GradeMazda Mazda3 Reliability Grade
Excellent reliability
Grade a specific Mazda Mazda3
Reliability changes from year to year. Pick a model year to see its grade, then add mileage and price to get a deal score and estimated miles remaining.
The Mazda Mazda3 earns an A overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with an A for its engine and an A for its transmission. It ranks 1st of 14 compact cars we grade. Its engine (A) and transmission (A) grade about the same, so neither stands out as a weak point. Grades are based on 872 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2013-2023 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.
Mazda Mazda3 reliability by year
Overall grade for each model year, from owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Tap a year to see its full grade.
Best years: 2005, 2009, 2011, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2020 and 2022
Faded years are recent, so fewer complaints have come in. Their grades may change.
How long does the Mazda Mazda3 last?
A rough estimate for the model across all years, not measured for each model year.
Mazda Mazda3 vs. other compact cars
| Model | Engine | Trans. | Overall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Corolla | A | A | A |
| Mazda Mazda3 | A | A | A |
| Subaru Impreza | A | A | A |
| Toyota Prius | A | A | A |
| Honda Civic | A- | A | A- |
| Nissan Versa | A- | B- | A- |
| Chevrolet Cruze | B+ | B | A- |
| Nissan Sentra | A | B- | B+ |
| Kia Forte | B- | B+ | B+ |
| Volkswagen Jetta | B | B+ | B+ |
| Volkswagen Golf | B | B | B |
| Hyundai Elantra | C+ | B | B- |
| Ford Fiesta | C+ | F | D |
| Ford Focus | F | F | F |
Own a Mazda Mazda3?
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Rate your Mazda3Mazda Mazda3 reliability FAQ
Is the Mazda Mazda3 reliable?
Excellent reliability. The Mazda Mazda3 earns an A overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with an A for its engine and an A for its transmission. It ranks 1st of 14 compact cars we grade. Its engine (A) and transmission (A) grade about the same, so neither stands out as a weak point. Grades are based on 872 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2013-2023 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.
How many miles will a Mazda Mazda3 last?
We estimate a well-maintained Mazda Mazda3 lasts around 200,000 miles. That's a rough figure for the model across all years, not measured for each model year, so check the grade for the year you're looking at.
What are the best years for the Mazda Mazda3?
Based on NHTSA owner complaints, the most reliable Mazda Mazda3 model years are 2005, 2009, 2011, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2020 and 2022.
What Mazda Mazda3 years should I avoid?
No Mazda Mazda3 model year stands out as a problem year in NHTSA owner complaints.
Is the Mazda Mazda3 transmission reliable?
GradeMyCar grades the Mazda Mazda3 transmission an A (excellent reliability). Reliability varies by model year, so grade the specific year you're looking at.
Is the Mazda Mazda3 engine reliable?
GradeMyCar grades the Mazda Mazda3 engine an A (excellent reliability).