2018 Mazda CX-3 recalls and problems

The 2018 Mazda CX-3 has 1 safety recall and 10 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Mazda dealer.

Recalls
1
Complaints
10
Crashes / fires
1 / 0
Injuries / deaths
0 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2018 Mazda CX-3 vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2018 Mazda CX-3 recalls

Recall 23V-487: Back Over Prevention

Reported Jul 14, 2023 · 236,100 vehicles affected · Mazda North American Operations

Problem: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Mazda3 and 2016-2021 CX-3 vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display properly by showing a flickering or distorted image.

Risk: A rearview camera that does not display properly can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.

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 for affected models and model years in the states of CT, MA, MD, NJ, NY, PA and VA were mailed August 14, 2024. The remaining owner notification letters will be mailed at a future date, anticipated on or before May 1, 2025. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, Option 6. Mazda's number for this recall is 6023G.

2018 Mazda CX-3 problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Electrical System2
Engine2
Back Over Prevention2
Vehicle Speed Control1
Unknown or Other1
Wheels1
Lane Departure1
Forward Collision Avoidance1
Suspension1
Service Brakes1
Exterior Lighting1
Fuel/Propulsion System1

Most reported parts

  • Lane Departure › Blind Spot Detection — 1
  • Forward Collision Avoidance › Warnings — 1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 22,440 miles (median of owner reports).

Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.

Recent 2018 Mazda CX-3 complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Engine · reported May 8, 2026
Fuel injector failed without warning. A lot of fuel leaked into the engine destroying a spark plug in one cylinder and ultimately ruining the catalytic converter when fuel got into it. Independent mechanic and Mazda dealership diagnosed. Car cannot be driven.
Back Over Prevention · reported Dec 10, 2024
The contact owns a 2018 Mazda CX-3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V487000 (Back Over Prevention) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Exterior Lighting · reported Mar 16, 2024
Heavy condensation is occurring inside the driver side headlamp. A quick google search shows this is a common problem among Mazda owners and Mazda will not cover the repair. I am unable to get a Massachusetts state inspection sticker due to this.
Back Over Prevention · reported Jul 26, 2023
The contact owns a 2018 Mazda CX3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V487000 (Back Over Prevention) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had 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. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Engine · reported Jan 31, 2023
The contact owns a 2018 Mazda CX-3. The contact stated that while driving, the vehicle was moving from left to right. The contact stated that the brakes were making an abnormal scraping sound. There was an abnormal sound coming from the engine. The local dealer was not contacted. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was unknown.

Other Mazda CX-3 years

Compare all Mazda CX-3 years · All Mazda models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2018 Mazda CX-3 have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2018 Mazda CX-3: 23V-487 (back over prevention). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2018 Mazda CX-3?

Owners report electrical system problems most often (2 reports), followed by engine (2). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 22,440 miles.

Are Mazda recall repairs free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Mazda dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.