As you’re shopping for a Mazda3 Sedan, you’re likely wondering which years to focus on and which to steer clear of. You’ve come to the right place. With some models plagued by transmission and engine issues, clutch failure, and subpar interior quality, it’s essential to know what to look out for.
We’ll break down the best and worst years of the Mazda3 Sedan, so you can make an informed decision and drive away in a reliable ride. Let’s plunge into the specifics.
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Key Takeaways
- Avoid the 2004, 2010-2012, and 2013 models due to various issues with transmission, engine, brakes, and interior quality.
- The 2005-2009 and 2015-2020 models have a good reliability record with fewer complaints and minor issues reported.
- The first year of each new generation tends to have more problems, so it’s best to wait a year or two for bugs to be ironed out.
- The 2007-2008 models have minimal engine and transmission problems, making them a relatively safe bet.
- The 2019 model has the lowest number of complaints, making it a reliable choice in the fourth generation.
Which Mazda3 Years to Avoid
What makes certain Mazda3 years more problematic than others?
You’ll want to avoid the 2004 model, which is plagued by transmission and engine issues, as well as faulty headlights and air conditioning units.
The 2010-2012 years are also worst years, with common complaints about clutch failure, transmission problems, and poor interior build quality.
Additionally, the 2013 model has its own set of issues, including brake, accelerator, and interior accessory problems.
It’s also wise to steer clear of the first year of each new generation, as they tend to have more problems.
Most Reliable Mazda3 Years
If you’re looking for a trouble-free Mazda3 sedan, you’ll want to focus on the most reliable years.
The 2005-2009 models are considered the best years, with fewer complaints and issues compared to other generations.
The 2015-2020 models also have a good reliability record, with only minor issues reported, such as infotainment system problems in the 2015 model.
Within these ranges, the 2007-2008 models have minimal engine and transmission problems, while the 2017-2020 models have the fewest complaints filed.
The 2019 model stands out with the lowest number of complaints, making it a reliable choice in the fourth generation.
When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Mazda CX-90, Mazda CX-30, Mazda CX-50 and Mazda RX-7. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.
