2020 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 | 132 |
| 2012 | 226 |
| 2013 | 117 |
| 2014 | 138 |
| 2015 | 130 |
| 2016 | 104 |
| 2017 | 83 |
| 2018 | 108 |
| 2019 | 74 |
| 2020 | 32 |
| 2021 | 49 |
| 2022 | 24 |
| 2023 | 12 |
| 2024 | 12 |
| 2025 | 7 |
| 2026 | 1 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
75% of complaints: forward collision avoidance — 24 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing automatic emergency braking and warnings.
Show complaint excerpts
While driving on a residential street the automatic emergency braking system activated and brought the car to a very abrupt stop but there was nothing in the front of the car to activate the system.
NHTSA ODI report, 20230926
9% of complaints: steering — 3 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
MY NEW 2020 MAZDA 3 PREMIUM WITH 1,177 MILES SUDDENLY TOOK COMPLETE CONTROL OF STEERING MY CAR.
NHTSA ODI report, 20200929
9% of complaints: electrical system — 3 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
Google search shows Mazda has common problem with their front sensing camera, people are reporting the issue for different Mazda models across the board for the last few years including newer models as well.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240616
Also filed under LANE DEPARTURE
9% of complaints: service brakes — 3 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing hydraulic.
9% of complaints: lane departure — 3 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing warning and assist.
SAFETY TIMELINE
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Mazda3 vehicles. The Smart Brake System (SBS) can falsely detect an obstacle while driving, activating the automatic emergency braking system and suddenly stopping the vehicle.
Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will update the SBS software. In addition, vehicles with certain production dates will receive an instrument cluster software update or replacement and a replacement owner's manual.
Campaign 19V907000 — check if this car was fixed
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2020 CX-30 and Mazda3 vehicles. The front brake caliper mounting bolts may not have been tightened properly during assembly, possibly allowing the calipers to loosen.
Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the front brake caliper bolts, tightening them as necessary. If bolts are missing, the affected brake caliper will be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge.
Campaign 20V346000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2020 Mazda MAZDA3 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for forward collision avoidance issues (24 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for steering issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 19V907000 (forward collision avoidance) has been completed.
- Verify recall 20V346000 (service brakes, hydraulic) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2020 Mazda MAZDA3 reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2020 Mazda MAZDA3 is rated "better than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2020 Mazda MAZDA3?
The most-reported component is forward collision avoidance, accounting for 75% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2020 Mazda MAZDA3 have?
2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-15 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.