2018 Mazda CX-3
Only 10 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 10 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 10
- Recalls
- 1
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 2018
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
2018: 10 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2014 | 3 |
| 2016 | 48 |
| 2017 | 21 |
| 2018 | 10 |
| 2019 | 27 |
| 2020 | 1 |
| 2021 | 4 |
Known problem areas
Only 10 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Engine
2 of 10 total reports mention: engine.
Show complaint excerpts
Fuel injector failed without warning. A lot of fuel leaked into the engine destroying a spark plug in one cylinder and ultimately ruining the catalytic converter when fuel got into it. Independent mechanic and Mazda dealership diagnosed.
NHTSA ODI report, 2026-05-08
Electrical system
2 of 10 total reports mention: electrical system.
Show complaint excerpts
While I was parking my car and braking the throttle opened wide and I jumped the curb. I reapplied the brakes hard and the car came to a stop after skidding 4 feet. (Tire marks measured).
NHTSA ODI report, 2018-09-02
Back over prevention
2 of 10 total reports mention: back over prevention.
Show complaint excerpts
The contact owns a 2018 Mazda CX-3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V487000 (Back Over Prevention) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted.
NHTSA ODI report, 2024-12-10
Wheels
1 of 10 total reports mentions: wheels.
Vehicle speed control
1 of 10 total reports mentions: vehicle speed control.
Show complaint excerpts
I was in a parking ramp, I rounded the corner going up and was pulling into a parking spot, my foot was on the break, and the car accelerated. I lurched forward into a wall of the ramp. It wasn't raining so pavement and ramp were not wet.
NHTSA ODI report, 2018-08-31
Safety timeline
1 recall · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
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R
2024-08-14Back over prevention23V487000 Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Mazda3 and 2016-2021 CX-3 vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display properly by showing a flickering or distorted image.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the rearview camera, as necessary. In addition, dealers will install a wiring harness fastening seal. All repairs will be performed free of charge.
Buy-smart checklist
2018 Mazda CX-3 — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Engine: 2 reports on file for this year.
- Electrical system: 2 reports on file for this year.
- Back over prevention: 2 reports on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 23V487000 · Back over prevention
FAQ
- Is the 2018 Mazda CX-3 reliable?
- There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
- What are the most common problems with the 2018 Mazda CX-3?
- The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 20% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2018 Mazda CX-3 have?
- 1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.