States
Aug 2014 - Jan 2022
Aug 2017

58000 mi
Dealer replaced fuel tank per recall 
Apr 2018

62000 mi
Dealer replaced parking brake under recall. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Delaware, United States
Oct 2013 - Sep 2021
Aug 2014

13700 mi

US $88
Air leak around B pillar drivers side door. Rattle in B pillar, Drivers side Fog lights were not aimed when installed by dealer 
Dec 2014

23000 mi
Right rear brake sticking and dusting more than the left. Air leak and rattle at B pillar 
Mazda Mazda3 in California, United States
Aug 2016 - Oct 2017
Apr 2017

51000 mi

US $150
Rear brake pads replaced 
Aug 2017

54000 mi

US $240
left rear shock leaking - replaced 
Mazda Mazda3 in Wisconsin, United States
Jan 2018 - Jun 2022
Jan 2021

67000 mi
Screen on infotainment system was "cracking" and causing phantom button presses on the touch screen, a problem Mazda extended the warranty on a few years ago. There was a wait to get the necessary part, but the actual install was quick and the warranty covered the whole cost. 

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2014 Mazda Mazda3 4dr Sedan

155-horsepower 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD

Mazda Mazda3 in Minnesota, United States
May 2016 - Jun 2018
Jun 2018

57000 mi

US $400
No clue, parking brake needed repairs. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Quebec, Canada
Apr 2014 - Jun 2018
May 2014

1860 mi
Usb started freezing, called dealer told me to come in, finally gave me an appointment the following monday to get an update done which has not been done yet due to various problems on Mazda's part Took the car in for notchy shifting in 4th gear, diagnosis took 2 days and now Mazda canada wants to attempt to repair the defective gears and refusing to replace the defective transmission. 
Jul 2014

3180 mi
Replaced 3rd gear, hub assembly and synchros due to notchy shifting in 4th gear. Mazda Connect software updated from version 27 to 31. 
Jul 2015

20640 mi
Intake valves were cleaned to fix rough idle issue. Window noisy (rattle) and auto down/up window did not work every time. 
Jan 2018

62620 mi

C $75
Heater blower was making noise when it was very cold. I replaced blower with a used part from the scrap yard. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Maryland, United States
Jul 2016 - Mar 2018
Dec 2017

64000 mi

US $2000
Car would not start when button was pushed. Would go into accessory mode. Pressing the button a second time started the car but turned off the speedometer, odometer, trip computer. Turning off car returned it to accessory mode, with no way to turn it off completely. Entire ABS module was replaced and problem was solved. PCM module still needs to be replaced to remove dash warning lights for clutch position sensor. Software problems to blame. Why are car computers more expensive than actual computers? $$$$ 
Mazda Mazda3 in Ontario, Canada
Apr 2017 - Jun 2018
Jul 2017

16740 mi
Driver's window trim 
Mazda Mazda3 in California, United States
May 2014 - Jul 2018
May 2017

59000 mi

US $80
Brake light on left did not work. It was a failed component of the light controller for the rear brake light, so they ordered and replaced the part. 

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2014 Mazda Mazda3 4dr Hatch

turbocharged 148hp 2.2L I4 Diesel 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Mazda Mazda3 in Great Britain
Aug 2014 - Nov 2017
Apr 2017

74000 mi

£80
Ancillary drive belt failed. 

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2014 Mazda Mazda3 4dr Hatch

184-horsepower 2.5L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Mazda Mazda3 in New York, United States
Sep 2013 - May 2018
Dec 2013

7000 mi
Infotainment system required firmware update, was hanging when playing iPod for too long. 
Jul 2014

21000 mi

US $350
Infotainment system hand controller broke loose, needed to be replaced. 
Sep 2014

27000 mi
Infotainment system still crashing periodically, with MP3s, will not play OGG or ACC. No firmware updates available to attempt fix. 
Nov 2014

31000 mi
Instability/crashing of infotainment system Driver seat cover pulling away at base. 
Mar 2015

39000 mi
Seat cover coming loose. After replacement, retaining clips gave way on trim piece, causing seat cover to come loose again. 
Mazda Mazda3 in North Carolina, United States
Apr 2014 - Jun 2018
Nov 2015

21000 mi
Service bulletin for the Mazda Connect system 
Jun 2016

29000 mi
Heads up display sometimes would not pop up. Dealer did a computer reflash Heads up display periodically does not pop up. 
Dec 2016

36000 mi
Heads up display periodically gets stuck - Mazda replaced the heads up display at this time and it has been working properly since. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Ontario, Canada
Sep 2013 - Jun 2018
Jan 2015

33040 mi
sunroof stuck in partial open position. broken piece discovered. new piece ordered and covered under warranty 
Nov 2017

68200 mi

C $1700
replace front brakes, four new snow tires, regular maintenance 
Jan 2018

68820 mi
Auto temperature not working, had to order part 
Mazda Mazda3 in Massachusetts, United States
Jan 2014 - Jun 2022
Oct 2014

4500 mi
Software update to fix radio mute issue with GPS navigation system. 
Dec 2016

21000 mi
right rear brake pad worn to bare metal (three other pads were less than half worn). replaced both rear brake pads and right rear caliper. Driver side climate control "Auto" button does not function and indicator light does not illuminate. Replacement climate control module ordered Active driving display fails to deploy when the car is started about 2% of the time. Issues mostly in early spring and early fall. Technician unable to reproduce. Replacement part ordered based on video evidence of problem. 
Jan 2017

9500 mi
Driver side climate control "auto" button non-functional. Climate control module replaced under warranty. Active driving display fails to deploy in some situations. Part replaced under warranty 
Feb 2018

30000 mi

US $400
Accelerated / uneven wear on front brake pads. Replace both front pads. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Colorado, United States
Dec 2013 - Jun 2015
Oct 2014

32000 mi
Entertainment system needed to be rebooted by the dealer. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Michigan, United States
Nov 2013 - Jun 2022
Jan 2014

7590 mi
The infotainment system software was updated to version 27.00.000 to fix numerous issues with the software, including poor voice command functionality and failing to connect to my USB device. The infotainment system software was updated to version 27.00.000 to fix numerous issues with the software, including poor voice command functionality and failing to connect to my USB device. 
May 2014

17116 mi
infotainment system update to v 29.00.000 
Oct 2014

33000 mi
infotainment version update to 33.00.000 to fix continuing bugs and crashes 
Mar 2015

45000 mi
The infotainment system occasionally crashes when playing music via Bluetooth or USB. The touchscreen was replaced. The repair did not fix the problem. 
Mar 2016

71000 mi
Infotainment system update to hopefully fix crashes and lock-ups. 
Feb 2018

119465 mi

US $480
The rear brake one one side had somehow gotten stuck to the rotor and worn through the pad and damaged the rotor. Both rear pads and rotors had to be replaced. The price I stated was just for this work (other maintenance was done on this trip), and includes labor. 
Jun 2018

127151 mi

US $95
passenger-side dashboard speaker replaced 
Aug 2018

127872 mi

US $50
License plate bulb replaced. Based on the labor charge, it looks like less than 10 minutes. 
Mazda Mazda3 in California, United States
Oct 2013 - Jun 2018
Dec 2013

1000 mi
Infotainment system update. 
Mar 2014

4000 mi
Infotainment issues. 
May 2014

8000 mi
Infotainment system glitches. No update available. 
Jan 2015

33300 mi
Car sent to regional service center to troubleshoot multiple problems with infotainment system 
Feb 2015

18000 mi
Multiple issues with infotainment system, CMU replaced per regional technicians. 
Sep 2015

26000 mi
Nav stuttering while using Pandora, back up cam sometimes didn't work. CMU needed to be replaced, on backorder. Fog light lenses cloudy - replaced. Lane departure warning system indicator light sometimes flashes amber, system doesn't turn on. Dealer could not replicate. 
Nov 2015

27400 mi
Nav stuttering while using Pandora, CMU replaced, issue still occasionally present (but less than before). 
Nov 2016

35300 mi
Intermittent i-ELOOP system failure, had to be sent to a different dealer with a working i-ELOOP battery tester. Battery failed test, replaced. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Virginia, United States
Jul 2014 - Jun 2015
Jan 2015 Regenerative braking (I-ELOOP) system failed. Caused by fault in charging logic from control module. Dealer found service bulletin and reflashed module. 
May 2015

20000 mi
Driver side windshield washer nozzle leaking. Replaced part under warranty. 
Mazda Mazda3 in California, United States
Oct 2013 - Jul 2018
Jan 2014

18200 mi
infotainment system flashed and dash rattle fixed under warranty 
Mazda Mazda3 in Ontario, Canada
Feb 2014 - Jun 2022
Nov 2014

9920 mi
Rear driver's side chrome window trim loose at back due to broken clip. Replaced under warranty. 
Oct 2016

35420 mi

C $9
Oil drain cap replaced due to wear on the release bolt drive, at risk of becoming difficult to remove. 
Jun 2018

61380 mi

C $400
Driver's door speaker was cracking and rattling. Speaker was replaced. 
Mar 2019

71 mi
Driver's seat had a slight front-to-back rock during firm braking or acceleration. Dealer tightened seat bolts to resolve issue, with no charge. 
Jan 2021

97340 mi

C $440
Front left wheel bearing was noisy, replaced 
Mar 2022

114080 mi

C $650
Right rear shock mount broken, both shocks and mounts replaced 
Apr 2022

115320 mi

C $250
Left rear coil spring broken 
Mazda Mazda3 in New York, United States
Sep 2013 - Jul 2022
Oct 2014

7200 mi
Computer erroneously reported problem with charging system. Software was updated. 
Nov 2019

47800 mi

US $100
Replaced battery 
Sep 2020

57880 mi

US $600
Replaced failed infotainment computer 
May 2022

70000 mi

US $100
Replaced frozen right-rear caliper and rotor 
Jun 2022

70710 mi
Previously replaced caliper developed leak and required replacement again. Battery replaced 
Jul 2022

70720 mi

US $20
Replaced screen glass for infotainment system. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Washington, United States
Feb 2014 - Sep 2020
May 2014

2000 mi
Washer fluid disappears. Dealer claims no leaking. Says it's normal on a Mazda 3. Hmmm. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Texas, United States
Jun 2015 - Dec 2016
May 2016

25700 mi
Made a horrible noise when we would drive over a large bump. Still has not been completely fixed. 
Dec 2016

30000 mi
Noise in suspension never fixed. Sold car. 
Mazda Mazda3 in California, United States
Apr 2015 - Apr 2017
Jul 2015

30200 mi
A/C auto mode button was faulty and wouldn't turn on auto mode, repaired under warranty 
Mazda Mazda3 in California, United States
Nov 2013 - Dec 2014
Nov 2014

13900 mi
The car's infotainment system remains buggy, its already gotten the most recent software and continues to randomly restart. Sometimes it forgets it has the navigation system. Dealer has tried 3-4 times to fix it, still no luck. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Arizona, United States
Jul 2015 - Jun 2018
Aug 2015

27200 mi
Bose woofer in driver's side front door was replaced under warranty. Speaker was cutting in and out/buzzing. 
Nov 2015

31000 mi
Dealer replaced bad tie-rod that caused the car to make a noise when going over bumps. Dealer performed TSB for noise at passenger side A pillar. 
Mar 2016

35000 mi
FM radio began cutting out and making odd noises. Dealer is replacing tuner unit per Mazda TSB. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Texas, United States
Dec 2014 - Jun 2015
Aug 2014

700 mi
Engine knocking could not be reproduced at dealer. Was told abnormal vibrations caused by radiator fan/compressor and is normal operation Nav/Infotainment freezing immediately on start up 
Oct 2014

3600 mi
Oil change & engine knocking, dealer again could not reproduce issue 
Dec 2014

3000 mi
Chronic engine knock/stall initially observed at 700mi. Has been in and out of shop at least once a month since purchasing vehicle. Has progressed from excessive vibrations at idle to physical stalling at speed Nav/infotainment intermittent freezing / audio distorsion when making calls or streaming audio Headlights dangerously low Replaced passenger rear power lock Rattle by driver A-pillar. Dealer replaced kickboard and added an additional spacer, rattle still present but much more muted than before 
Jan 2015

4000 mi
Engine stall shortly after ignition 
Feb 2015

4700 mi
Rattle near dome light fixture and sunroof area unable to replicate with dealer 
Mar 2015

6000 mi
Rattle by fuse panel inside of cabin, added foam tape to wiring harnesses 
Jun 2015

8000 mi
Something lose in rear seat, possibly seat belt tensioner. Rear seat replaced under warranty Vehicle traded in due to ongoing knock / stall. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Virginia, United States
Mar 2014 - Jun 2022
Mar 2018

38000 mi

US $200
Engine idling fast and getting poor mileage Had "gasoline direct injection fuel service" performed to clean deposits from air intake system. Turns out it was just a floor mat stuck under accelerator pedal causing problems. 
Jun 2018

40857 mi

US $28
two nails in two tires 
Dec 2021

66000 mi

US $55
headlights lights 
Mazda Mazda3 in Florida, United States
Jul 2014 - Jan 2017
Feb 2016

15000 mi
The navigation instructions on the head up display stopped working. A software update was required and was completed under warranty. 
May 2016

17000 mi
The driver's side tan leather seatback became stained and began to become sticky. Mazda replaced the leather on the seat back at no charge under warranty. 
Sep 2016

19000 mi
Bose speaker in passenger side door failed. Mazda replaced the speaker under warranty. 
Dec 2016

20000 mi
The front suspension was making a popping noise when going over bumps or when the weight of the car shifted in turns. The repair was part of a Mazda suspension Technical Service Bulletin and was done for no charge 
Mazda Mazda3 in Ohio, United States
Feb 2014 - Feb 2020
Jul 2014

9000 mi
There is a popping noise in the drivers front when wheel is turned all the way left and car is moving. Drivers door lock actuator squeals when operated. Navigation would reboot on its own at times. 
Apr 2015

14200 mi
Power door lock on drivers door squeaked when unlocking. The drivers door inner seal cam loose where the roof meets the b-pillar. 
Nov 2016

27200 mi
Popping noise from both sides of front end, replaced cool spring and bushing. Popping noise from drivers side when reversing and turning sharply to the right. Per TSB 02-010/16 replaced bump stop, coil spring protector, Nut, and bushing. This did not fix problem. Will have to return to dealer. Drivers door inner body seal. Part ordered, car dropped off, for regular maint. and part not replaced. Returned and then the seal on the door was replaced, not the failing seal on the body. Part is still in stock, will fix on next visit. 
Jan 2017

31000 mi
Battery is dead. Keyed door lock would not unlock the door. Found the lock cylinder in door had detached rod that runs from the cylinder to the door latch. Reinstalled the rod. The power door locks, interior lights are inop. During last visit to repair keyed door lock cylinder, tech left the door module unplugged. 
May 2017

36000 mi
Noise from the front suspension when turning the steering wheel and reversing out of driveway over a curb. 
Sep 2017

40000 mi
Repaired work done at Kerry Mazda in Florence, KY - Stabilizer bar bushings were installed incorrectly, shock mounts installed incorrectly, and lower control arms were left loose after last repair. Shock mounts and bushings were replaced and the control arms were tightened to spec. This repair was performed at Jake Sweeney Mazda in Springdale, OH. 
Nov 2017

42000 mi
Clunk or pop noise when turning sharply left at very low speed, like pulling into/out of parking spot. Found the front left Lower Control Arm bushing bracket had shifted. Removed all 4 front LCA bushing bolts and frame. Re-centered the brackets, applied thread-locker and torqued to spec. The noise is still present, however with much less frequency and severity. This repair has been attempted 7-8 times (I have lost count). 
Feb 2018

49000 mi
Noise from front of car getting louder. Replaced passenger front wheel bearing. Noise is gone. 
Jul 2018

55000 mi

US $300
Left front Wheel Bearing that was replaced 6 months ago began to fail again. Dealer would not repair under warranty, claiming road damage. 
Mazda Mazda3 in New Mexico, United States
Aug 2013 - Jun 2022
Feb 2015

15000 mi
Active Driving Display (heads-up display) was not maintaining alignment or adjusting properly. Technician was able to quickly adjust it back into full engagement with its drive mechanism. 
Mazda Mazda3 in California, United States
Sep 2014 - Jun 2018
Jun 2016

37000 mi
Transaxle seal replacement 

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2014 Mazda Mazda3 4dr Hatch

155-horsepower 2.0L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Mazda Mazda3 in Saskatchewan, Canada
Dec 2013 - Jul 2022
Mar 2014

1240 mi
FM radio cuts out while driving along. Sounds like speakers have quit working, but that's not it. Terrible reception that fades in and out. 
Oct 2014

6080 mi
Infotainment system was blue screening, no navigation voice when phone connected via USB and various issues with bluetooth viewing of albums, artists, etc. Radio cuts out; it's like the treble cuts out and sounds like the speakers have a problem. There is now a TSB for this so took them out for a drive to hear the problem and showed them the TSB. New parts were then ordered. 
Feb 2016

16740 mi
Infotainment - nav highway icons remain on screen after you've left nav. Bluetooth music often plays blank song. I don't yet know if the software update fixed it. 
Mazda Mazda3 in California, United States
Jun 2017 - Sep 2017
Sep 2017

56000 mi

US $114
Test and replace battery 
Mazda Mazda3 in Ontario, Canada
Jun 2021 - Jul 2022
May 2022

61380 mi

C $800
Rotors and brake pads needed replacing. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Kentucky, United States
Dec 2015 - Jun 2022
Feb 2020

64410 mi

US $50
Brake light switch located under that dash by the brake pedal. This switch other than brake lights also controls the ability to use the keyless ignition button. The switch was not working which would not allow the car to start with the ignition button. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Indiana, United States
Feb 2014 - Jul 2015
Sep 2014

10000 mi
Infotainment system would not turn on. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Massachusetts, United States
Aug 2014 - Feb 2017
Jan 2017

11000 mi
cold weather related squeaks from door locks especially when unlocking door. one rear door lock and cable mechanism replaced. squeaks still apparent on cold mornings. 
Mazda Mazda3 in New York, United States
Jun 2014 - Feb 2016
Dec 2015

21000 mi
Check engine light came on. Computer Diagnostic reveals faulty fuel sensor in gas tank. 
Mazda Mazda3 in New Hampshire, United States
Feb 2015 - Jun 2017
Feb 2016

20600 mi
Previously experienced issues with the car stalling at high RPM in cooler temperatures. Computer update fixed the issue. 

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2014 Mazda Mazda3 4dr Hatch

155-horsepower 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD

Mazda Mazda3 in Maryland, United States
Aug 2013 - Dec 2013
Dec 2013

4000 mi
Squeaking noise that started out minor at 3,000 miles. Took to the dealer once because of it. Mazda has a TSB for spacing sheet metal that is welded too closely together. Needless yo say... The noise is back!!!! 
Mazda Mazda3 in Oregon, United States
Aug 2014 - Jun 2015
Feb 2015

13000 mi
partial transmission rebuild due to inadequate response in 2nd and 3rd gear when downshifting. Got car back, inadequate response in 3rd remains. shifter frequently required double clutch to get into 3rd, 4th, or 5th gear. since being 'fixed', shifter now grinds and screeches when going into 3rd or 5th gear. 
Mar 2015

14000 mi
Grinding sensation and occasional screech with shifter when shifting into 3rd and 5th. Since this was the 2nd trip for this problem, dealer replaced entire transmission, under warranty. Still some funky shifting issues in 4th - jury is out 
Mazda Mazda3 in Nova Scotia, Canada
Aug 2014 - Jun 2022
Jan 2015

21160 mi
Software update. 
Apr 2016

26740 mi
ECU re-flash. Display would temporary goes blank/freezes. 
May 2017

42780 mi

C $450
Rear brakes badly worn. Replace pads and rotors. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Ontario, Canada
Apr 2016 - Jun 2018
Sep 2016

21080 mi
replace rear driver's side lock actuator for noise under warranty horn was replaced under warranty due to "tinny" noise, as if it was vibrating against a bracket rear seat cushions were lifting at corners, addressed by TSB, fixed by warranty 
Oct 2016

21700 mi
trunk light was staying on, rear body control module was replaced under warranty, fixing issue 
Apr 2017

25163 mi
Had rear body control module replaced for second time. Aftermarket hatch LED was causing module to break and leave light off. Battery tie down strap was corroded and replaced under warranty. 
Jul 2017

29004 mi
The rear hatch doesn't always fully latch in cold weather. Since it's warm, the dealer couldn't replicate, so i found the TSB for the problem and bought the parts myself to fix. The fix involves replacing the 4 rubber bumpers located around the hatch. Both front windows were sticking to top interior weather stripping, resulting in window glass that would not lower. Issue was present in both cold and hot weather. After numerous complaints, dealer finally agreed to replace the parts even though they had not witnessed the problem first hand. Parts and labour were covered by warranty. 
Feb 2018

35978 mi

C $510
Brakes were pulsating slightly and rear pads were wearing down, but not as bad as some other 3rd gen Mazda 3s. Had all rotors and pads replaced. 
Jun 2018

40300 mi
Rear parking brakes sticking, repaired under factory recall. New caliper on passenger side, new boot kit on driver side 
Mazda Mazda3 in Oregon, United States
Jan 2014 - Sep 2014
Sep 2014

3000 mi

US $100
When in motion, the stick shift is not smooth when moving from 1->2 -> 3. When in 3 and between 35MPH to 40MPH the stick shakes 
Mazda Mazda3 in Nova Scotia, Canada
Sep 2014 - Mar 2023
Sep 2014

8680 mi
FM radio reception is terrible 
Feb 2016

20940 mi
Dull thud when abrupt suspension travel occurred. Seemed to be front driver side. TSB performed (replaced rubber damper on strut top) but the noise came back after about 3 days. 
Mar 2016

22320 mi
Took to competing dealer for same issue as before (soft thud on suspension travel). This dealer heard the issue, inspected, and ordered parts. Suspected cause is a faulty strut. 
Apr 2016

22720 mi
Front strut faulty. Replaced along with wheel bearing under warranty. 
Jul 2016

24800 mi
Right strut replaced under warranty. 
Aug 2016

25600 mi
Tuner unit replaced under warranty - TSB 
Dec 2016

29760 mi
Rear pads/rotors were replaced under recommendation of TSB #04-001 as well as the rear caliper carriers. These apparently corrode and keep the pads from returning properly, causing premature wear. 
Apr 2017

32240 mi

C $30
Brake pedal light switch failed, causing traction control malfunction light until check engine light illuminated on total failure. replaced pedal switch, fixing problem 
Nov 2019

55800 mi

C $180
Replacement battery 
Nov 2020

68200 mi

C $450
Original brakes finally bit the dust. Front rotors were salvageable but I replaced them to have a clean slate 
Feb 2023

75640 mi

C $1185
Header cracked and sheared off on the engine side of the flex pipe. The header was repaired with a generic flange welded into place to reuse the original flex pipe as there was no issue with it. Right side tie rod end had too much play for safety inspection. Replaced with alignment. 
Mazda Mazda3 in Ontario, Canada
Jul 2014 - Feb 2022
Aug 2017

48360 mi

C $100
Key Fob no longer working, replaced under warranty. 
Feb 2018

60760 mi
Jun 2017 Parking Brake recall campaign. Began sticking during the previous winter. Was about to pay for some replacement parts when the recall letter arrived. 

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2018 Mazda Mazda3 Repair Histories

See our lemon odds and nada odds page to see vehicles with no repairs or vehicles with more than three repairs. To see how frequently 2018 Mazda Mazda3 problems occur, check out our car reliability stats.