What's Wrong with the 3rd Generation (2014–2018) MAZDA3?

MAZDA3 owners have made 113 complaints about the 2014–2018 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 32nd out of 36 Mazda generations in overall reliability, with real brakes and interior concerns.

Compare With Other MAZDA3 Generations

Common 2014-2018 Mazda MAZDA3 Problems

Some of the worst issues 3rd generation MAZDA3 owners have to deal with.

  1. Mazda Clutch Failure and Warranty Problems

    Mazda has been known to dodge warranty claims on their allegedly defective clutch systems. So much for that 'bumper-to-bumper' guarantee. A lawsuit has been filed by owners tired of replacing their clutch early and often and while Mazda tri…

    Continue reading article "Mazda Clutch Failure and Warranty Problems" Disassembled clutch with a skull and cross bones

  2. What Are We Missing?

    We know there's more problems than this. Let us know which one you'd like to see us cover next.

    Continue Disassembled clutch with a skull and cross bones

What Owners Complain About

Sometimes it helps just to tally up the complaints and see where the biggest stacks are. Use this information to learn about troublespots or to run for the hills.

Worst Issues

What Breaks the Most

Years to Avoid

3rd Generation (2014–2018) MAZDA3 Key Numbers

  1. 5 model years

    Grouping all models by their year can reveal some baddies.

  2. 113 complaints

    Running tally of owner grievances filed to CarComplaints.com.

  3. 32nd in reliability

    Overall reliability rank out of 36 eligible generations.

Recent Lawsuits for 3rd Generation MAZDA3 Owners

  • Partial dismissal

    Megan Humphrey et al vs. Mazda Motor Corp.

    1. Partial dismissal

      A Mazda MAZDA3 clutch noise and replacement lawsuit will continue after a California federal judge granted in part Mazda's motion to dismiss, but allowed some claims to carry on, giving 2010-2015 MAZDA3 owners hope of relief.

    2. Case Filed

      A Mazda MAZDA3 clutch noise and replacement lawsuit will continue after a California federal judge granted in part Mazda's motion to dismiss, but allowed some claims to carry on, giving 2010-2015 MAZDA3 owners hope of relief.