Quick Facts — Mazda CX-3

Est. On UK Roads
55,000+
Years Made
2015–2023
Common Engines
2.0 Skyactiv-G, 1.8 Skyactiv-D

6 Most Common Mazda CX-3 Problems

These are the faults most frequently seen on the Mazda CX-3 by UK garages — ranked by how commonly they occur and what they cost to fix.

1
DPF Blockage (1.8 Skyactiv-D)
High Priority
The diesel CX-3 is particularly susceptible to DPF blockages given its typical urban use profile. The small diesel engine rarely gets sufficient run time to fully regenerate the DPF on city journeys.
💷 Typical repair cost: £100–£900
2
Carbon Buildup (2.0 Skyactiv-G)
Watch
The 2.0 Skyactiv-G can develop intake valve carbon deposits on higher mileage examples.
💷 Typical repair cost: £200–£500
3
Rear Suspension Noise
Watch
A knocking or creaking noise from the rear suspension is reported on some CX-3 models — worn torsion beam bushes are the usual cause.
💷 Typical repair cost: £80–£250
4
Front Wiper Blade Judder
Low Priority
Front wiper blade streaking and judder is a known minor issue on some CX-3 models — usually resolved with new blades.
💷 Typical repair cost: £20–£50
5
Air Con Recharge
Low Priority
Air con refrigerant loss on older examples.
💷 Typical repair cost: £50–£120
6
Minor Interior Plastic Rattle
Low Priority
Some CX-3 owners report minor interior rattles from dashboard plastics over rough surfaces.
💷 Typical repair cost: £0–£50

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Mazda CX-3 — MOT Tips

DPF warning is an automatic fail on diesel models. Check EML — any emissions-related faults are MOT-relevant. Inspect rear suspension for knocking — worn bushes are MOT advisories. Check all wiper functions — both are MOT items.

Engine management light on before your MOT? It's an automatic fail. Run a Find Your Problem Now → to get the likely cause and repair cost before booking the test.

Mazda CX-3 Tyres

Most Mazda CX-3 models run 215/60 R16 or 215/55 R18 depending on trim level and year. Always check the placard inside the driver's door for the exact size for your vehicle.

🔍 Not sure what's wrong? Check your symptoms & likely causes →

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common problem with the Mazda CX-3?

The most frequently reported issue on the Mazda CX-3 is DPF Blockage (1.8 Skyactiv-D). The diesel CX-3 is particularly susceptible to DPF blockages given its typical urban use profile. The small diesel engine rarely gets sufficient run time to fully regenerate the DPF on city journeys.

How many Mazda CX-3s are on UK roads?

There are an estimated 55,000+ Mazda CX-3s currently on UK roads.

What tyres does the Mazda CX-3 use?

Most Mazda CX-3 models run 215/60 R16 or 215/55 R18 depending on trim level and year. Always check the placard inside the driver's door for the exact size for your vehicle.

Will a warning light fail my Mazda CX-3's MOT?

DPF warning is an automatic fail on diesel models. Check EML — any emissions-related faults are MOT-relevant. Inspect rear suspension for knocking — worn bushes are MOT advisories. Check all wiper functions — both are MOT items.

Similar Issues on Other Models

Citroën C3 Aircross — shares the same DPF blockage problem Dacia Duster — shares the same DPF blockage problem

Summary

The CX-3 is a quality compact crossover, best suited to drivers who prioritise driving feel and build quality over maximum interior space. The 2.0 Skyactiv-G petrol is the most reliable choice. Avoid the diesel for city use. A strong used buy now that prices have dropped significantly since discontinuation.

If your Mazda CX-3 has a warning light on or a symptom you can't identify, a Find Your Problem Now → gives you likely fault causes, UK repair cost estimates and MOT risk — instantly.

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Other Mazda Models

Mazda 3 → Mazda 6 → Mazda CX-5 → Mazda CX-30 →