Last updated: 2026-04-20
2018 Mazda 3 Reliability Report
The 2018 Mazda 3 scores 79/100 ("Good"). With 1 recall and 9 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
1
Complaints
9
Complaint Rate
1.4per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$433
Annual Fuel Cost
$1,850–$2,150
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues to Watch
- BACK OVER PREVENTION (2)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (2)
- EXTERIOR LIGHTING (1)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2018 is the last model year of the Third generation (BM/BN/BY).
- Final-year models are typically the most refined version of a generation.
- 2 years after the last refresh (2016).
- 3rd generation 3 (US).
What this means for buyers
Final-year models are usually the most polished version of a generation, but resale value may dip as buyers anticipate the next redesign.
2014: Third generation (BM/BN/BY) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2016: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
2018: This Model Year
2018 is the last model year of the Third generation (BM/BN/BY).
Should You Buy the 2018 Mazda 3?
At 79/100, the 2018 Mazda 3 lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2018 is the last model year of the Third generation (BM/BN/BY).
Owners log 9 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.
Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to back over prevention (2). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2019 Mazda 3, which scored 1 points lower.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +$93 cheaper to maintain than avg compact cars
- +Infrequent unscheduled repairs
- +Low major repair risk (10%)
Cons
- −BACK OVER PREVENTION issues reported (2 complaints)
- −ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (2 complaints)
Compare 2018 Mazda 3 With
2018 Volkswagen Golf
Reliability: 69/100
2018 KIA Forte
Reliability: 66/100
2018 Subaru Impreza
Reliability: 69/100
2018 Nissan Versa
Reliability: 76/100
2018 BMW 2-Series
Reliability: 70/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 1 manufacturer recall issued
Other
HIGH RISK- BACK OVER PREVENTION (2)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (2)
Recall Overview
1
recall on record
The 2018 Mazda 3 carries 1 recall — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
1.4
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 24.9
Safety Incidents
1
Crashes
0
Fires
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2018 Mazda 3 Recall Details
1 recall has been issued for the 2018 Mazda 3. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
BACK OVER PREVENTION
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Mazda3 and 2016-2021 CX-3 vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display properly by showing a flickering or distorted image.
Consequence
A rearview camera that does not display properly can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the rearview camera, as necessary. In addition, dealers will install a wiring harness fastening seal. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed September 13, 2023. Final owner letters for affected models and model years in the states of CT, MA, MD, NJ, NY, PA and VA were mailed August 14, 2024. The remaining owner notification letters will be mailed at a future date, anticipated on or before May 1, 2025. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, Option 6. Mazda's number for this recall is 6023G.
Buying a used 2018 Mazda 3? Check its history first
Every 2018 Mazda 3 has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2018 Mazda 3 NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 13.8%
Safety Technologies
Mazda 3Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
4Maintenance rating: 4 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$433
vs $526 avg for compact cars
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.3
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
10%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
28–32 MPG
Running cost: $2,300–$2,600/yr
Fuel + repair
25–28 city / 33–38 hwy MPG
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2018 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 5-Door 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S6) | 28 | 37 | 32 | $1,850 |
| 3 4-Door 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S6) | 28 | 37 | 31 | $1,950 |
| 3 4-Door 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 28 | 38 | 31 | $1,950 |
| 3 5-Door 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 27 | 37 | 31 | $1,950 |
| 3 4-Door 2.5L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S6) | 27 | 36 | 30 | $2,000 |
| 3 5-Door 2.5L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S6) | 26 | 35 | 30 | $2,000 |
| 3 4-Door 2.5L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 25 | 34 | 29 | $2,050 |
| 3 5-Door 2.5L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 25 | 33 | 28 | $2,150 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2018 Mazda 3.
Inspect headlamps for condensation
Verify blind spot monitoring system functionality
Test for unintended acceleration during parking
Check tire manufacturing date for age and condition
Ensure recall repairs for back over prevention are completed
2018 Mazda 3 Common Problems by Component
9 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
BACK OVER PREVENTION
2 complaintsOwners of the 2018 Mazda 3 report issues related to back over prevention, specifically concerning delays in the availability of parts required for a recall repair. Complaints frequently mention that the manufacturer has exceeded a reasonable timeframe to provide these parts, although no failures have been experienced by the owners. There are no reports of crashes, fires, or loss of control associated with this issue. Buyers considering a used 2018 Mazda 3 should be aware of potential delays in recall repairs related to back over prevention systems.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
2 complaintsOwners of the 2018 Mazda 3 report issues related to the electrical system, specifically involving the blind spot detection and electronic throttle systems. One owner describes the blind spot monitoring system failing to function at approximately 22,440 miles, which was addressed through a service bulletin but not a recall. Another complaint highlights unintended acceleration while parking, attributed to potential voltage problems within the electronic throttle system, though the dealer could not replicate the issue. This incident resulted in the car jumping a curb, indicating potential safety implications. These reports suggest potential safety concerns due to electrical system malfunctions, with symptoms occurring at various mileages.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaintHeavy condensation is occurring inside the driver side headlamp. A quick google search shows this is a common problem among Mazda owners and Mazda will not cover the repair. I am unable to get a Massachusetts state inspection sticker due to this.
SUSPENSION (1 complaints)
SUSPENSION
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2018 Mazda CX-3. The contact stated that while driving, the vehicle was moving from left to right. The contact stated that the brakes were making an abnormal scraping sound. There was an abnormal sound coming from the engine. The local dealer was not contacted. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was unknown.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (1 complaints)
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaintWas driving my grandchildren home when an alarm that I had never heard before started sounding and BRAKE! showed up on the heads up display. The car came to a stop out in the middle of the street even though there was nothing in front of or around the vehicle. It was a good thing there was not a car behind me or they would have rear-ended my vehicle and we or the people in the car that hit us could have gotten seriously hurt. I took the car to the dealer and they did a diagnostics check and said no codes came up so there was nothing wrong with the car. They actually told me that when and if it happens again to videotape it for proof.
WHEELS (1 complaints)
WHEELS
1 complaintI WAS SOLD A VEHICLE WITH "NEW" TIRES. I'VE ONLY HAD THE VEHICLE ABOUT 6 MONTHS AND FOUND OUT THE TIRES WERE MADE IN 2011 AND STARTING TO DETERIORATE SO I HAD TO BUY ACTUAL NEW TIRES. I DID NOT HAVE AN ACCIDENT BUT FEEL THERE COULD HAVE BEEN A TIRE BLOWOUT. LUCKILY I HAD RUN OVER A BOLT AND WAS TRYING TO GET A TIRE REPAIR WHEN THE TIRE PLACE TOLD ME ABOUT THE BAD CONDITION OF ALL FOUR TIRES. THE DEALERSHIP FIRST DID NOT BELIEVE ME BUT WHEN I SHOWED THEM A PICTURE THEY SAID THEY CAN SELL TIRES UP TO 8 YEARS OLD AS NEW IF THEY WERE NOT PREVIOUSLY ON A VEHICLE. I DON'T KNOW IF THAT IS TRUE BUT IF THE TIRES WERE STARTING TO DRY ROT IT SEEMS LIKE A BAD IDEA AND CERTAINLY UNETHICAL IF NOT ILLEGAL.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaintSafety-relatedI WAS IN A PARKING RAMP, I ROUNDED THE CORNER GOING UP AND WAS PULLING INTO A PARKING SPOT, MY FOOT WAS ON THE BREAK, AND THE CAR ACCELERATED. I LURCHED FORWARD INTO A WALL OF THE RAMP. IT WASN'T RAINING SO PAVEMENT AND RAMP WERE NOT WET. THE DEALER HAS LOOKED AT THE CAR, SAID THEY SAW BREAK AND GAS PEDAL ACTIVE AT THE SAME TIME. THEY SAID NOTHING WAS WRONG WITH THE CAR.
When Do 2018 Mazda 3 Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Mazda 3 Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Mazda 3 Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Mazda 3 year is 2025 with a reliability score of 79/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2018 (79/100) and 2024 (78/100).
2025
2018
(Current Model)
2024
Mazda 3 Years to Avoid
The worst Mazda 3 year is 2021 with a score of 70/100, primarily due to engine (36) issues.
Mazda 3 Reliability Score Trend
Mazda 3 reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 77/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 79/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 78/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 70/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 78/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 78/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 78/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 79/100 | Good |
Mazda 3 Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2018 Mazda 3 reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Mazda 3?
How many recalls does the 2018 Mazda 3 have?
Is the 2018 Mazda 3 expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2018 Mazda 3 without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the Mazda 3.
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