3 Least Expensive Mazdas to Maintain After 5 Years
When people think about car costs, most think of the MSRP. However, there is more than that, like maintenance fees, which can get expensive. Reliable brands like Mazda and Toyota still experience occasional performance issues. For all the Mazda fans, here are 3 of the least expensive Mazdas to maintain after five years.
1. Mazda 3
According to CarEdge, $2,118 is the average amount you’ll pay to take care of a Mazda for five years. However, the Mazda 3’s average five-year maintenance cost is much lower at just $1,432. After five years, its likelihood of needing a major repair is less than 8%.
The Mazda 3 isn’t just reliable. It’s also currently one of the most affordable compact cars on the market, starting at $22,550. Its base engine is a peppy four-cylinder capable of 191 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. It can also be optioned with AWD, which comes standard on models with the 250-hp turbo engine.
The Mazda 3 is available as either a traditional sedan or a hatchback, with the latter offering 20 cu-ft of cargo space. The backseat room is tight for both body styles, but the seat cushions are wide and supportive.
The Mazda 3 also has a satisfactory amount of tech and safety features. Smartphone integration is standard on the 2023 model, but its infotainment screen doesn’t have touch controls on any trim. However, the warranty doesn’t have any free maintenance as some manufacturers offer.
2. Mazda 6
Plan to use an average of $1,480 on a five-year maintenance budget for the Mazda 6 sedan. It is as unlikely as the Mazda 3 to need a major repair during that time. After 10 years, the possibility of an expensive repair rises to 16.22%, still better odds than segment rivals.
The Mazda 6 was discontinued for the 2021 model year, but used models feature nearly identical horsepower outputs as the Mazda 3. However, the Mazda 6’s miles-per-gallon estimates are slightly lower and don’t offer AWD. Even so, both sedans are known for their great acceleration abilities.
The Mazda 6 is a midsize sedan with more room for passengers and a trunk with nearly 15 cu-ft of storage area. Auto critics praise this sedan’s interior build quality, especially on the Carbon Edition.
This trim comes with exclusive red leather seats and several attractive tech features like a head-up display, wireless Apple CarPlay, and adaptive headlights. The Mazda 6 also has a touchscreen display, though you can’t use it while the car is in motion.
3. Mazda MX-5 Miata
The MX-5 Miata is still cheaper to maintain after 5 years than many of its siblings. You’ll likely pay $1,564 during that time, and its possibility of needing a major repair is slightly above 8%.
The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a tiny sports coupe powered by a 181-hp four-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed manual and RWD. Its center of gravity lies close to the middle, which gives drivers a fun handling experience.
Even for this segment, the MX-5 Miata’s passenger and cargo accommodations are below average. However, it still has an abundance of both standard and available features. The cabin also showcases sporty design language and high-quality materials.
Despite their small annoyances, each Mazda listed here offers great performance and longevity potential. Good driving behavior and getting regular vehicle checkups will also keep your car’s maintenance fees as low as possible.
