Which Years of Used Mazda CX-3s Are Most Reliable?
Mazda CX-3 by Tokumeigakarinoaoshima - CC-BY-SA-4.0
The Mazda CX-3 is a highly popular sub-compact SUV, which was sold in the US up to 2021. It can fit five passengers and has excellent horsepower plus a six-speed manual transmission or automatic transmission depending on your preferences. Three different trim types were also available over its manufacturing lifespan.
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.
Not sure where to start? Read on for more information about the best years of used Mazda CX-3s.
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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?
Most Reliable Years for the Mazda CX-3
To maximize your value for money, don’t rely on common wisdom and assume that the most recent models of used vehicles are the overall best options possible. Ironically, the most reliable years of Mazda CX-3s include:
- 2016 Mazda CX-3
- 2017 Mazda CX-3
- 2019 Mazda CX-3
- 2021 Mazda CX-3
In other words, the most reliable Mazda CX-3s are scattered throughout its manufacturing lifespan. The 2016 Mazda CX-3, for example, is highly reliable and features a sturdy build with durable construction. Meanwhile, the 2017 Mazda CX-3 is also noteworthy for its good build quality, longevity, and engine power.
The 2019 Mazda CX-3 also focused heavily on reliability, plus it benefited from new technological advancements and special perks integrated into the. The 2021 Mazda CX-3 is the best example of this developmental philosophy growth.
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Are Mazda CX-3s Generally Reliable?
Whether or not a Mazda CX-3 is generally reliable depends heavily on the year you buy. Naturally, the most reliable Mazda CX-3 year will be perfectly suitable for your needs.
In general, however, you’ll find that most years of the Mazda CX-3 have good reliability. According to motorbiscuit.com, the Mazda CX-3 has a 5⁄5 predicted reliability rating for the most recent model year, improving significantly compared to some other models.
Similarly, copilotsearch.com indicates that the Mazda CX-3 is a popular and reliable alternative to other common small SUVs like the Honda HR-V and Toyota C-HR. Overall, though, your mileage may vary in terms of overall reliability with the Mazda CX-3.
Which Mazda CX-3s Are the Least Reliable?
Of course, there are also some Mazda CX-3 years you should avoid. These include:
- 2018 Mazda CX-3, which is known for its electronic glitches and problems with the transmission
- 2020 Mazda CX-3. Despite being a recent model year, it warrants caution as it has less than stellar engine performance, and various owners have reported engine misfires and high oil consumption, both of which can affect reliability and overall vehicle
Are Mazda CX-3s Expensive to Maintain?
On the bright side, maintaining your Mazda CX-3 will be terribly expensive. According to repairpal.com, the average annual repair cost for a Mazda CX-3 is $345. This is pretty affordable, and it indicates that a used Mazda CX-3 provides excellent value for money. The average for some compact SUVs is $466 per year.
Of course, the older your Mazda CX-3 happens to be, the more you can expect to pay for maintenance over its lifespan. Keep this in mind, and don’t skip yearly maintenance checkups for your used Mazda CX-3. Even the most reliable Mazda CX-3 year needs regular tune-ups. Taking your vehicle into those tune-ups will ensure that no drastically terrible maintenance problems crop up in the future.
Which Mazda CX-3 is Most Reliable?
If you’re interested in getting the absolute most reliable Mazda CX-3 year, you’ll want to stick with the 2021 Mazda CX-3. That’s because it has the highest overall predicted reliability rating according to fourwheeltrends.com, and it represents several mechanical improvements over its predecessors.
For example, you can get up to 29 miles per gallon in the city and 34 miles per gallon on the highway. There’s ample cargo volume, and it has an overall NHTSA safety rating of five out of five stars. Given all this information, there’s no reason not to look for a used Mazda CX-3 from 2021. Odds are you’ll be able to save several thousand dollars by purchasing a vehicle that is a few years old at this point.
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What Are the Most Common Mazda CX-3 Problems?
Always be on the lookout for some common Mazda CX-3 problems, which can cause maintenance headaches and cost you quite a lot of money. The most common Mazda CX-3 problems, according to motorandwheels.com, include:
- Transmission issues
- Engine performance problems
- Road and wind noise
- Lack of power
- Electrical glitches
- Engine performance problems
Some of these are more dangerous than others, like electrical glitches. If you notice any of these issues, take your used Mazda CX-3 into a repair shop to get it examined right away. That’s the best way to keep your family safe while on the road.
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Is the Mazda CX-3 Worth It?
It’s easy to see that the Mazda CX-3 could very well be worth it, particularly if you pick up a used model from one of the better years. The Mazda CX-3 offers excellent performance, good reliability, and spacious cabin room for you and your family members, all for a very reasonable asking price.
However, it’s also known that the less-than-stellar Mazda CX-3 years are known for a variety of mechanical issues, like transmission problems and lack of power from the engine. Be sure to get a vehicle history report before buying any used Mazda CX-3. That way, you’ll be up to see if a given car has any major mechanical problems before putting your own money on the line.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the 2021 Mazda CX-3 is the most reliable model year for this vehicle, although you can also opt for earlier iterations like the 2016 or 2017 Mazda CX-3. Whatever you do, drive the vehicle around for a test and be sure to inspect it thoroughly, or have a mechanic inspect it for you.
That’s the only way to make sure your used Mazda CX-3 will really be worth your time and that it won’t give you trouble once you finally take it out for a drive. Good luck!
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