With this guide, I’ve analyzed every Mazda 3 from 2004 to the latest models and ranked the best and worst.
You can find out which Mazda 3 generation is the best to buy and which Mazda 3 generation is the worst to avoid in this guide.
![Best & Worst Mazda 3 Years [2004-2024 Models]](https://gearpatro.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Best-and-Worst-Mazda-3-Years-2004-2024-Models.webp)
The objective of this article is to provide detailed information about the most and least reliable Mazda 3 years across all generations based on data from reputable automotive platforms such as NHTSA, JD Power, and Consumer Reports.
In this guide, you’ll discover Mazda 3 resale values by year, recalls, and everyday problems.
Let’s get started.
Mazda 3 Generations
Even in its entry-level variant, Mazda 3’s captivating design, strong performance, and compelling features quickly made it one of the car industry’s most admired models.
The Mazda 3 was available as a sedan and hatchback, making it a versatile choice for a wide variety of drivers.
Using a table that summarizes the Mazda 3’s generations from 2004 to the present, let’s provide a structured overview.
| Generations | Years |
| 1st generation (BK) | 2004-2009 |
| 2nd generation (BL) | 2010-2013 |
| 3rd generation (BM/BN) | 2014-2018 |
| 4th generation (BP) | 2019-Present |
It is crucial to understand these stages so that you can make an informed decision, particularly since subsequent model years have incorporated variations, upgrades, and improvements.
Mazda 3 Best, Neutral, and Worst Years
Among the factors we consider when ranking and categorizing Mazda 3’s best, neutral, and worst years are:
A comprehensive table was then created based on the collective data, categorizing each Mazda 3 model year as a ‘superlative,’ a ‘neutral,’ and a ‘worst’.
| Generation | Best Years | Neutral Years | Worst Years |
| 1st generation (BK) | 2008 2009 | 2007 | 2004 2005 2006 |
| 2nd generation (BL) | 2012 2013 | N/A | 2010 2011 |
| 3rd generation (BM/BN) | 2017 2018 | 2016 | 2014 2015 |
| 4th generation (BP) | 2021 2022 2023 | 2020 | 2019 |
A “Neutral Year” refers to a model year that neither excelled nor faltered significantly on any of our examined metrics.
A car’s reliability score can be adversely affected by certain factors, such as recalls from the NHTSA. The higher the incidence of complaints, recalls, and safety-related investigations, the less reliable the product and the less confident consumers will be.
Let’s take a look at the best, neutral, and worst Mazda 3 model years.
Best & Worst Years for Mazda 3 1st Generation (2004-2009)
2003 marked the introduction of Mazda’s first generation of the Mazda 3, a compact car that quickly garnered acclaim for its aesthetically pleasing design, engaging driving dynamics, and fuel-efficient drive.
In this generation, 2008 and 2009 are the Mazda 3’s best years while 2004, 2005, and 2006 should be avoided.
The Best Years: 2008, 2009
2008 and 2009 are the best Mazda 3 years according to Consumer Reports reliability and owner satisfaction scores.
In 2008, Mazda introduced the “s” Sport trim, which featured a 2.3L MZR L engine with 156 hp and 150 lb-ft of torque.
An average fuel economy of 17 city / 35 highway mpg is provided by this engine when paired with either a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission.
There have been reports of problems with the tire pressure monitoring system and valve stem leaks, potentially resulting in flat tires.
Even so, these model years stand out in terms of driver satisfaction and overall reliability due to expanded features, including an advanced audio system and side-curtain airbags.
The Neutral Years: 2007
In spite of its noteworthy features and powertrain options, the 2007 Mazda 3 had persistent problems.
With 148 horsepower and 135 pound-feet of torque from its 2.0L MZR LF-VD engine and 156 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque from its 2.3L engine, the 2007 Mazda 3 offered impressive performance for its class.
There were various trim levels, such as “i” and “s”, offering manual and automatic transmission options, especially in the “i” trim.
Power steering was one tangible issue with the 2007 Mazda 3, resulting in a recall due to a risk of loss of power steering assistance.
The Worst Years: 2004, 2005, 2006
It is undoubtedly the least Mazda reliable generation 3 years – 2004 and 2005 – with the lowest ratings on VehicleHistory.
There were a number of issues with the Mazda 3 from its launch in 2004 through 2006, making these years less desirable for Mazda 3 owners.
During collisions, the airbag system of the 2004 Mazda 3 was notorious for malfunctioning.
Additionally, there was significant engine trouble, including stalling and oil leaks from the engine filter housing, which posed a safety hazard.
In 2005 and 2006, Mazda 3 models failed to resolve these issues, particularly the latter year’s suspension issues and power steering loss, which put the driver’s experience at risk.
The NHTSA has published recalls and complaints for the Mazda 3 for 2004, 2005, and 2006.
Best & Worst Years for Mazda 3 2nd Generation (2010-2013)
Mazda’s second generation 3 (2010-2013) marked an era of design refinement and technical advancement for this beloved compact car.
There is no doubt that 2012 and 2013 are the Mazda 3 years of the generation, whereas 2010 and 2011 are the Mazda 3 years to avoid due to melting dashboards.
The Best Years: 2012, 2013
2012 and 2013 have been Mazda 3’s best years in the second generation, thanks to SkyActiv technology, fantastic gas mileage, and good owner satisfaction and reliability ratings from Consumer Reports.
A 2.0L SkyActiv-G engine with 155 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque was introduced by Mazda during this period.
The Mazda 3 was known for its driving dynamics, but it promised better fuel efficiency (up to 28 mpg city and 40 mpg highway).
There were two transmissions offered during these years: a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic, both operating under the SkyActiv technology for responsive and fluid shifting.
There were more intuitive navigation systems for both model years, and in the 2013 model, a USB port became standard across all trim levels.
In certain trims, Bose Centerpoint surround-sound technology and improved material quality enhanced the cabin experience.
Informationtainment system glitches and clutch failures were reported by some owners.
The Worst Years: 2010, 2011
It is recommended to avoid Mazda 3 years 2010 and 2011 because of the common problems with dashboards and tire inflation valve stems.
Mazda 3’s 2010 dashboard degraded and developed a shiny, sticky residue due to a melting dashboard issue, notably affecting visibility and driving performance.
The issue was so prevalent that a class-action lawsuit was filed.
This model year was also plagued by problems with motor mounts and problematic seats, which were later recalled.
Some of the issues above persisted in the 2011 Mazda 3, despite maintaining a semblance of its 2010 counterpart.
Tire inflation valve stems that fail and cause tire deflation are the most commonly reported complaints, and the dashboard is still present in some instances.
NHTSA recalls and complaints for the Mazda 3 for 2010 and 2011.
Best & Worst Years for Mazda 3 3rd Generation (2014-2018)
With a notable evolution in design and technological advancements, the third generation of the Mazda 3 emerged.
The Mazda 3 has some of its best, most reliable years in 2017 and 2018, while the Mazda 3 has some of its worst and least reliable years in 2014 and 2015.
The Best Years: 2017, 2018
Can you tell me what year of used Mazda 3 is the best to buy? 2017 and 2018 are the best Mazda 3 years, with exceptional reliability and owner satisfaction scores on VehicleHistory, Cars.com, and Consumer Reports, and substantially fewer owner complaints than any other years of the generation.
There were two SkyActiv-G petrol engines available during this period, the latter producing 184 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque, mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Fuel efficiency was commendable thanks to the 2.0L engine’s 155 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque, which achieved 28 miles per gallon in the city and 37 on the highway.
It was standard to include the Smart City Brake Support system, which helps drivers avoid frontal collisions at slow speeds.
In addition, the G-Vectoring Control technology, which increased steering response by adjusting engine torque, was introduced to make the ride more comfortable.
Owners reported some glitches, including uncomfortable seats and some noise intrusion during long rides.
The Neutral Years: 2016
With relatively equal amounts of praise and criticism, the 2016 Mazda 3 provides a balanced perspective.
Although it continued to offer the same powertrains, it didn’t reach the same level of technological and safety refinement as its predecessors.
Despite this, a rearview camera and touchscreen interface have become standard across all trim levels.
There were a few recalls this year, involving fuel leaks from a potentially defective Inlet Check Valve (ICV) and corrosion concerns with the parking brake actuator.
The Worst Years: 2014, 2015
As a result of lower than average Edmunds and J.D. Power scores and owner-reported brake problems, Mazda 3 years 2014 and 2015 are to avoid.
Several brake-related problems have been reported by owners, including fuel leaks due to corrosion.
Concerns were raised about unexpected engine stalling and loss of power steering assist on models equipped with the 2.5L engine and regenerative engine braking system.
There were notable recalls, especially for the fuel tank’s ICV, which may fail and leak fuel, parking brake actuators that may corrode, and braking issues, which framed a narrative of mechanical concerns for buyers and owners.
Mazda 3 recalls and complaints from 2014, 2015, and 2016.
Best & Worst Years for Mazda 3 4th Generation (2019-Present)
Fourth-generation Mazda 3s marked the beginning of a new era in luxury with a premium look and feel.
You should avoid the Mazda 3 year 2019 in this generation, while the Mazda 3 years 2021, 2022, and 2023 are the most reliable ones.
The Best Years: 2021, 2022, 2023
There will be an enhanced suite of technology and safety features on the Mazda 3 in 2021, 2022, and 2023.
The powertrain options have increased in these years, with a standard 2.0L 4-cylinder engine, a 2.5L Skyactiv-G PY-VPS 4-cylinder engine, and the introduction of the 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, which provides a lively 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque, while mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission.
There was an average fuel efficiency of 28 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway.
There were many driver-assistance features offered by i-Activsense, such as adaptive cruise control, automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assistance.
A Top Safety Pick+ award was given to the 2022 Mazda3 by the IIHS:
Despite these peak years, challenges remained. It has been reported by some owners that the Mazda 3 of 2021 consumes excessive oil.
The Neutral Years: 2020
Despite demonstrating Mazda’s commitment to performance and aesthetic sophistication, the 2020 Mazda 3 landed in a somewhat neutral spot among the industry’s models.
In addition to the 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, this model offered ample performance and fuel efficiency, but was not without its faults.
This model year saw a number of recalls, including one involving loosening and falling off caliper bolts and another involving intermittent emergency braking.
The Worst Years: 2019
As the Mazda 3’s reliability and owner satisfaction scores have dropped by Consumer Reports and many NHTSA recalls have been issued, 2019 is undoubtedly the worst year to buy one.
A multitude of concerns were reported by consumers, from issues with the power train to braking system malfunctions to airbag and seatbelt indicator issues.
It was a year of recalls, dealing with issues like software errors that could cause the engine to stall, unexpected emergency braking activations, and loose rearview mirrors and wheel lug nuts.
In spite of its commendable driving dynamics and sleek design, the model’s multitude of concerns and recalls made it a particularly challenging year.
Common Mazda3 Problems
While the Mazda has been popular in the compact car segment, it doesn’t come without its share of reliability problems. The following are some of the most common Mazda3 problems:
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Frequently Asked Questions: Mazda3 Years to Avoid
What are the Mazda3 model years to avoid?
Mazda3 models from 2004, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014 are best avoided based on complaints and reported issues. Various problems have been reported for these model years, including transmission failures, clutch failures, and brake failures.
Why should I avoid the first year of each new Mazda3 generation?
In the first year of a new Mazda3 generation, the manufacturer typically works out the kinks in the design. The 2004 (1st generation), 2010 (2nd generation), and 2014 (3rd generation) models have generally been criticized more than their subsequent generations.
What problems did the 2004 Mazda3 experience?
The 2004 Mazda3 didn’t have many reported problems, but those that were reported included engine failure, transmission issues (difficulty shifting or complete failure), headlight malfunctions, and faulty air conditioning units.
Are there any reliable Mazda3 model years?
Yes, several Mazda3 models from 2005-2009 (1st generation), 2015-2018 (3rd generation), and 2019-2020 (4th generation) are considered reliable. The number of reported problems and complaints has decreased for these model years.
Are Mazda3s typically reliable?
In general, Mazda Mazda3s (yes, that’s a bit redundant, but Mazda picked that name) are well-regarded as reliable vehicles. The majority of Mazda3s are reliable, except for those manufactured in the first half of the 2010s.
How much does a used Mazda3 typically cost?
Now that SUVs have become more expensive, small compact cars are in demand.
Mazda3 is an example. CoPilot Price Pulse estimates that the average price of a 2009 sedan is $7,665, with a market premium of 43% (compared to normal market conditions). Newer models still command higher prices than older models. Mazda3 sedans sell for $23,510, a 26% increase over last year’s price.
Is the Mazda3 a good car to purchase?
There are several reasons why the Mazda3 is an excellent vehicle. A Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla is often overlooked by shoppers looking for a dependable, stylish car. All you need to do is pick the most reliable Mazda3 years, and you’ll be good to go.
Conclusion
With Mazda 3’s journey behind us, we’ve uncovered a variety of experiences across its generations, pinpointing the best years in Mazda 3’s history. In terms of performance and reliability, 2013, 2017, 2018, and 2021-2023 are the best years.
Reliability, resale value, or technological advancements are the factors that most influence your decision when choosing a model year?
Comment below and let me know what you think!