Buckle up, folks! We’re about to take a comprehensive dive into Mazda 3 generations, revealing the best and worst years to buy.
This data-driven expedition, backed by powerhouses like NHTSA and Consumer Reports, will give you the lowdown on routine issues, recalls, owner complaints, and resale values.
We’re not just skimming the surface – we’re giving you the nitty-gritty to make a smart choice.
Ready to uncover the gilded age and the lemons?
Let’s hit the gas pedal!
Table of ContentsShow
Mazda 3 Generations
The Mazda 3 burst onto the scene in 2003 as a 2004 model, quickly turning heads with its eye-catching design, peppy performance, and feature-packed lineup – even in its base model. Whether you’re team sedan or team hatchback, the first Mazda 3 had something for everyone.
Let’s break it down with a useful table that maps out the Mazda 3’s journey from 2004 to today.
| Generations | Years |
| 1st generation (BK) | 2004-2009 |
| 2nd generation (BL) | 2010-2013 |
| 3rd generation (BM/BN) | 2014-2018 |
| 4th generation (BP) | 2019-Present |
Why does this matter? Because each generation brought its own set of modifications, upgrades, and improvements. Knowing these stages is crucial to making a wise choice when you’re in the market for a Mazda 3.
Mazda 3 Best, Neutral, and Worst Years
When it comes to ranking the Mazda 3’s years, we’re not just pulling opinions out of thin air. We’ve examined the numbers from a multitude of sources:
- Owner-reported reliability (surveys)
- Annual maintenance costs
- Safety ratings
- Consumer Reports reliability scores
- Consumer Reports owner satisfaction scores
- NHTSA recalls, investigations, and complaints
- Edmunds owner ratings
- JD Power owner ratings
- Kelley’s Blue Book (KBB) owner ratings
- VehicleHistory owner ratings
- Cars.com owner ratings
Want to see how it all unfolds? Check out this diagram that brings together all these comprehensive evaluations:
Now, based on all this data, we’ve classified each Mazda 3 model year into three categories: the exceptional performers, the typical performers, and the years you might want to think twice about.
| 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 |
What do we mean by “Neutral Years”? These are the model years that didn’t exactly set the world alight, but they didn’t crash and burn either. They’re the dependable B students of the Mazda 3 world.
Now, things like NHTSA recalls? They’re not doing any favors for a car’s reliability score. More complaints, recalls, and safety investigations usually mean more possible issues and less buyer confidence.
Ready to dive into the finest, the standard, and the worst Mazda 3 model years?
Let’s achieve this.
Best & Worst Years for Mazda 3 1st Generation (2004-2009)
The 2004 Mazda 3
Back in 2003, Mazda dropped the first-gen Mazda 3 on the world, and car enthusiasts sat up and took notice. This compact car line rapidly won fans with its killer combo of attractive looks, fun-to-drive feel, and wallet-friendly fuel efficiency.
So, which years shine in this generation? The post-facelift years – 2008 and 2009 – take the top spot. But watch out for 2004, 2005, and 2006 – these are the Mazda 3 years you might want to avoid in this generation.
The Best Years: 2008, 2009
Why do 2008 and 2009 come out on top? They’ve got the numbers to back it up, with exceptional Consumer Reports reliability and owner satisfaction scores.
Let’s talk particulars. The 2008 Mazda 3 introduced a “s” Sport trim, packing a 2.3L MZR L engine that delivered a spirited 156 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque.
Drivers could choose between a five-speed manual or a five-speed automatic transmission, with fuel efficiency averaging 17 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
Sure, some owners grumbled about issues with the tire pressure monitoring system and valve stem leaks that could lead to flat tires. But the enhanced features, including a beefed-up audio system and safety add-ons like front-side and side-curtain airbags, made these model years stand out in terms of driver satisfaction and general reliability.
The Neutral Years: 2007
The 2007 Mazda 3? It’s the Switzerland of this generation – not bad, not excellent, just… impartial.
Under the hood, you had options. There was a 2.0L MZR LF-VD engine pumping out 148 horsepower and 135 lb-ft of torque, or you could step up to a 2.3L engine with 156 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. Not too bad for a small car.
Mazda rolled out various trims like the “i” and “s” versions, giving customers choices like a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission, especially in the “i” trim.
But it wasn’t all smooth sailing. The 2007 Mazda 3 had a significant hiccup with the power steering, leading to a recall due to the risk of losing power steering assist. Not exactly what you want to hear when you’re cruising down the bustling highway.
The Worst Years: 2004, 2005, 2006
If you’re shopping for a first-gen Mazda 3, here’s a tip: steer clear of 2004 and 2005. These pre-facelift years score the poorest on VehicleHistory, making them the most unreliable Mazda 3 years you should avoid.
The 2004 Mazda 3’s debut came with some unpleasant surprises that stuck around through 2006. Chief among them? Airbag system issues that sometimes left drivers hanging in collisions.
Engine troubles were another headache, with stalling issues and oil leaks from the engine filter housing. Not only was this a mechanical nuisance, but it also posed a possible safety risk.
The 2005 and 2006 models didn’t do much to fix these issues. In fact, 2006 was especially troublesome when it came to power steering loss and suspension problems, seriously impeding the driving experience.
Want to see the full list of headaches?
Check out the NHTSA 2004, 2005, 2006 Mazda 3 recalls and complaints.
Best & Worst Years for Mazda 3 2nd Generation (2010-2013)
The 2010 Mazda 3
When the second-gen Mazda 3 rolled out (2010-2013), Mazda was on a mission. They wanted to refine the design and kick things up a notch in terms of tech and engineering for this well-liked compact car.
So, which years should you target, and which should you avoid? 2012 and 2013 are the exceptional stars of this generation. But if you’re looking at 2010 and 2011 models, proceed with caution – these years had some dashboard chaos you’ll want to steer clear of.
The Best Years: 2012, 2013
Why do 2012 and 2013 take the top spots? Three words: SkyActiv technology, baby. This innovation brought outstanding gas mileage to the table, and these years boast superb Consumer Reports reliability and owner satisfaction scores to boot.
Mazda introduced a 2.0L SkyActiv-G engine in these years, serving up 155 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque. The greatest part? It delivered enhanced fuel efficiency (up to 28 mpg city and 40 mpg highway) without sacrificing the zippy driving dynamics Mazda 3 fans loved.
Transmission options? You had two: a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic, both sporting SkyActiv tech for fluid, responsive shifting.
Step inside, and you’d find an improved tech interface and a more intuitive navigation system. The 2013 model even threw in a USB port as standard across all trims.
Mazda didn’t stop there. They upped the ante with enhanced material quality and introduced a 265-watt Bose Centerpoint surround-sound system in certain trims, taking the cabin experience to the next level.
Of course, no car is perfect. Some owners reported premature clutch failure and minor electrical glitches in the infotainment system. But overall? These years were solid performers.
The Worst Years: 2010, 2011
Now, about those years to avoid: 2010 and 2011. The primary culprits? Dashboard issues and tire inflation valve stem problems.
The 2010 Mazda 3 became infamous for its melting dashboard issue. The dash material would degrade and develop a shiny, sticky residue, messing with visibility and the general driving experience. This problem was so widespread it sparked a class-action lawsuit.
But wait, there’s more. Motor mount issues and problematic seats (which were later recalled) also plagued this model year.
The 2011 Mazda 3 kept the design and features from 2010, but some of those vexing problems stuck around. Owners were still complaining about unreliable tire inflation valve stems that would fail and cause tire deflation. And yep, that dashboard issue was still present in some cases.
Want the complete scoop on these matters?
Check out the NHTSA 2010, 2011 Mazda 3 recalls and complaints.
Best & Worst Years for Mazda 3 3rd Generation (2014-2018)
The 2014 Mazda 3
As we cruise into the third generation of the Mazda 3, we see some significant evolution in design and tech improvements.
So, which years should you be eyeing in this generation? 2017 and 2018 are not just the best of this bunch – they’re some of the most reliable Mazda 3 years ever. But heads up: you might want to pump the brakes on 2014 and 2015 models.
The Best Years: 2017, 2018
Looking for the cream of the crop in used Mazda 3s? 2017 and 2018 are your golden tickets. These years boast exceptional scores across the board – we’re talking top marks from VehicleHistory, Cars.com, and Consumer Reports for reliability and owner satisfaction. Plus, owner complaints? Rare and far between.
Under the hood, you had options. The 2.0L and 2.5L SkyActiv-G gasoline engines were both on offer. The 2.5L was the powerhouse of the lineup, flexing 184 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. You could pair either engine with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Fuel efficiency? The 2.0L engine didn’t disappoint, offering up to 28 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the freeway.
Mazda wasn’t slacking on safety, either. They introduced the Smart City Brake Support system, designed to help drivers avoid frontal collisions at low speeds. And let’s not forget the G-Vectoring Control technology, which enhanced steering response through subtle engine torque adjustments for a more comfortable ride.
Of course, no car is perfect. Some owners reported uncomfortable seats during long rides and a bit of noise creeping into the cabin. But overall? These years were hard to beat.
The Neutral Years: 2016
The 2016 Mazda 3 is our middle-of-the-road contender. It’s got its fair share of advantages and drawbacks, landing it squarely in neutral territory.
While it offered the same powertrains as the 2017 and 2018 models, it didn’t quite reach the same heights in terms of tech and security enhancements. But it wasn’t all status quo – Mazda did make strides in integrating more standard features across all trim levels, like a rearview camera and a touchscreen interface.
However, this model year wasn’t immune to recalls. There were issues with fuel leakages from a potentially defective Inlet Check Valve (ICV) and concerns about parking brake actuator corrosion. Not deal-breakers, but definitely something to keep in mind.
The Worst Years: 2014, 2015
Now, for the years you might want to think twice about: 2014 and 2015. These models scored comparatively lower on Edmunds and J.D. Power, and owners reported some brake-related problems.
What kind of issues are we talking about? For starters, there were reports of fuel leakage due to potential corrosion. Then there were the brake problems – enough to make any motorist apprehensive.
Recalls were issued for models equipped with the 2.5L engine and regenerative engine braking system. The concerns? Unforeseen engine stalling and potential power steering assist loss. Not exactly what you want to hear about your car.
But wait, there’s more. Major recalls addressed issues with the fuel tank’s ICV (which could fail and allow fuel to leak), parking brake actuators that might corrode, and those problematic braking issues we mentioned earlier.
Want the full scoop on these problems?
Check out the NHTSA 2014, 2015, 2016 Mazda 3 recalls and complaints.
Best & Worst Years for Mazda 3 4th Generation (2019-Present)
The 2019 Mazda 3
Hold onto your hats, folks – we’re diving into the fourth generation of the Mazda 3. This era marks Mazda’s substantial push into luxury territory, with a more refined look and feel.
So, which years should you be eyeing in this latest lineup? 2021, 2022, and 2023 are the cream of the crop – the most reliable Mazda 3 years of this generation. But watch out for 2019 – it’s the one year in this bunch you might want to steer clear of.
The Best Years: 2021, 2022, 2023
Why do these years take the crown? Simple: they nail the trifecta of strong performance, sleek design, and top-notch tech and safety features.
Let’s talk engines. These years offer you options:
- The standard 2.0L 4-cylinder
- A beefier 2.5L Skyactiv-G PY-VPS 4-cylinder
- The new kid on the block: a 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder, pumping out a peppy 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque
All these powerhouses come paired with a flawless 6-speed automatic transmission. And fuel efficiency? You’re looking at up to 28 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway. Not too shabby, right?
Safety-wise, Mazda’s got your back with the i-Activsense suite. We’re talking adaptive cruise control, automated emergency braking, and lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist. The 2022 Mazda3 even snagged a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS. Talk about tranquility of mind!
But let’s keep it real – even these top-tier years weren’t perfect. Some 2021 Mazda 3 owners reported issues with excessive oil consumption. Something to keep an eye on, but not a deal-breaker for most.
The Neutral Years: 2020
The 2020 Mazda 3? It’s our typical contender. It adhered to Mazda’s devotion to performance and elegant looks but didn’t quite hit the high notes of subsequent years.
Under the hood, you’ve got the 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, offering robust performance and fuel efficiency. But this model year wasn’t immune to issues.
Recalls were notably prevalent, with one addressing front brake caliper bolts that might loosen and fall off (yikes!), and another tackling intermittent activation of emergency brakes. Not ideal, but not catastrophic either.
The Worst Years: 2019
Now, for the year you might want to think twice about: 2019. This model year scored the lowest on Consumer Reports for reliability and owner satisfaction, and it accumulated a stack of NHTSA recalls.
What kind of headaches are we talking about? Consumers reported a variety of issues:
- Power train problems
- Braking system malfunctions
- Issues with airbag and seatbelt indicators
And the recalls? There were numerous:
- A software error that could cause the engine to stall
- Unexpected activations of the emergency braking system
- Problems with rearview mirrors
- Wheel lug nuts that could loosen and fall off
To be fair, the 2019 Mazda 3 wasn’t all bad. It offered agile driving dynamics and a svelte design. But with all these issues? It’s a tough sell.
Want the complete scoop on these issues?
Check out the NHTSA 2019, 2020 Mazda 3 recalls and issues.
Mazda 3 Average Resale Values
Want to see how the Mazda 3 sustains its value over time? Take a look at this graph showcasing the progression of Mazda 3’s mean resale values.
Conclusion
Phew! We’ve just taken a whirlwind journey through the Mazda 3’s evolution, uncovering the highs and lows across its generations.
The verdict? 2013, 2017, 2018, and 2021-2023 models come out on top, thanks to their thorough performance and reliability.
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When you’re picking a model year, what’s your top priority? Are you all about dependability? Or do resale value and state-of-the-art tech features make your heart race?
Don’t be reluctant – drop your thoughts in the comment section below!
Let’s begin a conversation about what truly matters when selecting a Mazda 3.
