MAZDA 3 (2010)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 15,144 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
74%
Total Tests (2024)
15,144
Avg Mileage
101,714 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,727
Is the 2010 MAZDA 3 reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 8 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the MAZDA brand average of 81%.
At 14 years old, 74% of MAZDA 3s from 2010 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 15,144 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 101,714 miles.
How does the 2010 MAZDA 3 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2010 MAZDA 3 has 101,714 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 103,600 miles for a 14-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a MAZDA 3?
The most reliable year is the 2022 model with a 98% MOT pass rate, while the 2004 model has the lowest at 65%. The 2010 sits between the two at 74%.
How much does a 2010 MAZDA 3 cost to run?
Higher than average due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
MAZDA 3 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 98% | 243 | 21,571 mi |
| 2021 | 94% | 6,556 | 23,403 mi |
| 2020 | 94% | 6,787 | 28,046 mi |
| 2019 | 92% | 7,145 | 34,301 mi |
| 2018 | 88% | 11,205 | 42,804 mi |
| 2017 | 83% | 13,489 | 51,801 mi |
| 2016 | 82% | 17,936 | 61,550 mi |
| 2015 | 81% | 19,839 | 70,981 mi |
| 2014 | 80% | 14,280 | 76,594 mi |
| 2013 | 80% | 8,703 | 81,092 mi |
| 2012 | 79% | 8,608 | 91,364 mi |
| 2011 | 75% | 9,731 | 95,384 mi |
| 2010 | 74% | 15,144 | 101,714 mi |
| 2009 | 72% | 14,024 | 101,557 mi |
| 2008 | 70% | 11,826 | 101,647 mi |
| 2007 | 69% | 9,747 | 106,801 mi |
| 2006 | 68% | 7,178 | 107,923 mi |
| 2005 | 67% | 5,007 | 107,158 mi |
| 2004 | 65% | 1,514 | 98,523 mi |
Checking a specific MAZDA 3?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2010 MAZDA 3
The 2010 MAZDA 3 is a family car with a 1998cc diesel engine. 15,144 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it one of the most commonly tested cars on UK roads. Among all cars from 2010, the average MOT pass rate is 75%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 101,714 miles at 14 years old, MAZDA 3 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2010 MAZDA 3 Fuel Costs
The 1998cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 48 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,037 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2010 MAZDA 3?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,727 (£144/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 74% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
MAZDA 3 Reliability Trend
Newer MAZDA 3s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 16 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2010 MAZDA 3
At 14 years old, the MAZDA 3 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2022 model has the highest pass rate at 98%. With 15,144 MOT tests in our data, there's strong statistical confidence in these figures.
Alternatives to the 2010 MAZDA 3
If reliability is your priority, there are 2 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2012) 80% pass rate (+6%) from 98,183 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2010) 74% pass rate (same) from 92,611 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2010) 74% pass rate (same) from 75,715 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (2012) 82% pass rate (+8%) from 68,955 tests