Summary
The Mazda MazdaSpeed3 has 6 recalls spanning 2007 to 2016, with the most serious being a 2007 engine mount bolt that can loosen under hard acceleration, pull free, or break, shifting the transmission out of position and potentially causing the driveshaft to detach and the vehicle to lose all drive power.
Also on 2007 models, Mazda-branded all-weather floor mats sold as accessories can catch the accelerator pedal and prevent it from returning when released, leaving the vehicle unable to slow down normally.
On 2010-2013 models, two separate recalls address the rear liftgate staying open. One involves the liftgate stay corroding through on 2010 models, and the other, covering 2010-2016 production, involves the liftgate gas strut losing the ability to hold the hatch up, allowing it to fall and strike whoever is standing underneath. On 2010-2011 models equipped with a manual seat height adjuster, the internal lifter links can break or separate from the seat frame, causing the seat to tilt and making it difficult for the driver to maintain a normal seating position behind the wheel.
Going back to 2008-2009 production, the windshield wiper motor has a ground terminal that can develop high electrical resistance over time and eventually stop the wipers from working entirely, removing visibility in rain or snow.