Model year guide

2021 Mazda Mazda3

Recalls, most-reported problems, crash-test ratings, fuel economy and what a 2021 Mazda Mazda3 is worth — from official NHTSA and EPA data. 3 on record.

2021 Mazda Mazda3 — representative photo
Representative photo · via Wikimedia Commons

2021 Mazda Mazda3 at a glance

Safety recalls1
Owner complaints49

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

2021 Mazda Mazda3 recalls 1

Tires:valve NHTSA Campaign #21V101000 · 22/02/2021

Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2021 Mazda3 and CX-30 vehicles. Air may suddenly leak from the tire air valve.

Fix: 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. Mazda's number for this recall is 4721B.

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.

2021 Mazda Mazda3 common problems

The most-reported problem areas from 49 owner complaints filed with NHTSA — and what to check before you buy.

Engine
Listen for knocks or ticking, check for leaks and blue/white exhaust smoke, and make sure it doesn't overheat. No check-engine light should be on.
Power Train
Drive through every gear: watch for slipping, hard or delayed shifts, and shudder. Check for transmission/driveline leaks and noises.
Electrical System
Test every electrical feature: windows, locks, infotainment, charging and all lights. Watch for flickering, dead accessories or warning lights.
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.

2021 Mazda Mazda3 trims & engines on record

Trims
Mazda3 with Preferred Package · Mazda3 with Premium Package · Mazda3 with Select Package
Engines
2.5L 4-cyl 186 hp

2021 Mazda Mazda3 vehicles on record

Other Mazda Mazda3 model years

2021 Mazda Mazda3 — frequently asked questions

Does the 2021 Mazda Mazda3 have any safety recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 safety recall for the 2021 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 2021 Mazda Mazda3?

Based on 49 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are engine, power train, electrical system.

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