Dealer visit checklist

2019 Mazda Mazda3 checklist

Print it or keep it on your phone. Tick each item as you go so nothing gets missed.

This is a year to avoid
  • • 2.6x more recalls than nearby model years

Inspect the car

  • Check every panel gap and look for mismatched paint (signs of past accident repair)
  • Look at the tires: even wear, matching brands, at least 4/32" tread
  • Check under the car and engine bay for oil, coolant or other leaks
  • Start the engine cold; listen for knocks, ticks or squeals and watch for smoke
  • Test every window, lock, seat, light, the A/C, heat and infotainment
  • Test drive on city streets and highway: straight braking, smooth shifts, no pulling
  • Ask for the service records and a vehicle history report
  • Have an independent mechanic do a pre-purchase inspection (about $100–$200)

Known 2019 Mazda Mazda3 problems to check

  • Infotainment screen susceptibility to scratches and glare on early trims lacking the commander knob interface
  • Windshield stress cracks reported by some owners particularly in cold climates due to the steeply raked angle on the hatchback
  • Active Driving Display (head-up display) fogging or delamination on some units over time
  • Brake dust buildup and slightly accelerated front pad wear due to the sport-tuned suspension setup
  • Occasional software glitches with the i-ActivSense safety suite requiring dealer recalibration

Ask: have these recalls been fixed?

  • FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Mazda3 vehicles.
  • ENGINE: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2018-2019 CX-5, Mazda6, and 2019 Mazda3 vehicles.
  • SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:HEAD RESTRAINT: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2019 Mazda3 vehicles.
  • VISIBILITY:GLASS, SIDE/REAR: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2019 Mazda3 vehicles equipped with manual dimming mirrors.
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2019 Mazda3 vehicles.
  • WHEELS:LUGS/NUTS/BOLTS/STUDS: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2019 Mazda3 vehicles.

Negotiate the price

  • Know the typical price: about $16,000 for this model year
  • Negotiate the out-the-door price, not the monthly payment
  • Get the full price with every fee listed in writing before you sign
  • Bring your own loan pre-approval so the dealer has a rate to beat
  • Say no to add-ons you didn't ask for (paint protection, VIN etching, nitrogen tires)
  • Negotiate your trade-in separately, after the car's price is agreed
  • Be ready to walk away; another listing is usually a click away

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