Recalls · problems · safety

2012 Mazda Mazda3: recalls and problems

1 recall and 226 owner complaints on file with NHTSA. The most-reported problem area is power train.

1recalls
226complaints
9crashes reported
1fires reported
5injuries reported

Recalls

Check recalls for your exact VIN

Most common problems

  • Power Train40 · 18%
  • Engine32 · 14%
  • Exterior Lighting31 · 14%
  • Electrical System25 · 11%
  • Vehicle Speed Control20 · 9%
  • Fuel/Propulsion System18 · 8%
  • Unknown Or Other18 · 8%
  • Structure17 · 8%
  • Air Bags17 · 8%
  • Seats16 · 7%

What owners report

Structure

The contact owns a 2012 mazda mazda3. the vehicle was transported from the east to texas, and the vehicle was bought used. the contact stated that the dashboard was sticky and that a gap was between the instrument panel and cover. the contact stated that a small to medium bubble had started to form. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was

Fuel/Propulsion System

The car leaks gas when the tank is full and if the car is inclined slightly. i've noticed the problem several month ago with an occasional odor but finally saw the gas leaking recently when it was parked on a sloped street.

Service Brakes

The brake pedal is soft and sometimes unresponsive unless it is pumped repeatedly. there have been several times where i have been concerned if i would come to a complete stop. i have had both sets of brake pads replaced in the last year, and have on driven 9,000 miles. two independent service centers diagnosed the problem as a faulty master cylinder. however, upon replacing the master cylinder and doing three brake

Seats

The seat lifter on the driver's side seat frame broke, the metal has a clear stress fracture right near the bracket where the frame connects to the rail. this is the same part that was recalled in the 2010 and 2011 models by mazda in 2017. nhtsa campaign no. 17v-082 it causes the driver side seat to change positions while driving creating hazardous conditions and does not appear structurally stable if involved in a

Excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. They are owner reports and have not been verified.

Crash-test ratings

VersionOverallFrontalSideRollover
2012 Mazda Mazda3 5 HB FWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
2012 Mazda Mazda3 4 DR FWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Source: NHTSA recalls, complaints and NCAP APIs, covering Mazda3. Last refreshed 2026-09-29.