Is the 2017 Mazda MAZDA3 reliable?

Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2017 Mazda MAZDA3 is rated "better than typical".

What are the most common problems with the 2017 Mazda MAZDA3?

The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 24% of complaints on file.

How many recalls does the 2017 Mazda MAZDA3 have?

2 recalls on file for this model year.

2017 Mazda MAZDA3

▲ Better than typical

2017 Mazda MAZDA3
RENDERED 2026-11-01T12:48:12.227Z

This year had at least 30% fewer complaints than this model's typical year.

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.

How is this computed?

Complaints: 84
Recalls: 2
Investigations: 0
Top problem: Electrical system

Complaints per year

2017: 84 complaints

View as data table

Year	Complaints
2004	145
2005	97
2006	166
2007	222
2008	303
2009	115
2010	686
2011	132
2012	226
2013	117
2014	138
2015	130
2016	104
2017	84
2018	109
2019	74
2020	32
2021	54
2022	24
2023	12
2024	12
2025	8
2026	1

Known problem areas

Percentages can add to more than 100% — a complaint can name more than one system.

Electrical system

24% · 20 reports

Most commonly citing instrument cluster/panel.

Back over prevention

13% · 11 reports

Most commonly citing camera and rearview system braking.

Service brakes

8% · 7 reports

CRASHINJURY

Show complaint excerpts

I made a right turn onto a gravel driveway that has a slight incline. My speed was less than 10 mph. At the top of the incline I attempted to make a U turn so I could park the car.

NHTSA ODI report, 2025-06-05

Also filed under Forward collision avoidance

Visibility/wiper

6% · 5 reports

Engine

6% · 5 reports

CRASH

Safety timeline

2 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first

To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →

R

2019-05-07Visibility19V272000 Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Mazda3 vehicles. A defective windshield wiper relay may cause the windshield wipers to become inoperative, reducing the driver's visibility.

Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front body control module with a new module which uses an improved wiper relay design, free of charge. The recall began May 7, 2019.

Check if this car was fixed →
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.

Check if this car was fixed →

Buy-smart checklist

2017 Mazda MAZDA3 — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

Electrical system: 20 reports on file for this year.
Back over prevention: 11 reports on file for this year.
Service brakes: 7 reports on file for this year.

Verify these recalls were completed

Recall 19V272000 · Visibility
Recall 23V487000 · Back over prevention

Other years of this model

See all years ranked →

Best years3 years

Worst years3 years

FAQ

Is the 2017 Mazda MAZDA3 reliable?: Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2017 Mazda MAZDA3 is rated "better than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2017 Mazda MAZDA3?: The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 24% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2017 Mazda MAZDA3 have?: 2 recalls on file for this model year.

Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.