2020 Mazda 3: common problems and reliability
One of the better 3 years.
32 owner complaints, most about forward collision avoidance. 2 recalls.
Should I buy a 2020 3?The 2020 Mazda 3 has 32 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 2 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are forward collision avoidance and steering.
Safety record for the 2020 model year
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2020 Mazda 3 vehicles (US, public record).
The Year Score compares this year with other 3 years only. How we score it
Is 2020 a good year for the 3?
Across the 21 3 model years we track, complaint volume runs from 12 (2023) to 686 (2010). With 32 complaints, the 2020 3 sits below the model's median of 117.
These are raw NHTSA complaint totals, not adjusted for how many cars sold or how long each model year has been on the road. Older and higher-selling years accumulate more complaints.
Where owners report problems
Recalls affecting the 2020 3
forward collision avoidance: automatic emergency braking
Campaign 19V907000Mazda 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.
service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:disc:caliper
Campaign 20V346000Mazda 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.
What owners say across generations
Mixed sentiment, heavily dependent on generation and powertrain.
Owner insights cover all generations of the 3. See the full 3 owner picture and every model year.
Other 3 model years
Compare every 3 year side by side to see how 2020 ranks against the rest.
Compare the 3 against its rivals
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