2017 Mazda MAZDA3
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.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2004 | 145 |
| 2005 | 97 |
| 2006 | 166 |
| 2007 | 222 |
| 2008 | 303 |
| 2009 | 115 |
| 2010 | 686 |
| 2011 | 131 |
| 2012 | 226 |
| 2013 | 117 |
| 2014 | 137 |
| 2015 | 130 |
| 2016 | 103 |
| 2017 | 83 |
| 2018 | 107 |
| 2019 | 73 |
| 2020 | 32 |
| 2021 | 49 |
| 2022 | 23 |
| 2023 | 12 |
| 2024 | 10 |
| 2025 | 7 |
| 2026 | 1 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
23% of complaints: electrical system — 19 distinct reports on file.
11% of complaints: back over prevention — 9 distinct reports on file.
8% of complaints: service brakes — 7 distinct reports on file.
CRASH INJURYShow 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, 20250605
6% of complaints: visibility/wiper — 5 distinct reports on file.
6% of complaints: engine — 5 distinct reports on file.
CRASHSAFETY TIMELINE
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.
Campaign 19V272000 — 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
2017 Mazda MAZDA3 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (19 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for back over prevention issues (9 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for service brakes issues (7 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 19V272000 (visibility) has been completed.
- Verify recall 23V487000 (back over prevention) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST 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 23% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2017 Mazda MAZDA3 have?
2 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.