How many miles do Mazda engines last?

Introduction

How Long Does A Mazda 3 Last?

Available as a sedan or hatchback, the Mazda 3 is a Japanese compact car first introduced in 2003.

It is known for its great design and speedy operation – it has won several awards over the years.

The interior of the new generation has also been elevated, making it one of the best cabins in its class.

If you’re considering the Mazda 3 as your next car, you’re probably wondering about its average lifespan.

We will cover How Long Does A Mazda 3 Last? all in this article, read to know

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Here is the short answer to How Long Does A Mazda 3 Last?:

The Mazda 3 is a well-built, reliable car that can travel between 200,000 and 250,000 miles with proper maintenance and good driving habits. If you drive an average of 15,000 miles per year, it can provide 13 to 17 years of service before it starts to deteriorate or require expensive repairs.

How Many Miles Can You Expect from a Mazda3?

The Mazda 3 has been around for two decades and has always been considered a reliable, practical vehicle.

It’s not unusual for a Mazda 3 to reach 200,000-250,000 miles. In fact, first-generation models dating back to 2003 can still be found on the road today.

Your results will be greatly influenced by use, personal care, and to a lesser extent luck.

However, we’ve taken a general overview based on reliable industry data, which will give you a better idea of ​​what you can expect.

In owner’s forums, you’ll find numerous accounts of owners who have crossed the 100,000 miles mark with very few issues, and you’ll also find bizarre reports of owners who have reached 300,000 miles. However, they are less common.

These reports show not only the durability of the Mazda 3’s drive train but also how well the chassis and interior have been maintained over time.

Of course, any vehicle that has lived a hard life and is not properly maintained will soon face major problems.

If you avoid this, your life expectancy of the Mazda3 will decrease:

  • Using quality parts
  • Service appointments
  • Routine oil changes
  • Tire rotations
  • Driving smoothly

Do Mazda3 Rust Easily?

Modern Mazda3s are very resilient against rust and corrosion, and it is unusual for models prior to 2010 to rust easily. On newer models, rock chips and neglected corrosion will be the biggest contributing factors.

Mazda has improved a lot since the first release of the Mazda 3, and the Mazda 3 model years later have had no problems with rusting or rusting.

The first Generation 3 was notorious for excessive corrosion on the rear fenders, wheel wells, and underbody, and this was partly due to welding defects.

This was a major problem for owners living in states where salt is used on roads in winter.

Owners who live in dry, hot states like Arizona are less likely to experience rust problems—though fading of paint is more common.

Tips to protect your Mazda 3 from rust:

  • Regularly wash and dry your car: This includes the underside (especially during winter) to remove salt, dirt, and grime that causes rust. We recommend that at the end of each winter there is an elaborate shop to wash everything from below.
  • Repair paint damage and scratche: Expose the metal will oxidize. If it’s out of a DIY fix, talk to your local body repair shop.
  • Garage: Keep your Mazda 3 in the garage to protect it from harsh weather and falling birds.
  • Waxing: Wax your car twice a year. Not only will this make your Mazda look better, but it also provides a protective coating against corrosion.
  • Rust prevention: If you plan on keeping your Mazda3 for a very long time, you may want to consider rust treatment; Popular choices are crowns and wrist checks.
  • Ceramic Coating: A popular choice for those who want to add an extra layer of protection to a paint job.
    The all-new Mazda comes with a 5 Year/Unlimited Mileage Anti-Vaporation Warranty that covers any excessive corrosion on the body panels.

What is High Mileage for a Mazda3?

A Mazda 3 with 120,000 miles or more on an odometer is considered high mileage. Although the car will have many years of life left, it will become more vulnerable to difficult problems and repairs will be more common, both mechanical and electronic.

An example of this is the alternator, which has been known to go around the 100k-150k mile mark on the Mazda 3 and can cost upwards of $600 to replace.

A high-mileage Mazda 3 won’t necessarily be a money-maker – a well-maintained model with 120,000 miles may be a better investment than a 60,000-mile model with many owners who have had tough lives. . Or was it a rental car? ,

When buying a second-hand Mazda 3, consider the following:

  1. Maintenance history. Check that the car is properly serviced and the owner can provide proof.
  2. Get a second opinion. Take it to an independent auto repair shop or have it checked out by a mechanic you trust.
  3. See Carfax. This does not guarantee anything but it will provide a clear picture of the breakdown. Make sure that there is minimum damage if any. Review the information to make sure there is something wrong with the engine or transmission.
  4. The number of previous owners. As a general rule, less is better. More owners usually mean more breakdowns. If a family owns it and runs full mileage and car service, you can almost guarantee that they took good care of it throughout their property.
  5. How long do you intend to keep the car? If you are planning on keeping the car for a long time, you should consider whether the short-term savings are worth more than spending a little extra on something more reliable.
    Each new Mazda3 has a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty and a 6-year/60,000-mile power tray

How many miles do Mazda engines last?
How Long Does A Mazda 3 Last?

How Long Do Mazda3 Last Compared to Similar Car Models?

In this section, we will compare Mazda 3 with some of its competitors.

Mazda3 vs. Honda Civic

The Honda Civic is the main competitor to the Mazda 3. When it comes to credibility, its reputation is unparalleled.

Most citizens will have no problem running 250,000-300,000 miles or 17-20 years with proper care and maintenance.

  • Repairpal gave Honda Civic a reliable rating of 4.5 / 5 stars while Mazda3 got 4/5.
    The Civic is cheaper to maintain and costs an average of 8 368 per year in repairs and maintenance compared to $ 433 for the Mazda 3.
  • The Kelly BlueBook user rating scores a Civic for Mazda 3 at 4.7 / 5 vs. 3.9 / 5, although Mazda’s score has been pulled down from 1-star reviews with zero detail.
  • JD Power scored Civic at 76/100 for quality and reliability while Mazda 3 scored 74/100.
  • When it comes to reliability and maintenance costs, the Civic takes the Mazda 3 forward. They are equally found in all other categories.

The decision will ultimately be on personal preferences and if you need the AWD of the Mazda 3 because the Civic only comes in FWD.

Mazda3 vs. Hyundai Elantra

Hyundai is not always known for its reliability but the brand has improved rapidly over the last 10 years.

The Elantra is as durable as its Japanese counterparts and can run an average of 200,000 to 250,000 miles, equivalent to 15-17 years of service.

  • Repairpal gave Hyundai Elantra the best reliable rating of 4.5 / 5, while Mazda3 got 4/5.
  • The Elantra’s average annual repair and maintenance cost is $ 452 vs. $ 433 for the Mazda 3.
  • The Kelly BlueBook user rating ranked the Elantra for Mazda 3 at 4.1 / 5 vs. 3.9 / 5.
  • JD Power rated Elantra at 87/100 for quality and reliability while Mazda 3 got 74/100.

These cars are very similar and both offer solid driving dynamics. The Elantra is a bit cheaper to buy but the Mazda3 is a better cabin.

Mazda3 vs. Hyundai Elantra

The Impreza has been sold in the United States since the 1990s and offers a comfortable ride and safe handling.

Subaru Imprezas are durable cars capable of reaching 200,000-250,000 miles, or 15 to 17 years, the equivalent of a Mazda 3.

  • RepairPal gave Subaru Impreza an average reliability rating of 3.5 / 5, while Mazda 3 got a little over 4/5.
  • The average annual repair and maintenance cost of the Impreza is $ 653 vs. da 433 for the Mazda3.
  • Kelley Blue Book User Rating Impreza scored 4.1 / 5 vs. 3.9 / 5 for Mazda3.
  • JD Power rates the Impreza at 74/100 for quality and reliability – the same rating as the Mazda 3.

The Impreza is cheaper than the Mazda and comes standard with AWD, although it lacks the 3S refinement and more powerful engine options.

Mazda3 vs. Hyundai Elantra

How many miles do Mazda engines last?
How Long Does A Mazda 3 Last?

Is the Mazda3 Reliable?

Japanese carmakers are known for making the most reliable cars on the planet, and the Mazda 3 is further proof of that.

Automotive journalists, industry experts, and consumers have scored a lot for Mazda 3 to be reliable, and in its recent annual reliability survey, Consumer Reports ranked Mazda’s new cars as the most reliable in the world. ۔

The new Mazda3s, which are equipped with Skyactiv engines, use timing chains instead of timing belts, only this change makes them more reliable.

The chains are placed inside the engine and get lubricated with engine oil and they can last longer, while the belts are located outside the engine and dry out and break.

The Mazda 3 uses a more conventional and durable torque converting automatic transmission than the CVT, which is usually found in other cars in its price range that is more difficult to repair.

  • Consumer reports gave the 2021 Mazda3 an estimated reliability rating of 4/5, while the 2020 model received an impressive 5/5.
  • The Kelley Blue Book gave Mazda3 a 4.4 expert rating and a 3.9 user rating. Although consumer ratings are heavily influenced by 1-star reviews without any details. The older Mazda3s also performed better with a 4.5 user rating, which is more realistic.
  • J.D Power gave the Mazda3 74/100 for quality and reliability, while older models scored more than 80.
  • RepairPal ranked the Mazda3 ninth out of 36 compact cars in terms of reliability and gave it an average rating of 4/5.

Mazda has been building compact cars since 1963, which the company has a lot of experience and is constantly striving to improve.

Reliability Compared to Other Cars

The Best and Worst Years for Mazda3

After nearly 20 years in the market, there are good and bad years ahead for the Mazda 3;

Worst Model Year

According to car complaints, the 2010 Mazda 3 was the worst model year ever, not only because of the many complaints it received but also because of the high cost of repairs and high mileage issues.

The 2010 model received significantly more complaints than any other model year – 177 in total – mostly due to clutch issues and interior accessories.

The worst issues for the Mazda 3 are:

  • Clutch failure on 2010 and 2011 models – repair cost of $1200, average mileage of 40,000 miles.
  • Peace gear on 2012 models – repairs will cost $4,800 at an average mileage of 20,000 miles.

For peace of mind, we recommend moving away from the 2010 Mazda3.

Best Model Year

The Mazda 3’s best model year is the most recent, especially the ones that have been sold since 2016.

They show a significant reduction in complaints compared to older model years and are usually limited to minor issues.

The new models offer more standard safety features, more variety in trim levels, and turbocharged engine options.

2017 also saw the introduction of G-vectoring control which gives it better handling and driving dynamics.

Model Year and Number of Complaints

This is the total number of complaints from the car complaints database for each Mazda 3 model year.

How many miles do Mazda engines last?
How Long Does A Mazda 3 Last?

What About Recalls for These Models?

The Mazda 3 has received 48 recalls in recent years, a relatively small number in terms of sales since 2003.

You can check if your Mazda 3 has been targeted for a recall by visiting Mazda’s recall information center.

Recalls are manufacturing defects that are corrected at no cost to the customer.

The total number of return campaigns for each Mazda 3 model year is:

2021: 1
2020: 2
2019: 6
2018: 2
2017: 1
2016: 5
2015: 3
2014: 3
2013: 1
2012: 1
2011: 2
2010: 3
2009: 4
2008: 3
2007: 3
2006: 2
2005: 3
2004: 3
Mazda 3 model year list

first-generation:

2004 Mazda 3
2005 Mazda 3
2006 Mazda 3
2007 Mazda 3
2008 Mazda 3
2009 Mazda 3


second generation:

2010 Mazda 3
2011 Mazda 3
2012 Mazda 3
2013 Mazda 3


third generation:

2014 Mazda 3
2015 Mazda 3
2016 Mazda 3
2017 Mazda 3
2018 Mazda 3

Fourth Generation:

2019 Mazda 3
2020 Mazda 3
2021 Mazda 3
2022 Mazda 3

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Are Mazda3s Expensive to Maintain?

Mazda3s are very affordable to maintain thanks to their reasonably priced parts and excellent reliability.

According to RepairPal, the Mazda3’s annual repair and maintenance cost will average $433, well below the $526 average for all compact cars and well below the estimated $652 for all vehicles.

Car Edge estimates that Mazda 3 maintenance will cost you around $5,409 over the first 10 years. This compares the average maintenance and repair cost of a compact sedan to $1,430.

You can find a complete breakdown of maintenance and tune-up costs here.

How many miles do Mazda engines last?
How Long Does A Mazda 3 Last?

How Long Do the Brakes Last?

How many miles do Mazda engines last?
How Long Does A Mazda 3 Last?

If you drive a lot on the highway, the Mazda3’s brakes can go up to 60,000 miles, but if you spend a lot of time stopping in traffic, it can be cut to about 30,000 miles. Brake pad life can vary widely and depends on your driving habits.

If you stop too often and accelerate during rush hour, you can expect your brakes to wear out quickly.
Brake pad replacement, which includes parts and labor, can cost anywhere between $150-$300 per axle.
The sharp, full, and full stop is the #1 cause of premature brake pad wear.
A sporty driving style will wear out the brakes faster, a slow and steady style will help them last longer.

How Long Do the Tires Last?

Stock tires on a Mazda 3 typically last 50,000 miles or 3 to 5 years, however, they can wear out very quickly. It depends on various factors like driving habits, climate, and road conditions.

  • Rotate the tires every 5,000 miles to ensure even wear.
  • If you have to drive on unpaved or flooded roads or go off-road, your tires will take more beat.
  • Check your tire pressures every few weeks to make sure they are at the correct tire pressure.
  • Has your wheel alignment been checked at a mechanic or tire shop every 6 months?

How Long Do Mazda3 Engines Last?

Mazda 3’s engines can last 200,000-250,000 miles on average, but Mazda 3’s are reported to last over 300,000 miles.

The modern Sky Active engines used in the third and fourth-generation Mazda3s use a timing chain that typically lasts a lifetime.

Older 3’s have timing belts that need to be replaced every 60,000 to 100,000 miles and can cause catastrophic damage if the engine suddenly breaks and breaks down.

How Long Do Mazda3 Batteries Last?

Mazda3 batteries typically last 3 to 5 years. Car battery life depends on many different factors such as climate, driving habits, and battery type, among many others.

  • Hold your battery tight. Your car’s vibration can loosen the connections, causing short circuits and internal damage.
  • Limit short rides: Fast car rides prevent the battery from being fully charged.
  • Storage: Keep your Mazda away from severe indoor temperature changes.
  • Control rust: Clean the terminals (with a toothbrush dipped in a mixture of baking soda and water) and keep them from accumulating.

How many miles do Mazda engines last?
How Long Does A Mazda 3 Last?

How Long Do the Spark Plugs Last?

Mazda3 spark plugs need to be replaced every 75,000 miles and are part of the vehicle’s default maintenance. Equipped with a 2.5-liter turbocharged SkyActive engine, the 3s requires new spark plugs every 40,000 miles to ensure optimum performance.

The spark plug is usually inspected whenever you take it inside for routine maintenance and can be replaced earlier than expected if necessary.

Symptoms of a bent spark plug include:

  • Low gas mileage
  • Lack of speed
  • Rough waste
  • The difficulty begins.
  • Engine failure

What About Insurance Cost?

The average cost of fully comprehensive coverage for a Mazda 3 is $1,446 per year or about $1,121 per month. In comparison, its competitors in the compact segment cost an average of $1,521 per year, which is $75 more expensive.

The cost of insurance can vary from person to person. Be sure to shop around to find the best possible deal for your Mazda3.

Tips to Prolong the Life of Your Mazda3

  • Adopt smooth driving habits.
  • Make sure you Keep upto date with factory-recommended maintenance.
  • Use standard parts and fluids.
  • Keep repairing them to prevent them from growing into major problems.
  • Wash your Mazda 3 regularly to remove dirt and grime from rusting the paint and undercarriage.
  • Check your Mazda3’s engine oil, coolant, brake, and transmission fluid levels and increase them as necessary.
  • Keep your Mazda3 in the garage to protect it from the elements.
  • Read the owner’s manual to understand the location of major components, what your Mazda needs and how much, and signs and dashboard warning lights.

Conclusion

We hope you find our informational article of How Long Does A Mazda 3 Last? Check out more article about best tires, car care & more.

What is high mileage for a Mazda?

A Mazda3 with 120,000 miles or above on the odometer is considered high mileage.

Can Mazda3 go 300000 miles?

According to Vehicle History, you can expect a Mazda3 to last upwards of 200,000 to 300,000 miles on average. In fact, there are even some Mazda3 owners with over 350,00 miles on the odometer and their cars are still going strong.

Are Mazda engines reliable?

According to Consumer Reports, Mazda has been voted the most reliable car brand on the market. Mazda tops of the list with a score of 83. This was followed by Toyota with a score of 74, Lexus at 71 and Honda at 63.

Are Mazdas good after 100 000 miles?

Easily. I've owned three Mazda 626 sedans in the last 30+ years. They have all lasted well over 100,000 miles. The first car was running great when it was hit and totalled at about 135,000 miles.