2018 Mazda CX-3: Recalls, Problems & MPG
Here are the deets on the 2018 Mazda CX-3: 1 recall, 10 owner complaints and up to 31 mpg combined.

Recalls
1 vehicle recall from the manufacturer. Repairs are free. Check your VIN to see if one is still open on your car.
Backup camera Vehicle recall #23V487000 · 2023 · 236,100 vehicles
What's wrong: The rearview camera image May not display properly by showing a flickering or distorted image.
Why it matters: A rearview camera that does not display properly can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
The fix: 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. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed September 13, 2023. Final owner letters…
Most-reported problems
Owner complaints filed with NHTSA, by component. One complaint can list several components. 0 mention a fire, 0 injuries and 0 deaths were reported.
What owners describe
- Electrical (2): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Engine (2): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Backup camera (2): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Speed control / throttle (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
The 2018 Mazda CX-3 has 10 owner complaints, ranking #4 of 7 CX-3 model years for complaints (about average; the typical year has 16). Complaints peaked in 2018 (2 filed that year). The typical problem showed up when the car was about 4 years old, at a median of 17,520 miles. Neighboring years: 2017 (21 complaints, 1 recalls), 2019 (27 complaints, 2 recalls).
Engines & fuel economy (EPA)
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0 L 4-cyl | Automatic (S6) | Front-Wheel Drive | 29 | 34 | 31 | Regular |
| 2.0 L 4-cyl | Automatic (S6) | 4-Wheel Drive | 27 | 32 | 29 | Regular |
Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.
Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the 2018 Mazda CX-3.
Closest thing to the factory manual for most years. Pay once, keep it.
Most $25–$78, one-timePro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.
From $19.99/mo · $39.99/yrOEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.
From $19.99/mo · $59.99/yrStep-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.
Books ~$30–$40 · AllAccess $34.99/moHeads up: we may earn a commission if you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you. Prices checked 2026-10 and can change. We never host or link to pirated manuals. Disclosure
FAQ
Does the 2018 Mazda CX-3 have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 1 vehicle recall for the 2018 Mazda CX-3. Recall repairs are free at any dealer, no matter how old the car is. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What are the most common 2018 Mazda CX-3 problems?
Owners have filed 10 complaints with NHTSA. The most-reported areas are electrical (2), engine (2), backup camera (2).
What gas mileage does the 2018 Mazda CX-3 get?
EPA ratings run up to 31 mpg combined (2.0 L, Automatic (S6)), across 2 engine and transmission combos.
Where can I get a 2018 Mazda CX-3 repair manual?
eManualOnline sells downloadable manuals, Mitchell 1 DIY and ALLDATAdiy sell online access to factory repair data, and Haynes sells printed guides and online access. Pick a download if you want to keep it, or a subscription for wiring diagrams and TSBs.