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    GREEN CHOICE

    Mazda 3

    EPA MPG: 33 mpg

    RECALL ALERT:
    There are 6 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

    Reliability

    Overall Reliability

    The 2016 3 has about average reliability compared to other cars from the same model year.

    The 2016 Mazda 3 has been recalled 6 times by NHTSA. View Recalls
    Most Common Trouble Spots
    Common Trouble Spot
    Common Trouble Spot

    Owner Reported Trouble Spots

    The Reliability score is based on our latest subscriber survey of 2016 Mazda 3 owners. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.

    In-car Electronics

    Infotainment system (audio, GPS, phone), rear entertainment system, backup or other camera/sensors, head-up display.

    What Owners Say

    Backup or other camera/sensors

    "Display for the backup camera got distorted enough that I could not use it safely."

    Anonymous, BC (2016 Mazda 3 Sport 2.0-L 4 Cyl)
    Display screen freezes up

    "The system restarts constantly. It was replaced as Part of a recall but still has issues intermittently"

    Anonymous, NY (2016 Mazda 3 Touring 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    "Every so often (maybe once every year or two) the display will freeze. Restarting the car fixes it. Some times it's at startup, sometimes it just happens while I'm driving. It's annoying, but extremely infrequent (although it shouldn't happen at all, since so much of the car is controlled via the display)."

    Anonymous, WI (2016 Mazda 3 Grand Touring 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
    Display screen goes blank

    "Upon starting the vehicle the system seems to reboot. screen will go blank and splash screen will reappear several times."

    Anonymous, OR (2016 Mazda 3 Grand Touring 2.0-L 4 Cyl)
    Hardware replacement

    "Cant use the touch screen. Can not use touch screen . Can use the buttons but that way is very difficult to use. I was told I would have to replace the entire screen which will cost around $500."

    Anonymous, MD (2016 Mazda 3 Grand Touring 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    "The control knob and buttons that sit in the center console sank a good 4 inches into the console. I have to reach my hand inside the console to access the buttons."

    Anonymous, MO (2016 Mazda 3 Unsure Unsure)

    "Touch screen stopped working at 50000 miles"

    Anonymous, VA (2016 Mazda 3 Sport 2.0-L 4 Cyl)
    In-dash navigation system (GPS)

    "Since I cant use the screen I cannot use the navigation feature."

    Anonymous, MD (2016 Mazda 3 Grand Touring 2.0-L 4 Cyl)
    Other in-car electronics problem

    ""The touchscreen randomly acts as though I had touched it. For example, driving down the road listening to FM radio, it will suddenly switch to an AM station. It has randomly called the first person on my cell phone contact list. The navigation system randomly pinpoints spots on the map, often far away from where I actually am. Occasionally it will go into an endless loop of trying to add an FM radio station to my favorites, including an error message that the station is already included. Then it start6s the cycle all over again, trying to add that station. The only repair that I've heard of is to physically disconnect the touchscreen, and use only the selector knob on the console. That is currently how I do everything, and it's not worth the expense to have it fixed.""

    Anonymous, VA (2016 Mazda 3 Unsure 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    "Beginning of 2024 summer screen developed tiny cracks on corners. Seems to be from the sun or heat. Middle is fine."

    Anonymous A., ID (2016 Mazda 3 Touring 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    ""Particularly when weather is hot, the infotainment system will randomly change/reselect sources.""

    Anonymous, MD (2016 Mazda 3 Sport 2.0-L 4 Cyl)
    Radio

    ""At times, radio will not turn on until I go through the full menu""

    Anonymous, FL (2016 Mazda 3 Sport 2.0-L 4 Cyl)
    Speakers

    "Front passenger speaker is no longer working. It sounds muffled."

    Anonymous A., CT (2016 Mazda 3 Grand Touring 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    Engine Minor

    Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, fuel leaks, oil leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Oil leaks

    "Pan in engine that had small leak, but to fix it had to take out a lot of engine parts."

    Anonymous, CA (2016 Mazda 3 Touring 2.0-L 4 Cyl)
    Other minor engine problem

    "engine was missing and hesitating"

    Anonymous, OK (2016 Mazda 3 Grand Touring 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    Exhaust

    Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Other/unsure

    "Blend door linage repaired"

    Anonymous, OH (2016 Mazda 3 Sport Unsure)
    Pipes

    "Flex pipe replaced for $500. The leaks occurred where the old tail pipe was welded to the hangers to reduce noise. The replacement rattles a bit but that was better than a $3000 replacement by the dealer."

    Anonymous, NS (2016 Mazda 3 Unsure 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    Climate System

    AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage.

    What Owners Say

    Heater system

    "Control dial for heat often cause a disconnect with the heating system. We need to take out the glove box to manually re-attach."

    Anonymous A., VT (2016 Mazda 3 Touring 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
    Other climate system problem

    "When AC is being used, a loud humming squeal happens. It is un-ignorable and the dealership has not been able to fix it."

    Anonymous A., TN (2016 Mazda 3 Sport 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    Engine Major

    Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbocharger or supercharger, timing chain or belt.

    What Owners Say

    Engine rebuild or replacement

    "The problem is still not resolved and I would love for some help with the 7k price tag to fix it."

    Anonymous A., TX (2016 Mazda 3 Grand Touring 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
    Head gasket

    ""Was smelling burnt oil smell after driving. Had car checked and dealer replaced Head gasket saying it was leaking. I've had the car checked several times after the head gasket was replaced and so far about a year later, things look ok according to my last oil change with a mechanic that was not Mazda""

    Anonymous, IL (2016 Mazda 3 Sport 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    Paint/Trim

    Paint (fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking), loose interior or exterior trim or moldings, rust.

    What Owners Say

    Loose exterior trim or moldings

    "A trim off the back is starting to come off. I have some panels that I have to bang into place. My car was hit by a teen driver while parked and kicked by a bicyclist."

    Anonymous, CA (2016 Mazda 3 Grand Touring 2.0-L 4 Cyl)
    Rust

    "Rust on driver's side doorwell, right where I usually kick off snow when entering during winter. No other part of the car has any rust issues, but if you live in snowy climes you know that's a spot that *should* be extra rust-proof."

    Anonymous, WI (2016 Mazda 3 Grand Touring 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    Noises/Leaks

    Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, seals and/or weather stripping, air and water leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Squeaks or rattles

    ""Noticed rattle in dashboard above glove box where air bag is located about 3years ago, noticed everyday. If push on airbag area of dashboard the noise stopped. About 2yrs ago, dealer took out and inspected airbag and tightened screws in glove box. Noise went away for about 2 months, then came back. If pushed on dashboard where airbag was the noise stopped. Dealer did not do anymore and said airbag looked ok so they were not sure why it was rattling and told me the airbag area was safe and the airbag would not deploy accidently while driving and to monitor it if if became louder. Now I just live with the rattle.""

    Anonymous, IL (2016 Mazda 3 Sport 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    Brakes

    Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.

    What Owners Say

    Rotors

    "Warped rotors seem to be a common problem with the Mazda3 of my vintage."

    Anonymous, CA (2016 Mazda 3 Touring 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    Electrical Accessories

    Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, USB ports, alarm or security system, remote engine start, heated or cooled seats, heated steering wheel, headlights, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, wireless charging pad.

    What Owners Say

    USB port

    "1 stopped working"

    Anonymous, VA (2016 Mazda 3 Sport 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    Suspension/Steering

    Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering (pumps and hoses, leaks), wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension.

    What Owners Say

    Steering linkage (includes rack and pinion)

    "Need both front control arms and rear sway bars"

    Anonymous, PA (2016 Mazda 3 Grand Touring 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    Engine Cooling

    Radiator, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, overheating.

    What Owners Say

    Water pump

    "Started a year ago with a different noise we heard. Took it to the dealer and they repaired it."

    Anonymous A., CA (2016 Mazda 3 Unsure Unsure)

    Body Hardware

    Windows, locks and latches, doors or sliding doors, tailgate, trunk or hatch, mirrors, seat controls (power or manual), seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defect.

    Transmission Minor

    Gear selector and linkage, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission, leaks.

    Drive System

    Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, four-wheel-drive/all-wheel-drive components, driveline vibration, electrical failure, traction control, electronic stability control.

    Fuel System/Emissions

    Sensors (O₂, or oxygen, sensor), emission-control devices (includes EGR), fuel-injection system, fuel gauge/sender, fuel pump, problems filling up the tank.

    Engine Electrical

    Alternator, starter, hybrid battery replacement, hybrid battery related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, spark plugs and wires failure, auto stop/start.

    Transmission Major

    Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, premature clutch replacement.

    2016 Sedans & Hatchbacks Reliability

    This Car
    vs. Similar Cars

    Mazda vs. Other New Car Brands Reliability

    Reliability History
    * Redesign year
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    Overall Reliability Verdict
    NA
    NA

    POTENTIAL TROUBLE SPOTS
    Powertrain
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Engine Major
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Engine Minor
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Engine Cooling
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Engine Electrical
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Transmission Major
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Transmission Minor
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Drive System
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Fuel System/Emissions
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Exhaust
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Suspension/Steering
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Brakes
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Climate System
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Build Quality
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Electrical Accessories
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Body Hardware
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Paint/Trim
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Noises/Leaks
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    In-car Electronics
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Reliability indicates how models have performed in the past, providing the basis for predicting how the vehicles will hold up in the year ahead. These charts provide the most comprehensive reliability information available to consumers. Based on information received from our latest subscriber survey for about 380,000 vehicles, our reliability history charts give you a rundown on how 2000 through 2025 vehicles are holding up in 20 potential trouble spots, ranging from the engine, transmission, electric motor, EV charging, and brakes, to power equipment and the electrical accessories.
    Recalls
    PROVIDED BY
    BACK OVER PREVENTION
    Jul 14, 2023
    A rearview camera that does not display properly can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
    Summary:
    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.
    What should you do:
    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.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 23V487000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 236100
    VISIBILITY
    Apr 04, 2019
    Reduced visibility while driving can increase the risk of crash.
    Summary:
    Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Mazda3 vehicles. A defective windshield wiper relay may cause the windshield wipers to become inoperative, reducing the driver's visibility.
    What should you do:
    Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front body control module with a new module which uses an improved wiper relay design, free of charge. The recall began May 7, 2019. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 3219D.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 19V272000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 187880
    PARKING BRAKE
    Jun 22, 2017
    If the parking brake actuator shaft binds, the parking brake may not engage or disengage fully. If the parking brake does not engage properly, the vehicle may move unexpectedly if it is parked on a slope, increasing the risk of a crash.
    Summary:
    Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2014-2015 Mazda6 and 2014-2016 Mazda3 vehicles. Water could possibly enter the brake caliper causing the parking brake actuator shaft to corrode and possibly bind.
    What should you do:
    Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will check the parking brake actuator shafts, replacing any that are corroded, free of charge. Remedy parts are currently unavailable. Interim notices informing owners of the safety risk were mailed August 24, 2017. Owners will receive a second notice when remedy parts become available. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's number for this recall is 1217F.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 17V393000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 227814
    FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
    Sep 23, 2016
    A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
    Summary:
    Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2016 Mazda3 vehicles manufactured September 24, 2015, to October 16, 2015. During manufacturing, the fuel tanks for the affected vehicles may have deformed, resulting in a fuel leak from the recirculation pipe welded connection.
    What should you do:
    Mazda will notify owners, and depending on the tank lot number, dealers will inspect the recirculation pipe weld, replacing the fuel tank, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 1, 2016. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's number for this recall is 0216I.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 16V685000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 3849
    FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
    Sep 22, 2016
    A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
    Summary:
    Mazda Motors North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2014-2016 Mazda3 vehicles manufactured January 4, 2014, to September 18, 2015. The fuel tank of the affected vehicles may have been improperly handled during manufacturing and, as a result, the welded attachment of the Inlet Check Valve (ICV) may fail and allow fuel to leak.
    What should you do:
    Mazda will notify owners, and depending on the tank lot number, dealers will inspect the ICV weld, replacing the fuel tank, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 1, 2016. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's number for this recall is 0116I.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 16V684000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 17484
    FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
    Oct 02, 2015
    A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire. An engine that stalls increases the risk of a crash.
    Summary:
    Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Mazda3 vehicles manufactured May 21, 2015, to August 25, 2015. The affected vehicles are equipped with a fuel tank with a shut-off valve that can allow fuel to enter into the fuel tank emissions systems. If enough fuel enters the emission system it may leak out onto the ground or result in an engine stall.
    What should you do:
    Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the vehicle's fuel shut-off valve. As needed, the fuel shut-off valve and the affected fuel tank emissions system components will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began on October 20, 2015. Owners are advised not to drive their vehicle until the repairs have been completed. Mazda will provide rental cars until that time. Owners may contact the Mazda Customer Experience Center at 1-800- 222-5500, option #6. Mazda's number for this recall is 8615J.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 15V621000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 14411
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