Mazda CX-3 common problems and MOT failures

What usually goes wrong with a Mazda CX-3?

Known faults reported by owners, mechanics and UK buying guides, in our own words. Most apply to certain years or engines only, so check which the car has.

• Engine software recall (built to Nov 2017)

  Cars registered 2015–2017 · Built to Nov 2017

  A software fault could cause engine failure on cars built up to November 2017, and a short circuit could cut the engine out on cars built up to April 2017. Both were recalled.

  At the viewing: Ask a Mazda dealer to confirm the recalls were done.

  Source: Auto Express: used Mazda CX-3 (Mk1, 2015-2020) problems and recalls

• Air con problems

  Cars registered 2015–2020 · All engines

  Many owners have had air con faults, and dealers replaced systems under warranty.

  At the viewing: Make sure it blows properly cold.

  Source: Auto Express: used Mazda CX-3 (Mk1, 2015-2020) problems and recalls

• Particulate filter (diesel)

  Cars registered 2015–2020 · Diesel

  Low-mileage diesels can have problems if the particulate filter can’t finish cleaning itself.

  At the viewing: Ask what journeys it does, and watch for a DPF warning light.

  Source: Auto Express: used Mazda CX-3 (Mk1, 2015-2020) problems and recalls

• Boot strut and brake hose recalls

  Cars registered 2015–2020 · Some cars

  Recalls covered boot gas struts that could fail (2017) and a brake hose clip on cars built in May 2016.

  At the viewing: Check the boot stays up on its own, and ask for proof of recall work.

  Source: Auto Express: used Mazda CX-3 (Mk1, 2015-2020) problems and recalls

Common Mazda CX-3 MOT failures to check

Parts flagged at MOT well above the usual rate for cars the same age, in more than one year. From the DVSA’s results for every MOT done in Great Britain during 2023–2025.

• Rigid brake pipes

  up to 4.2× usual

  Stands out on cars registered in 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018.

  Rough price £100–£400 our estimate

  At the viewing: Ask to see underneath, or check the MOT advisories: corroded brake or fuel pipes get worse every year and fail the MOT when they do.

• Seat belts

  up to 7× usual

  Stands out on cars registered in 2015 and 2016.

  Rough price £80–£250 our estimate

  At the viewing: Pull each seatbelt sharply. It should lock and retract smoothly.

• Ball joint dust cover

  up to 2.1× usual

  Stands out on cars registered in 2015 and 2016.

  Rough price £60–£150 (one joint) ClickMechanic

  At the viewing: Listen for knocking over bumps and check the rubber boots behind the wheels aren't split.

Mazda CX-3 MOT pass rate by year

Of the years since 2005 with plenty of MOT tests, the 2017 Mazda CX-3 did best (86% passed first time, 6 points above all 2017 cars) and the 2016 did worst (79%, 2 points above all 2016 cars). Older cars fail more, so compare each year with all cars registered the same year.

Questions to ask the seller before buying a Mazda CX-3

Ask before you travel to see it. A seller who knows the car will have answers, and receipts.

1. Have the engine software and wiring recalls been done?
2. Any recent work on the rigid brake pipes? (Flagged at MOT 4.2× as often on the Mazda CX-3 as on other cars the same age.)
3. Any recent work on the seat belts? (Flagged at MOT 7× as often on the Mazda CX-3 as on other cars the same age.)
4. Any recent work on the ball joint dust cover? (Flagged at MOT 2.1× as often on the Mazda CX-3 as on other cars the same age.)
5. Can I see the service history and receipts for any big jobs?