Considering quality and reliability is especially important if you’re buying a used car from a private seller. With a lineup of Mazda3 models since 2004, we’d say the best year for a used Mazda3 is 2018, from the model’s third generation.

But, why is that? To know why the 2018 Mazda3 is the best choice, we’ll have to talk about which used Mazda3 model years are not the best! All second-generation Mazda3 models from 2010 to 2013 have exhibited faulty dashboard problems, clutch failures, as well as more common problems with Mazda. These malfunctions not only increase car repair costs, but they endanger you and other drivers.

That makes third-generation Mazda3 models from 2014 to 2018 the most favorable to buy used. While you can’t go particularly wrong with any of these third-gen Mazda3s, the 2018 Mazda3 gets the upper hand due to its front-collision mitigation system and its small amount of complaints and recalls.

No matter what Mazda3 you buy, you’re going to need to consider the cost of car insurance as well! Even used cars need car insurance, and you may want to add some additional coverage depending on how much you spend for your new-to-you Mazda. Happy shopping!

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