10 Mazda 3 Common Problems: What You Need To Know
Mazda 3, also known as Mazda Axela, is a reliable car and one of the most popular mid-sized family cars in the US. However, just like any other car, this vehicle isn’t 100% perfect. It comes with its fair share of problems prevalent among different model years.
Mazda 3 most common problems include:
- Crutch failure
- Transmission issues
- Electrical system issues
- Brake problem
- Rust and corrosion
- Wheels and hubs problem
- Engine problems
- Airbag warning light illumination
- Weak/faulty engine mounts
- Steering wheel issues
Now that we have given you a sneak peek into the common problems associated with Mazda 3, this article will explore more in-depth details about each of these issues. This info will help you know which issues to be aware of and what model years to avoid if you plan to get yourself a Mazda 3.
Mazda 3 Common Problems
As we have just hinted above, different Mazda 3 model years have exhibited common problems across various model years as evidenced by complaints from the vehicle owners.
The 2010 Mazda 3 received the most complaints and is rated the worst model year. This rating is based on factors like repair costs and the average mileage when it starts showing problems.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common problems reported by the Mazda 3 owners:
Crutch failure
This is probably the most common problem reported in Mazda 3 vehicles. Many car owners have reported experiencing clutch failure and the entire powertrain clutch assembly setup.
This clutch issue seems to plague various model years, with the 2010 Mazda 3 being the most affected.
It has also been noticed that this clutch problem usually occurs when the vehicle reaches about 37,000 miles mark.
In other words, most vehicle owners have noticed that the clutch failure in Mazda 3 tends to occur quite early. This is especially the case for the 2010 Mazda 3 model.
Unfortunately, the clutch issue isn’t a cheap fix. You may need to spend upward of $1270 to replace the clutch or replace it with a completely new assembly.
Some Mazda 3 owners also admit that sometimes they may need to make multiple clutch replacements in their vehicles. Most of these owners paid for two or more replacements.
Mind you, owners of Mazda 3 vehicles between 2010 and 2015 failed a class-action lawsuit against Mazda in 2016 due to clutch failure issues.
They alleged that this was caused by the use of defective clutch forks, pins, and bearings—forcing them to replace the clutch multiple times.
Transmission issues
Transmission issues are also a common concern for Mazda 3 owners, especially in the older models.
Most complaints related to the tranny system revolved around delayed engagement, rough shifting, etc., which usually result in not so good driving experience.
The 2004 model year received many complaints related to the ability to hit all the gears and rough shifting.
However, note that Mazda has worked on this issue and their models from 2005 to 2020 have exhibited quite reliable transmissions. Nonetheless, there have been reported issues.
Mazda’s newer Skyactiv transmissions are much more reliable than their earlier Jatco transmissions.
If you notice your Mazda 3 tranny system behaving oddly, we advise you to fix it as soon as possible. This will help prevent further damage to the system, which may cost you a fortune to fix.
Performing regular maintenance of your Mazda 3 trans as recommended by the manufacturer can help significantly reduce the chance of tranny failure.
Vehicles used in towing experience may also have higher rates of transmission failure.
Electrical system-related issues
Various Mazda 3 models have also been plagued with electrical system problems.
These can be anything from intermittent audio system issues to infotainment system issues, malfunctioning dashboard display, issues with locks or power windows, malfunctioning sensors, etc.
These issues may arise due to compatibility issues or software bugs. Problems with the power window may be a result of wiring issues, faulty switches, or motor failures.
Sometimes, the issues may be tied to poor electrical connections in your car, e.g. due to corroded battery terminals, loose connections, frayed wiring, etc., which can lead to erratic signaling of your Mazda 3.
If faced with electrical problems in your car, we advise you to run diagnostic scans on your vehicle. This will help you uncover and resolve the underlying cause of the electrical issues your vehicle is experiencing.
Remember, keeping your vehicle software up-to-date is one way to help prevent electrical system issues and keep your vehicle running smoothly.
Wheels and hubs problem
Mazda 3 owners also deal with issues related to the wheels and hubs, making it another common problem in these cars. To be precise, the most common issues include:
- Defective factory-installed tire valve stems. This tends to occur at around 65,000 miles mark
- Tires failing to properly wear down. This usually occurs at nearly 50,000 miles.
- Some car owners have also reported issues with the tires, wheels, tire pressure monitoring system, tire sidewalls, tire valves, and wheel rims.
The best fix for a defective tire valve in your Mazda 3 is replacing the parts with safe and proper tire sensors.
As for tires not wearing evenly, the best solution is to install adjustable rear camber arms. These will help increase the surface of the tire getting into contact with the road.
The result is minimal uneven wear on your car tires due to too much negative camber.
Engine problems
Many Mazda 3 owners have also reported engine-related problems in their vehicles. The issues range from poor idling to engine choking, engine misfires, poor acceleration, vehicle acceleration when you press the brakes, etc.
The most common reason behind these engine issues in Mazda 3 was identified to be a malfunctioning vehicle’s throttle body. It could clog easily due to carbon buildup as well as other contaminants.
In this case, you can simply clean the throttle body on your own to keep it from blocking and causing various engine issues.
The throttle body itself would malfunction due to a variety of issues such as electrical connection problems. This would interfere with the right data transfer to the powertrain control module.
Tight seals and frayed wires may also cause issues with the throttle such as vacuum leaks that end up upsetting the fuel/air mixture ratio in the engine.
Another common complaint about Mazda 3 engines is sudden power loss during acceleration attempts.
Other vehicle owners also reported noticeable jerking when driving or the engine choking during cranking up. In some cases, the car owners come to a sudden stop when driving.
Airbag warning light illumination
The airbag warning light constantly remaining on is another issue common in Mazda 3s. The light tends to stay on even when the passenger side seatbelt is buckled.
This issue is more prevalent in these Mazda 3 models: 2004, 2009, 2011, and 2013 model years. The most affected vehicles are those that have clicked at least 40,000 miles.
Mind you, the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) had issued a recall on the Mazda 3 2004 model year.
The reason behind this recall was that a crack in the airbag crash zone sensor housing might let water inside, thus short-circuiting the system.
Given that the government body made this recall, it means the repairs are free for any car owners experiencing this issue.
Weak/faulty engine mounts
Another issue that many Mazda 3 owners have reported is the engine mounts wearing out too early or simply being weak or faulty.
Owners whose cars have this issue usually experience key symptoms such as clunking noises and excessive vibrations on the front of their cars. Plus, they experienced a significant decrease in overall rider comfort.
This particular problem was more common in model years 2005 to 2011 as well as 2013 and 2015 models. Typically, it affected the vehicles that had hit over 50,000 miles.
In this case, replacing the affected mounts is required to help eliminate these symptoms and ensure you enjoy comfortable rides.
For vehicle owners who experienced this issue, their mechanics advised them to change their vehicle’s shocks, replace the wheels, and align the tires. However, this issue still needs to be fixed for the affected model years.
Steering wheel issues
Mazda 3 vehicles are also prone to steering wheel-related problems, with the most common issue being the power steering failing to work and the power steering whining when in use.
The NHTSA has also cited issues with the electric power assist system.
Other common symptoms that point out issues with the steering wheel in your Mazda 3 include steering locks, power steering going off, strange noises, warning lights popping up on the dash, and your vehicle taking total control of the steering.
The steering wheel-related issues in Mazda 3 have been corrected by steering sensor and ABS module replacement. There have also been Mazda recalls related to their steering system.
To see if your vehicle model has been recalled for this issue, you can visit the NHTSA website or Mazda recall web page and type in your VIN. You’ll be able to get the details easily.
Brake problem
Brake-related problems are also common in different Mazda 3 model years. The most common brake-related issues include premature brake wear, noise when you apply brakes, brake fluid leaks, and malfunctioning ABS (anti-lock braking system).
Premature brake wear, in particular, has been rated the worst issue, affecting the 2014 Mazda 3 model, though it’s not uncommon to hear this issue in other models. The vehicles affected usually have an average mileage of 33,800 miles.
If you experience brake problems in your Mazda 3, we advise you to have the issue addressed by a qualified Mazda mechanic or Mazda dealership.
We also advise you to do regular brake inspection and maintenance, including replacing the rotors and pads on time. This will help ensure brake performance remains optimal at all times and ensure maximum safety when on the road.
Rust
Some Mazda 3 vehicle models, especially the older models, are also prone to rust and corrosion issues. This is especially the case for car owners who live in areas with harsh climates.
The most affected areas of the vehicle include the wheels, around the door sills, or the undercarriage.
It’s said that Mazda would use cheap steel which was the reason behind the rusting. The early models, in particular, had issues with galvanizing on their body panels. This issue was later solved by the 2009 model year.
The good thing is that the manufacturer’s metal and anti-corrosion treatments are now at par with those of other brands.
However, note that some newer models may still experience rust/corrosion issues probably due to the thin and easily chip-able paint Mazda applies on their vehicles.
If you’re looking for solutions to common problems in Mazda vehicles, you may also want to check out our articles on how to fix the AT light on Mazda 3 and Mazda E2000 common problems. These resources can provide valuable information and guidance for Mazda vehicle owners.Conclusion
Mazda 3 is generally considered a reliable vehicle in the US. However, it’s not immune to various common problems which tend to affect its functionality and performance. The most common issues reported by Mazda 3 owners include clutch failure, transmission issues, engine issues, electrical system issues, rust and corrosion, steering wheel problems, and brake problems.
Remember, following the manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedule and addressing issues in your car promptly will help keep your Mazda 3 performing optimally. It’ll also help increase the vehicle’s longevity and reliability. Recalls have also been issued for some of these faults. Therefore, you should be on the lookout for recalls relating to your specific vehicle model.