Motoring Today

Mazda Cx-3 MOT reliability

Reliability from 5 Mazda Cx-3 cars with real DVSA MOT history — how often they pass first time, the most common failure reasons.

Reviewed by the Motoring Today Editorial team · methodology in our editorial standards.

How reliable is the Mazda Cx-3 at MOT?

Across 2 Mazda Cx-3 cars on Motoring Today, the average first-time MOT pass rate is 65%. 100% of stock currently holds a valid MOT, with a median of 11 months left on the certificate. The most common reasons these cars fail an MOT are brakes, suspension and visibility (windscreen & wipers), from real DVSA test history.

Avg pass rate
65%
Valid MOT
2 / 2
Median MOT left
11 mo
Top failure
Brakes

The Mazda CX-3 demonstrates a solid national MOT pass rate of 89.94% from 24,975 real UK tests. This figure indicates that most CX-3s presented for their annual inspection meet the required safety and environmental standards. However, like all vehicles, certain areas are more prone to issues. The most common failure points for the CX-3 include Tyres (27%), Visibility – specifically windscreens and wipers (21%), and Brakes (20%). Tyres top the list, suggesting that regular checks for wear and tear are crucial. For a used car buyer, these statistics highlight specific areas to scrutinise. High failure rates for tyres mean checking tread depth and general condition is paramount before purchase. Visibility issues, often stemming from windscreen chips or worn wiper blades, are typically straightforward and inexpensive fixes but can impact safety. Similarly, brake failures, while concerning, usually involve components like pads, discs, or fluid, which should be inspected for wear and proper function. Addressing these common issues upfront can save unexpected costs later. Motoring Today currently features 3 Mazda CX-3s, with prices starting from £8,750, or a representative £189 per month. It's important to remember that a vehicle's MOT pass rate reflects its condition *at the time of test*, not necessarily its lifetime reliability. Failures frequently correlate with a car's age, mileage, and how well it has been maintained, rather than being inherent flaws of the model itself. Every listing on Motoring Today includes the full MOT history, providing valuable insight into a specific car's past performance.

65First-time MOT pass
Average pass rate
Stock with valid MOT
2 / 2
100% road-ready
Median MOT left
11 mo
Expiring < 2 mo
0
Plan for an MOT soon after purchase

Most common MOT failures on the Mazda Cx-3

Grouped reasons for MOT rejection across 5 Mazda Cx-3 cars with DVSA test history in our stock (12 recorded failure items, 1 of them dangerous).

Failure areaRecorded failuresShare of failures
Brakes433%
Suspension325%
Visibility (windscreen & wipers)325%
Tyres217%

Based on real DVSA MOT test records for cars currently listed. Individual condition varies — always check the specific car's MOT history and advisories on its listing.

MOT pass rate is the percentage of Mazda Cx-3 cars in our stock that passed their most recent MOT on the first attempt, based on DVSA history. A pass rate above 80% is generally strong for a car of this age.

If a car you're viewing is approaching its MOT expiry, factor in the cost of any advisories — these are listed on each vehicle detail page.

Frequently asked questions

What is the MOT pass rate for a used Mazda Cx-3?
Based on 24,975 real national DVSA MOT tests, the Mazda Cx-3 has a pass rate of 89.94%. This indicates a strong performance in official tests across the UK.
What are the most common MOT failures on a Mazda Cx-3?
The most frequent MOT failure categories for the Mazda Cx-3 are Tyres at 27%, Visibility (windscreen & wipers) at 21%, and Brakes at 20%. Lighting & electrical issues account for 14% of failures.
Is the Mazda Cx-3 reliable?
While an MOT pass rate of 89.94% suggests good performance in official tests, it reflects a car's condition at the time of testing rather than lifetime reliability. Failures often cluster with a vehicle's age and how well it has been maintained.
What should I check before buying a used Mazda Cx-3?
Before purchasing, pay close attention to the tyres for wear, ensure the windscreen and wipers are in good condition, and thoroughly check the brakes. Also, test all lights and electrical systems, as these are common MOT failure areas.
How many Mazda Cx-3 models are for sale now and what is the cheapest price?
There are 2 Mazda Cx-3 models currently listed for sale. The cheapest available model has a cash price of £8,750, or can be financed from £189 per month (representative example, finance subject to status).
What are the most common MOT failures on the Mazda Cx-3?
Across 5 Mazda Cx-3 cars on Motoring Today with DVSA MOT history, the most common reasons for MOT failure are brakes, suspension and visibility (windscreen & wipers) (brakes account for 33% of recorded failures).

More Mazda Cx-3 resources