Standing as the most versatile option in the compact car market, the 2012 Mazda 3 is a revered proposition. By being available in both a sedan and hatchback variant, the vehicle caters to a segmented class of buyers. While both options are cogent, the sedan feels more practical for family buyers. It has better space to offer and in terms of reliability, it remains unwavering. The sedan has only 200 complaints listed to its name and has been recalled once by the brand. While most problems deal with its mechanical setup, none of the issues has a widespread impact. A 2012 Mazda 3 for sale is priced at $15,200 and in its segment, it competes with the likes of the Ford Focus, the Chevrolet Cruze, and the Subaru Impreza.
2012 Mazda 3 User Complaints and Problems
Safety Complaints
- Illumination of airbag warning lights: In the current iteration, buyers of the 2012 Mazda 3 sedan have reported the airbag warning light illuminating inadvertently. While no reason for the problem has yet been established, the warning light can signify an interference in the proper deployment of the airbags, which increases the risk of an injury. In some other cases, complainants have also recorded the failure of the airbags to deploy in case of a crash, which qualifies as a safety concern.
Electric System Complaints
- Issues with the exterior lights: Among the Mazda 3 common faults, buyers of the current generation have reported the headlights pulsating when the vehicle loses speed. As soon as the brake pedal is depressed, buyers have recorded the headlamps flickering, which restricts visibility. It also causes the instrument panel to become dim and as a result, important vehicular information becomes hard to comprehend. Currently, neither the reason nor the solution for the problem has yet been provided.
Mechanical Complaints
- Problems with the transmission unit: The 2012 Mazda 3 transmission problems are multifold. In the current iteration, buyers of the SUV have reported the transmission failing to shift between gears in the automatic unit, and in the vehicles equipped with the manual transmission, a downshift results in an uncontrollable surge, which makes it difficult to control the vehicle. Finally, in a couple of cases, the shifter assembly fails to change the gear when used in “Manual mode”.
- Stalling of engine: The Mazda 3 mass air flow sensor failure is a common recurrence in the current generation of the vehicle. In cases listed on NHTSA and the unofficial forums, buyers have reported the air flow sensor ceasing operation, which causes the compact sedan to lose its motive power. While the underlying cause for the stalling is known, there is no solution available to remedy the problem.
- Loss of power steering assist: Buyers of the 2012 Mazda 3 sedan have also reported the power steering assist failing inadvertently. In a handful of cases, complainants have recorded the steering wheel locking up and a warning message being displayed on the dash screen. This makes it difficult to control the vehicle, which can result in an increased risk of a crash.
- Issues with the fuel/propulsion system: The 2012 Mazda 3 owners have complained about a pungent fuel odor when the vehicle is refilled. This happens when the tank is filled to the brim and the gas cap remains loose, which causes an oxygen leak. Currently, the replacement of the fuel cap is the only solution available.
Structural Complaints
- Problems with the rear liftgate: In the current iteration of the vehicle, buyers of the 2012 Mazda 3 have reported the liftgate falling independently, which can increase the risk of an injury. Where a diagnosis has been conducted, a failure of the support struts has been observed as the underlying cause. To deal with the issue, Mazda has introduced a recall, referenced by 16V564000. However, the parts for recall are not available.
2012 Mazda 3 Recalls
|
S. No |
Date |
NHTSA ID |
Issues Noticed |
Additional Remarks |
Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1. |
6th Sept 2016 |
16V564000 |
Corroded liftgate |
Due to corrosion, the liftgate support struts may break, resulting in the liftgate falling unexpectedly. |
Dealers will replace the liftgate supports, free of cost. |
Should you buy the 2012 Mazda 3?
The Mazda 3 is a revelation. With its all-around improvements, the compact sedan sits at the top of its class with its impressive driving antics, better fuel efficiency, and luxurious setup. At an affordable price, the vehicle promises to deliver the best bang for the buck, and with its pristine reliability, it upholds its expectations. Compared to its sales figures of 135,000 units, the Japanese offering’s user grievances do not seem worrisome. Though some recurring complaints could have been tended to through recalls, the ownership experience remains pristine. So, if you are in the market for an accessible and dependable option, the Mazda 3 sedan is a cogent choice. Even the hatchback variant is an impressive proposition.
