🇩🇪 Deutsch
Mazda · Compact SUV · 2015–2024

Mazda CX-3 DK

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
3.9 / 5.0 · Based on 7 engine variants
Most Fun Engine

179–190 PS

2.0L SkyActiv-X Benzin

Sporty Compact

Fun to Drive!
Most Reliable Engine

122–150 PS

2.0L e-SkyActiv-G Benzin

4 weaknesses

Good Choice
Problem Engine

150–184 PS

2.2L SkyActiv-D Diesel

7 weaknesses

Stay Away!

Engine Overview

The Mazda CX-3 DK is available with 3 engine variants — from 75 to 190 hp. 1 variants had engine changes — the model year is crucial.

1.5L SkyActiv-D · Diesel· 105 PS
2015 2018
Be Careful 5 weaknesses
1.8L SkyActiv-D · Diesel· 116 PS
2018 2024
Good Choice 6 weaknesses
2.0L SkyActiv-G · Benziner· 120–150 PS Engine Change
2015 2018
Good Choice 6 weaknesses
2018 2024
Good Choice 6 weaknesses
2018 2024
Good Choice 6 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

The Mazda 1.5L SkyActiv-D (Diesel, 105 PS) has the S5-DPTS (1.5L SkyActiv-D) — rated: "Be Careful", 5 known weaknesses.

The Mazda 1.8L SkyActiv-D (Diesel, 116 PS) has the S8-DPTS (1.8L SkyActiv-D) — rated: "Good Choice", 6 known weaknesses.

The Mazda 2.0L SkyActiv-G (Benziner, 120–150 PS) comes with 3 different engines: PE-VPS (2015–2018, Good Choice) und PE-VPS (2018–2024, Good Choice) und PE-VPS (2018–2024, Good Choice). Pay attention to the model year for the 2.0L SkyActiv-G!

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
!Tailgate Inner Surface Lacks Adequate Rust Protection

The CX-3's tailgate is not fully painted on the inside and lacks adequate rust protection. Rust appears in the reversing camera area and on the inner panel from as little as 1–2 years. Mazda offers protective film DBY0-62-864 as an official fix.

Symptoms: Rust spots visible on the inner tailgate surface, paint bubbling in the reversing camera area, rust along the edges
from 30,000 km
Ad DBY0-62-864 Schutzfolie CX-3 tailgatetailgate Mazda CX-3 DK Rost
 Medium
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Average
107 complaints · 2015–2024
Electrical
24
Other
16 ⚠ 1
Fuel System
15
Backup Camera/Sensors
10
Lighting
10

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Electrical (24 complaints)
⚠ Other (16 complaints)
⚠ Fuel System (15 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

Alternatives

Same Segment

Alfa Romeo Tonale 965

Kompakt-SUV (2022–2024)

Same Segment

BMW X1 U11

Kompakt-SUV (2022–2026)

Same Segment

BMW iX1 U11

Kompakt-SUV (2022–2026)

Same Segment

Kia Niro SG2

Kompakt-SUV (2022–2024)

Same Segment

Mercedes-Benz GLC X254

Kompakt-SUV (2022–2025)

Same Segment

Suzuki S-Cross II

Kompakt-SUV (2022–2025)

Known Problems and Issues

A total of 47 weaknesses have been documented for the Mazda CX-3 DK (2015–2024) — 40 engine-related and 7 vehicle-related. One problem engine: SH-VPTS (2.2L SkyActiv-D). Typical issues affect Rust, Other, Electronics, Steering. Considered reliable: P5-VPS (1.5L SkyActiv-G), PE-VPS (2.0L SkyActiv-G), PE-VPS-MH (2.0L e-SkyActiv-G).

CX-3 (S5-DPTS, 2015–2018) — Be Careful: DPF Clogging, Oil Dilution from Fuel Ingress, EGR Carbon Buildup and Intake Valves. Power: 105 PS.

CX-30 (HF-VPH, 2019–2021) — Be Careful: Recall: PCM air/fuel mixture, Roots supercharger failure, Stumble when switching into SPCCI mode. Power: 179–186 PS.

What to watch out for with the Mazda CX-3? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Mazda CX-3 DK have? +
The Mazda CX-3 DK has 40 known engine weaknesses and 7 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Mazda CX-3 DK? +
faq.watch_a_avoid faq.watch_a_rec
Which engine is recommended? +
Good choice: P5-VPS (1.5L SkyActiv-G), PE-VPS (2.0L SkyActiv-G), PE-VPS-MH (2.0L e-SkyActiv-G), S8-DPTS (1.8L SkyActiv-D). The most reliable engine is the PE-VPS-MH (2.0L e-SkyActiv-G) with the lowest risk score. The most fun to drive is the HF-VPH (2.0L SkyActiv-X). Problem engine: SH-VPTS (2.2L SkyActiv-D) — stay away!
Which Mazda CX-3 DK engine is the most reliable? +
The {code} ({displacement}) is the most reliable engine in the Mazda CX-3 DK. It has the lowest risk score of all available engines and is rated "Good Choice". However, there are 4 known weaknesses to be aware of.
Which Mazda CX-3 DK engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Mazda CX-3 DK — rated: "Fun to Drive!". {description} The strong engine pairs perfectly with Mazda's agile chassis. Direct steering and good grip make every corner a pleasure.
Is the Mazda CX-3 DK worth buying used? +
The Mazda CX-3 DK is a good choice as a used car — 4 of 7 engine variants are rated 'Good Choice'.
What horsepower variants are available for the Mazda CX-3 DK? +
The Mazda CX-3 DK is available with engine variants from 75 to 190 hp. Petrol: P5-VPS (1.5L SkyActiv-G), PE-VPS (2.0L SkyActiv-G), PE-VPS-MH (2.0L e-SkyActiv-G), HF-VPH (2.0L SkyActiv-X). Diesel: SH-VPTS (2.2L SkyActiv-D), S8-DPTS (1.8L SkyActiv-D), S5-DPTS (1.5L SkyActiv-D).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee