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Model-year record

2013 Mazda Mazda3
Image: Transferred from en.wikipedia to Commons. · Public domain

2013 Mazda Mazda3

See the complaints, recalls, crash rating, and fuel economy in the public record. Then check the mileage and history of the car you found.

This page shows records, not a buy or avoid call.

The same model year can include a well-kept car and a neglected one. Use these records to plan what to check. Use the specific-car check when you know the mileage.

Complaints filed

117

Reports to NHTSA, 2013

Safety recalls

1

NHTSA campaigns on record

NHTSA crash test

Overall NCAP rating

Combined MPG

26

EPA estimate

Known issues

Electrical System issues lead owner complaints (21% of 117 reports), followed by exterior lighting (19%).

Electrical System21% · 24 reports
Exterior Lighting19% · 22 reports
Power Train15% · 17 reports
Structure9% · 10 reports
Steering8% · 9 reports
Seats7% · 8 reports
Air Bags6% · 7 reports
Seat Belts4% · 5 reports

+ 7 more component categories with fewer reports.

Share of all 117 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 11572005, ODI 11504342, ODI 11384241, ODI 11182189, ODI 11164134.

Individual complaint reports(117)

Showing the 50 most recent reports
Service BrakesMay 2025 · ODI 11658244Details +

The Brake Pedal consistently malfunctions, even after the replacement of the master cylinder (by independent service center). The master cylinder does not hold pressure due to a faulty ABS control unit (which, when Mazda was contacted, said that part was on backorder until September). If the manufacturer knows this is an issue and can't supply the part due to so many replacements needed in their vehicle, why is there no recall? There is no warning to the driver on the dashboard of this issue and has causes repeated issues while breaking.

Reported
May 2025
Incident date
Feb 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11658244 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemFeb 2024 · ODI 11572005Details +

There seems to be a lot of people who own 2012 and 2013 Mazda 3 Sedans (with SKYACTIV-G 2.0L and Halogen Type Headlights) that are dealing with the same issue I am dealing with myself. I have just purchased a used 2013 Mazda 3 with Skyactive Technology and I noticed that when I was braking the headlights would pulse on and off and would continue while I braked. I have been told there is a TSB on this issue (attached) and Mazda is well aware of this happening. This concern is caused by inadequate alternator output controlled by the PCM when the battery is under a heavy load. They are to the point now of charging people for a doing the TSB on the car that is causing the problem of the alternator not producing the proper wattage to support both the headlights and the brake lights at the same time. There are numerous online forum entries that speak of this issue with 2012 and 2013 Mazda 3's. I am very concerned that my headlights may stop working which could result in my death or the death of my occupants of my vehicle not to mention the other motorists on the road around me if my head lights were to eventually fail at night due to lack of proper wattage to the headlights. There are videos on you tube that show these pulsing headlights on Mazda's. I believe that headlights are important enough safety issue that their failing could result in death if the headlights completely failed due to the known fault in these vehicles over time.

Reported
Feb 2024
Incident date
Feb 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11572005 at NHTSA →
Power TrainNov 2023 · ODI 11556887Details +

Transmission Control Module malfunction. The AT light came on and the car made a jerking motion and a clunking noise. It lost power and would not shift which is very dangerous in moving traffic. It put me at risk for getting hit by another vehicle not expecting the abrupt change in speed by my vehicle. The check engine light is now lit up. There were no warning lights before the vehicle’s transmission malfunctioned. A code came up on the vehicle when tested. U0101 lost communication with TCM. From what I have read, researched, and have been told this issue is very common for certain years of Mazda 3’s including mine.

Reported
Nov 2023
Incident date
Nov 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11556887 at NHTSA →
StructureAug 2023 · ODI 11540603Details +

The contact owns a 2013 Mazda Mazda3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V644000 (Structure) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted, and the contact was informed that the part for the recall repair was not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Reported
Aug 2023
Incident date
Aug 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11540603 at NHTSA →
Seat BeltsAug 2023 · ODI 11537049Details +

All my seatbuckels are tearing. I thought it could of been my dog, but I a certain I did not give up my seat or let him drive. My driver side is also tearing. I noticed the buckle catching when securing it, and now it has moved past snag and had a quarter inch tear that it catches on. The buckle is not wide enough for the belt. The belt is no longer able to constraint as good as when it was whole. Unknown

Reported
Aug 2023
Incident date
Jan 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11537049 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemJun 2023 · ODI 11526376Details +

After filing up the gas tank, there is a strong smell of fuel coming from the car. It remains strong until the tank is run down to about 3/4. Gas can be seen dripping down the tank under the car. Gas drips are clearly visible on the ground. This has been an ongoing problem for approximately two years.

Reported
Jun 2023
Incident date
Jun 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11526376 at NHTSA →
SteeringFeb 2023 · ODI 11507600Details +

Steering becomes unpredictable and stiff accompanied by surging and loss of power. Check engine light comes on. Code P0882

Reported
Feb 2023
Incident date
Feb 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11507600 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJan 2023 · ODI 11504342Details +

ABS Module suddenly start failing causing brake sinks down. Almost crashed because of it. It appears to be a very common issue but Mazda still does not recall these ABS modules made by Ford/ATE. Also, it does not show any ABS warning light, which might be why not many people have called on this as they probably thought it was normal. There is all sort of communication error codes if you read with a OBDII scanner. In fact, Ford had a recall for these ABS modules, citing "stuck or slow-responding valves due to reaction with brake fluid".

Reported
Jan 2023
Incident date
Dec 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11504342 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherAug 2022 · ODI 11477650Details +

I had the dashboard recalled and replaced. The new dashboard is separating from the computer screen on dash.

Reported
Aug 2022
Incident date
Aug 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11477650 at NHTSA →
Power TrainApr 2022 · ODI 11461825Details +

TRACKING NUMBER 11461728 ADDED INFORMATION EMAIL FROM MANUFACTURE MITSUBUSHI ELECTRIC INCORPORATED

Reported
Apr 2022
Incident date
Apr 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11461825 at NHTSA →
Power TrainApr 2022 · ODI 11461728Details +

The TCM - Transmission Control Module defected - gear lights disappear, down shifting problems, driving, stop in the middle of highway or road while driving, kick / jerk when ATF lights comes on goes off then check engine lights comes on all fluids has been changed drove good for a few days started again took to advance auto parts and auto zone codes stated electrical TCM computer issues, delayed shifting, check engine and ATF lights comes on , DTC codes U1000, LOST COMMUNICATION WITH TCM. The TCM overheats because it is sitting directly on the transmission, under the battery box. My child safety was put at risk daily. This car fails to stop at a traffic light, a slow response when approaching a stop sign or traffic light is dangerous and scary. Mazda's are not safe to drive with a bad TCM, When a driver cannot anticipate the acceleration or deceleration of this vehicle or any Mazda with a TCM the situation is very dangerous. I visited Flow Mazda 04/21/2022 Fayetteville North Carolina invoice number Q10296 took the part for viewing. THE dealership informed us that no one has this part and do not know if the will ever have another shipment. we contacted salvage yards received the same answer. I have sent 8 emails stating problems to the manufacture (Mitsubishi electric company) no response thus far. This is my daughter first year in college she saved her summer money 6600.00$ and purchased this car in March 16, 2022 from Knox auto sales 107 NC-55E, Dunn NC 28334. First day we had all fluids changed. The third day she went to visit her dad 20 minute drive ATF light came on went to auto zone code warning electrical communication, purchased new battery drove car for 5 days good took car to college in Charlotte came home birthday Friday check engine light and TCM code went to church Easter Sunday almost didn't make it home. According to the you tube channels and social media this is a known failure for Mazda automobiles Why are the cars being sold?

Reported
Apr 2022
Incident date
Apr 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11461728 at NHTSA →
EngineDec 2021 · ODI 11443727Details +

Blower motor stopped working summer of 2020. Had it replaced at the dealership and it again stopped working in summer of 2021. Had it replaced once again and it is now making horrible noises again as it did right before it blew up the last two times

Reported
Dec 2021
Incident date
Jun 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11443727 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingOct 2021 · ODI 11436434Details +

When driving at highway speeds and applying brakes, the headlights will pulse bright to dim for the duration of braking. I have seen this problem reported online by several dealers and it has a known software update to fix the problem, but it is not listed under the recalls for this vehicle. A similar problem exists on the 2014 Mazda's and a recall does exist for that vehicle.

Reported
Oct 2021
Incident date
Jul 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11436434 at NHTSA →
Power TrainJun 2021 · ODI 11420064Details +

There is a loud winding sound sound coming from the transmission and sound of metal (broken teeth) as well. We took it to a Mazda dealer and they quickly identified the issue as a failing transmission. As a result I was able to find that a service bulletin aligned with this issue (TSB No. 0500414) and confirmed this with the dealer. This service bulletin indicates a manufacturing issue but only applied a warranty of 6 years or 60,000 miles. Yes, our car is over the 6 yrs and only 800 miles over the 60,000 miles, however, my concern is that this is a known issue that clearly becomes a safety issue. We got a price from the dealer of $4,500 for a new transmission so I took it to a transmission shop for a 2nd opinion. They confirmed the failing transmission and indicated the car should not be driven for safety reasons. They said the transmission is in bad shape and when it fails the car will just stop creating a very unsafe condition. They are able to find a used transmission and install it for an estimate of $2,700 but I believe this should be covered by Mazda due to the safety concerns. I have no choice to proceed with this replacement but hope that you can help to get Mazda's attention and have them stand behind this and cover this cost.

Reported
Jun 2021
Incident date
May 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11420064 at NHTSA →
SeatsMay 2021 · ODI 11415704Details +

EXACT SAME ISSUE AS CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V082 THE SEATS IN THIS YEAR OF MAZDA 3 ARE THE SAME AS IN THE 2010-2011 MODELS. THE METAL HAS SNAPPED IN HALF CAUSING THE NEED FOR REPAIR FOR SAFE DRIVING. THIS HAPPENED WHILE TURNING A CORNER ON A CITY STREET GOING ABOUT 30KM/H DRIVER IS 260LBS

Reported
May 2021
Incident date
May 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11415704 at NHTSA →
StructureApr 2021 · ODI 11408464Details +

THE INSTRUMENT PANEL HAS COME LOOSE, AND THERE IS A OPENING, THE INSIDE OF IT IS CHIPPED AS WELL AND IT IS FOGGY. JUST NORMAL DRIVING TO AND FROM WORK. MAZDA OFFERED A SPECIAL SERVICE WARRANTY, WHICH MY CAR DID NOT QUALIFY BECAUSE THIS GAP HAD NOT OCCURRED YET. CONVENIENTLY, THE EXTENSION EXPIRED BEFORE MY PANEL STARTED COMING APART. I SPOKE WITH MAZDA TODAY AND THEY TOLD ME I WAS TO LATE. WELL I WAS INELIGIBLE BECAUSE IT HADN'T COME APART YET. APPARENTLY THEY ARE AWARE OF THIS PROBLEM AS THEY DID OFF A SPECIAL WARRANTY FOR IT. ALL MODELS THAT HAD THESE DEFECTIVE PANELS OR BAD ADHESIVE FROM THE SAME LOT REGARDLESS IF THEY HAD STARTED TO COME APART YET, SHOULD HAVE BEEN REPLACED SO THIS WOULDN'T HAPPEN. I UNDERSTAND NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR. IF THIS IS JUST CHOCKED UP TO NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR THE REST OF THE INTERIOR SHOULD ALSO BE FALLING APART, BECAUSE THE WHOLE CAR HAS BEEN SUBJECTED TO THE SAME ENVIRONMENT AND THAT IS NOT FALLING APART YET. I AM ONE PERSON, WITH ONE VOICE MAYBE OTHER MAZDA OWNERS WHO WERE DENIED ELIGIBILITY TO HAVE THIS INSTRUMENT PANEL REPLACED, WILL ALSO COMPLAIN AND SOMETHING CAN HAPPEN TO FIX THIS MANUFACTURER PROBLEM. AS THIS IS NOT A PART THAT SHOULD HAVE PASSED QUALITY CONTROL. DATE IS APPROXIMATE AS IT OCCURRED GRADUALLY OVER TIME AND DID NOT BECOME NOTICEABLE UNTIL LATE LAST YEAR.

Reported
Apr 2021
Incident date
Dec 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11408464 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingMar 2021 · ODI 11402981Details +

WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES, THE HEADLIGHTS DIM AND FLICKER UNTIL THE BRAKE PEDAL IS RELEASED. NIGHTTIME VIABILITY IS SUBSTANTIALLY DIMINISHED WHEN APPLYING THE BREAKS AND FLICKERING SEAMS TO SEND A SIGNAL TO OTHER VEHICLES IN FRONT OF ME. THIS DEFECT OCCURS 100% OF THE TIME WHEN APPLYING THE BEAKS AT NIGHT WHEN THE HEADLIGHTS ARE ON.

Reported
Mar 2021
Incident date
Jan 2017
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11402981 at NHTSA →
Power TrainMar 2021 · ODI 11402536Details +

WHEN YOU PRESS ON THE BRAKES ALL THE VEHICLES LIGHTS FLASHING FROM BRIGHT TO DEEM THE HEADLIGHTS, INSIDE PANEL LIGHTS FLASHING FROM BRIGHT TO DEEM MAKING IT DIFFICULT TO SEE AT NIGHT IT ACTS LIKE CAR IS LOSING POWER

Reported
Mar 2021
Incident date
Feb 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11402536 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingFeb 2021 · ODI 11395445Details +

ONGOING PROBLEM - REPORTED BY OTHERS IN MANY FORUMS. TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN ISSUED. DURING BREAKING HEADLIGHTS PULSE BRIGHTER AND DIMMER

Reported
Feb 2021
Incident date
Feb 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11395445 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemDec 2020 · ODI 11384241Details +

I HAVE HAD MY CAR SINCE 2013 AND HAD NO PROBLEMS WITH IT UNTIL I GOT A NEW BATTERY FOR MY CAR. AS SOON AS I GOT A BATTERY MY CAR WOULD DIE EVERY OTHER DAY. I TOOK IT TO MANY MECHANICS AND BACK TO THE MAZDA DEALER TO SEE IF THEY COULD FIX IT. THE MECHANICS DIDN'T KNOW WHAT WAS WRONG WITH IT AND WHEN I TOOK IT TO MAZDA THEY SAID IT WAS BECAUSE MY CAR DOOR LIGHT WAS ON, EVEN THOUGH IT NEVER WAS. THEY CLAIMED THEY FIXED IT AND TWO DAYS LATER MY CAR WAS DEAD AGAIN. EVERY MECHANIC AND THE MAZDA DEALER SAID NOTHING WAS WRONG WITH THE CAR AND THEY DIDN'T KNOW WHAT WAS HAPPENING. THE VEHICLE SITS NOW BECAUSE I CAN'T KEEP CALLING MY INSURANCE COMPANY EVERY OTHER DAY TO COME OUT AND JUMP START MY CAR FOR ME.

Reported
Dec 2020
Incident date
Feb 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11384241 at NHTSA →
Power TrainDec 2020 · ODI 11377553Details +

MY MAZDA 3 SEDAN WITH A 6 MT HAS AN ISSUE WHILE COASTING IN 4TH GEAR BETWEEN 25-40 MPH AND ACCELERATING UP HILL THAT THE GEAR WILL JUMP INTO NEUTRAL WITHOUT DEPRESSION OF THE CLUTCH. THERE IS NO GRINDING OR OTHER ODD NOISES OTHER THAN THE SHIFTER SNAPPING OUT OF GEAR. THIS HAPPENS OFTEN ENOUGH THAT I HAVE BEGUN TO SKIP THE GEAR ENTIRELY.

Reported
Dec 2020
Incident date
Jan 2017
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11377553 at NHTSA →
Seat BeltsNov 2020 · ODI 11376669Details +

I PURCHASED A 2013 MAZDA 3 IN MARCH OR 2020 WITH ABOUT 35000MILES. ABOUT TWO MONTHS LATER I PUT DOWN MY BACK SEATS FOR THE FIRST TIME AND NOTICED THE MIDDLE SEAT BUCKLE WAS FRINGED AND LOOKED CUT ABOUT A HALF OF INCH IN. IT COULD NOT RETRACT DUE TO THE BUCKLE SNAGGING ON THE CUT. IT IS NOVEMBER 2020 AND I HAVE NOW DESCOVERES THAT THIS SAME THING HAS HAPPENED TO THE DRIVER AND FRONT PASSENGER BUCKLES AS WELL. I RARELY HAVE ANYONE IN MY BACK SEAT, MAYBE TWICE SINCE THE PURCHASE, SO THE BUCKLES ARE NOT FREQUENTLY USED. I THINK SOMETHING IS CUTTING THE BELT CAUSING THE BUCKLES TO STOP RETRACTING- RENDERING THEM USELESS. MY CAR HAS 49000MILES NOW. I DISCOVERED ALL OF THE BELTS WHILE STATIONARY. BUT THE DRIVERS ONE WOULD NOT RETRACT CAUSING ME TO LOOK FOR IT.

Reported
Nov 2020
Incident date
May 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11376669 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingMar 2020 · ODI 11315401Details +

LIGHTING:WHEN APPLYING BREAKS, HEADLIGHTS FLICKER. WINDSHIELD: LEAKS. ADHESIVE EXPANDED, CAUSING SEAL TO BREAK. WATER POURS IN ON DASH FROM SIDE DURING BAD WEATHER CONDITIONS OR CAR WASH. ADHESIVE ALSO EXPANDED ON GAUGE PANEL, CAUSING DISPLAY WINDOW TO LIFT. WAS THIS WAY WHEN PURCHASED. DID NOT NOTICE HEADLIGHTS AND WINDOW SEAL AT TIME OF PURCHASE.

Reported
Mar 2020
Incident date
Oct 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11315401 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingFeb 2020 · ODI 11309814Details +

DESCRIPTION THIS VEHICLE EXHIBITS THE HEADLIGHTS FLICKERING WHEN THE VEHICLE IS DECELERATING (BY APPLYING THE BRAKES) WITH THE HEADLIGHTS ON. THIS CONCERN IS CAUSED BY INADEQUATE ALTERNATOR OUTPUT (CONTROLLED BY THE PCM) WHEN THE BATTERY IS UNDER HEAVY LOAD. TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM, THE CONTROL LOGIC OF THE PCM HAS BEEN CHANGED. MAZDA WILL NOT UPDATE THE PCM WITHOUT CHARGING CUSTOMERS A DIAGNOSTIC AND REPROGRAMMING FEE IN THE US.

Reported
Feb 2020
Incident date
Dec 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11309814 at NHTSA →
Power TrainJan 2020 · ODI 11297522Details +

SOMETIMES THE SHIFTER JUMPS OUT OF 3RD GEAR OVER A ROAD BUMP WHEN ACCELERATING AFTER DECELERATION AT 30-40 MPH. IT ALWAYS HAPPENS WHILE CITY/SUBURB DRIVING. IT'S STARTLING WHEN IT HAPPENS AND I TRY TO QUICKLY PUT THE CAR BACK IN A GEAR. IT WASN'T HAPPENING THAT FREQUENTLY BUT NOW IT'S ABOUT 1X/MONTH. THIS FIRST HAPPENED A FEW YEARS AGO.

Reported
Jan 2020
Incident date
Nov 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11297522 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingDec 2019 · ODI 11289040Details +

WHEN DRIVING AT NIGHT, AND APPLYING THE BRAKES TO SLOW DOWN, THE HEADLIGHTS AND TAILLIGHTS FLICKER/PULSE. OVER THE LAST 6-12 MONTHS THIS ISSUE HAS BECOME MORE PRONOUNCED SO THAT IT HAS BEGUN REDUCING VISIBILITY. PLUS, NEARBY CARS ARE DISTRACTED, EVIDENTLY THINKING WE ARE IN DISTRESS. WE BELIEVE THIS CREATES AN ADDITIONAL TRAFFIC HAZARD. NOTE: INITIALLY, THE PROBLEM WAS ONLY NOTICEABLE WHEN SLOWING FROM AN INITIAL SPEED OF ABOUT 25-40MPH. NOW IT SEEMS TO HAVE ADVANCED TO HAPPEN AT ANY SPEED ABOVE ABOUT 25MPH.

Reported
Dec 2019
Incident date
Apr 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11289040 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingDec 2019 · ODI 11287977Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 MAZDA 3. WHILE DRIVING 20-60 MPH, THE HEADLIGHTS FLICKERED WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED AND THE VEHICLE BECAME DIFFICULT TO DRIVE. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO REFERRED THE CONTACT TO A LOCAL DEALER. THE CONTACT CALLED SMITH HAVEN MAZDA (827 JERICHO TURNPIKE, ST JAMES, NY 11780, 631) 724-4070) AND MAZDA 112 (2112 NY-112, MEDFORD, NY 11763, (631) 256-1074), BUT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND PROVIDED REFERENCE NUMBER: 1-2451813550 THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 78,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.

Reported
Dec 2019
Incident date
Jan 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11287977 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingNov 2019 · ODI 11281106Details +

HEADLIGHTS FLICKER WHILE DECELERATING. ESPECIALLY BAD WHEN BRAKING. IT HAS BEEN HAPPENING FOR A LONG TIME, JUST DECIDED NOW TO REPORT IT. I SEE A LOT OF COMPLAINTS FOR THE SAME ISSUE ONLINE.

Reported
Nov 2019
Incident date
Nov 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11281106 at NHTSA →
Power TrainNov 2019 · ODI 11280870Details +

WHILE COASTING, APPLICATION OF THE BRAKES WILL MAKE THE HEADLIGHTS FLICKER. AN ECU VOLTAGE MONITOR REGISTERS A DROP IN THE VOLTAGE THAT LASTS FOR AS LONG AS THE HEADLIGHTS FLICKER WHICH IS APPROXIMATELY 3 SECONDS. MAZDA IS AWARE OF THIS PROBLEM AND APPARENTLY A SOFTWARE UPDATE TO THE ECU WILL SOLVE IT. THEY OFFERED THIS FOR FREE UNDER THE 6YR/60K MILE WARRANTY BUT APPARENTLY DID NOT TELL THEIR CUSTOMERS.

Reported
Nov 2019
Incident date
Nov 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11280870 at NHTSA →
Seat BeltsOct 2019 · ODI 11270632Details +

THE DRIER SEAT BELT IS NOT CLICKING AND SENSOR FOR SEAT BELT IS OFF

Reported
Oct 2019
Incident date
Oct 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11270632 at NHTSA →
StructureOct 2019 · ODI 11268302Details +

IF THE LIFT GATE FALLS UNEXPECTEDLY, IT MAY HIT THE USER, INCREASING THEIR RISK OF INJURY. THIS IS A CURRENT RECALL ON OTHER MODELS BUT IS NOT CURRENTLY LISTED FOR MY VEHICLE. IT DEFINITELY EFFECTS MY CAR AND WOULD LIKE MY MODEL ADDED TO THE CURRENT RECALL.

Reported
Oct 2019
Incident date
Oct 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11268302 at NHTSA →
SteeringSep 2019 · ODI 11256591Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 MAZDA 3. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 70 MPH, THE POWER STEERING WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED AND THE POWER STEERING ABILITY WAS LOST. ALL THE WARNING INDICATORS FLASHED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS RESTARTED, IT RESUMED NORMAL OPERATION; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED AT LEAST TEN TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000.

Reported
Sep 2019
Incident date
Sep 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11256591 at NHTSA →
SeatsSep 2019 · ODI 11255950Details +

THE SEAT LIFTER LINK ON MY 2013 MAZDA 3 POWER SEAT HAS A BROKEN WELD THAT ALLOWS THE DRIVERS SEAT TO WOBBLE FRONT TO BACK. THE WELD HAS OPENED UP SHOWING THE MOTOR SHAFT. WHEN YOU ACCELERATE THE SEAT MOVES BACK AND FEELS LIKE IT WILL SEPARATE FROM THE FRAME. CALLED LOCAL MAZDA DEALER AND THEY HAVE NO RECALL ON THIS AND MY WARRANTY DOES NOT COVER THIS. VEHICLE HAS 187,400 MILES. FOUND ONLINE THAT THERE WAS A PREVIOUS ISSUE IN THE 2010 - 2011 VEHICLES. MAZDA HAD A RECALL CAMPAIGN 0917B FOR THAT ISSUE. APPARENTLY THERE IS STILL AN ISSUE WITH DEFECTIVE WELDS IN THE SEAT FRAME. FIRST NOTICED THIS CONDITION AFTER ACCELERATING TO ENTER THE INTERSTATE HIGHWAY. HAS GOTTEN WORSE IN THE LAST TWO WEEKS.

Reported
Sep 2019
Incident date
Sep 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11255950 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingSep 2019 · ODI 11255206Details +

WHEN I HIT THE BRAKES, THE LIGHT FLASH ALMOST AS IF IT FLASHING MY BRIGHT LIGHT, NO MATTER WHERE OR HOW FAST OR SLOW I'M DRIVING.

Reported
Sep 2019
Incident date
May 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11255206 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemFeb 2019 · ODI 11182189Details +

MY HEADLIGHTS DIM AND FLICKER, MOST NOTICEABLY WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES. IT WAS BARELY NOTICABLE AT FIRST. MY SON-IN-LAW, WHO IS AN AUTO AND DIESEL MECHANIC, BROUGHT IT TO MY ATTENTION IN DECEMBER 2017 WHEN HE WAS DRIVING IT. IT IS GETTING WORSE AND BECOMING MORE AND MORE OF A PROBLEM, MAKING IT HARD TO SEE, ESPECIALLY WHEN APPROACHING A STOP AT AN INTERSECTION. I AM NOT SURE IF THE TAIL LIGHTS ARE ALSO EFFECTED, BUT COMPLAINT ID 11164134 REPORTED THAT THEIR'S WERE. MY EXPERIENCE WITH ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS CAUSES ME TO WORRY THAT THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT THE HEADLIGHTS WILL FAIL ENTIRELY, LEAVING ME UNABLE TO SEE WHILE DRIVING AT NIGHT. THIS IS NOT A SINGLE INCIDENT; IT ALWAYS OCCURS EVERYTIME I DRIVE AT NIGHT, SO I AM PUTTING TODAY'S DATE IN THE "WHEN DID THIS HAPPEN" FIELD BECAUSE I CAN'T INDICATE THAT IT IS AN ONGOING PROBLEM. THE FOUR COMPLAINTS ABOUT THIS SAME PROBLEM ALL INDICATE NO INJURIES OR FATALITIES; I HOPE THERE DON'T HAVE TO BE INJURIES OR FATALITIES FOR THIS TO BE CONSIDERED SERIOUS ENOUGH TO WARRANT A RECALL. ALSO, THE SPEED DOESN'T MATTER, I HAD TO PUT IN A NUMBER SO I INDICATED 45 MPH, BUT IT HAPPENS ON THE FREEWAY AT 80 MPH AS WELL AS ON CITY STREETS. THERE ARE CURRENTLY 49,259 MILES ON THE CAR. WHEN I BOUGHT IT IT HAD 33,370 MILES ON IT. LIKE I SAID, IT IS GETTING WORSE. IT IS MORE DISTRACTING DUE TO MORE PRONOUNCED FLICKERING AND DIMMING OF THE ILLUMINATION OF THE ROAD.

Reported
Feb 2019
Incident date
Feb 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11182189 at NHTSA →
SteeringFeb 2019 · ODI 11173929Details +

WHILE DRIVING THE POWER STEERING MALFUNCTIONS THE RADIO DISPLAY KEEP RESTARTING AND THE POWER STEERING GOES OUT, AND THEN THE VEHICLE POWERS COMPLETELY DOWN WHILE DRIVING. I HAVE LOOKED IN FORUMS AND THIS ISSUE HAS BEEN OCCURRING AT LEAST SINCE 2004, AND HAS NOT BEEN FIXED! HTTPS://WWW.FOXNEWS.COM/US/MAZDA-TO-RECALL-MAZDA3-AND-MAZDA5-TO-ADDRESS-LOSS-OF-POWER-STEERING THERE IS AN OLD ARTICLE THAT MAZDA 3'S HAVE BEEN RECALLED FOR THIS EXACT ISSUE, BUT THE ISSUE APPARENTLY HAS ACTUALLY NEVER BEEN FIXED. SEE THE ATTACHED DOCUMENT, DO I NEED GET AN ATTORNEY TO GET THIS FIXED SINCE MY CAR IS 2013 AND THE ISSUES ARE ONLY BEING ADDRESSED IN LATER MODELS? CLEARLY THEY DIDN'T FIX THE ISSUE IF NEWER MODELS END UP WITH THE SAME ISSUE. THIS NEEDS TO BE RECALLED IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS! I AM VERY DISAPPOINTED WITH THIS AND IT WILL KEEP FROM BUYING MAZDA EVER AGAIN DUE THE EXTREEM NEGLECT ON THIS ISSUE BY MAZDA, IT SHOWS A HUGE LACK OF INTEGRITY.

Reported
Feb 2019
Incident date
Feb 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11173929 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemDec 2018 · ODI 11164134Details +

HEADLIGHTS AND BRAKE LIGHTS FLICKER WHEN BRAKES ARE APPLIED. MY WIFE WAS STOPPED BY A POLICE MAN TO INFORM HER OF THESE CONDITIONS.

Reported
Dec 2018
Incident date
Dec 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11164134 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingDec 2018 · ODI 11160877Details +

HEADLIGHTS FLICKER WHEN BRAKING.

Reported
Dec 2018
Incident date
Dec 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11160877 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingNov 2018 · ODI 11144676Details +

WHEN DRIVING WITH THE HEADLIGHTS ON AND I BEGIN TO SLOW DOWN, WHETHER COASTING OR USING THE BRAKE, MY HEADLIGHTS WILL FLICKER REALLY BAD. IT DOES NOT HAPPEN ALL THE TIME BUT IT HAPPENS 90% OF THE TIME. THERE ARE TIMES THEY FLICKER BAD ENOUGH THAT IT LOOKS LIKE I AM FLASHING MY HIGHBEAMS. I HAVE HAD TO PULL OVER MULTIPLE TIMES BECAUSE OF HOW HARD IT MADE IT TO CONCENTRATE ON THE SURROUNDING AREA. I CAN ONLY IMAGINE WHAT ITS LIKE FOR SOMEONE IN FRONT OF ME OR DRIVING TOWARDS ME. SOMETIMES THEY WILL ALSO FLASH A FEW TIMES WHEN I COME TO A COMPLETE STOP. IVE TAKEN IT TO THE DEALER I BOUGHT IT FROM AND THEY CONTINUE TO SAY NOTHING IS WRONG. SO IT IS STILL AN ONGOING PROBLEM FROM THE DAY I BOUGHT IT.

Reported
Nov 2018
Incident date
Jul 2017
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11144676 at NHTSA →
SeatsOct 2018 · ODI 11140575Details +

I WAS DRIVING AND THE DRIVERS SEAT SNAPPED ON THE BACK RIGHT CORNER. SORT OF POPPED AND DROPPED DOWN A BIT. I CAN PHYSICALLY MOVE THE SEAT UP AND DOWN WITH MY HANDS. I BELIEVE IT'S THE SAME PROBLEM AS THE 2010-2011 MODEL RECALL.

Reported
Oct 2018
Incident date
Oct 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11140575 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesOct 2018 · ODI 11140696Details +

WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE THE PRESSURE ON THE BREAK PEDAL GOT VERY LOW. I HAD TO PUSH THE PEDAL ALL THE WAY DOWN TO SLOW DOWN THE VEHICLE. I TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A NEARBY MAZDA DEALERSHIP. AFTER A COUPLE OF DAYS THEY TOLD ME THAT THERE WAS NOTHING WRONG WITH THE BREAKS PER SAY (PADS, ROTORS, ETC,), BUT THAT THE ABS HYDRAULIC AND THE MASTER CYLINDER HAD BOTH FAILED CAUSING THE LACK OF PRESSURE ON THE BREAK PEDAL. THE TECHNICIAN TOLD ME THIS WAS QUITE UNUSUAL AND THAT HAD NEVER SEEN THAT BEFORE ON A MAZDA PARTICULARLY WITH ONLY 52,000 MILES. HE TOLD ME THE CAR WAS DANGEROUS TO DRIVE. I'M THANKFUL THAT I DID NOT GET INTO A CAR ACCIDENT AND HURT MYSELF NOR ANYONE ELSE. THE VEHICLE STILL UNDER WARRANTY FOR THE POWER TRAIN PARTS, BUT THE DEALERSHIP INFORMED THAT MAZDA WOULD NOT COVER FOR THE REPAIRS. I WAS QUOTED $1,617 FOR THE REPAIRS AND I HAVE BEEN WITHOUT THE VEHICLE FOR 4 DAYS. I BEEN TOLD THAT I WOULD GET A LOANER AS SOON AS ONE IS AVAILABLE. GIVEN THAT THIS WAS NOT WEAR AND TEAR, I BELIEVE MAZDA SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE REPAIRS OF THE VEHICLE AND MAKE SURE THAT THERE ARE NO ISSUES WITH THESE PARTS IN OTHER VEHICLES THAT COULD CAUSE SOMEONE TO GET HURT.

Reported
Oct 2018
Incident date
Oct 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11140696 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingSep 2018 · ODI 11129598Details +

THE HEADLIGHTS FLICKER WHEN BRAKING OR IN PARKED. DRIVERS SEAT WOBBLES/ROCKS/SHIFTS WHILE DRIVING MAKING IT DANGEROUS.

Reported
Sep 2018
Incident date
Sep 2017
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11129598 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingJun 2018 · ODI 11100868Details +

2013 MAZDA 3. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO HEADLIGHT CONDENSATION. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED THE HEADLIGHTS WERE REPAIRED, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. *JS

Reported
Jun 2018
Incident date
Jan 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11100868 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemMay 2018 · ODI 11098214Details +

IN THE PAST 6 MONTHS, MY CAR BATTERY HAS DIED 3 ON SEPARATE OCCASIONS. WHETHER IT'S A COLD START OR I'VE DRIVEN SOMEWHERE AND TURNED THE CAR OFF. NO RESTART, BATTERY DEAD. EACH TIME I'VE HAD TO CALL A SERVICE FOR A JUMP AND HAVE TAKEN IT TO A LOCAL AUTO PARTS STORE WHERE TESTS HAVE BEEN PERFORMED ON THE BATTERY, ALTERNATOR AND STARTER ... NOTHING FOUND WRONG EACH TIME. THE LAST TIME THE CAR WOULDN'T START, I HAVE PUSH BUTTON START. EVEN THOUGH THE BATTERY WAS DEAD, THE PUSH BUTTON WAS STUCK IN THE 'CAR RUNNING' POSITION, MAKING IT IMPOSSIBLE TO BE JUMP STARTED. THE CAR DEALERSHIP HAD NO CLUE WHY THIS HAPPENED OR IF IT WOULD HAPPEN AGAIN.

Reported
May 2018
Incident date
May 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11098214 at NHTSA →
SuspensionApr 2018 · ODI 11083607Details +

CLICKING NOSIE IN THE REAR END OF CAR.

Reported
Apr 2018
Incident date
Feb 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11083607 at NHTSA →
SteeringFeb 2018 · ODI 11072717Details +

CAR'S ELECTRICAL SYSTEM WILL CUT OUT WITHOUT WARNING. THIS HAS HAPPENED ON THE INTERSTATE. THE RADIO SHUTS DOWN, THE ABILITY TO ACCELERATE IS LOST, AND POWER STEERING GOES. SEVERAL SENSOR LIGHTS COME ON. I HAVE TO FIGHT TO GET THE CAR TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND THEN TURN THE CAR OFF. WHEN RESTARTED THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT STAYS ON BUT THE CAR WORKS FINE. THIS WILL ALSO HAPPEN WHEN THE CAR IS IDLING WITH THE SAME LOSS OF POWER. I TURN THE CAR OFF AND THEN BACK ON AND IT WORKS OKAY AGAIN. THIS HAPPENED IN A VERY MOUNTAINOUS PASS RECENTLY AND THERE WERE NO SHOULDERS TO PULL OVER ON AND I HAD NO POWER STEERING OR ACCELERATION. I'VE TAKEN TO SEVERAL MECHANICS AND THEY CANNOT FIND THE ISSUE.

Reported
Feb 2018
Incident date
Jan 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11072717 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJan 2018 · ODI 11064824Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 MAZDA 3. WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED AT NIGHT, THE HEADLIGHTS FLICKERED AND FLASHED WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS APPLIED. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO MAXON HYUNDAI MAZDA (2329 US 22, UNION, NJ 07083). THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE FAILURE WAS A KNOWN ISSUE, BUT THERE WAS NO RECALL AND THE WARRANTY EXPIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS ALSO TAKEN TO CRYSTAL MAZDA (220 RTE 22 WEST, GREENBROOKEE, NJ 08812) WHERE IT WAS ALSO STATED THAT THERE WAS NO RECALL. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND REFERRED THE CONTACT TO THE DEALER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 96,000.

Reported
Jan 2018
Incident date
Nov 2017
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11064824 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemNov 2017 · ODI 11048713Details +

PCM DOES NOT REGULATE ALTERNATOR OUTPUT CORRECTLY CAUSING THE HEADLIGHTS TO FLASH/STROBE AND HORN TONE TO FLUCTUATE WHILE BRAKING IN MOTION. THE HEADLIGHTS FLASHING COULD LEAD OTHER DRIVERS TO BELIEVE YOU ARE SIGNALING THEM, AND LACK OF POWER TO HORN REDUCES THE AUDIBILITY AND MAY NOT BE HEARD BY OTHER DRIVERS. DEALERSHIP/MAZDA IS AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND HAS PROVIDED A "SOFTWARE UPDATE" TO FIX THE ISSUE, BUT HAS NOT ISSUED A RECALL, THUS REQUIRING CONSUMERS TO PAY $60-$100 USD FOR THE UPDATE IF OUT OF WARRANTY. ON NOVEMBER 22TH 2017 I WAS APPROACHING AN INTERSECTION AND WAS BRAKING COMING TO THE RED LIGHT WHEN A VEHICLE ON A SIDE STREET WAVED AT ME AND PULLED OUT IN FRONT OF ME I USED MY HORN OF WHICH FLUCTUATED WITH POWER, I WAS ABLE TO AVOID THE CRASH BUT IT WAS A CLOSE CALL. I SUSPECT THE OTHER VEHICLE THOUGHT MY FLASHING HEADLIGHTS WERE SIGNALING THEM TO "GO AHEAD". I BELIEVE THIS NEEDS TO BE A RECALL AS THIS ISSUE HAS THE POTENTIAL TO CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY OR LOSS OF LIFE.

Reported
Nov 2017
Incident date
Nov 2017
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11048713 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingNov 2017 · ODI 11046228Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 MAZDA 3. WHILE DRIVING AT UNKNOWN SPEEDS, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS APPLIED AND THE HEADLIGHTS FLASHED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT CALLED A LOCAL DEALER (MAZDA KNOXVILLE, 8814 KINGSTON PIKE, KNOXVILLE, TN 37923) AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE SYSTEM NEEDED TO BE UPDATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 134,000.

Reported
Nov 2017
Incident date
Nov 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11046228 at NHTSA →
SteeringNov 2017 · ODI 11043568Details +

WHEN DRIVING THE AFFECTED VEHICLES IN HEAVY RAIN OR IN DEEP PUDDLES, THE ALTERNATOR BELT MAY SLIP, CAUSING THE POWER CONTROL MODULE (PCM) TO INCORRECTLY ASSUME FAILURE OF THE CHARGING SYSTEM. ONCE THE PCM ASSUMES THAT THE CHARGING SYSTEM HAS FAILED, THE VEHICLE WILL STOP CHARGING AND COULD RESULT IN POOR ACCELERATION, LOSS OF STEERING ASSIST AND WINDSHIELD WIPER OPERATION, AND A POSSIBLE ENGINE STALL, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH."

Reported
Nov 2017
Incident date
Nov 2017
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11043568 at NHTSA →

This page shows the latest 50 reports to keep it usable. The count above includes every complaint NHTSA has returned for this model year.

Recalls(1)

Open a recall to read what NHTSA says is wrong, what can happen, and how it gets fixed. Check the VIN and remedy eligibility with a dealer; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though a manufacturer may offer more coverage.

StructureJun 2016 · 16V644000Details +

Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2010-2013 Mazda3 and Mazdaspeed3 vehicles manufactured November 18, 2008, to June 8, 2013, 2012-2015 Mazda5 vehicles manufactured October 26, 2010, to June 22, 2015, 2016 CX-3 vehicles manufactured June 1, 2015, to December 26, 2015, and 2013-2016 CX-5 vehicles manufactured December 15, 2011, to December 26, 2015. On the affected vehicles, the lift gate support struts may corrode, possibly causing the struts to break and/or the lift gate to drop unexpectedly.

Risk: If the lift gate falls unexpectedly, it may hit the user, increasing their risk of injury.

Remedy: Mazda dealers will replace the both lift gate supports, free of charge, however parts are not currently available. The recall began April 2017. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's number for this recall is 9916H.

Open full NHTSA recall record →

A campaign can apply to this model year without being incomplete on a specific vehicle. Check the VIN with NHTSA or a dealer to confirm whether a particular car needs repair.

Investigations

1 NHTSA investigation on record

Investigations are agency reviews, not findings that a vehicle is defective.

Desiccated Air Bag Inflator Rupture

From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/expert_report-hrblomquist.pdf.Consequently, all frontal inflators using propellant 2004 that do not contain a "desiccant" (a substance that traps and holds moisture) in US vehicles are under recall. These "non-desiccated" inflators either have been or are required to be replaced.In some cases, the remedy part for these recalled inflators was, or will be, an inflator using either propellant 2004 or 2004L that does contain a desiccant. None of these "desiccated" remedy parts (which were installed in older model year vehicles) are currently under recall for a degradation concern. Certain subsets of desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004 for use as original equipment, however, have been recalled for a degradation concern. All Takata inflators produced with propellant 2004L contain desiccant, and none of these desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L are under recall for a degradation concern. There have been no reported field ruptures in any non-recalled desiccated PSAN inflators.It is understood that desiccants fully saturate at some threshold, at which point any additional moisture will not be captured. This means the degradation process observed in non-desiccated inflators using propellant 2004 may also occur in non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004, assuming additional moisture enters the inflator and high temperature cycling occurs. Based on available information, desiccant saturation can occur within the first five years in the worst environments, and the time required for full saturation is affected by multiple factors. While no present safety risk has been identified, further work is needed to evaluate the future risk of non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004.Three entities -- Takata (now known as TK Global), the Independent Testing Coalition, and Exponent -- have been studying the long-term behavior of Takata desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004L (as well as 2004) in the presence of moisture and temperature cycling. The research efforts, which include development of predictive modeling techniques and field sample analysis, are ongoing. To date, none of the researchers have identified field evidence showing that propellant 2004L is undergoing a degradation process that leads to aggressive deployment and potential rupture. However, the time in service of such inflators remains short compared to that of the inflators using propellant 2004. Further study is needed to assess the long-term safety of desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L.The Office of Defects Investigation is opening this investigation to examine whether a safety defect related to propellant degradation exists in non-recalled desiccated PSAN frontal inflators manufactured by Takata. This investigation will require extensive information on Takata production processes and surveys of inflators in the field. Lists of recall actions that may have used desiccated PSAN inflators as remedy parts, as well as the makes and models originally manufactured with them, is available with the downloadable version of this document (see nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=EA21002 -- note this information is subject to change/revision as the investigation proceeds). This investigation does not supersede EA15-001, which remains open.

Crash-test ratings

2013 Mazda Mazda3 4 DR FWD NHTSA source

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover

2013 Mazda Mazda3 5 HB FWD NHTSA source

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover

Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).

Fuel economy by trim

TrimEngineDrivetrainCityHwyCombined
32.0L 4-cylFront-Wheel Drive253228
32.0L 4-cylFront-Wheel Drive243227
32.5L 4-cylFront-Wheel Drive222825
32.5L 4-cylFront-Wheel Drive202823

EPA laboratory estimates by trim and engine. Actual mileage varies with driving, weather, load, and maintenance. EPA source.

Before you buy

Useful next checks

Federal records tell you about patterns. These checks can tell you more about the specific car in front of you.

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Compare the year-by-year record

Open another year for its own evidence-gated decision. TireKick does not crown a best year from raw complaint totals.

2013 Mazda Mazda3: frequently asked

What does the complaint record show for the 2013 Mazda Mazda3?

Owners filed 117 NHTSA complaints about the 2013 Mazda Mazda3. This is raw owner-reported complaint volume with no production or exposure normalization, so it is not a reliability score or a best/worst-year ranking.

What are the most common problems on the 2013 Mazda Mazda3?

The most-reported problem areas are Electrical System (21% of complaints) and exterior lighting (19%).

How many recalls does the 2013 Mazda Mazda3 have?

1 recall has been issued that affect the 2013 Mazda Mazda3, covering components such as structure. Check the VIN with NHTSA and ask a dealer to confirm remedy eligibility; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though manufacturers may offer more coverage.

What gas mileage does the 2013 Mazda Mazda3 get?

The EPA rates the 2013 Mazda Mazda3 between 23 and 28 mpg combined, depending on trim and drivetrain.