Mazda Mazda3 II (BL) (2009 – 2013)

Reliability score : 7.2/10

The second-generation Mazda3 (code BL) had the difficult task of succeeding a very successful first iteration (BK). It reuses the platform (shared with the Ford Focus II) but significantly improves rigidity, aerodynamics, and perceived quality. While the petrol engines shine with almost irreproachable reliability, the picture is much more contrasted on the diesel side (MZ-CD and MZR-CD), which accounted for the bulk of sales in Europe. The model benefited from a facelift in late 2011, bringing minor aesthetic touches, better sound insulation, and, above all, a major evolution of the 1.6 diesel block (from 109 to 115 hp) which transformed its reliability. Overall rating: excellent for petrol, very uneven for diesel.

✅ Strengths

Exceptional chassis: comfort/handling compromise among the best in its class
Absolute reliability of petrol engines (MZR)
Precise and pleasant manual gearbox control
Very rich standard equipment (especially in Sport or Dynamique trim)
Corrosion resistance significantly improved compared to the previous generation (BK)

⚠️ Weaknesses

Disastrous reliability of the 1.6 109 hp diesel (turbo failure) and very erratic reliability of the 2.2 diesel (chain, oil strainer)
Imperfect sound insulation (road and wind noise on the highway)
Hard interior plastics and very prone to scratches
Fragile paint (prone to stone chips on the front fascia)
Average rear passenger space and boot volume (340L) for its size (4.46m)

🎯 Verdict

If you are looking for a Mazda3 BL, the golden rule is simple: prioritize petrol. The 1.6 and 2.0 MZR engines are models of reliability that will take you very far without issues. If your annual mileage requires a diesel, avoid the 1.6 MZ-CD 109 hp (before 2011) and be extremely vigilant with the 2.2 MZR-CD (clear service history mandatory, check of the oil strainer and chain). The only rational and recommendable diesel choice is the 1.6 MZ-CD 115 hp (appeared late 2010), which is much more robust and refined.

Common issues

Défaillance du turbocompresseur (moteur 1.6 MZR-CD) High

🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km

💶 800 – 1 500 €

Vidanges régulières avec huile spécifique, vérifier le circuit d'huile du turbo.

Encrassement ou défaillance du Filtre à Particules (DPF) Medium

🔧 120 000 – 200 000 km

💶 600 – 1 200 €

Effectuer des trajets longs régulièrement, surveiller les voyants moteur.

Encrassement de la vanne EGR Medium

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 300 – 600 €

Nettoyage préventif possible, éviter les petits trajets fréquents.

Fuite des joints d'injecteurs (moteur 1.6 MZR-CD) Medium

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 200 – 500 €

Vérifier régulièrement le compartiment moteur pour des traces de suintement.

Défaillance de capteurs moteur (débitmètre, pression turbo) Low

🔧 90 000 – 160 000 km

💶 150 – 400 €

Un diagnostic électronique peut identifier rapidement le capteur défaillant.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£70 – 130
Timing belt	£500 – 1 000
Clutch	£750 – 1 400
Complete brakes	£220 – 480
Estimated annual budget	£550 – 1 100

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.