MAZDA 3 (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 8,608 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
79%
Total Tests (2024)
8,608
Avg Mileage
91,364 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,827
Is the 2012 MAZDA 3 reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 12 years old, 79% of MAZDA 3s from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 8,608 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 91,364 miles.
How does the 2012 MAZDA 3 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 MAZDA 3 has 91,364 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-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 2012 sits between the two at 79%.
How much does a 2012 MAZDA 3 cost to run?
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 2012 MAZDA 3
The 2012 MAZDA 3 is a small family car with a 1598cc petrol engine. 8,608 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2012, the average MOT pass rate is 78%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 91,364 miles at 12 years old, MAZDA 3 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2012 MAZDA 3 Fuel Costs
The 1598cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 42 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,137 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2012 MAZDA 3?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,827 (£152/month), broken down as £1137 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 79% 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 2012 MAZDA 3
At 12 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 8,608 MOT tests in our data, there's strong statistical confidence in these figures.
Alternatives to the 2012 MAZDA 3
The MAZDA 3 is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol small family cars from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- VAUXHALL CORSA (2014) 76% pass rate (-3%) from 141,747 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2013) 78% pass rate (-1%) from 132,292 tests
- NISSAN QASHQAI (2013) 72% pass rate (-7%) from 84,989 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2011) 75% pass rate (-4%) from 79,721 tests