MOT Risk Index.co.uk

Mazda 3 MOT pass rate and common problems

74.0% of Mazda 3s passed the 2024 MOT (108,560 first tests): 68.6% at the first attempt and 5.3% after a fix at the test centre (PRS), each rounded separately. About 3 in 10 failed the first attempt. For its age, it fails 4% more often than normal: MOT Risk Index 104.4 (95% CI 103.5–105.4; 100 = normal).

Mazda 3 at a glance, 2024 MOT
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
MOT pass rate74.0%incl. 5.3% fixed at the test centre2024108560
Passed at the first attempt68.6%all first tests2024108560
MOT Risk Index (95% CI 103.5–105.4)104.4index100 = normal for its age · rank 499 of 761 (1 = fails least for its age)2024108560
Biggest excess: Suspension22.3per 10015.6 same-age2019–2024660043
Dangerous defects12.9per 10011.2 UK, not age-adjusted2019–2024660043
Advisory items148.1per 100127.1 UK, not age-adjusted2019–2024660043
strip · Mazda 3 · MOT Risk Index · 104.4 vs 100 = normal · 2024
MOT Risk Index · Mazda 3. 0–240; 100 = normal for its age; median model 92.8 · rank 499 of 761 (1 = fails least for its age). It would rank between 494 and 515 anywhere within its 95% interval, other models held where they are. DVSA, 2024.
Mazda 3 index position among 761 models
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Rank499of 761published models, 1 = fails least for its age2024108560
Best rank within its 95% interval494rankother models held where they are2024108560
Worst rank within its 95% interval515rankother models held where they are2024108560

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Download this page's numbers (CSV) · How to cite

Data release dvsa-2024-v2 (24 Sep 2026) · full dataset (v5). This model's index changed from 110.2 to 104.4 in the 24 September 2026 release, after duplicate test records were removed.

What actually fails on a Mazda 3 MOT, and how often?

Mazda 3 MOTs fail most often on suspension: 22.3 per 100 tests, against 15.6 for UK cars of the same age (2019–2024, n = 660,043).

bar · Mazda 3 · Suspension · 22.3 vs 15.6 · 2019–2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mazda 3: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Suspension22.3per 10015.62019–2024147086
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment18.5per 10017.72019–2024122350
Brakes10.6per 10011.62019–202469949
Tyres9.2per 1009.12019–202460872
Visibility7.6per 1007.92019–202449887
Body, chassis, structure3.4per 1005.32019–202422573

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 660,043 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Tyres, brakes and suspension: how does the Mazda 3 compare with cars of the same age?

The biggest excess for the Mazda 3 is suspension at age 6: 7.9 failures per 100 tests, against 3.7 for same-age cars of comparable models (2019–2024, n = 51,917).

bullet · Mazda 3 · Tyres, age 3 · 3.3 vs 4.2 · 2019–2024
Tyres, age 3: 3.3 vs 4.2. Brakes, age 3: 1.9 vs 1.8. Suspension, age 3: 1.1 vs 0.6. Tyres, age 4: 3.8 vs 4.5. Brakes, age 4: 3.4 vs 2.4. Suspension, age 4: 2.9 vs 1.2. Tyres, age 5: 4.5 vs 5.1. Brakes, age 5: 4.4 vs 3.1. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mazda 3: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Tyres, age 33.3per 1004.22019–202441108
Brakes, age 31.9per 1001.82019–202441108
Suspension, age 31.1per 1000.62019–202441108
Tyres, age 43.8per 1004.52019–202446893
Brakes, age 43.4per 1002.42019–202446893
Suspension, age 42.9per 1001.22019–202446893
Tyres, age 54.5per 1005.12019–202451104
Brakes, age 54.4per 1003.12019–202451104
Full table
Further values · 2019–2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Suspension, age 55.6per 1002.22019–202451104
Tyres, age 64.9per 1005.52019–202451917
Brakes, age 65.4per 1003.82019–202451917
Suspension, age 67.9per 1003.72019–202451917
Tyres, age 75.5per 1006.02019–202450026
Brakes, age 75.9per 1004.52019–202450026
Suspension, age 79.4per 1005.72019–202450026
Tyres, age 85.8per 1006.32019–202447760
Brakes, age 86.3per 1005.42019–202447760
Suspension, age 810.7per 1007.82019–202447760

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 108,560 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Will my Mazda 3's advisory become a fail at the next MOT?

Mazda 3 advisories turn into fails more often than on the median model: lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment advisories became a fail at the next MOT 33.2% of the time.

funnel · Mazda 3 · Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment · 33.2 vs median model · 2019–2024
Advisories on lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment: 33.2 of 100 became a fail on the same item at the next MOT. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mazda 3: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment33.2% next failmedian model2019–20247840
Suspension26.8% next failmedian model2019–202497512
Body, chassis, structure11.9% next failmedian model2019–202419093
Brakes11.7% next failmedian model2019–2024112986
Visibility11.5% next failmedian model2019–2024556
Tyres10.0% next failmedian model2019–2024128506
Noise, emissions and leaks9.2% next failmedian model2019–202416042
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems8.5% next failmedian model2019–20242369
Full table
Further values · 2019–2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Steering6.8% next failmedian model2019–20242917
Identification of the vehicle3.6% next failmedian model2019–202410763
Road wheels0.9% next failmedian model2019–20242910
Non-component advisories0% next failmedian model2019–202434477

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 108,560 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

My Mazda 3 got an MOT advisory: what gets flagged most?

Mazda 3 MOTs flag tyres most: 42.7 advisories per 100 tests, against 39.7 across UK tests (2019–2024, n = 660,043).

bar · Mazda 3 · Tyres · 42.7 vs 39.7 · 2019–2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mazda 3: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Tyres42.7per 10039.72019–2024281986
Suspension42.4per 10026.22019–2024280070
Brakes38.6per 10034.72019–2024254568
Non-component advisories7.5per 1007.82019–202449501
Body, chassis, structure6per 1004.62019–202439645
Noise, emissions and leaks3.7per 1005.22019–202424431

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 660,043 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

What is likely to fail next on a Mazda 3?

For Mazda 3s aged 3 to 5 whose last MOT was a pass, the item most likely to fail at the next MOT is suspension: 6.3% failed on it (2019–2024, n = 68,328).

bar · Mazda 3 · Visibility, under 3 years old, after a pass · 4.5 vs baseline · 2019–2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mazda 3: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Visibility, under 3 years old, after a pass4.5% next fail2019–202420271
Tyres, under 3 years old, after a pass3.0% next fail2019–202420271
Suspension, under 3 years old, after a pass2.3% next fail2019–202420271
Brakes, under 3 years old, after a pass2.1% next fail2019–202420271
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, under 3 years old, after a pass0.6% next fail2019–202420271
Noise, emissions and leaks, under 3 years old, after a pass0.2% next fail2019–202420271
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, under 3 years old, after a pass0.1% next fail2019–202420271
Road wheels, under 3 years old, after a pass0.1% next fail2019–202420271
Full table
Further values · 2019–2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Body, chassis, structure, under 3 years old, after a pass0.1% next fail2019–202420271
Identification of the vehicle, under 3 years old, after a pass0.0% next fail2019–202420271
Visibility, under 3 years old, after an advisory6.6% next fail2019–20246085
Tyres, under 3 years old, after an advisory4.6% next fail2019–20246085
Brakes, under 3 years old, after an advisory4.2% next fail2019–20246085
Suspension, under 3 years old, after an advisory3.7% next fail2019–20246085
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, under 3 years old, after an advisory1.0% next fail2019–20246085
Noise, emissions and leaks, under 3 years old, after an advisory0.3% next fail2019–20246085
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, under 3 years old, after an advisory0.2% next fail2019–20246085
Road wheels, under 3 years old, after an advisory0.1% next fail2019–20246085
Identification of the vehicle, under 3 years old, after an advisory0.1% next fail2019–20246085
Visibility, under 3 years old, after a fail6.7% next fail2019–20242704
Tyres, under 3 years old, after a fail4.6% next fail2019–20242704
Brakes, under 3 years old, after a fail4.1% next fail2019–20242704
Suspension, under 3 years old, after a fail4.0% next fail2019–20242704
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, under 3 years old, after a fail1.3% next fail2019–20242704
Noise, emissions and leaks, under 3 years old, after a fail0.2% next fail2019–20242704
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, under 3 years old, after a fail0.2% next fail2019–20242704
Suspension, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass6.3% next fail2019–202468328
Visibility, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass4.3% next fail2019–202468328
Tyres, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass3.7% next fail2019–202468328
Brakes, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass3.7% next fail2019–202468328
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass1.1% next fail2019–202468328
Noise, emissions and leaks, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass0.3% next fail2019–202468328
Body, chassis, structure, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass0.1% next fail2019–202468328
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass0.1% next fail2019–202468328
Steering, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass0.1% next fail2019–202468328
Road wheels, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass0.1% next fail2019–202468328
Identification of the vehicle, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass0.1% next fail2019–202468328
Suspension, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory8.7% next fail2019–202435839
Brakes, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory6.6% next fail2019–202435839
Visibility, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory6.2% next fail2019–202435839
Tyres, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory5.7% next fail2019–202435839
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory1.6% next fail2019–202435839
Noise, emissions and leaks, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory0.3% next fail2019–202435839
Body, chassis, structure, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory0.2% next fail2019–202435839
Steering, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory0.2% next fail2019–202435839
Identification of the vehicle, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory0.1% next fail2019–202435839
Road wheels, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory0.1% next fail2019–202435839
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory0.1% next fail2019–202435839
Suspension, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail9.0% next fail2019–202420995
Brakes, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail7.3% next fail2019–202420995
Visibility, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail6.3% next fail2019–202420995
Tyres, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail6.3% next fail2019–202420995
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail2.2% next fail2019–202420995
Noise, emissions and leaks, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail0.5% next fail2019–202420995
Body, chassis, structure, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail0.3% next fail2019–202420995
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail0.2% next fail2019–202420995
Steering, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail0.2% next fail2019–202420995
Road wheels, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail0.1% next fail2019–202420995
Identification of the vehicle, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail0.1% next fail2019–202420995
Suspension, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass9.4% next fail2019–202451311
Brakes, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass4.6% next fail2019–202451311
Tyres, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass4.4% next fail2019–202451311
Visibility, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass4.2% next fail2019–202451311
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass3.6% next fail2019–202451311
Noise, emissions and leaks, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass0.8% next fail2019–202451311
Steering, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass0.6% next fail2019–202451311
Body, chassis, structure, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass0.5% next fail2019–202451311
Road wheels, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass0.1% next fail2019–202451311
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass0.1% next fail2019–202451311
Identification of the vehicle, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass0.1% next fail2019–202451311
Suspension, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory12.5% next fail2019–202437390
Brakes, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory7.3% next fail2019–202437390
Tyres, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory6.7% next fail2019–202437390
Visibility, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory6.1% next fail2019–202437390
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory5.0% next fail2019–202437390
Noise, emissions and leaks, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory0.9% next fail2019–202437390
Steering, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory0.8% next fail2019–202437390
Body, chassis, structure, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory0.6% next fail2019–202437390
Road wheels, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory0.2% next fail2019–202437390
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory0.2% next fail2019–202437390
Identification of the vehicle, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory0.2% next fail2019–202437390
Suspension, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail14.4% next fail2019–202427778
Brakes, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail8.9% next fail2019–202427778
Tyres, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail7.9% next fail2019–202427778
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail7.2% next fail2019–202427778
Visibility, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail6.5% next fail2019–202427778
Noise, emissions and leaks, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail1.9% next fail2019–202427778
Body, chassis, structure, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail1.1% next fail2019–202427778
Steering, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail1% next fail2019–202427778
Road wheels, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail0.3% next fail2019–202427778
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail0.3% next fail2019–202427778
Identification of the vehicle, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail0.2% next fail2019–202427778
Suspension, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass12.7% next fail2019–202434797
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass10.4% next fail2019–202434797
Brakes, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass5.5% next fail2019–202434797
Tyres, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass5.2% next fail2019–202434797
Visibility, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass4.9% next fail2019–202434797
Noise, emissions and leaks, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass2.4% next fail2019–202434797
Body, chassis, structure, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass1.9% next fail2019–202434797
Steering, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass1.0% next fail2019–202434797
Road wheels, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass0.2% next fail2019–202434797
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass0.2% next fail2019–202434797
Identification of the vehicle, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass0.2% next fail2019–202434797
Suspension, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory18.8% next fail2019–202435571
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory15.2% next fail2019–202435571
Brakes, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory8.1% next fail2019–202435571
Tyres, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory8.0% next fail2019–202435571
Visibility, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory7.2% next fail2019–202435571
Noise, emissions and leaks, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory3.3% next fail2019–202435571
Body, chassis, structure, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory2.8% next fail2019–202435571
Steering, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory1.3% next fail2019–202435571
Identification of the vehicle, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory0.4% next fail2019–202435571
Road wheels, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory0.3% next fail2019–202435571
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory0.3% next fail2019–202435571
Suspension, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail23.0% next fail2019–202438653
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail20.5% next fail2019–202438653
Brakes, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail10.8% next fail2019–202438653
Tyres, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail10.0% next fail2019–202438653
Visibility, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail8.5% next fail2019–202438653
Noise, emissions and leaks, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail6.2% next fail2019–202438653
Body, chassis, structure, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail4.2% next fail2019–202438653
Steering, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail1.5% next fail2019–202438653
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail0.6% next fail2019–202438653
Road wheels, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail0.5% next fail2019–202438653
Identification of the vehicle, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail0.4% next fail2019–202438653
Suspension, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass17.3% next fail2019–202425072
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass15.4% next fail2019–202425072
Brakes, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass6.4% next fail2019–202425072
Tyres, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass5.8% next fail2019–202425072
Visibility, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass5.1% next fail2019–202425072
Body, chassis, structure, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass3.8% next fail2019–202425072
Noise, emissions and leaks, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass3.5% next fail2019–202425072
Steering, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass1.0% next fail2019–202425072
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass1.0% next fail2019–202425072
Identification of the vehicle, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass0.3% next fail2019–202425072
Road wheels, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass0.3% next fail2019–202425072
Suspension, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory24.1% next fail2019–202434432
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory22.6% next fail2019–202434432
Brakes, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory9.3% next fail2019–202434432
Tyres, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory8.0% next fail2019–202434432
Visibility, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory7.8% next fail2019–202434432
Body, chassis, structure, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory5.6% next fail2019–202434432
Noise, emissions and leaks, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory4.7% next fail2019–202434432
Steering, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory1.5% next fail2019–202434432
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory1.5% next fail2019–202434432
Identification of the vehicle, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory0.5% next fail2019–202434432
Road wheels, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory0.4% next fail2019–202434432
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail29.3% next fail2019–202446194
Suspension, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail28.5% next fail2019–202446194
Brakes, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail11.9% next fail2019–202446194
Tyres, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail10.4% next fail2019–202446194
Visibility, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail9.6% next fail2019–202446194
Noise, emissions and leaks, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail8.4% next fail2019–202446194
Body, chassis, structure, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail7.7% next fail2019–202446194
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail2.2% next fail2019–202446194
Steering, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail1.9% next fail2019–202446194
Identification of the vehicle, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail0.7% next fail2019–202446194
Road wheels, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail0.6% next fail2019–202446194
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass19.6% next fail2019–20248127
Suspension, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass18.8% next fail2019–20248127
Body, chassis, structure, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass6.1% next fail2019–20248127
Visibility, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass6.0% next fail2019–20248127
Brakes, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass5.7% next fail2019–20248127
Tyres, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass5.6% next fail2019–20248127
Noise, emissions and leaks, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass4.5% next fail2019–20248127
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass2.5% next fail2019–20248127
Steering, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass1.4% next fail2019–20248127
Road wheels, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass0.4% next fail2019–20248127
Identification of the vehicle, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass0.4% next fail2019–20248127
Suspension, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory27.2% next fail2019–202413429
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory27.0% next fail2019–202413429
Visibility, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory9.0% next fail2019–202413429
Brakes, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory8.6% next fail2019–202413429
Tyres, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory8.3% next fail2019–202413429
Body, chassis, structure, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory7.8% next fail2019–202413429
Noise, emissions and leaks, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory5.7% next fail2019–202413429
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory3.5% next fail2019–202413429
Steering, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory1.7% next fail2019–202413429
Identification of the vehicle, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory0.7% next fail2019–202413429
Road wheels, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory0.5% next fail2019–202413429
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail35.3% next fail2019–202419419
Suspension, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail31.1% next fail2019–202419419
Brakes, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail11.5% next fail2019–202419419
Visibility, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail10.9% next fail2019–202419419
Tyres, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail10.7% next fail2019–202419419
Body, chassis, structure, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail10.6% next fail2019–202419419
Noise, emissions and leaks, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail9.8% next fail2019–202419419
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail5.1% next fail2019–202419419
Steering, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail2.3% next fail2019–202419419
Identification of the vehicle, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail0.8% next fail2019–202419419
Road wheels, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail0.7% next fail2019–202419419
Seat belt installation check, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail0.0% next fail2019–202419419

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 108,560 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

How often does a Mazda 3 get a dangerous MOT defect?

The Mazda 3 gets a dangerous defect more often than the UK average: 12.9 per 100 first tests against 11.2 across the UK. A dangerous defect means the vehicle should not be driven away until it is fixed. In the same tests, 51.1 major and 13.7 minor defects were recorded per 100 tests (one test can record several).

bullet · Mazda 3 · Dangerous defects · 12.9 vs 11.2 · 2019–2024
Dangerous defects: 12.9 vs 11.2. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mazda 3: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Dangerous defects12.9per 10011.22019–2024660043

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 660,043 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id; severity not recorded for some 2018–2021 tests · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Will my Mazda 3 still pass its MOT in a few years?

First-time MOT failures for the Mazda 3 go from 10.7% at age 3 to 51.6% at age 19, against 43.5% for all cars aged 19 (2024, n = 108,560).

line · Mazda 3 · Age 3 · 10.7 vs 12.4 · 2024
Age 3: 10.7. Age 19: 51.6. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mazda 3: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 310.7% failed first time12.420244184
Age 410.9% failed first time13.120244266
Age 511.7% failed first time15.120244446
Age 616.5% failed first time17.520247048
Age 723.4% failed first time20.220248207
Age 825.6% failed first time23.3202410619
Age 926.4% failed first time26.5202411782
Age 1027.9% failed first time30.120248414
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 1130.5% failed first time33.220245123
Age 1234.4% failed first time35.720244901
Age 1341.0% failed first time38.220245384
Age 1441.6% failed first time40.420248234
Age 1545.3% failed first time41.620247432
Age 1649.6% failed first time43.120246095
Age 1748.7% failed first time43.120245073
Age 1849.9% failed first time43.920243716
Age 1951.6% failed first time43.520242562

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 108,560 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

How does the Mazda 3 compare with cars of its own age and size?

At 17 of 18 ages shown, Mazda 3s fail first time more often than comparable models of the same size class; the biggest difference is at age 20, where they fail more often: 53.4% against 42.4% (2024, n = 766).

line · Mazda 3 · Age 3 · 10.0 vs 11.7 · 2024
Age 3: 10.0. Age 20: 53.4. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mazda 3: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 310.0% fail11.7202441108
Age 414.4% fail13.3202446893
Age 517.7% fail15.0202451104
Age 620.2% fail17.3202451917
Age 722.5% fail20.1202450026
Age 825.0% fail23.2202447760
Age 928% fail26.7202446742
Age 1032.5% fail30.0202444195
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 1137.2% fail33.4202444341
Age 1240.7% fail36.4202447320
Age 1343.8% fail38.8202448730
Age 1445.6% fail40.7202447644
Age 1548.3% fail42.2202437512
Age 1649.2% fail43.0202425182
Age 1750.0% fail43.4202415582
Age 1850.8% fail43.620248329
Age 1951.8% fail43.120243565
Age 2053.4% fail42.42024766

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 108,560 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Which Mazda 3 years should I avoid?

The Mazda 3 build year that fails most for its age is 2016: index 112.6 (95% CI 110.7–114.5) against the model's own age norm of 100 (2019–2024, n = 64,354).

Build year matters for the Mazda 3: 2016 Mazda 3s fail more than their age would predict, 2019 ones less. Years whose confidence interval includes normal are shown without a label.

bar · Mazda 3 · Build year 2004 (worse for its age) · 103.6 vs 100 = normal · 2019–2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mazda 3: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Build year 2004 (worse for its age)103.6index vs own age100 = normal2019–202410607
Build year 2005 (worse for its age)102.6index vs own age100 = normal2019–202429712
Build year 2006101.5index vs own age100 = normal2019–202437116
Build year 2007100.1index vs own age100 = normal2019–202443824
Build year 2008 (worse for its age)106.3index vs own age100 = normal2019–202447081
Build year 2009100.9index vs own age100 = normal2019–202452997
Build year 2010 (better for its age)98.4index vs own age100 = normal2019–202455053
Build year 2011101.6index vs own age100 = normal2019–202434764
Full table
Further values · 2019–2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Build year 2012 (better for its age)90.4index vs own age100 = normal2019–202431112
Build year 2013 (better for its age)83.5index vs own age100 = normal2019–202431576
Build year 2014 (better for its age)97.5index vs own age100 = normal2019–202451397
Build year 2015100.2index vs own age100 = normal2019–202471675
Build year 2016 (worse for its age)112.6index vs own age100 = normal2019–202464354
Build year 2017 (worse for its age)107.3index vs own age100 = normal2019–202442851
Build year 2018 (better for its age)88index vs own age100 = normal2019–202428383
Build year 2019 (better for its age)71index vs own age100 = normal2019–202413296
Build year 2020 (better for its age)87.3index vs own age100 = normal2019–20248600

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 108,560 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

How much does it cost to fix a Mazda 3 MOT fail?

Expected repair cost per Mazda 3 MOT: about £90 (up to about £171 if more expensive parts are needed), from the chance of failing each item and its most common UK repair price (catalogue estimate, n = 108,560).

Computed, not measured.

bar · Mazda 3 · Expected repair bill · 90.2 vs modal price catalogue · price catalogue
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mazda 3: the numbers behind this answer (price catalogue)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Expected repair bill90.2GBP estimatemodal price catalogueprice catalogue108560
Estimated range lower90.2GBP estimatemodal price catalogueprice catalogue108560
Estimated range upper171.4GBP estimatemodal price catalogueprice catalogue108560
Suspension: Suspension coil spring (single corner)40.1GBP expected contribution180price catalogue108560
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment: Battery replacement (standard 12V lead-acid)25.9GBP expected contribution140price catalogue108560
Brakes: Front brake pads (parts + labour, typical hatchback)15.9GBP expected contribution150price catalogue108560
Tyres: Tyre (single mid-range 16" fitted)8.3GBP expected contribution90price catalogue108560

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: price catalogue · n = 108,560 (initial tests) · Method: computed estimate, not measured · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Is the Mazda 3 more reliable than similar cars?

Of 8 similar models, 4 fail less often for their age than the Mazda 3 and 4 as often or more. The Mazda 3 has an MOT Risk Index of 104.4, where 100 = normal for its age (2024, n = 108,560).

bar · Mazda 3 · Mazda 3 (this model) · 104.4 vs 100 = normal · 2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mazda 3: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Mazda 3 (this model)104.4index100 = normal2024108560
Volvo V40108.1index104.4202498785
Kia Sportage104.9index104.42024257674
Land Rover Discovery Sport95.9index104.42024116148
Hyundai Tucson97.3index104.42024142343
Nissan X-Trail112.6index104.4202491761
Vauxhall Insignia108.3index104.42024199814
Mitsubishi Outlander97index104.4202478306
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Ford Mondeo98.8index104.42024193408

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 108,560 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

How many miles does a Mazda 3 normally do?

At age 8, the median Mazda 3 had covered 58,558 miles by its MOT; the middle half ranged from 42,974 to 75,682 miles (2024, n = 10,619).

line · Mazda 3 · Age 3 median · 20966 vs baseline · 2024
Age 3 median: 20966. Age 19 P75: 127721. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mazda 3: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 3 median20966miles20244184
Age 3 P2514690miles20244184
Age 3 P7528755miles20244184
Age 4 median25699miles20244266
Age 4 P2518359miles20244266
Age 4 P7534881miles20244266
Age 5 median31612miles20244446
Age 5 P2522731miles20244446
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 5 P7542649miles20244446
Age 6 median40004miles20247048
Age 6 P2528990miles20247048
Age 6 P7552798miles20247048
Age 7 median48939miles20248207
Age 7 P2536178miles20248207
Age 7 P7564307miles20248207
Age 8 median58558miles202410619
Age 8 P2542974miles202410619
Age 8 P7575682miles202410619
Age 9 median67519miles202411782
Age 9 P2551116miles202411782
Age 9 P7585928miles202411782
Age 10 median72778miles20248414
Age 10 P2554021miles20248414
Age 10 P7592823miles20248414
Age 11 median75974miles20245123
Age 11 P2557290miles20245123
Age 11 P7595913miles20245123
Age 12 median87241miles20244901
Age 12 P2566764miles20244901
Age 12 P75108174miles20244901
Age 13 median90244miles20245384
Age 13 P2570591miles20245384
Age 13 P75112158miles20245384
Age 14 median97274miles20248234
Age 14 P2576965miles20248234
Age 14 P75119879miles20248234
Age 15 median98880miles20247432
Age 15 P2575915miles20247432
Age 15 P75121524miles20247432
Age 16 median98312miles20246095
Age 16 P2577592miles20246095
Age 16 P75121160miles20246095
Age 17 median102476miles20245073
Age 17 P2579722miles20245073
Age 17 P75126655miles20245073
Age 18 median104474miles20243716
Age 18 P2580628miles20243716
Age 18 P75127213miles20243716
Age 19 median102301miles20242562
Age 19 P2579726miles20242562
Age 19 P75127721miles20242562

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 108,560 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Does high mileage mean more Mazda 3 MOT failures at the same age?

At ages 6–9, 17.1% of Mazda 3s with under 40,000 miles failed first time, against 33.2% of those with over 140,000 miles (2024, n = 10,072). Inside this age group, higher mileage goes with more failures.

bar · Mazda 3 · Age 3–5, <40k miles · 10.1 vs baseline · 2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mazda 3: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 3–5, <40k miles10.1% failed first time202410499
Age 3–5, 40-70k miles15.2% failed first time20242156
Age 3–5, 70-100k miles (rough estimate: 214 tests, 95% interval 13.6–23.9%)18.2% failed first time2024214
Age 6–9, <40k miles17.1% failed first time20249810
Age 6–9, 40-70k miles23.6% failed first time202416874
Age 6–9, 70-100k miles28.9% failed first time20248424
Age 6–9, 100-140k miles31.7% failed first time20242275
Age 6–9, 140k+ miles (rough estimate: 262 tests, 95% interval 27.8–39.1%)33.2% failed first time2024262
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 10–14, <40k miles15.9% failed first time20242004
Age 10–14, 40-70k miles25.4% failed first time20248254
Age 10–14, 70-100k miles36.8% failed first time202411649
Age 10–14, 100-140k miles44% failed first time20248170
Age 10–14, 140k+ miles46.7% failed first time20241964
Age 15+, <40k miles24.3% failed first time2024729
Age 15+, 40-70k miles36% failed first time20243860
Age 15+, 70-100k miles47.1% failed first time20248059
Age 15+, 100-140k miles53.6% failed first time20249696
Age 15+, 140k+ miles57% failed first time20243290

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 108,560 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

How many miles does a Mazda 3 last?

20.5% of Mazda 3s tested had reached 100,000 miles, and 2.4% had reached 150,000 (2024, n = 134,893).

line · Mazda 3 · 100,000 miles · 20.5 vs baseline · 2024
100,000 miles: 20.5. 200,000 miles: 0.2. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mazda 3: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
100,000 miles20.5% of tested cars2024134893
150,000 miles2.4% of tested cars202415714
200,000 miles0.2% of tested cars20241080

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 108,560 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Is the Mazda 3 driven more or less than average, and does that change the picture?

Matched on annual mileage as well as age, the Mazda 3 index is 103.0, against 102.3 on age alone (2019–2024, n = 108,560).

slope · Mazda 3 · Age and mileage adjusted index · 103 vs 102.3 · 2019–2024
Age and mileage adjusted index: 102.3 vs 103. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mazda 3: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age and mileage adjusted index103index102.32019–2024108560

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 108,560 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Which Mazda 3 fuel fails its MOT less?

There is no real difference between petrol and diesel Mazda 3s before allowing for age: 31.0% against 33.9% fail first time.

bar · Mazda 3 · Diesel · 33.9 vs other fuels · 2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mazda 3: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Diesel33.9% fail first timeother fuels202415003
Petrol31.0% fail first timeother fuels202493535

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 108,560 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Which Mazda 3 engine is best?

For its age, the best Mazda 3 engine is the petrol over 2.0 litre at index 81.5, and the worst the diesel 1.2–1.5 litre at 125.5, where 100 = the model's own average (2024, n = 108,560).

bar · Mazda 3 · Petrol over 2.0 litre · 81.5 vs 100 = model average · 2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mazda 3: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Petrol over 2.0 litre81.5index vs model norm100 = model average20247834
Petrol 1.8–2.0 litre97.2index vs model norm100 = model average2024269920
Petrol 1.5–1.8 litre98.9index vs model norm100 = model average2024265295
Petrol 1.2–1.5 litre105.4index vs model norm100 = model average202412184
Diesel 1.5–1.8 litre108.5index vs model norm100 = model average202438214
Diesel 1.8–2.0 litre108.9index vs model norm100 = model average202410385
Diesel over 2.0 litre112.4index vs model norm100 = model average202448913
Diesel 1.2–1.5 litre125.5index vs model norm100 = model average20246912

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 108,560 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Where in Britain does the Mazda 3 fail its MOT most?

First-time failure rates for the Mazda 3 range from 17.8% in the Bromley (BR) postcode area to 39.8% in the Bath (BA) postcode area, before allowing for age: a wider spread by area than for the typical model.

map · Mazda 3 · Bath (BA) · 39.8 vs 31.4 · 2024
Scotland. N. England. Wales. London. S. West. % failing. 26%. 38%. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mazda 3: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Bath (BA)39.8% fail first time31.420245813
Kirkcaldy (KY)39.5% fail first time31.420245264
Aberdeen (AB)39.4% fail first time31.420245493
Bromley (BR)17.8% fail first time31.420243737
Watford (WD)21.2% fail first time31.420244823
Sutton (SM)24.7% fail first time31.420241478
Torquay (TQ)39.2% fail first time31.420244131
Dundee (DD)39.0% fail first time31.420243838
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Plymouth (PL)37.9% fail first time31.420246096
Bristol (BS)36.5% fail first time31.4202414266
Salisbury (SP)36.3% fail first time31.420243976
Leeds (LS)36.1% fail first time31.420248391
Brighton (BN)35.8% fail first time31.420248178
Galashiels (TD)35.8% fail first time31.42024618
Sunderland (SR)35.3% fail first time31.420241591
Paisley (PA)35.1% fail first time31.420243778
Newport (NP)34.9% fail first time31.420245707
Gloucester (GL)34.9% fail first time31.420248141
Manchester (M)34.8% fail first time31.4202410180
Exeter (EX)34.8% fail first time31.420246036
London N (N)34.7% fail first time31.420243547
Cardiff (CF)34.7% fail first time31.4202410202
Llandrindod Wells (LD) (rough estimate: 369 tests, 95% interval 30.0–39.7%)34.7% fail first time31.42024369
Lerwick (ZE) (rough estimate: 388 tests, 95% interval 29.7–39.1%)34.3% fail first time31.42024388
Edinburgh (EH)34.1% fail first time31.4202410855
Lincoln (LN)34.0% fail first time31.420243512
Luton (LU)34.0% fail first time31.420243767
London E (E)33.9% fail first time31.420243950
Truro (TR)33.7% fail first time31.420242800
Halifax (HX)33.6% fail first time31.420241245
Bradford (BD)33.5% fail first time31.420244555
Blackpool (FY)33.3% fail first time31.420242789
Portsmouth (PO)33.2% fail first time31.4202411743
London NW (NW)33.1% fail first time31.420243010
Hull (HU)33.0% fail first time31.420243420
Walsall (WS)33.0% fail first time31.420243558
Perth (PH)32.8% fail first time31.420242457
Glasgow (G)32.8% fail first time31.4202413565
Swindon (SN)32.8% fail first time31.420246003
Harrogate (HG)32.7% fail first time31.420241898
Oxford (OX)32.6% fail first time31.420248923
Bournemouth (BH)32.6% fail first time31.4202411702
Guildford (GU)32.5% fail first time31.420248607
Uxbridge (UB)32.3% fail first time31.420243053
Swansea (SA)32.3% fail first time31.420247016
London SE (SE)31.7% fail first time31.420245319
Northampton (NN)31.6% fail first time31.420248676
Darlington (DL)31.5% fail first time31.420243370
Lancaster (LA)31.5% fail first time31.420242304
Ipswich (IP)31.4% fail first time31.420248044
Cleveland (TS)31.4% fail first time31.420245168
Telford (TF)31.4% fail first time31.420242029
Carlisle (CA)31.3% fail first time31.420242624
Medway (ME)31.1% fail first time31.420247041
Oldham (OL)31.1% fail first time31.420244404
Huddersfield (HD)31.1% fail first time31.420242361
Harrow (HA)31.0% fail first time31.420243024
Kilmarnock (KA)30.9% fail first time31.420244908
Milton Keynes (MK)30.9% fail first time31.420246184
Llandudno (LL)30.8% fail first time31.420244535
Wigan (WN)30.8% fail first time31.420242382
York (YO)30.8% fail first time31.420245883
Hereford (HR)30.7% fail first time31.420242047
Shrewsbury (SY)30.6% fail first time31.420243089
Wakefield (WF)30.6% fail first time31.420245335
Canterbury (CT)30.4% fail first time31.420243873
Reading (RG)30.4% fail first time31.4202411703
Norwich (NR)30.3% fail first time31.420247336
Stoke-on-Trent (ST)30.3% fail first time31.420245633
Cambridge (CB)30.3% fail first time31.420245101
Falkirk (FK)30.2% fail first time31.420246748
Durham (DH)30.2% fail first time31.420243156
Liverpool (L)30.1% fail first time31.420245953
Blackburn (BB)30.1% fail first time31.420244439
Leicester (LE)30% fail first time31.4202412269
Outer Hebrides (HS) (rough estimate: 292 tests, 95% interval 24.8–35.3%)29.8% fail first time31.42024292
Enfield (EN)29.8% fail first time31.420242474
Motherwell (ML)29.7% fail first time31.420244181
Dumfries (DG)29.7% fail first time31.420241581
Stockport (SK)29.7% fail first time31.4202410205
Chelmsford (CM)29.6% fail first time31.420245141
London SW (SW)29.6% fail first time31.420242283
Nottingham (NG)29.6% fail first time31.4202413346
Preston (PR)29.6% fail first time31.420246497
Bolton (BL)29.4% fail first time31.420244224
Doncaster (DN)29.4% fail first time31.420248427
Southampton (SO)29.4% fail first time31.4202411603
Dorchester (DT)29.2% fail first time31.420242973
Taunton (TA)29.1% fail first time31.420244684
Inverness (IV)29.1% fail first time31.420243115
Derby (DE)29.1% fail first time31.420247308
Warrington (WA)29% fail first time31.420246838
Sheffield (S)29.0% fail first time31.4202412978
Tonbridge (TN)29.0% fail first time31.420247917
Redhill (RH)28.9% fail first time31.420248383
London W (W)28.9% fail first time31.420241189
Birmingham (B)28.9% fail first time31.4202418849
Newcastle (NE)28.9% fail first time31.4202411708
Slough (SL)28.8% fail first time31.420243941
Peterborough (PE)28.4% fail first time31.4202411979
Worcester (WR)28.3% fail first time31.420243941
Coventry (CV)28.3% fail first time31.4202411160
Twickenham (TW)27.9% fail first time31.420245788
Hemel Hempstead (HP)27.8% fail first time31.420245981
Ilford (IG)27.2% fail first time31.420242352
Kirkwall (KW) (rough estimate: 427 tests, 95% interval 23.2–31.6%)27.2% fail first time31.42024427
Colchester (CO)27.1% fail first time31.420244327
Crewe (CW)26.9% fail first time31.420243755
Dartford (DA)26.5% fail first time31.420245021
Chester (CH)26.2% fail first time31.420248326
Romford (RM)26.1% fail first time31.420244711
Croydon (CR)26.1% fail first time31.420244621
St Albans (AL)26.1% fail first time31.420243067
Stevenage (SG)25.9% fail first time31.420246016
Kingston upon Thames (KT)25.6% fail first time31.420246854
Southend-on-Sea (SS)25.6% fail first time31.420243975
Dudley (DY)25.4% fail first time31.420243782
Wolverhampton (WV)24.9% fail first time31.420244397

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 108,560 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Does a Mazda 3 rust more than average?

Allowing for age, Mazda 3 MOTs record corrosion failures at 2.2 times the national rate: 1.7% of tests against 0.77% (2024 + geographic layers, n = 108,392).

Computed, not measured.

slope · Mazda 3 · Salt belt susceptibility · 2.2 vs 1 · 2024 + geographic layers
Salt belt susceptibility: 1 vs 2.2. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mazda 3: the numbers behind this answer (2024 + geographic layers)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Salt belt susceptibility2.2ratio estimate12024 + geographic layers108392

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 + geographic layers · n = 108,560 (initial tests) · Method: computed estimate, not measured · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Is a Mazda 3 ULEZ compliant?

An estimated 87.5% of Mazda 3s tested are likely ULEZ-compliant, judged from fuel type and first-use date; check a specific car with TfL's vehicle checker (2024).

Computed, not measured.

stacked · Mazda 3 · Likely compliant · 87.5 vs baseline · 2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mazda 3: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Likely compliant87.5% estimate2024108560

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 108,560 (initial tests) · Method: computed estimate, not measured · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

What do six years of MOTs show about owning a Mazda 3?

Of failed Mazda 3 MOTs, 46.9% were retested the same day and a further 50.7% within 10 days; the median failed car passed its retest after 1 day (2019–2024, n = 151,801).

bar · Mazda 3 · Same-day retest · 46.9 vs failed initial tests · 2019–2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mazda 3: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Same-day retest46.9%failed initial tests2019–2024151801
Retest within 10 days50.7%failed initial tests2019–2024151801
Clean MOT streak31.9%observed chains2019–2024115488
Repeat advisory38.9%observed chains2019–2024115488
Decreasing odometer0.7% mileage anomalyobserved chains2019–2024125879

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 108,560 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Is low mileage better for a Mazda 3?

Mazda 3s aged 5 to 14 doing under 5,000 miles a year failed first time in 20.0% of tests, against 36.2% for those doing 8,000 to 12,000 miles (2019–2024, n = 90,972).

bullet · Mazda 3 · Low-use first-time failure · 20.0 vs 36.2 · 2019–2024
Low-use first-time failure: 20 vs 36.2. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mazda 3: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Low-use first-time failure20.0%36.22019–202490972
Low-use gap-16.2percentage points8–12k miles2019–202490972

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 108,560 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

How many years is a Mazda 3 likely to last?

Mazda 3s tend to last: at ten years old the typical one has about 6.8 more years of MOTs ahead, more than the median model. This is a forecast from the survival curve and may not come true.

Computed, not measured.

Forecast, not a prediction for a particular car.

bar · Mazda 3 · Age 5 · 10.8 vs baseline · survival forecast
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mazda 3: the numbers behind this answer (survival forecast)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 510.8years forecastsurvival forecast0
Age 88.2years forecastsurvival forecast0
Age 106.8years forecastsurvival forecast0
Age 124.4years forecastsurvival forecast0
Age 15 (at least; observed only until age 19)1.9years forecastsurvival forecast0

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: survival forecast · n = 108,560 (initial tests) · Method: computed estimate, not measured · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Which Mazda 3s are still on the road?

In 2024, for every 100 Mazda 3s tested at ages 4 to 6, about 7 were tested at age 19 (2024, n = 3,565).

line · Mazda 3 · Age 3 · 82.3 vs baseline · 2024
Age 3: 82.3. Age 19: 7.1. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mazda 3: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 382.3% of age 4–6 baseline202441108
Age 493.8% of age 4–6 baseline202446893
Age 5 (at least as many as at ages 4–6)100% of age 4–6 baseline202451104
Age 6 (at least as many as at ages 4–6)100% of age 4–6 baseline202451917
Age 7 (at least as many as at ages 4–6)100% of age 4–6 baseline202450026
Age 895.6% of age 4–6 baseline202447760
Age 993.5% of age 4–6 baseline202446742
Age 1088.4% of age 4–6 baseline202444195
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 1188.7% of age 4–6 baseline202444341
Age 1294.7% of age 4–6 baseline202447320
Age 1397.5% of age 4–6 baseline202448730
Age 1495.3% of age 4–6 baseline202447644
Age 1575.1% of age 4–6 baseline202437512
Age 1650.4% of age 4–6 baseline202425182
Age 1731.2% of age 4–6 baseline202415582
Age 1816.7% of age 4–6 baseline20248329
Age 197.1% of age 4–6 baseline20243565

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 108,560 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

If a Mazda 3 fails, does it fail again?

Mazda 3s that fail once are much more likely to fail again: 39.2% failed the next MOT after a fail, against 26.5% after a pass (test chains 2019–2024). The failure most likely to come back is ‘lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment’: 42.0% of those fails recurred at the next MOT.

bullet · Mazda 3 · Repeat after fail · 39.2 vs 26.5 · 2019–2024
Repeat after fail: 39.2 vs 26.5. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mazda 3: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Repeat after fail39.2%26.52019–202437235

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 108,560 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Which Mazda 3 faults come together?

On Mazda 3s, ‘body, chassis, structure’ and ‘noise, emissions and leaks’ failures turn up together 7.5 times as often as chance would predict (2024, n = 3,720).

Mazda 3: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Body, chassis, structure + Noise, emissions and leaks7.5liftexpected joint rate20243720
Body, chassis, structure + Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems6.3liftexpected joint rate2024880
Road Wheels + Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems (rough estimate: 87 tests, 95% interval 4.7–7.2)5.8liftexpected joint rate202487
Noise, emissions and leaks + Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems5.8liftexpected joint rate2024892
Identification of the vehicle + Road Wheels (rough estimate: 31 tests, 95% interval 3.9–8.2)5.7liftexpected joint rate202431
Body, chassis, structure + Identification of the vehicle (rough estimate: 286 tests, 95% interval 5.0–6.4)5.7liftexpected joint rate2024286
Body, chassis, structure + Road Wheels (rough estimate: 261 tests, 95% interval 4.8–6.1)5.4liftexpected joint rate2024261
Noise, emissions and leaks + Road Wheels (rough estimate: 279 tests, 95% interval 4.7–6.0)5.3liftexpected joint rate2024279
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Identification of the vehicle + Noise, emissions and leaks (rough estimate: 279 tests, 95% interval 4.5–5.6)5.0liftexpected joint rate2024279
Identification of the vehicle + Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems (rough estimate: 78 tests, 95% interval 3.9–6.2)5.0liftexpected joint rate202478
Identification of the vehicle + Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment4.6liftexpected joint rate20241007
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems4.6liftexpected joint rate20242757
Body, chassis, structure + Steering4.4liftexpected joint rate2024626
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Noise, emissions and leaks4.3liftexpected joint rate20249188
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Road Wheels4.3liftexpected joint rate2024878
Body, chassis, structure + Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment4.1liftexpected joint rate20247968
Noise, emissions and leaks + Steering3.8liftexpected joint rate2024604
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems + Suspension3.8liftexpected joint rate20242964
Identification of the vehicle + Tyres (rough estimate: 486 tests, 95% interval 3.5–4.1)3.8liftexpected joint rate2024486
Brakes + Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems3.7liftexpected joint rate20241357
Road Wheels + Steering (rough estimate: 56 tests, 95% interval 2.8–4.8)3.7liftexpected joint rate202456
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems + Steering (rough estimate: 163 tests, 95% interval 3.1–4.3)3.6liftexpected joint rate2024163
Brakes + Noise, emissions and leaks3.6liftexpected joint rate20244724
Body, chassis, structure + Brakes3.5liftexpected joint rate20244110
Brakes + Identification of the vehicle (rough estimate: 461 tests, 95% interval 3.1–3.8)3.4liftexpected joint rate2024461
Brakes + Road Wheels (rough estimate: 427 tests, 95% interval 3.0–3.7)3.4liftexpected joint rate2024427
Road Wheels + Tyres (rough estimate: 408 tests, 95% interval 3.0–3.7)3.4liftexpected joint rate2024408
Body, chassis, structure + Suspension3.3liftexpected joint rate20248266
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Steering3.3liftexpected joint rate20242027
Identification of the vehicle + Visibility (rough estimate: 400 tests, 95% interval 3.0–3.6)3.3liftexpected joint rate2024400
Identification of the vehicle + Suspension3.3liftexpected joint rate2024919
Noise, emissions and leaks + Suspension3.3liftexpected joint rate20248963
Steering + Suspension3.2liftexpected joint rate20242519
Road Wheels + Suspension3.1liftexpected joint rate2024838
Noise, emissions and leaks + Tyres3.1liftexpected joint rate20243888
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Suspension3.0liftexpected joint rate202431881
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems + Tyres3.0liftexpected joint rate20241048
Road Wheels + Visibility (rough estimate: 334 tests, 95% interval 2.6–3.2)2.9liftexpected joint rate2024334
Noise, emissions and leaks + Visibility2.8liftexpected joint rate20243334
Body, chassis, structure + Tyres2.8liftexpected joint rate20243179
Identification of the vehicle + Steering (rough estimate: 45 tests, 95% interval 2.0–3.7)2.8liftexpected joint rate202445
Brakes + Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment2.8liftexpected joint rate202414205
Brakes + Tyres2.8liftexpected joint rate20248362
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems + Visibility2.7liftexpected joint rate2024924
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Tyres2.7liftexpected joint rate202413322
Brakes + Suspension2.7liftexpected joint rate202417632
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Visibility2.6liftexpected joint rate202412242
Brakes + Steering2.6liftexpected joint rate2024990
Body, chassis, structure + Visibility2.5liftexpected joint rate20242717
Steering + Tyres2.4liftexpected joint rate2024873
Suspension + Tyres2.4liftexpected joint rate202415140
Tyres + Visibility2.4liftexpected joint rate20246544
Brakes + Visibility2.3liftexpected joint rate20246559
Steering + Visibility2.3liftexpected joint rate2024789
Suspension + Visibility2.0liftexpected joint rate202412213
Seat belt installation check + Suspension (seen together; too few for a multiplier)18tests with both202418
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Seat belt installation check (seen together; too few for a multiplier)14tests with both202414
Brakes + Seat belt installation check (seen together; too few for a multiplier)10tests with both202410
Seat belt installation check + Tyres (seen together; too few for a multiplier)9tests with both20249
Body, chassis, structure + Seat belt installation check (seen together; too few for a multiplier)6tests with both20246

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 108,560 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Has the Mazda 3 had safety recalls?

DVSA lists 12 safety recall campaigns matched to the Mazda 3; check whether yours has been fixed, using its registration number.

Mazda 3: the numbers behind this answer (DVSA register)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
DVSA recall campaigns matched12campaignsDVSA registerDVSA register108560

Source: DVSA register; recall effect covers 11 of 761 models · Window: DVSA register · n = 108,560 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

What does a Mazda 3 cost to run in a fleet?

Of every 100 Mazda 3s tested at age 5, about 12 failed the MOT first time; at age 10, about 28. These are one-year rates for different cars tested in the same year, not a fleet followed over time; the steepest one-year step in this cross-section is between cars aged 6 and 7, 6.89 percentage points (2024).

Mazda 3: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 310.7% fail first time20244184
Age 410.9% fail first time20244266
Age 511.7% fail first time20244446
Age 616.5% fail first time20247048
Age 723.4% fail first time20248207
Age 825.6% fail first time202410619
Age 926.4% fail first time202411782
Age 1027.9% fail first time20248414
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 1130.5% fail first time20245123
Age 1234.4% fail first time20244901
Age 1341.0% fail first time20245384
Age 1441.6% fail first time20248234
Age 1545.3% fail first time20247432
Age 1649.6% fail first time20246095
Age 1748.7% fail first time20245073
Age 1849.9% fail first time20243716
Age 1951.6% fail first time20242562

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 108,560 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Does the Mazda 3 fail inspections in other countries too?

In the Netherlands, 59.5% of Mazda 3s failed their periodic roadworthiness inspection, against 50.8% for all cars there (2024 by country, n = 8,878 inspections).

Inspections abroad point the same way: in Norway, Finland and the Netherlands the Mazda 3 also fails more often than the national average.

bullet · Mazda 3 · Norway · 40.1 vs 33.7 · 2024 by country
Norway: 40.1 vs 33.7. Finland: 32.5 vs 26.3. Netherlands: 59.5 vs 50.8. Statens vegvesen PKK (CC BY 4.0), Traficom Katsastus (CC BY 4.0), RDW APK (CC0), adapted; covers 430 of 761 models, 24 Sep 2026.
Mazda 3: the numbers behind this answer (2024 by country)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Norway40.1% failed33.72024 by country3548
Finland32.5% failed26.32024 by country8787
Netherlands59.5% failed50.82024 by country8878

Source: Statens vegvesen PKK (CC BY 4.0), Traficom Katsastus (CC BY 4.0), RDW APK (CC0), adapted; covers 430 of 761 models · Window: 2024 by country · n = 108,560 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV · licences and full notice

Does the month of a Mazda 3 MOT matter?

Mazda 3s fail first time most in November (33.2%, against 30.6% for all cars that month) and least in September (29.2%) (2024, n = 108,560).

line · Mazda 3 · January · 32.2 vs 31.1 · 2024
January: 32.2. December: 32.4. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mazda 3: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
January32.2% fail first time31.1202460790
February30.4% fail first time30.0202459385
March29.2% fail first time28.3202474291
April33.2% fail first time29.8202431704
May31.1% fail first time28.8202436480
June29.3% fail first time28.1202446015
July30.5% fail first time29.3202451720
August30.4% fail first time29.2202458635
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
September29.2% fail first time28.2202474454
October33.0% fail first time30.3202466403
November33.2% fail first time30.6202457845
December32.4% fail first time29.3202442321

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 108,560 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Not enough tests for… (and why)

Real-world MPG against the official figure (manufacturer level)

layer not yet computed for this model (covers 19 of 761 models). 108,560 initial Mazda 3 tests are in the published model cohort.

Source: European Commission OBFCM; covers 19 of 761 models · Window: 2021+ cohorts · n = 108,560 (initial tests) · Method: computed estimate, not measured · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

See the Audi A3, a car of the same inspection class with 3.6× the tests · Check your car by registration

How to cite this page

MOT Risk Index (2026). Mazda 3 MOT statistics 2024 (data release dvsa-2024-v2; full dataset motriskindex-families-2024-v5, DOI 10.5281/zenodo.22975051), updated 24 September 2026. motriskindex.co.uk/cars/mazda-3/

How the MOT Risk Index and every figure on this page are calculated: methodology.

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Mazda 3 MOT: quick answers

What is the Mazda 3 first-time MOT pass rate?

68.6% of first attempts passed in 2024 (108,560 tests). Retests after repair are excluded; cars fixed at the test centre (PRS) are shown separately.

Why does this number differ from other sites?

Other sites may count retests or all attempts. This page uses 108,560 primary tests: 31.4% failed first time and 74.0% passed when cars fixed at the test centre (PRS) count as passes. The age-adjusted MOT Risk Index 104.4 is shown separately.