The Mazda MX-3 spans 1989–1996 with 8 recorded NHTSA recalls and a 3.5/5 ForCar reliability score. The years to approach with caution are 1993, 1992, 1994 (most owner complaints); the cleanest are 1989, 1990, 1991. It delivers up to 29 mpg combined and NHTSA-rated safety.
How we score: NHTSA crash-test safety (40%), recall frequency across all years (25%) and the share of owner complaints involving a crash, fire or injury (35%). Based on NHTSA & EPA data — not user reviews.
Overview
The Mazda MX-3 is one of the most popular vehicles in its class, produced from 1989 to 1996 across multiple generations.
How to read a Mazda MX-3 VIN — every digit explained
Every Mazda MX-3 carries a unique 17-character VIN stamped at the factory. Each position is a code — together they spell out where, when and how your car was built. Here's exactly what every digit means.
- WMI (1–3) — country & manufacturer. Tells you it's a Mazda and the country it was built in (real Mazda codes below).
- VDS (4–8) — model, body style, engine, trim & restraints. The 8th digit is the engine code.
- Check digit (9) — a math check that proves the VIN is genuine.
- Model year (10) — the year it was built (e.g. R = 2024, S = 2025).
- Plant (11) — which factory assembled this MX-3.
- Serial (12–17) — the unique sequential production number.
- JapanJC1 · JC2 · JM1 · JM2 · JM3
- Mexico3MD · 3MV · 3MY · 3MZ
- USA7MM · 7MU
Digits 4–17 — the engine code (8th), model-year letter (10th) and plant — follow the universal SAE standard, identical on every car. For the full year-code table (2001–2026), country codes and where the VIN is stamped on your MX-3, see the complete guide to reading a VIN.
How many recalls does the Mazda MX-3 have?
The Mazda MX-3 has 8 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1989–1996. Pick a year below to see its recalls — then verify open recalls against your specific VIN.
1995 Mazda MX-3 recalls 1
Suspension:front:springs:coil Springs
What's wrong. Vehicle description: passenger vehicles originally sold or currently registered in the following states: connecticut, delaware, illinois, indiana, iowa, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, minnesota, nw hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island, vermont, west virginia, wisconsin, and washington, dc. In areas where large quantities of road salt are used, corrosive pits can develop on the surface of the front suspension coil spring. Repeated use can eventually cause the coil spring to break and a tire could be punctured from contact with the broken coil spring.
Risk. This condition increases the risk of a vehicle crash.
Fix. Dealers will install a guard assembly which will prevent the broken coil spring from contacting the tire. In addition to performing the recall campaign, mazda is extending the warranty coverage on the front coil springs for the lift of the vehicle. If owners have already paid for the repair or replacement of these front coil springs, due to road salt damage, mazda will reimburse these owners for reasonable expenses.
1994 Mazda MX-3 recalls 1
Suspension:front:springs:coil Springs
What's wrong. Vehicle description: passenger vehicles originally sold or currently registered in the following states: connecticut, delaware, illinois, indiana, iowa, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, minnesota, nw hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island, vermont, west virginia, wisconsin, and washington, dc. In areas where large quantities of road salt are used, corrosive pits can develop on the surface of the front suspension coil spring. Repeated use can eventually cause the coil spring to break and a tire could be punctured from contact with the broken coil spring.
Risk. This condition increases the risk of a vehicle crash.
Fix. Dealers will install a guard assembly which will prevent the broken coil spring from contacting the tire. In addition to performing the recall campaign, mazda is extending the warranty coverage on the front coil springs for the lift of the vehicle. If owners have already paid for the repair or replacement of these front coil springs, due to road salt damage, mazda will reimburse these owners for reasonable expenses.
1993 Mazda MX-3 recalls 3
Suspension:front:springs:coil Springs
What's wrong. Vehicle description: passenger vehicles originally sold or currently registered in the following states: connecticut, delaware, illinois, indiana, iowa, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, minnesota, nw hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island, vermont, west virginia, wisconsin, and washington, dc. In areas where large quantities of road salt are used, corrosive pits can develop on the surface of the front suspension coil spring. Repeated use can eventually cause the coil spring to break and a tire could be punctured from contact with the broken coil spring.
Risk. This condition increases the risk of a vehicle crash.
Fix. Dealers will install a guard assembly which will prevent the broken coil spring from contacting the tire. In addition to performing the recall campaign, mazda is extending the warranty coverage on the front coil springs for the lift of the vehicle. If owners have already paid for the repair or replacement of these front coil springs, due to road salt damage, mazda will reimburse these owners for reasonable expenses.
Seat Belts:front:webbing
What's wrong. Vehicle description: passenger vehicles equipped with front seat automatic shoulder belts. The rail of the automatic shoulder belt can wear sufficiently such that the cable which retracts the buckle assembly can become jammed in the rail rendering the shoulder belt inoperative.
Risk. A seat occupant may not be properly restrained in the event of a vehicle crash.
Fix. Dealers will replace the passive shoulder belt assembly with a modified one (with additional dust lip) in vehicles which have experienced a problem. In vehicles in which the automatic shoulder belt functions properly, the rails will be inspected and replaced with modified rails if they exceed the inspection criteria.
Electrical System:ignition:switch
What's wrong. Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 1989-1998 MPV, 1990-1995 323, 1990-1998 Protege, 1992-1993 MX-3, 1993-1995 929, 1993-1997 MX-6, and 1993-1998 626 vehicles. In the affected vehicles, grease applied to the contact points inside the ignition switch may become conductive and overheat.
Risk. If the ignition switch overheats there would be an increased risk of a fire.
Fix. Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ignition switch, free of charge. The recall began on December 17, 2015. Owners may contact Mazda Customer Experience Center at 1-800-222-5500, option#6. Mazda's number for this recall is 8715J.
1992 Mazda MX-3 recalls 3
Suspension:front:springs:coil Springs
What's wrong. Vehicle description: passenger vehicles originally sold or currently registered in the following states: connecticut, delaware, illinois, indiana, iowa, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, minnesota, nw hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island, vermont, west virginia, wisconsin, and washington, dc. In areas where large quantities of road salt are used, corrosive pits can develop on the surface of the front suspension coil spring. Repeated use can eventually cause the coil spring to break and a tire could be punctured from contact with the broken coil spring.
Risk. This condition increases the risk of a vehicle crash.
Fix. Dealers will install a guard assembly which will prevent the broken coil spring from contacting the tire. In addition to performing the recall campaign, mazda is extending the warranty coverage on the front coil springs for the lift of the vehicle. If owners have already paid for the repair or replacement of these front coil springs, due to road salt damage, mazda will reimburse these owners for reasonable expenses.
Seat Belts:front:webbing
What's wrong. Vehicle description: passenger vehicles equipped with front seat automatic shoulder belts. The rail of the automatic shoulder belt can wear sufficiently such that the cable which retracts the buckle assembly can become jammed in the rail rendering the shoulder belt inoperative.
Risk. A seat occupant may not be properly restrained in the event of a vehicle crash.
Fix. Dealers will replace the passive shoulder belt assembly with a modified one (with additional dust lip) in vehicles which have experienced a problem. In vehicles in which the automatic shoulder belt functions properly, the rails will be inspected and replaced with modified rails if they exceed the inspection criteria.
Electrical System:ignition:switch
What's wrong. Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 1989-1998 MPV, 1990-1995 323, 1990-1998 Protege, 1992-1993 MX-3, 1993-1995 929, 1993-1997 MX-6, and 1993-1998 626 vehicles. In the affected vehicles, grease applied to the contact points inside the ignition switch may become conductive and overheat.
Risk. If the ignition switch overheats there would be an increased risk of a fire.
Fix. Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ignition switch, free of charge. The recall began on December 17, 2015. Owners may contact Mazda Customer Experience Center at 1-800-222-5500, option#6. Mazda's number for this recall is 8715J.
Best and worst years for the Mazda MX-3
Based on NHTSA owner-complaint volume across 8 tracked years, the worst years are 1993, 1992, 1994 and the best (fewest complaints) are 1989, 1990, 1991.
ForCar aggregate — our own analysis of complaint volume, not published by NHTSA.
| Year | Owner complaints | Top issue | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1989 MX-3 | — | Best | |
| 1990 MX-3 | — | Best | |
| 1991 MX-3 | Air Bags | Best | |
| 1992 MX-3 | Seat Belts | Avoid | |
| 1993 MX-3 | Seat Belts | Avoid | |
| 1994 MX-3 | Suspension | Avoid | |
| 1995 MX-3 | Air Bags | Average | |
| 1996 MX-3 | Visibility | Average |
What are the most common Mazda MX-3 problems?
The most-reported Mazda MX-3 problems are Tires (1 reports), Air Bags (16 reports) and Gasoline (4 reports) — out of 149 owner complaints NHTSA holds for the model. Here's how they break down:
Most-reported components — tap a category to read what owners actually experienced:
Seat Belts 64 Read
Dt: 1993 mazda mx3. The consumer received a recall 72803 in april 2005 concerning the seat belts. The seat belts were repaired in april 2005. The seat belts malfunctioned at least 3 times since they were repaired. The vehicle had been taken back 3 times and they could not remedy the problem. They asked the consumer to bring the vehicle back for a fourth time. This started out with the passenger side and then on both sides. The seat belts were automatic shoulder belts, and they would not release automatically and must be released manually. *ak (12/01/05) refer to recall campaign# 97v211000. The problem recurred two more times in the driver's seat. Currently the seat belts do not automatically open, trapping both the consumer and passenger. The recall repairs were made but the consumer still experience problems. *sc
Vehicle was impact from a 3:00 position speed 5 mph, lap/shoulder belt retract failed. Tt
Malfunction of the automatic seat belt on the driver's side occured in an accident. Owner discovered that the vehicle was included in a previous recall for the problem, but was never notified.
Drivers side automatic belt does not work. Can only use lap belt. Had dealership correct during initial recall but there was not a problem then. Years later problem began and mazda will not correct. Seat belt keeps moving back and forth in track and will not lock in place. I have to remove fuse because it is constant.
Tl* the contact owns a 1993 mazda mx-3. The contact stated that the seat belts failed to function properly. An independent mechanic ordered the seat belt replacement kit and replaced the part years ago, but the seat belts failed to secure and retract after the repair. Browning mazda (18827 studebaker rd, cerritos, ca 90703, (562) 924-1414) indicated that they would not replace the part for nhtsa campaign number: 97v211000 (seat belts) because the oem seat belts had been repaired by an outside source. The dealer indicated that the seat belt kit was no longer being manufactured. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 55,000.
Tl*the contact owns a 1993 mazda mx3. The contact stated that the drivers side motor for the seat belt failed and locked when she opened the door. The vehicle was not inspected by a dealer; nor was it repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and offered no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 99,000.
Tl* the contact owns a 1993 mazda mx3. The contact stated that the automatic seat belt was jammed and would not latch. In addition, the shoulder strap would not come restrain over the shoulder. The contact believed the failure to be a severe safety issue because only the lap belt was operable. The failure mileage was 93,000 and the current mileage was unknown. Updated 06/01/11*lj updated 06/10/11
Tl*the contact owns a 1993 mazda mx3. While driving approximately 55-65 mph, the driver side seat belt became stuck in the back position and would not move forward. The contact pressed the emergency release button to get out of the seat belt. The vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer where the contact was informed of recall 97v211000 (seat belts: front: webbing). The contact was told by the dealer that he had to have the door latch switch repaired before the recall repair could be performed. He was also told that the wiring needed to be inspected but he would be charged for it. The failure mileage was approximately 145,000 and the current mileage was approximately 149,000.
Tl* the contact owns a 1993 mazda mx3. While entering the vehicle the cable which retracts the buckle assembly became jammed in the rail. The condition rendered the shoulder belt inoperative. The previous owner had the vehicle repaired according to recall # 97v211000( seat belts:front:webbing). Since the remedy was performed the manufacturer will not provide a second repair free of charge. The current and failure mileages were 117,000. Updated 11/09/09 *bf updated 11/09/09
Tl*the contact owns a 1993 mazda mx3. The driver side front seat belt was repaired under nhtsa campaign id number 97v211000 (seat belts:front:webbing) in january 15, 2002. Recently, the front passenger side front seat belt cable and retractor failed. The manufacturer stated that the front driver side seat belt was repaired; therefore, the recall was closed. The contact will need to replace the seat belt on his own. He is arguing with the manufacturer that the recall stated that both seat belts should be replaced. The failure mileage was 80,000 and current mileage was 197,000.
Suspension 21 Read
Driving vehicle at speed of 25mph, making a right, vehicle went out of control due faulty suspension, impact 12:00, and flipped over. *ak
Tl*the contact owns a 1995 mazda mx-3. While driving 35 mph, the contact heard a loud clunking noise coming from the front of the vehicle. He removed the passenger side front tire and noticed that the coil spring had failed. His vin is not included in recall # 97v116000 (suspension:front:springs:coil springs). The contact feels that it should be included because he is experiencing the same failure as noted in the recall. The current mileage is 145,222 and failure mileage was 130,000.
Consumer have been continually expriencing suspension problems. Replaced tire every 3000 miles. Dealer notified, but manufacturer refused to allow dealer to correct the problem for unknown reason. *ak
Tl the contact owns a 1994 mazda mx3. The contact stated that immediately after parking in a residential garage, she heard a loud pop. After inspecting the vehicle, she realized that the coil spring fractured and punctured the tire. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that the vehicle was not included in nhtsa campaign number: 97v116000 (suspension). The vehicle was not repaired. The failure and current mileage was 140,000. Mah
Tl*the contact owns a 1994 mazda mx-3. While driving 5 mph, the front coil spring failed and caused the front passenger side tire to blow out. The rotation of the coil spring punctured the tire. The vehicle has not been diagnosed or repaired by the dealer. The tire must be replaced. The dealer stated that the vin was excluded from nhtsa campaign id number 97v116000 (suspension:front:springs:coil springs). The vehicle does not have cruise control or antilock brakes. The contact is not the original owner of the vehicle. The current and failure mileages were 78,200.
Tl*the contact owns a 1994 mazda mx-3. The contact stated that the two front coil springs failed, which caused the cd axles on both sides to fail. The manufacturer stated that nothing could be done because the vin was excluded from the recall. In addition, the area where the vehicle was manufactured was not affected. The cd axles were replaced. The recall number was unknown. The failure and current mileages were 63,000.
Dt*: the contact stated while driving at 60 mph on normal road conditions, the right front tire exploded due to a puncture from a fractured coil spring. There is a recall, # 97v116000 for the coil spring on the contacts year, make and model. However the contacts vin was not included. The recall only applies to vehicles originally sold or currently registered in salt states. The contact use to live in nebraska and commuted to a salt state, iowa, and now lives in florida. The manufacturer was contacted who refused to provide the recall letter and referred the contact to a local dealer for repairs. The dealership denied the recall remedy without the recall letter. Updated 12/15/06. *jb
Dt*: the contact stated while parking the front coil springs broke. There is a nhtsa recall, # 97v116000, regarding the suspension front springs coil springs. The vehicle has the same problems as indicated in the recall; however it is not included in the recall due to the vin.
While backing out of the driveway at 10 mph or less consumer heard a noise and noticed the right front tire was flat. Vehicle was towed to the repair shop. Mechanic informed determined that coil spring broke and punctured the tire. The repair shop notified a local mazda dealer.*ak
Either dec 2000 or jan 2001 my mazda mx-3 had a front coil spring break. My mechanic contacted mazda district representative and showed the coil to him. My mechanic felt this was not something that should have happened. The district rep said there was nothing mazda could do. I contacted mazda myself and they said that they would do nothing. Then a few months later, i found your website and conveyed the information found to mazda and they said that it was not a recall for the mx-3 only the mx-6. They said your website was incorrect. Today my second coil spring did break and this time it popped my tire instantly. My car was towed to hawley's garage in east longmeadow, ma where the first coil spring was replaced. Upon being towed more damaged to my car was instilled to what extent the damage is, is not known till the mechanic checks this out. I feel that all of this should and could have been avoided if mazda had just done the right thing a few years back and fixed and prevented this from happening again. My mechanic did fix the first coil spring back when it was broken and i will have him replace this one also. The old part is not available but i will be sure to keep this one.*ak
Air Bags 16 Read
No deployment of air bags during head on collision with utility pole.
When in accident passenger side air bag compartment lid hit windshield when air bag deployed and shattered. Please describe details. Tt
During a vehicle collision there was no deployment of the air bag, resulting in injuries .
Driver's side air bag didn't deploy upon impact. *ak
Vehicle was involved in a frontal collision, impact 12:00 position, speed 25mph, driver's side airbag deployed, causing burns to face. *ak
While attempting to brake, car fish tailed, totalled car, air bag burned face. Tt
Driver involved in a major accident and air bag did not deploy. Please describe details. *ak
Driver air bag did not deploy during front end collision. Tt
During head on collision driver air bag did not deploy, vehicle totalled. Tt
At stop light, proceeded forward, truck making right turn, applied brakes, vehicle slid into truck, passenger's side air bag deployed, but driver's side did not; truck left scene of accident. *ak
Electrical System 15 Read
Tl* the contact owns a 1993 mazda mx3. While driving approximately 30 mph, the contact noticed smoke coming from the steering column. The contact coasted the vehicle over to the side of the road and the battery caught on fire. The fire department extinguished the fire. A fire report was not filed. The contact called north kansas city mazda (located in north kansas city, mo) who stated that they would retrieve the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle was never picked up. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 15v674000 (electrical system). The part needed for the repair was not available. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not contacted. The approximate failure mileage was 175,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
When brakes were applied electrical items would dim. Give more details. Tt
Tl* the contact owns a 1993 mazda mx3. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 15v674000 (electrical system). The part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.
Replaced distirbutor. *jb
My car was wanting to stall at stop lights. I broght it to my mechanic, he ordered a part for the vehicle (i believe it was an intake valve) and asked me to come back in a couple days. When i broght the vehicle back, he called to tell me the intake valve was the least of my problems. I had an electrical fire under the hood, which had melted the fuse box! Luckily i was not driving the vehicle at the time of fire. My mechanic stated the cause of this electrical fire to be the cooling fan. I had the cooling fan, wiring, wiring harness, intake valve and a water pump replaced. When i got the car out of the shop, a week later the hold button started to flash on and off. This was determined to be a swith, which a had replaced. Approx. 2 weeks later the transmission started slipping, i brought the car to aamco and there we found metal in the pan. I told him i would bring the car back in a few days for repairs, a quarter mile from aamco the car just would not move. The transmission had ceased to work. I had the car in to mazda dealer 7/98 for transmission flush.
While driving the vehicle engine shuts down, causing vehicle to stall. Dealer replaced faulty distributor. *ak *tt
Replaced ignition switch 3 times.
Vehiclel stalled 4 times. Tt
Distirbutor replaced once.
Tl* the contact owned a 1992 mazda mx3. The contact smelled an abnormal burning odor and noticed sparks coming from the steering column near the ignition. In addition, the contact noticed white smoke coming from the steering column. The failure occurred without warning. The vehicle was turned off and the sparks stopped. The vehicle was repaired; however, they sold the vehicle to be salvaged. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 170,000.
Power Train 9 Read
Ever since i got my car it seems all we've had to do is relplace parts. We have had transmission problems from the start. Until recently when our car was failing to go and getting stuck evey time we came to a stop light, i got the idea that it wasn't how i was handiling it, that their was a manu. Problem. I saw many complaints about this make on the transmission, and i don't think i should pay anymore to get it replaced. Everytime i try to put on the gas it fails to accelerate. Now it makes a clicking noise everytime i press the gas.
Fuel injection distributor stopped working. Also, cv boots broke off. A consumer had the parts replaced three or four times, and dealer can't determine the cause of the problem. *ak
My car was wanting to stall at stop lights. I broght it to my mechanic, he ordered a part for the vehicle (i believe it was an intake valve) and asked me to come back in a couple days. When i broght the vehicle back, he called to tell me the intake valve was the least of my problems. I had an electrical fire under the hood, which had melted the fuse box! Luckily i was not driving the vehicle at the time of fire. My mechanic stated the cause of this electrical fire to be the cooling fan. I had the cooling fan, wiring, wiring harness, intake valve and a water pump replaced. When i got the car out of the shop, a week later the hold button started to flash on and off. This was determined to be a swith, which a had replaced. Approx. 2 weeks later the transmission started slipping, i brought the car to aamco and there we found metal in the pan. I told him i would bring the car back in a few days for repairs, a quarter mile from aamco the car just would not move. The transmission had ceased to work. I had the car in to mazda dealer 7/98 for transmission flush.
Transmission hold button locks transmission in gear and requires up-shifting from gear at which hold is engaged. With transmission in "d" and having automatically upshifted into overdrive, hold light will flash and transmission will downshift, causing a sudden/radical slowdown.
Cv boots/joints replaced 3 times.
Transmission failed/collapsed. *sd
Lease car brand new car in the shop replace transmission for time first one that in a year second only a week three that about two months. Tt
Dt*: the contact stated while driving 60 mph the vehicle's transmission lost first and second gears, the vehicle was slowed to 30 mph and lost third and fourth gears. It was coasted off the road without incident. The vehicle was towed to the contact's residence. This is the third transmission failure. The manufacturer was not alerted.
Visibility 6 Read
Windows cannot open in hot weather. Dealer's service mechanics always just clean the rubber seal tract and lubricate it, and so do we. Windows get stuck again after 3 days. It's dangerous, because if in an accident, one cannot get out thru the window. There are so many canals next to south florida roads- and so many death by drowning in the car... Not talking about inconvenience of having to get out from the car to pay tolls and get thru gated community entrance. Mechanics in the dealership are saying, that this model of mazda has this problem and they cannot do more, because even if they would put new rubber seals or door, it would be doing the same. *tr
While rolling window down would have to pull window up by hand. Dealer has been notified. Please provide further infomaton. *ak
The driver's side automatic seatbelt restraint is stuck midway on the rail which is a very dangerous position if a wreck were to occur. The power sunroof opens all the way but will not close. It requires a manual crank in order to close it. *ak
Consumer received recall notice 97v22600. The consumer took the vehicle to the dealer to have recall repaired, consumer was told by the dealer they didn't have the tools to fix the vehicle. *ak
Windshield wipers failed.
Power windows failed.
Service Brakes 5 Read
While attempting to brake, car fishtaled, spun into the wall on freeway, resulting in an accident/injury. *ak
Brakes lock up when driving in rain, causing loss of control.
Whenever applying brakes suddenl they would lock up each time. Brakes would work fine when not applied suddenly. Will be taking vehicle to dealer to have mechanic check them out. *ak
Left rear caliper was replaced 7/98, right rear caliper needs to be replaced 2/99. I heard that there might be some recall on the rear caliper's for mazda's pre '95. *ak
Brakes are failing and the car accelerates at the same time. Please describe details. Tt
Hydraulic 5 Read
While attempting to brake, car fishtaled, spun into the wall on freeway, resulting in an accident/injury. *ak
Brakes lock up when driving in rain, causing loss of control.
Whenever applying brakes suddenl they would lock up each time. Brakes would work fine when not applied suddenly. Will be taking vehicle to dealer to have mechanic check them out. *ak
Left rear caliper was replaced 7/98, right rear caliper needs to be replaced 2/99. I heard that there might be some recall on the rear caliper's for mazda's pre '95. *ak
Brakes are failing and the car accelerates at the same time. Please describe details. Tt
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, all model years. Bar = share of total complaints. Full reports searchable on NHTSA.gov.
Mazda MX-3 specifications & dimensions
The 1996 Mazda MX-3 measures 166″ long on a 97″ wheelbase, with a curb weight near 2,582 lb. Full dimensions below — engine, horsepower and trim decode from your VIN. For the original factory build — MSRP, trim and standard equipment — rebuild the Mazda MX-3 window sticker.
| Wheelbase | 97″ (246 cm) |
| Rear track | 58″ |
| Body / trim | Mx-3 Precidia 2dr Hatchback Gs V6 |
| Curb weight | 2,582 lb (1171 kg) |
| Front track | 57″ |
| Overall width | 67″ (170 cm) |
| Overall height | 52″ (131 cm) |
| Overall length | 166″ (421 cm) |
Source: NHTSA vPIC / Transport Canada vehicle specifications. Metric values converted to imperial; generation ranges approximate.
Mazda MX-3 cargo space, seating & interior room
How much the MX-3 holds — passengers and cargo. EPA measures its interior at 92 cu ft of passenger volume and 16 cu ft of cargo. Seating capacity and legroom vary by trim.
Exact seating capacity, third-row availability, legroom and headroom decode from your VIN or vary by trim — the original factory equipment & options list shows what each trim included.
Passenger & cargo volume from EPA fueleconomy.gov (largest configuration). Seats, legroom and headroom from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
Mazda MX-3 tire size, oil type & owner specs
The fitment owners look up most — tires, wheels, oil and batteries. Exact wheel and tire sizes decode from your VIN or the driver's door-jamb placard; the universal items are listed below.
Exact tire, wheel, oil grade, capacity and battery group are added per trim and model year — decode your VIN above for the factory fitment. Universal items shown as-is.
What MPG does the Mazda MX-3 get?
The Mazda MX-3 returns up to 29 combined MPG (EPA), which works out to roughly $2,150/yr in fuel. Pick an engine to see MPG, annual running cost and CO₂ by year:
The 1996 Mazda MX-3 (1.8L 6-cyl) gets 22 mpg combined and costs about $2,850/yr to fuel, emitting 404 g/mi CO₂ — about $3,250 more than the average new vehicle over 5 years.
| Year | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Smog | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1996 MX-3 | 20 | 26 | $2,850 | 404 | — | 1.8L 6-cyl | |
| 1995 MX-3 | 20 | 26 | $2,850 | 404 | — | 1.9L 6-cyl | |
| 1994 MX-3 | 20 | 26 | $2,850 | 404 | — | 1.9L 6-cyl | |
| 1993 MX-3 | 20 | 26 | $2,850 | 404 | — | 1.9L 6-cyl | |
| 1992 MX-3 | 20 | 26 | $2,850 | 404 | — | 1.9L 6-cyl |
The 1996 Mazda MX-3 (1.6L 4-cyl) gets 29 mpg combined and costs about $2,150/yr to fuel, emitting 306 g/mi CO₂ — that's about $250 saved over 5 years versus the average new vehicle.
| Year | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Smog | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1996 MX-3 | 26 | 34 | $2,150 | 306 | — | 1.6L 4-cyl | |
| 1995 MX-3 | 25 | 34 | $2,200 | 317 | — | 1.6L 4-cyl | |
| 1994 MX-3 | 25 | 34 | $2,200 | 317 | — | 1.6L 4-cyl | |
| 1993 MX-3 | 24 | 32 | $2,300 | 329 | — | 1.6L 4-cyl | |
| 1992 MX-3 | 25 | 32 | $2,200 | 317 | — | 1.6L 4-cyl |
Source: EPA fuel-economy database (ForCar-hosted, 1986–2027) — best combined rating per engine & year, with EPA annual fuel cost and tailpipe CO₂. Trim & drivetrain vary slightly; decode your VIN for the exact figure.
See how the MX-3 stacks up against the most fuel-efficient sedans, or calculate this MX-3's real yearly fuel cost.
What engines does the Mazda MX-3 have? Power & range
The Mazda MX-3 is offered with 2 powertrains — 1.8L 6-cyl, 1.6L 4-cyl. Here's the lineup by engine, transmission and drivetrain.
| Engine | Displacement | Transmission | Drive | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| V6 | 1.8L · 6-cyl | Manual 5-spd | FWD | Regular |
| 4-cyl | 1.6L · 4-cyl | Manual 5-spd | FWD | Regular |
Horsepower, torque and fuel-tank size decode from your VIN — exact figures vary by engine and trim.
Source: EPA fueleconomy.gov (engines, drivetrain, range, charge time). Horsepower & torque from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
How much does a Mazda MX-3 cost to own?
A Mazda MX-3 holds its value well. A typical example keeps roughly 56% of its value after five years — losing about 44% to depreciation. Check what a used MX-3 is worth today or browse current used-market prices before you buy or sell. Fuel, maintenance and insurance add to the total cost to own.
| Age | Value retained | Est. resale value | Lost to depreciation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 84% | $25,200 | −$4,800 |
| Year 2 | 76% | $22,800 | −$7,200 |
| Year 3 | 68% | $20,400 | −$9,600 |
| Year 4 | 61% | $18,300 | −$11,700 |
| Year 5 | 56% | $16,800 | −$13,200 |
What goes into the five-year cost to own:
- Depreciation — the biggest cost: this MX-3 loses about 44% of its value over five years. See the full depreciation curve by age.
- Fuel — ≈ $10,750 over five years at roughly 15,000 miles a year.
- Maintenance & repairs — routine service, tires and wear items as the MX-3 ages.
- Insurance — varies by driver, state and trim; get a quote for your exact figure.
Resale & depreciation are ForCar estimates from typical segment value-retention curves — not a live market quote. Fuel from EPA fueleconomy.gov at ~15k mi/yr.
Is the Mazda MX-3 safe?
NHTSA crash-test ratings aren't published for the MX-3 yet — see the top-rated safest cars instead.
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How many miles does a Mazda MX-3 last?
A well-maintained Mazda MX-3 typically lasts 250,000–300,000+ miles. It's exceptionally durable — with routine maintenance many owners report 250k+ on the original powertrain. Its ForCar Reliability Score is 3.5/5.
Check your Mazda MX-3’s VIN — history, recalls & specs
Title records, open recalls, build details and paint code — straight from the VIN. Free.
Check this MX-3’s VIN free →All Mazda MX-3 model years
A year-by-year snapshot of the Mazda MX-3 — recalls, best EPA fuel economy and NHTSA safety. Tap a year for full details.
| Year | Recalls | Best MPG | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1996 MX-3 | 0 | — | |
| 1995 MX-3 | 1 recall | — | |
| 1994 MX-3 | 1 recall | — | |
| 1993 MX-3 | 3 recalls | — | |
| 1992 MX-3 | 3 recalls | — | |
| 1991 MX-3 | 0 | — | |
| 1990 MX-3 | 0 | — | |
| 1989 MX-3 | 0 | — |
Recalls = NHTSA campaigns that year · MPG = best EPA combined · Safety = NHTSA overall stars (tested years).
Frequently asked questions
What are the worst years for the MX-3?
By owner-complaint volume, 1993, 1992, 1994 drew the most reports. 1989, 1990, 1991 have the cleanest records.
How many recalls does the MX-3 have?
8 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1989–1996. Always check open recalls by your VIN.
What MPG does the MX-3 get?
Up to 29 combined MPG (EPA), depending on engine — from the base 4-cylinder to the hybrid.
How many miles does a MX-3 last?
A well-maintained MX-3 typically reaches 200,000–300,000 miles with regular maintenance.
Is the MX-3 reliable?
Our ForCar Reliability Score for the MX-3 is 3.5/5, based on NHTSA safety, recall history and complaint severity.
What's the Mazda MX-3 warranty?
New Mazda models carry a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic (bumper-to-bumper) warranty and a 5 years / 60,000 miles powertrain warranty. Coverage can vary by model year and market — confirm with a Mazda dealer.
Where is the Mazda MX-3 made?
The assembly plant is encoded in the VIN — the 11th character. Decode your MX-3's VIN above to see exactly where it was built; Mazda may build it at more than one plant depending on the year.
How much does a MX-3 weigh?
The MX-3's curb weight is around 2,582 lb. Its GVWR — the maximum loaded weight — decodes from the VIN.
How much ground clearance does the MX-3 have?
Ground clearance varies by trim and drivetrain — AWD/4WD versions often sit higher. Decode your VIN or check the specific trim for the exact figure.