2016 Mazda CX-3
Not enough comparison years on file yet for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2014 | 3 |
| 2016 | 48 |
| 2017 | 21 |
| 2018 | 10 |
| 2019 | 26 |
| 2020 | 1 |
| 2021 | 3 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
23% of complaints: electrical system — 11 distinct reports on file.
13% of complaints: exterior lighting — 6 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
I was recently served a notice in regards to our back up camera. Of greater concern is the moisture issue in the headlight that MAZDA seems to not be concerned about.
NHTSA ODI report, 20230923
10% of complaints: fuel/propulsion system — 5 distinct reports on file.
10% of complaints: back over prevention — 5 distinct reports on file.
8% of complaints: visibility/wiper — 4 distinct reports on file.
SAFETY TIMELINE
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2016 CX-3 vehicles manufactured June 1, 2015, to December 2, 2015, 2013-2014 Mazda2 vehicles manufactured July 3, 2013, to August 8, 2014, 2014-2016 CX-5 vehicles manufactured...
Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the lower mounting nuts and bolts that secure the front strut assembly to the steering knuckle. If the bolts are loose, they will be replaced and then correctly tightened, free of charge.
Campaign 16V203000 — check if this car was fixed
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2010-2013 Mazda3 and Mazdaspeed3 vehicles manufactured November 18, 2008, to June 8, 2013, 2012-2015 Mazda5 vehicles manufactured October 26, 2010, to June 22, 2015, 2016 CX-3...
Remedy: Mazda dealers will replace the both lift gate supports, free of charge, however parts are not currently available. The recall began April 2017. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's number for this recall is 9916H.
Campaign 16V644000 — check if this car was fixed
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Mazda3 and 2016-2021 CX-3 vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display properly by showing a flickering or distorted image.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the rearview camera, as necessary. In addition, dealers will install a wiring harness fastening seal. All repairs will be performed free of charge.
Campaign 23V487000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2016 Mazda CX-3 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (11 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for exterior lighting issues (6 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for fuel/propulsion system issues (5 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 16V203000 (steering) has been completed.
- Verify recall 16V644000 (structure) has been completed.
- Verify recall 23V487000 (back over prevention) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 2016 Mazda CX-3 reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2016 Mazda CX-3?
The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 23% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2016 Mazda CX-3 have?
3 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.