2021 Mazda CX-3
Only 4 complaints on file — too few 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.
Only 4 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 4
- Recalls
- 1
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 2021
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
2021: 4 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2014 | 3 |
| 2016 | 48 |
| 2017 | 21 |
| 2018 | 10 |
| 2019 | 27 |
| 2020 | 1 |
| 2021 | 4 |
Known problem areas
Only 4 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Steering
3 of 4 total reports mention: steering.
Show complaint excerpts
All of the issues listed in Mazda Technical Service Bulletin 06-001/20, however this bulletin does not cover my model. Inspected by dealer, possible solution intended to be relubrication of the worm gear/worm shaft in the steering assembly.
NHTSA ODI report, 2024-10-28
The Mazda CX-30 2021 I purchased from Mastria Mazda in Raynham, Massachusetts has a steering problem that is a significant safety concern. The steering wheel has resistance that can most notably be felt at highway speeds (around 65 mph).
NHTSA ODI report, 2024-05-11
Having the exact same issue as was outlined and allegedly repaired in the prior service bulletin 06-001/20. Obviously this bulletin only applies to vehicles up to model year 2020.
NHTSA ODI report, 2024-03-09
Service brakes
1 of 4 total reports mentions: service brakes.
Show complaint excerpts
The instrument cluster in my 2021 Mazda CX-3 failed at approximately 50,000 miles.
NHTSA ODI report, 2026-07-23
Also filed under Forward collision avoidance and electrical system
Forward collision avoidance
1 of 4 total reports mentions: forward collision avoidance, most commonly citing automatic emergency braking.
Electrical system
1 of 4 total reports mentions: electrical system.
Safety timeline
1 recall · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
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R
2024-08-14Back over prevention23V487000 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.
Buy-smart checklist
2021 Mazda CX-3 — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Steering: 3 reports on file for this year.
- Service brakes: 1 report on file for this year.
- Forward collision avoidance: 1 report on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 23V487000 · Back over prevention
FAQ
- Is the 2021 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 2021 Mazda CX-3?
- The most-reported component is steering, accounting for 75% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2021 Mazda CX-3 have?
- 1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.