How Long Do Mazda CX-3s Last?


in Reliability

We explore how long Mazda CX-3s last: how many miles they're usually good for, what's considered "good" mileage for the subcompact SUV, and other vehicle longevity info.

Blue Mazda CX-3
Source: Flickr

The Mazda CX-3 is a subcompact SUV that lasted a few years as the smallest SUV in Mazda’s lineup. Though it had some flaws, there were also benefits in its lower price point and spunky driving experience. If you want to purchase a used version for your driveway, every detail matters. One vital one is this - how long do Mazda CX-3s last?

From the money you’ll save to the time before purchasing a new car is necessary, the lifespan of a vehicle is a vital consideration before ownership. It determines how much you’ll stretch every dollar, and even if investing in this machine makes sense. Read on to learn more about how long a standard Mazda CX-3 will survive and other helpful details.

How Many Miles Does the Mazda CX-3 Last?

The Mazda CX-3 didn’t last very long on the market, but we can peek at the average life expectancy from a few sources. Most owners expect the Mazda CX-3 to survive around 200,000 miles - more than a decade of ownership for the average individual. There are some things you can do to guarantee a longer life for your machine. 

According to progressive.com, here are some ways to make your vehicle last longer:

  • Change oil and air filter
  • Wash car often
  • Avoid bad driving habits
  • Watch tires
  • Keep eyes peeled for maintenance lights

These are areas where problems can arise if left unwatched. 

If you want to be persistent with your vehicle and provide the Mazda CX-3 with the best opportunity at a long lifespan, perform these items and watch out for any issues. If they are noticed, bring the car to a trusted mechanic as soon as possible. However, there will always be aging factors you can do nothing about. 


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What Is High Mileage for Mazda CX-3?

How long do Mazda CX-3s last? Typical mileage for the Mazda CX-3 is around 200,000 miles, which makes high mileage for the vehicle at 170,000 miles. For most owners, this point in the car’s lifespan is where most serious and expensive troubles arise. High mileage is close to the end of the CX-3’s life.

Though not advised, some will purchase high-mileage versions for the following reasons:

  • They are more available than low-mileage selections
  • They cost less upfront
  • They work for a short period

In time, they won’t save much money.

We don’t recommend going with a high-mileage selection. However, if you do, always take it for a test drive and bring it to a trusted mechanic to have them look for any hidden troubles. If anything signals trouble, we recommend another high-mileage choice or looking for something with less history on the odometer. 

What Is a Good Mileage for a Mazda CX-3?

High and typical mileage is vital with the Mazda CX-3, but we also want to check out good mileage. The good mileage point is what every vehicle owner should strive for as a positive point of ownership for their car. It means good things in the long run.

The good mileage for the Mazda CX-3 is 150,000 miles. If you make it here, it means the following:

  • A better chance at long-term ownership
  • Lower repair and maintenance costs
  • Excellent driving from the owner.

You shouldn’t have any severe troubles up to this point. 

Sometimes, no matter how well you care for your car, some issues appear based on various road circumstances, defects in the machine’s model year, and the weather of the location where you reside. Still, drivers should strive to make it to the good mileage point for excellent success in the long term. 


THE MOST RELIABLE YEAR FOR THE MAZDA CX-3

If you’re looking for a preowned CX-3, you should specifically target the most reliable Mazda CX-3 year possible, as you’ll run into fewer maintenance hiccups and potential problems.


Should I Buy a Used Mazda CX-3 with More Than 100k?

We’ve answered the question - how long do Mazda CX-3s last - so we must move to other related details. For example, let’s say you want to make the most of your money and go for a used CX-3. Should you purchase one with more than 100,000 miles on the odometer or choose something else?

Go for a triple-digit selection if it meets the following criteria:

  • Closer to 100,000 miles than 150,000
  • In excellent condition
  • Reasonably priced

There will be some wear and tear on the machine. 

If you can, we recommend investing in versions of the Mazda CX-3 with less than 100,000 miles on the odometer. However, it’s possible to get many years out of a used one with six digits, thanks to the predicted 200,000-mile lifespan. 

At What Mileage Do Most Mazdas Break Down?

One of the most helpful ways to ponder the longevity of the Mazda CX-3 is to see how long a typical Mazda is supposed to last. With this information, we can see how the CX-3 stacks up.

Typically, Mazdas will survive 200,000-250,000 miles. With this lifespan, the CX-3 scratches the bottom of the average - which is fine. It’s not the best, but it’s far from the worst in its competition. 


THE MAZDA CX-3 YEARS TO AVOID

It’s an ideal alternative to more common small SUVs like the Toyota C-HR and Honda HR-V, but what are the Mazda CX-3 years to avoid?


Common Mazda CX-3 Issues

How long do Mazda CX-3s last? One of the most helpful items to consider are common troubles the Mazda CX-3 faces. Once you’re familiar with these, you’ll understand what to look for in your car to make it last longer. 

Common troubles include the following:

  • Starting difficulties
  • Power loss
  • HVAC troubles

These can be expensive and detrimental to the car’s system.

If you notice these arise, bring the machine to a mechanic. They will address the trouble and get your car back in working order sooner rather than later. Plus, addressing issues extends the lifespan.

Final Thoughts

The Mazda CX-3 is a decent used vehicle with an average lifespan for a Mazda. Keep your eyes peeled for troubles, drive the car well, and keep up with maintenance for the best shot at extending longevity for a long time. 

We hope this information is helpful as you examine your options for used vehicles like the Mazda CX-3. Also, note that some model years are better than others - no two machines are created equal, even within a specific vehicle.



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