2021 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
- 54
- Recalls
- 1
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- Engine
Campaigns on file for 2021
None on file
35% of complaints
Complaints per year
2021: 54 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.
Engine
35% · 19 reportsShow complaint excerpts
Low engine oil message appeared on dash. Had car towed to Mazda. Had valve stem seals replaced under warranty.
NHTSA ODI report, 2026-09-28
Forward collision avoidance
15% · 8 reportsMost commonly citing automatic emergency braking and warnings.
Electrical system
13% · 7 reportsShow complaint excerpts
During the incident, the vehicle exhibited an uncontrollable malfunctionâthe steering wheel suddenly jerked sharply to the right while accelerating violently, leaving me unable to steer or brake effectively, the car was looking forward.
NHTSA ODI report, 2025-02-28
Also filed under Steering and vehicle speed control
The contact owns a 2021 Mazda Mazda3. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds the passenger front side tire was flat which caused the contact to veer to the shoulder.
NHTSA ODI report, 2021-09-07
Tl* the contact owns a 2021 Mazda MAZDA3. The contact stated while the vehicle was at a stand still at a parking lot, when it caught fire. The fire department was able to extinguished the fire and filed a report.
NHTSA ODI report, 2021-03-16
Service brakes
9% · 5 reportsShow complaint excerpts
Car made grinding sound with notable vibration when starting to move after shifting into drive. Felt like brakes weren't releasing.
NHTSA ODI report, 2026-09-28
Lane departure
9% · 5 reportsMost commonly citing blind spot detection and assist.
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
2021-04-06Tires21V101000 Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2021 Mazda3 and CX-30 vehicles. Air may suddenly leak from the tire air valve.
Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace all four tire air valves with new parts, free of charge. The recall began April 6, 2021. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500 Option 4.
Buy-smart checklist
2021 Mazda MAZDA3 — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Engine: 19 reports on file for this year.
- Forward collision avoidance: 8 reports on file for this year.
- Electrical system: 7 reports on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 21V101000 · Tires
Other years of this model
See all years ranked →FAQ
- Is the 2021 Mazda MAZDA3 reliable?
- Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2021 Mazda MAZDA3 is rated "better than typical".
- What are the most common problems with the 2021 Mazda MAZDA3?
- The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 35% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2021 Mazda MAZDA3 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.