2019-present · 2.0L Skyactiv-G naturally aspirated petrol (122 hp)
A reliable, fun-to-drive compact car with premium feel and Mazda's naturally aspirated 2.0L engine. Known for being one of the most dependable Skyactiv engines with minimal serious issues. Main concerns are carbon buildup on intake valves (common to all direct injection engines), occasional infotainment freezing, and thin paint susceptible to stone chips. The 6-speed automatic transmission is very reliable. Cylinder deactivation vibration affects 2.5L models only - not the 2.0L. No timing belt - uses chain. Overall considered one of the most reliable modern compact cars.
Direct injection engines accumulate carbon deposits over time · more· less
Like all direct injection engines, the Skyactiv-G 2.0 is prone to carbon buildup on intake valves because fuel never washes over them. The PCV system allows oil vapors to deposit on valve backs. Using cheap conventional oil accelerates this. Typically becomes noticeable around 100,000-130,000 km. Professional walnut blasting cleaning costs €200-400 at independent shops, or €400-600 at dealers. Regular PCV valve maintenance (every 100,000-150,000 km, €250-400) helps prevent severe buildup. Using quality synthetic oil (0W-20) significantly reduces carbon formation.
Screen freezes, blackouts, or Bluetooth connectivity problems · more· less
Some BP Mazda 3 owners report occasional infotainment system freezing, black screens, or Bluetooth pairing issues. Most cases are resolved with a soft reset (hold Volume/Mute + Nav + Back buttons for 10 seconds) or software update (free at dealer). Persistent issues may require CMU replacement (€800-1,200). Keeping the system updated and clearing old paired devices prevents most problems. This is a minor inconvenience rather than a serious reliability concern.
Paint chips and thin clear coat€100 - €1,000
Mazda paint is notably thin and susceptible to stone chips · more· less
Mazda's waterborne paint (environmental regulation) is thinner and more brittle than older formulations. Rock chips on the hood and leading edges are common. If not touched up promptly, surface rust can develop. The BP generation has improved over previous models but paint is still a weak point. Touch-up paint costs €15-30. Professional chip repair is €50-150 per panel. Full front-end paint protection film costs €800-1,000 but is worth considering for long-term ownership. Regular inspection and prompt touch-up prevents corrosion.
Control arm bushings wear€250 - €600
Front suspension bushings develop play causing clunking · more· less
Lower control arm bushings can wear out around 100,000-150,000 km, causing squeaking over bumps or clunking on rough roads. Mazda doesn't sell bushings separately - entire control arm must be replaced. OEM arms cost €160 each, aftermarket options (Mevotech) are €75-100. Labor is 2-3 hours. Replace both sides simultaneously. This is normal wear for any car at higher mileage and not specific to Mazda.
PCV valve clogging€250 - €400
PCV valve replacement requires intake manifold removal · more· less
The PCV valve sits under the intake manifold and is inconvenient to access. Recommended replacement around 100,000-150,000 km to prevent carbon buildup. The valve itself costs under €10 but labor is 3 hours because the intake manifold must be removed. Total cost €250-400. Many owners combine this with intake manifold gasket replacement since it's already apart. Regular PCV maintenance prevents excessive carbon deposits on intake valves.
AC compressor failure€800 - €1,500
Rare but expensive when it occurs, typically after 100,000 km · more· less
AC compressor failure is uncommon on Skyactiv engines but can occur after high mileage (100,000+ km) or if the AC isn't used regularly. When it fails, metallic debris can contaminate the system, requiring replacement of compressor, receiver dryer, and orifice tube. Total cost €800-1,500 including refrigerant and labor. Running AC periodically (even in winter) keeps seals lubricated and prevents premature failure.
Skyactiv Drive transmission is very reliable but not bulletproof · more· less
The Skyactiv 6-speed automatic in the 2.0L is considered highly reliable with failure rates below industry average. Very rare reports of transmission malfunction on 2019 models, some requiring replacement. Proper maintenance is key: change transmission fluid every 60,000-80,000 km (Mazda says "lifetime" but experts disagree). Manual transmission models have even fewer issues. If transmission fails within warranty period, Mazda typically covers replacement. Overall one of the most dependable automatics in its class.
Highly reliable with proper maintenance
The Mazda 3 BP with the 2.0L Skyactiv-G engine is one of the most reliable compact cars available. The naturally aspirated engine avoids turbo complexity and is known for lasting 200,000-300,000 km with proper care. Main maintenance focuses on preventing carbon buildup through quality oil and PCV servicing. Unlike the 2.5L, the 2.0L does not have cylinder deactivation vibration issues. Overall ownership costs are low compared to turbocharged competitors.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete service records essential. Verify oil changes every 10,000-15,000 km with 0W-20 synthetic oil.
Tires
Check tread depth, age (date codes), uneven wear. Size: 205/60R16 or 215/45R18 depending on trim.
Cold start
Must start engine completely cold. Listen for unusual rattles or knocking.
Body condition
Check paint for chips (especially hood, front bumper). Inspect for rust starting from chips.
Test drive
Minimum 20 minutes including highway speeds. Test all electronic features.
Specific for this vehicle
Test infotainment system thoroughly
Check for screen freezing, test Bluetooth pairing, ensure all features work. Try soft reset during test drive.
Inspect paint condition carefully
Look closely at hood, front bumper, mirrors for stone chips. Check if chips have been touched up or show rust.
Listen for suspension noises
Drive over speed bumps slowly. Listen for squeaking or clunking from front suspension (worn bushings).
Check service records for PCV and carbon cleaning
Ask if PCV valve has been replaced, if intake valves have been cleaned (especially above 100,000 km).
Test AC performance
AC should blow cold quickly. Weak cooling may indicate compressor or refrigerant issues.
Verify recall completion (2019 models)
Check with dealer using VIN that PCM software recall (rocker arm, 3719F) has been completed.
Automatic transmission shift quality
If automatic, shifts should be smooth without hesitation, jerking, or clunking. Drive for 20+ minutes.
Infotainment screen freezing (TSB available)Software update at dealer
Fuel pump impeller (2018-2020, some models)Check if applicable
Contact a Mazda dealer with the VIN to verify all recalls completed. The 2019 PCM software recall (3719F) is particularly important - it prevents rocker arm damage during cylinder deactivation transitions. Note: 2.0L engines do NOT have cylinder deactivation, but some 2019 units may still have been affected by the software issue.
Warranty Status
Original factory warranty (Europe 2019)3 years / varied km - expired
New Mazda warranty (from April 2023)6 years / 150,000 km (new cars only)
Anti-perforation warranty12 years (check if still active)
Paint warranty3 years - expired on 2019 models
2019 Mazda 3 models are outside their original factory warranty. Mazda introduced a new 6-year/150,000 km warranty in Europe from April 2023, but this applies only to vehicles purchased new after that date. Check with dealer if anti-perforation warranty is still valid. Extended warranty options may be available from Mazda or third-party providers.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.