Mazda CX-3 reliability: common problems by model year
Across 2 model years, the Mazda CX-3 has 36 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 3 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are electrical system and steering. 2019 drew the most complaints (26), 2018 the fewest (10).
2
Model years tracked
36
Owner complaints
3
Recalls
26
Median per year
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Mazda CX-3 vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $14,353–$18,214.
Which CX-3 years have the most problems?
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
Mixed sentiment with a clear generational divide. The first-generation model (2016-2021) is associated with recurrent and costly mechanical and electrical failures, including transmission behavior complaints, infotainment unit failures, and fuel system issues,
First-Generation (2016-2021) Issues:*
Costly and recurrent mechanical failures: including timing belt replacement, complete air conditioning system repair/replacement (evaporator, compressor), front shock and mount replacement, and bearing failures. Frequency: recurrent.
Infotainment (CMU) failure: complete black screen and non-operation, with one specific case involving a DTC U3000:42 (Control Module General Memory Failure) following a battery replacement, suggesting potential vulnerability to voltage spikes. Frequency: recurrent.
Intermittent stalling and no-start condition: engine starts but loses power and cuts out when pulling away after a short stop, accompanied by a strong fuel smell and a sporadic low fuel pressure code; unresolved despite replacing high-pressure fuel pump, crankshaft sensor, and battery. Frequency: isolated.
Transmission behavior complaints: described as sluggish, hesitant to downshift, and prone to staying in high gears at low RPM, making the vehicle feel slow. Frequency: isolated.
Owner insights cover all generations of the CX-3. Individual model years are broken down above.