Model year guide

2020 Mazda Mazda3

Recalls, most-reported problems, crash-test ratings, fuel economy and what a 2020 Mazda Mazda3 is worth — from official NHTSA and EPA data. 1 on record.

2020 Mazda Mazda3 — representative photo
Representative photo · via Wikimedia Commons

2020 Mazda Mazda3 at a glance

Safety recalls2
Owner complaints31

Free: specs, open recalls for that exact car, build sheet and fair price.

2020 Mazda Mazda3 recalls 2

Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking NHTSA Campaign #19V907000 · 19/12/2019

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.

Fix: 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. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began February 14…

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:disc:caliper NHTSA Campaign #20V346000 · 12/06/2020

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.

Fix: 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. The recall began July 24, 2020. Owners may contact Mazda customer service …

Source: U.S. NHTSA. A recall applies to a model year, but only a VIN check shows whether a specific car has had the repair done.

2020 Mazda Mazda3 common problems

The most-reported problem areas from 31 owner complaints filed with NHTSA — and what to check before you buy.

Forward Collision Avoidance
Have a trusted mechanic inspect this system as part of a pre-purchase inspection.
Suspension
Listen for clunks over bumps, check the car sits level, and look for uneven tire wear and worn shocks or struts.
Steering
Steering should be tight and centered — no play, clunks or wandering. Test at low and highway speed; listen for power-steering whine.
Electrical System
Test every electrical feature: windows, locks, infotainment, charging and all lights. Watch for flickering, dead accessories or warning lights.
Lane Departure
Have a trusted mechanic inspect this system as part of a pre-purchase inspection.
Tires
Check tread depth, the DOT age date, and that all four tires match with even wear. Look for bulges or cracks.

2020 Mazda Mazda3 trims & engines on record

Trims
Select
Engines
2.5L 4-cyl 186 hp

2020 Mazda Mazda3 vehicles on record

2020 Mazda Mazda3 2020 Mazda Mazda3 SelectJM1BPACL1L1173122

Other Mazda Mazda3 model years

2021 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004

2020 Mazda Mazda3 — frequently asked questions

Does the 2020 Mazda Mazda3 have any safety recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 2 safety recalls for the 2020 Mazda Mazda3. Recall repairs are free at any franchised dealer. Whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

What are the most common problems with the 2020 Mazda Mazda3?

Based on 31 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are forward collision avoidance, suspension, steering.

Sources: NHTSA (recalls, complaints, crash tests), U.S. EPA (fuel economy). Vehicle data only — CarLogs never shows owner information.