Hey everyone! I’m working with a tight budget and need a car that can last me at least 3 years. I’ll mostly use it for short commutes and some fun drives—around 8-10k miles a year. Hoping to find something under 150k miles, preferably a hatchback or crossover. A USB port or AUX input is a must! I’m new to Mazdas, always had Hondas before. Any advice on which years to avoid? Thanks!
Check out the 2014 Mazda3. Mileage isn’t a big deal if there’s no rust. Some Skyactiv engines have gone over 500K miles! Plus, the 2014 model has an infotainment system that can be upgraded to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Not sure if you’ll find one under 5k, but it’s worth looking.
@Alix
Good to know! Why is rust such a big deal with these cars?
Hadi said:
@Alix
Good to know! Why is rust such a big deal with these cars?
It’s not a huge issue for that generation, but rust can cause big problems on any car. Always good to avoid it if you can.
Hadi said:
@Alix
Good to know! Why is rust such a big deal with these cars?
The first and second generations rusted easily. If they were well taken care of, it’s fine, but definitely check the undercarriage. Bonus points if it’s been rustproofed!
@Cleo
Rust wasn’t as common on the third-gen models, but they’re aging now, so it’s smart to check for it anyway.
Hollis said:
@Cleo
Rust wasn’t as common on the third-gen models, but they’re aging now, so it’s smart to check for it anyway.
Wait… what’s a third-gen car? I don’t know much about cars haha.
@Hadi
It just means a big redesign. For Mazda3, the third generation is from 2014 to 2018. You can read more here: Mazda3 - Wikipedia
You might want to check out a Mazda6 from 2010-2012 or a CX-7 from 2007-2012. Both are solid cars if you stick with the 2.5L non-turbo engine.
If you’re thinking about buying a used Mazdaspeed model, check out this forum link for helpful tips: Used Mazdaspeed Buying Guide. They’ve got a lot of good info for owners and buyers.
I got a 2012 Mazda3 i with 135k miles. Runs great! It’s a manual, and the clutch feels solid. Paid 4k for it last year. It’s the base model, but it came with Bluetooth. It’s my daily driver, and I love it.
If you’re getting a hatchback, check the hatch release. The 2012 model has an electronic release that can fail, making it hard to open. I think they switched to a manual one in 2013, but double-check that.
I really suggest paying for a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic. It might cost around $250, but that’s better than buying a car with hidden problems.
Ellis said:
I really suggest paying for a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic. It might cost around $250, but that’s better than buying a car with hidden problems.
That’s a smart move. Thanks!
Honestly, at that price, you might not have a lot of choices. Just something to keep in mind.
Sky said:
Honestly, at that price, you might not have a lot of choices. Just something to keep in mind.
Yeah, that makes sense. I’ll keep that in mind.
The Mazda2 is small but fun, especially with a manual. It has an AUX input, and I swapped the stereo for one with Android Auto. You can install a double DIN stereo easily. They stopped making the Mazda2 after 2014, though.
@Finnley
Oh nice! Do you remember how much it cost to replace your stereo?
Avoid 2004-2007 models—they rust badly. 2010 had some issues, too. I’d recommend 2008-2009 or anything from 2012 and up. Look for the 2.0L engine with an automatic transmission.