Mazda 3 IV Skyactiv-D problems
The Mazda 3 IV used the Skyactiv-D from 2019 (Mazda3 1.8 Skyactiv-D). 2 documented faults affect it; the most important is “oil dilution with diesel during DPF regenerations” (high severity, common). Our verdict: “With caution”. Among the documented engines of the Mazda 3 IV, the safest option is the Skyactiv-G.
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Engine score on this car
5.7 out of 10Acceptable reliability
Only counting the faults that affect the versions and years of the 3 IV. How we calculate it
Overall score for the Mazda 3 IV
6.6 out of 10Acceptable reliability
Engines, gearbox, suspension, brakes, electronics and the rest of the car. See breakdown
Mazda Skyactiv-D 1.5/1.8/2.2 (S5-DPTS, S8-DPTS, SH-VPTS) · Diesel
- Name
- Mazda3 1.8 Skyactiv-D
- Faults that affect it
- 2 · 1 of high or critical severity
Verdict for the version it uses
1.8 Skyactiv-D 116 (S8-DPTS, 2018-present)since 2018 · 116 hp · S8-DPTS, S8-DPTR
With cautionIt is the most recent version and has the fewest accumulated kilometres on the road, so there are few reports of serious faults on fiches-auto.fr. Specialist sources describe the same design-related oil dilution risk as the rest of the family, so it is still worth watching the level.[2][3][4]
Faults that affect the 3 IV
Only those that affect the versions and years that this car used. The Skyactiv-D has 4 documented faults in total.
- High severityFrequency: CommonLubricationOil dilution with diesel during DPF regenerationsOn the Skyactiv-D (1.5, 1.8 and 2.2), particulate filter regenerations can let diesel into the sump and raise the oil level. Mazda accepts some dilution as normal, but on short urban journeys the expected margin can be exceeded and harm the lubrication of the turbo and the camshaft.
- Medium severityFrequency: CommonIntakeCarbon build-up in the intake, EGR and injectorsUrban use and short journeys encourage carbon build-up in the intake manifold, EGR valve and injectors of the Skyactiv-D, with loss of power and uneven running; it is documented on the CX-5, the Mazda6, the Mazda3, the CX-3 and the CX-30.
What to check before buying a used Mazda 3 IV Skyactiv-D
Each point comes from a documented fault that affects this car. You can tick them off as you inspect it.
If it has the Skyactiv-D (since 2019)
Oil dilution with diesel during DPF regenerations
High severityCarbon build-up in the intake, EGR and injectors
Medium severityOther engines and gearboxes of the Mazda 3 IV
Score for each one with the faults that affect this car, from best to worst.
Faults of the Mazda 3 IV outside the engine
Suspension, brakes, electronics and the rest of the car: they occur with any engine.
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalAirbags and safetySmart Brake Support can brake the car unintentionally while drivingOn cars built between November 2018 and October 2019, an unintended activation of the Smart Brake Support automatic braking system can stop the car unexpectedly while it is moving, with a risk of the vehicle behind running into it. Mazda inspects it free of charge at an official dealer.
- Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalElectrical systemThe m-hybrid system can drain or damage the 12 V batteryOn versions with the m-hybrid mild-hybrid system, some owners describe a sudden drain of the 12 V battery with very low mileage and a progressive loss of charge that forces them to replace it sooner than expected; there is no manufacturer campaign acknowledging the problem as systemic.
- High severityFrequency: RareElectronics and infotainmentThe rear-view and 360° cameras may not show an image on the screenOn cars built between June and September 2023, incorrect processing in the camera control module can stop the image from the rear, side or 360° monitor camera appearing on the central screen. Mazda fixes it by updating the module at an official dealer.
- Medium severityFrequency: RareClimate controlThe air conditioning can lose refrigerant and stop coolingA small number of owners describe a progressive loss of cooling in the air conditioning due to a refrigerant leak, with the condenser identified as the source; it is not a problem acknowledged by the manufacturer nor covered by any campaign.
- Low severityFrequency: OccasionalBodywork and interiorThe paint on the bodywork, bumpers or trim can flakeSeveral owners describe the paint on the bodywork, bumpers or trim becoming brittle and flaking over time, especially in areas of rubbing; the manufacturer does not acknowledge a systemic defect and there is no campaign about it.
Buying a Mazda 3 IV Skyactiv-D?
We will put you in touch with a partner only if you authorise it in the form.
The Mazda 3 IV has 2 documented recalls and campaigns. See which ones and how to find out if they affect you
Frequently asked questions
Is the Mazda 3 IV Skyactiv-D reliable?
The Mazda 3 IV used the Skyactiv-D from 2019 (Mazda3 1.8 Skyactiv-D). 2 documented faults affect it; the most important is “oil dilution with diesel during DPF regenerations” (high severity, common). Our verdict: “With caution”. Among the documented engines of the Mazda 3 IV, the safest option is the Skyactiv-G.
What faults does the Mazda 3 IV Skyactiv-D have?
The documented ones that affect this car are: oil dilution with diesel during DPF regenerations (high severity) and carbon build-up in the intake, EGR and injectors (medium severity).
Which engine should you choose for the Mazda 3 IV?
The safest option is the Skyactiv-G, with a «Buy» verdict.
Own a Mazda 3 IV Skyactiv-D? Tell us what faults you have had and at how many kilometres. Report your fault.
Sources
Every fact on this page links to its source. If you find an error, let us know.
- Mazda3Wikipedia (inglés) · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026
- Fiabilité Mazda 3 (2019-)Fiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Fiabilité Mazda CX-3Fiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Fiabilité Mazda CX-30Fiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Aviso a todos los propietarios de Mazda CX-5 Dieselkm77 · Motoring press · published 22 May 2013 · consulted 27 September 2026 · in Spanish