Is the Mazda Mazda3 Reliable?
2004–2026 defect & recall-risk analysis from citable NHTSA data.
The score ranks this model's recall intensity against other sedans — 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 Mazda3? Check your specific VIN for a full history report.
Mazda Mazda3 Reliability by Year
| Model Year | Recalls | Complaints | Injuries | Deaths | Reliability Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | — | — | — | — | Not enough data | |
| 2025 | 1 | 8 | 1 | — | 72 | Good |
| 2024 | 2 | 14 | 3 | — | 72 | Good |
| 2023 | 0 | 11 | 3 | — | 72 | Good |
| 2022 | 0 | 19 | 4 | — | 72 | Good |
| 2021 | 1 | 35 | 1 | — | 68 | Good |
| 2020 | 1 | 30 | — | — | 70 | Good |
| 2019 | 5 | 59 | 2 | — | 55 | Fair |
| 2018 | 2 | 68 | 7 | 2 | 48 | Fair |
| 2017 | 1 | 53 | — | — | 62 | Good |
Reliability scores are proprietary to VinCheckEngine and incorporate multiple weighted safety signals.
How the Mazda3 Compares to Similar Vehicles
The Mazda3 scores 10 points below the average sedan. Consider checking years with lower complaint volumes.
Known Mazda Mazda3 Reliability Issues
The following components appear most frequently in owner complaints filed with NHTSA:
Based on 297 owner complaints across recent model years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Mazda Mazda3 reliable?+
The Mazda Mazda3 scores 62/100 on our reliability index — rated "Good." Across 10 recently analyzed model years, it accumulated 13 recall campaigns and 297 owner complaints in the NHTSA database.
What year Mazda3 is most reliable?+
Among the years analyzed, the 2025 Mazda3 achieved the highest reliability score of 72/100 with 1 recall and 8 complaints.
How many miles does a Mazda3 last?+
With consistent maintenance, most Mazda Mazda3 owners report 150,000 to 200,000+ miles of service life. Checking the VIN of any specific used Mazda3 will reveal its actual mileage history and any title events.
More Mazda Mazda3 Research
Check a Specific Mazda Mazda3 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.
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