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 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
37% of complaints: engine — 18 distinct reports on file.
12% of complaints: electrical system — 6 distinct reports on file.
CRASH FIREShow 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, 20250228
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, 20210907
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, 20210316
8% of complaints: service brakes — 4 distinct reports on file.
8% of complaints: forward collision avoidance — 4 distinct reports on file.
8% of complaints: air bags — 4 distinct reports on file.
CRASH INJURYShow complaint excerpts
The vehicle was badly rear ended and the airbags didn't deploy. The dashboard indicated an "airbag malfunction" after the collision happened.
NHTSA ODI report, 20220611
SAFETY TIMELINE
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.
Campaign 21V101000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2021 Mazda MAZDA3 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine issues (18 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (6 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for service brakes issues (4 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 21V101000 (tires) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
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 37% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2021 Mazda MAZDA3 have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.