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2013 Mazda Mazda3 Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 12, 2026·Daniel Wilson
2013 Mazda Mazda3 Report

Overall Score

8.1/ 10
Our Verdict
Recommended

Key Takeaways

  • The 2013 Mazda3 has a concerningly high TSB count, suggesting a propensity for minor issues that could impact ownership experience.
  • A recall for lift gate support struts requires verification of completion; inspect these components for corrosion, especially in rust-belt regions.
  • While lacking formal complaints, the TSB volume suggests a thorough pre-purchase inspection is essential to identify potential hidden problems.
  • The vehicle offers solid safety ratings, particularly in frontal impacts, providing a degree of occupant protection.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2013 Mazda Mazda3

The 2013 Mazda Mazda3 offers a compelling blend of driving dynamics and practicality, making it a popular choice on the used market. However, prospective buyers should be aware of its reliability nuances. While the NHTSA awarded it an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5, with top marks in frontal crash tests, its side crash rating is a more modest 3. The vehicle has a low number of recalls and zero consumer complaints logged, which is a positive sign. Yet, a high TSB count indicates a history of potential minor issues that may require attention. The single recall campaign, addressing lift gate support struts, points to a specific component that warrants inspection.

Critical Failure Risk

The lift gate support struts are prone to corrosion, particularly in areas with road salt. This can lead to the struts weakening, failing, or even breaking, causing the lift gate to drop unexpectedly. A recall (16V644000) addressed this issue.

Early detection can help you avoid a $200-$400 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls1
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Horsepower
148–263HP
Torque
150–270 lb–ftLB-FT
Fuel Efficiency
24-33 mpg combined
Published range
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.5/ 10

Practicality

6.6/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Drivers seeking an engaging driving experience in a compact car.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers prioritizing absolute mechanical simplicity and minimal potential for unexpected repairs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2013 Mazda Mazda3 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2013 Mazda Mazda3.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Seating Capacity
5
Horsepower
148-263 hp
Torque
150-270 lb-ft
Transmission
6-speed manual, 5-speed automatic, 6-speed automatic
Drivetrain
FWD, AWD
Body Style
Sedan
MSRP Range
$15,995 - $25,495

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Most Common Issues

1. Lift Gate Strut Corrosion

Most reported

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter (e.g., Mazda 8G2Z-6714-A or equivalent)) - Tire Rotation

Est. shop cost: $80 - $150

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
1 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2013 Mazda Mazda3 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2013 Mazda Mazda3 is 9.5/10. Reliability score is 9.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2013 Mazda Mazda3 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 6.6/10. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 407 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2013 Mazda Mazda3?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2013 Mazda Mazda3 is 8.1/10. Overall score is 8.1/10 (Strong). Confidence 71%. Maintenance 8.8/10. Practicality 6.6/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2013 Mazda Mazda3?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter (e.g., Mazda 8G2Z-6714-A or equivalent)) - Tire Rotation at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Lift Gate Struts (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $200 • Max: $400).

What is the MSRP range for the 2013 Mazda Mazda3?▾

MSRP range is $15,995 - $25,495.

What engine is in the 2013 Mazda Mazda3?▾

Engine specs list Inline-4. Output is 148-263 hp • 150-270 lb-ft.

What transmission does the 2013 Mazda Mazda3 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Mazda Mazda3, transmission is 6-speed manual, 5-speed automatic, 6-speed automatic. The paired drivetrain is FWD, AWD.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2013 Mazda Mazda3?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What is the fuel economy range for the 2013 Mazda Mazda3?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Mazda Mazda3, fuel economy range is 24-33 mpg combined.

How many people fit in a 2013 Mazda Mazda3?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Mazda Mazda3, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2013 Mazda Mazda3?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Mazda Mazda3, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2013 Mazda Mazda3 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Mazda Mazda3, drivetrain is FWD, AWD. Transmission is 6-speed manual, 5-speed automatic, 6-speed automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2013 Mazda Mazda3?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 3/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2013 Mazda Mazda3?▾

This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2013 Mazda Mazda3?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2013 Honda Civic and 2013 Toyota Corolla.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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