2021 Mazda CX-3 Problems, Recalls & Reliability
Verdict
No verdictComplaint Index
17/100
#6 most-complained of 7 CX-3 years
Based on NHTSA complaints per model-year, not a reliability rating. Methodology
The 2021 Mazda CX-3 has 4 complaints, 1 recall, and a Complaint Index of 17, ranking 6th out of 7 model years — one of the better years in the lineup. Steering issues make up 75% of its complaints.
- Complaints
- 4
- Recalls
- 1
- Crashes / fires
- 0 / 0
- Injuries / deaths
- 0 / 0
- NHTSA overall rating
- 5 / 5 ★
- EPA combined MPG
- 30
- 28 city / 33 hwy
Top 2021 Mazda CX-3 problems
NHTSA owner complaints by component group. Groups with 15+ complaints have their own page.
- Steering3 (75%)
- Brakes1 (25%)
- Electrical System1 (25%)
- Collision Avoidance & Cameras1 (25%)
What owners report
- Steering wheel develops resistance and binding at highway speeds around 65 mph, releasing suddenly with force.
- Steering issue is described as similar to a problem covered by a Mazda service bulletin for earlier model years, with owners saying it was not fully resolved.
- Steering binding is most noticeable during small corrective movements to stay in the lane, and reportedly worsens above 45 mph.
- Instrument cluster failure was reported at a median of no recorded mileage but with a sample failure near 50,000 miles, disabling stability control, brake support, traction control, and camera safety systems simultaneously.
2021 Mazda CX-3 recalls
1 NHTSA recall campaign list this model year.
- NHTSA 23V487000Jul 14, 2023Collision Avoidance & Cameras236,100 vehicles
Back over prevention: sensing system: camera
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Mazda3 and 2016-2021 CX-3 vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display properly by showing a flickering or distorted image.
Risk: A rearview camera that does not display properly can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the rearview camera, as necessary. In addition, dealers will install a wiring harness fastening seal. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed September 13, 2023. Final owner letters for affected models and model years in the states of CT, MA, MD, NJ, NY, PA and VA were mailed August 14, 2024. The remaining owner notification letters will be mailed at a future date, anticipated on or before May 1, 2025. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, Option 6. Mazda's number for this recall is 6023G.
2021 Mazda CX-3 fuel economy and fuel cost
- City
- 28 MPG
- Highway
- 33 MPG
- Combined
- 30 MPG
- Annual fuel cost (EPA)
- $2,175
- 15,000 mi/yr
- Fuel
- Regular
- Current regular gas
- $4.32/gal
- national avg.
EPA figures; median across configurations of this model year. Estimate your own cost with the fuel cost calculator.
2021 compared with other CX-3 years
Frequently asked questions
- Is the 2021 Mazda CX-3 reliable?
- Based on NHTSA complaints and recalls, the 2021 CX-3 has only 4 complaints and a Complaint Index of 17, ranking 6th worst out of 7 model years — meaning it performs better than most other CX-3 years.
- What problems does the 2021 Mazda CX-3 have?
- NHTSA lists steering as the top problem area, making up 75% of complaints, along with single reports involving brakes, electrical system, and the collision avoidance camera.
- Does the 2021 Mazda CX-3 have a recall?
- Yes, one recall (23V487000) covers a rearview camera that may flicker or show a distorted image; dealers will inspect and replace the camera and install a wiring harness as needed.
- How does the 2021 CX-3 compare to other years?
- The 2021 CX-3 ranks 6th out of 7 years with a Complaint Index of 17, far below the 2016 model (index 100, verdict Avoid) and the 2019 model (index 83, verdict Avoid).