2012 Mazda Mazda3 Reliability ReportA- grade · low risk · system-by-system breakdown
Quick Facts · 2012 Mazda Mazda3
- The system most likely to surface first: body & chassis corrosion (major severity).
- Has 1 NHTSA recall on record — the most notable involves the structure:body:hatchback/liftgate.
- Outscores the 2011 Mazda Mazda3 by 5 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.
Is the 2012 Mazda Mazda3 Worth Buying?
The 2012 Mazda Mazda3 is one of the safest used compact cars you can buy, especially with the Skyactiv powertrain, offering an engaging driving experience wrapped in robust mechanicals. While rust can be a persistent foe, diligent maintenance and a thorough pre-purchase inspection can secure you a highly reliable and enjoyable vehicle for years to come.
Biggest Strengths
- Robust Skyactiv powertrain (engine & transmission)
- Engaging driving dynamics and handling
- Generally strong mechanical reliability
What Tends to Fail First on the 2012 Mazda Mazda3
The systems that break first on the 2012 Mazda Mazda3. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.
2012 Mazda Mazda3 Recall History
1 recall on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE
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.
What breaks on the 2012 Mazda Mazda3?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Other Mazda Mazda3 Years to Consider
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Mazda Mazda3. Click any year for its full report.
2012 Mazda Mazda3 Alternatives
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2012 Mazda Mazda3
Parts and accessories matched to your 2012 Mazda Mazda3
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Frequently Asked Questions
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