Mazda MAZDA3 Engine Problems
Owners have filed 211 complaints with NHTSA about engine problems on the Mazda MAZDA3 across 20 model years. The 2012 model year has the most (32).
- 211engine complaints
- —median miles at failure
- 8mention a crash
- 7mention an injury
- 2related recalls
- 37%of reports with a speed happened at 50+ mph
At what mileage do engine problems happen?
Based on 155 complaints that reported the odometer reading.
How serious are the reports?
Of 211 complaints, 8 mention a crash, 6 a fire, 7 an injury.
Mazda MAZDA3 engine complaints by model year
| Model year | Engine complaints | Share of that year | Median miles |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 MAZDA3 | 2 | 17% | — |
| 2022 MAZDA3 | 2 | 8% | — |
| 2021 MAZDA3 | 19 | 35% | — |
| 2020 MAZDA3 | 1 | 3% | — |
| 2019 MAZDA3 | 11 | 15% | 11,125 |
| 2018 MAZDA3 | 12 | 11% | 18,000 |
| 2017 MAZDA3 | 5 | 6% | 27,500 |
| 2016 MAZDA3 | 7 | 7% | 27,750 |
| 2015 MAZDA3 | 6 | 5% | 6,500 |
| 2014 MAZDA3 | 13 | 9% | 14,600 |
| 2013 MAZDA3 | 11 | 9% | 16,015 |
| 2012 MAZDA3 | 32 | 14% | 20,000 |
| 2011 MAZDA3 | 3 | 2% | 160,000 |
| 2010 MAZDA3 | 22 | 3% | 114,000 |
| 2009 MAZDA3 | 2 | 2% | 36,617 |
| 2008 MAZDA3 | 16 | 5% | 77,029 |
| 2007 MAZDA3 | 22 | 10% | 85,000 |
| 2006 MAZDA3 | 17 | 10% | 98,166 |
| 2005 MAZDA3 | 4 | 4% | 125,000 |
| 2004 MAZDA3 | 4 | 3% | 77,825 |
When owners reported it
Related recalls (2)
Power train:automatic transmission:control module (tcm/pcm/tecm); engine
Model years: 2019
Problem: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2018-2019 CX-5, Mazda6, and 2019 Mazda3 vehicles. A software error in the powertrain control module (PCM) may cause the engine to stall.
Risk: An unexpected stall increases the risk of a crash.
Fix: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the PCM software, free of charge. The recall began August 20, 2019. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 3719F.
Engine and engine cooling:exhaust system
Model years: 2018
Problem: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2018 Mazda3 vehicles, equipped with an incorrect exhaust valve spring. The incorrect exhaust valve spring may fail while driving, potentially causing an engine stall.
Risk: An engine stall can increase the risk of a crash.
Fix: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engines and replace any incorrect exhaust valve springs, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin January 20, 2018. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's number for this recall is 1717K.
What owners report
Short excerpts of recent complaints, with personal details removed. Full reports are on NHTSA.gov.
Low engine oil message appeared on dash. Had car towed to Mazda. Had valve stem seals replaced under warranty.
Catalytic converter keeps giving me check engine
My 2018 Mazda 3 has an intermittent electrical failure on the high-speed CAN network that causes multiple safety-critical systems to fail while driving. When the fault occurs, the dash lights up with warnings for powertrain, ABS/traction, lane departure, collision-avoidance, TPMS, immobilizer, and…
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The high-pressure fuel pump failed. This component failure prevents the car from starting or staying running. The check engine code confirmed the high-pressure fuel pump failure. The failed component…
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2014 Mazda Mazda3. The contact stated that the vehicle was making an abnormal growling sound. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact discovered a mileage discrepancy after the purchase. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of…
Frequently asked questions
Do all Mazda MAZDA3s have engine problems?
No. NHTSA has 211 owner complaints about engine for the Mazda MAZDA3. Complaint data shows that the problem is reported, not how many of all cars sold are affected.
Was there a recall on the Mazda MAZDA3 engine?
Yes: 2 safety recalls list engine. Check your VIN on NHTSA.gov to see whether the fix was done on your car.
Other Mazda MAZDA3 problems
- Steering problems (393)
- Electrical System problems (366)
- Structure problems (282)
- Air Bags problems (259)
- Power Train problems (249)
- Service Brakes problems (197)
- Seats problems (175)
- Tires problems (167)
See all Mazda MAZDA3 problems.