Mazda CX-3 MK1 (2015–2023): How to Remove the Bumpers

Introduction


The Mazda CX-3 is a compact crossover introduced by the Japanese manufacturer in 2014. This model positioned itself between the Mazda2 and CX-5, becoming a key player in the popular B-SUV segment. During its production run, the CX-3 underwent one significant facelift and received several technical and visual updates.

 

Production Years and Model Code
The Mazda CX-3 was first unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November 2014, with serial production beginning in 2015. The model was based on the Mazda2 (DJ) platform and carried the factory code DK5F. Production of the CX-3 continued until 2023, after which Mazda focused on the newer CX-30 model.

 

Body Type and Variants
The CX-3 was offered exclusively as a 5-door SUV. Depending on the market, the following engines were available:

Petrol:

  • 1.5L SkyActiv-G (107–120 hp)

  • 2.0L SkyActiv-G (120–150 hp)

Diesel (for Europe and Japan):

  • 1.5L SkyActiv-D (105 hp)

  • 1.8L SkyActiv-D (116 hp)

Transmissions: 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic, and (in some versions) i-Activ AWD all-wheel drive.

 

2019 Facelift
In 2018, Mazda presented the updated CX-3 at the Paris Motor Show. The changes included:

  • Exterior: New radiator grille, redesigned bumpers, LED lighting

  • Interior: Higher-quality materials, upgraded infotainment system (Mazda Connect), head-up display

  • Technical: Revised suspension for improved comfort, new safety systems (e.g., blind spot monitoring)

 

Bumper Plastic Marking: >PP-(T25+S20)<

 

How to Remove the Front Bumper

  1. Open the hood

  2. Remove two screws securing the air duct (no need to remove it completely - there's a clip underneath)

  3. Remove four screws and six clips securing the top part of the front bumper

  4. Underside: Remove six screws securing the wheel arch liners, then four screws and two clips securing the front underbody panel (no need to remove it completely)

  5. Bend the underbody panel downward, remove four screws and two clips beneath it

  6. Turn the steering wheel to one side

  7. In wheel arches, remove two clips per side

  8. Release the wheel arch extensions from the bumper (held by internal clips, pull toward you)

  9. Under extensions, remove one screw per side securing the corners to fenders and two clips securing front wheel arch liners

  10. Release clips in fenders (pull bumper corners toward you)

  11. Remove bumper by pulling forward (mind the wires and hoses)

  12. Disconnect electrical component connectors

  13. Detach the common headlight washer hose from the pump

Mazda CX-3 Front Bumper Mounting Locations (2015–2023)

Mazda CX-3 (2015–2023) Front Bumper Mounting Diagram

How to Remove the Rear Bumper

⇒Useful tips on how to remove the bumper and not break anything.⇐

  1. Open the tailgate

  2. In trunk opening, remove two screws and two covers

  3. Remove two screws per side, release fasteners in fenders (pull parallel to fender) and remove taillights

  4. Underside: Remove four screws and two clips

  5. In wheel arches, remove clips securing wheel arch liners

  6. Release wheel arch extensions from bumper (pull toward you)

  7. Under extensions, remove one screw and one clip per side

  8. Release clips in fenders (pull corners toward you)

  9. Release clips under taillights

  10. Carefully remove bumper by pulling backward (mind the wires)

  11. Disconnect electrical component connectors

Mazda CX-3 rear bumper mounting locations (2015–2023)

Mazda CX-3 Rear Bumper Mounting Diagram (2015–2023)

Model Description
The CX-3 was designed as an urban crossover emphasizing handling and efficiency. Its design followed the KODO: Soul of Motion concept, giving it a dynamic and aggressive appearance.

 

Strengths:

  • Efficient SkyActiv engines

  • Good handling (for an SUV)

  • High build quality and reliability

 

Weaknesses:

  • Cramped interior, especially rear seats

  • Somewhat stiff suspension (especially early models)

 

Interesting Facts:

  • The CX-3 remained virtually unchanged for 8 years

  • In 2016, rumors circulated about a sporty MPS version with 2.5L turbo engine that never materialized

  • Japanese models were built in Hiroshima, other markets supplied from Thailand and Mexico

  • A limited hybrid version was produced for Japan in 2019

  • CX-3 design elements influenced the CX-30

 

Conclusion
The Mazda CX-3 remained one of the most balanced vehicles in its class, combining Japanese reliability with driving enjoyment. Despite its compact dimensions, it was successful in Europe, Australia and Russia. Production ended in 2023, but in the used car market the CX-3 remains an interesting choice due to its good residual value and low maintenance costs.