2018 Mazda Mazda3 Problems: 3 Known Issues
2018 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated October 2026
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2018 Mazda Mazda3 has 3 documented known issues, with 3 rated critical. The most serious are Low-pressure fuel pump may fail — recall 21V875, Front windshield wipers may stop working — recall 19V272 and Incorrect exhaust valve spring may break — recall 17V745. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
2018 · All trims · All engines
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All 3 Known Issues
NHTSA Recalls8 recalls
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Mazda3 vehicles. A defective windshield wiper relay may cause the windshield wipers to become inoperative, reducing the driver's visibility.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2018 Mazda3 vehicles, equipped with an incorrect exhaust valve spring. The incorrect exhaust valve spring may fail while driving, potentially causing an engine stall.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2018 Mazda3, Mazda6, 2019 CX-3, 2018-2019 MX-5, CX-5, CX-9, and 2019-2020 Mazda2 vehicles. The impeller inside the low-pressure fuel pump may crack and deform, potentially causing the fuel pump to fail.
BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Mazda3 and 2016-2021 CX-3 vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display properly by showing a flickering or distorted image.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
Mazda Motors North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2014-2016 Mazda3 vehicles manufactured January 4, 2014, to September 18, 2015. The fuel tank of the affected vehicles may have been improperly handled during manufacturing and, as a result, the welded attachment of the Inlet Check Valve (ICV) may fail and allow fuel to leak.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Mazda Mazda3 problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2018 Mazda Mazda3 has 3 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Low-pressure fuel pump may fail — recall 21V875, Front windshield wipers may stop working — recall 19V272, Incorrect exhaust valve spring may break — recall 17V745. Of these, 3 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Mazda Mazda3 reliable?
The 2018 Mazda Mazda3 has 3 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 3 issues are rated critical: Low-pressure fuel pump may fail — recall 21V875 and Front windshield wipers may stop working — recall 19V272 and Incorrect exhaust valve spring may break — recall 17V745. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
What is the 2018 Mazda Mazda3 Low-pressure fuel pump may fail — recall 21V875?
In affected cars the low-pressure fuel pump impeller was made with inadequate material and can crack and deform until it rubs against the pump body. The pump can then fail, so the engine will not start or stalls while driving, which raises the risk of a crash; a check engine ligh… Severity: high.
What is the 2016-2018 Mazda Mazda3 Front windshield wipers may stop working — recall 19V272?
The front windshield wipers may stop working because a relay inside the front body control module (F-BCM) becomes defective: metal deposits form from heat in normal operation and the relay contacts stick, cutting power to the wiper motor. Inoperative wipers reduce visibility whil… Severity: high.
What is the 2018 Mazda Mazda3 Incorrect exhaust valve spring may break — recall 17V745?
Some cars may have been built with an incorrect, smaller exhaust valve spring in the engine's cylinder head; the spring had been made for a different manufacturer and shipped to Mazda by mistake. Continued use can cause abnormal noise, vibration and a check engine light, and in t… Severity: high.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.