Mazda Mx-5 vs Mazda 3: MOT reliability compared
Updated 05 September 2026.
22.4%
Mazda 3 MOT failure rate, 1.0 pts lower than Mazda Mx-5
Mazda 3 is the more reliable MOT performer: 22.4% of Mazda 3 MOTs fail versus 23.4% for Mazda Mx-5, a 1.0 point gap.
| Metric | Mazda Mx-5 | Mazda 3 |
|---|---|---|
| MOT failure rate | 23.4% | 22.4% |
| Tests analysed | 2,549,412 | 2,101,290 |
| Most common failure | Brakes (33.4%) | Suspension (37.3%) |
Questions and answers
Which is more reliable, Mazda Mx-5 or Mazda 3?
Mazda 3 is the more reliable MOT performer: 22.4% of Mazda 3 MOTs fail versus 23.4% for Mazda Mx-5, a 1.0 point gap.
What is the MOT failure rate of the Mazda Mx-5?
23.4% of Mazda Mx-5 MOT tests result in a failure, from 2,549,412 tests.
What is the MOT failure rate of the Mazda 3?
22.4% of Mazda 3 MOT tests result in a failure, from 2,101,290 tests.