Is the Mazda CX-3 Reliable?
2016–2021 defect & recall-risk analysis from citable NHTSA data.
The score ranks this model's recall intensity against other suvs — plus systemic-defect concentration and any open federal investigations. It measures defect and recall risk, not long-term mechanical durability, and is deliberately not skewed by how many were sold.
Reliability Score
Own a Mazda CX-3? Check your specific VIN for a full history report.
Mazda CX-3 Reliability by Year
| Model Year | Recalls | Complaints | Injuries | Deaths | Reliability Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 1 | 5 | — | — | 89 | Excellent |
| 2020 | 1 | 0 | — | — | 91 | Excellent |
| 2019 | 2 | 22 | — | — | 66 | Good |
| 2018 | 1 | 9 | — | — | 83 | Good |
| 2017 | 1 | 13 | — | — | 76 | Good |
| 2016 | 3 | 27 | — | — | 66 | Good |
Reliability scores are proprietary to VinCheckEngine and incorporate multiple weighted safety signals.
How the CX-3 Compares to Similar Vehicles
The CX-3 scores 12 points above the average suv — a strong result.
Known Mazda CX-3 Reliability Issues
The following components appear most frequently in owner complaints filed with NHTSA:
Based on 76 owner complaints across recent model years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Mazda CX-3 reliable?+
The Mazda CX-3 scores 81/100 on our reliability index — rated "Good." Across 6 recently analyzed model years, it accumulated 9 recall campaigns and 76 owner complaints in the NHTSA database.
What year CX-3 is most reliable?+
Among the years analyzed, the 2020 CX-3 achieved the highest reliability score of 91/100 with 1 recall and 0 complaints.
How many miles does a CX-3 last?+
With consistent maintenance, most Mazda CX-3 owners report 150,000 to 200,000+ miles of service life. Checking the VIN of any specific used CX-3 will reveal its actual mileage history and any title events.
More Mazda CX-3 Research
Check a Specific Mazda CX-3 VIN
Model-level reliability scores show general trends. A VIN-specific report reveals the exact history of any individual vehicle — accidents, odometer records, auction events, and open recalls.
Run a Free VIN Report →