2021 Mazda Mazda3 VIN Check, Recalls & Reliability
The 2021 Mazda 3 has good reliability. There are 3 recalls and 95 owner complaints on file for the 2021 Mazda 3. Severity signals include 9 crash-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Engine (36), Electrical System (9), Visibility Wiper (8).
3 reliability snapshot
Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.
Used-car research
Research the Mazda 3 before checking the VIN
Compare model years, recurring problems, safety campaigns and market value first. Then use the VIN to verify the history of the individual car.
Most-reported 2021 Mazda 3 issues
Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.
- Engine36
- Electrical System9
- Visibility Wiper8
- Power Train7
- Unknown Or Other6
- Vehicle Speed Control5
Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2021 Mazda 3
Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.
- Check for excessive oil consumption by inspecting oil level and looking for low oil warnings
- Test battery and electrical system for drainage issues, especially if doors are unlocked
- Inspect transmission for signs of malfunction or error codes
- Verify rear brake wear and ensure brakes are not excessively worn
- Test vehicle speed control for unintended acceleration or delayed throttle response
- Check for any warning lights related to steering or power steering issues
- Ensure forward collision avoidance system does not engage unexpectedly
2021 3 recalls (3)
Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2021 3. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
- STRUCTURENHTSA 21V086000Feb 18, 2021
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2020-2021 CX-30 vehicles. When fully opened, the power liftgate may partially lower unexpectedly when the vehicle is parked facing uphill on a slope.
Consequence: If the power liftgate unexpectedly lowers while a person is accessing the rear storage area of the vehicle, it can increase their risk of injury.
Remedy
Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will update the power liftgate control module software and inspect the serial number of the power liftgate drive unit, replacing it if necessary, free of charge. The recall began April 8, 2021. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500 option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 4621B.
- TIRESNHTSA 21V101000Feb 22, 2021
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2021 Mazda3 and CX-30 vehicles. Air may suddenly leak from the tire air valve.
Consequence: A sudden air leak from the tire air valve may cause a loss of vehicle control while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace all four tire air valves with new parts, free of charge. The recall began April 6, 2021. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500 Option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 4721B.
- BACK OVER PREVENTIONNHTSA 23V487000Jul 14, 2023
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.
Consequence: 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.
Used-market value
2021 Mazda 3 resale snapshot
Listing benchmarks establish a market range; trim, mileage, condition, title history and prior damage determine what one vehicle is worth.
2021 Mazda 3 on the road
41,845 2021 Mazda 3 units were sold new in the US — a key signal for the size of today's used-market inventory.
How the 2021 Mazda 3 stacks up against rivals
The most-shopped alternatives in the same segment. Each link opens a side-by-side reliability and cost comparison.
Reliability verdict for the 2021 Mazda Mazda3
The 2021 Mazda 3 achieves a score of 70 out of 100, placing it slightly above the segment average of 66. This suggests moderate reliability within its class. The vehicle has three recalls, which is a limited number, indicating relatively few manufacturer-acknowledged issues.
Complaints are primarily concentrated in the engine category, with fewer issues reported in the electrical system, visibility/wiper, power train, and service brakes. The focus on engine-related complaints suggests potential concerns in that area, though other systems appear less problematic.
Overall, the 2021 Mazda 3 presents a moderate reliability profile with a specific emphasis on engine issues. Buyers should consider this when assessing risk.
What you get in a 2021 Mazda Mazda3 report
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2021 Mazda Mazda3 — Frequently asked questions
Is the 2021 Mazda Mazda3 reliable?
The 2021 Mazda 3 achieves a score of 70 out of 100, placing it slightly above the segment average of 66. This suggests moderate reliability within its class. The vehicle has three recalls, which is a limited number, indicating relatively few manufacturer-acknowledged issues.
How many recalls does the 2021 Mazda Mazda3 have?
3 NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for the 2021 Mazda Mazda3. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
What are the most common 2021 Mazda Mazda3 problems?
The most-reported 2021 Mazda Mazda3 problem areas are: Engine (36), Electrical System (9), Visibility Wiper (8).
Should I run a VIN check on a 2021 Mazda Mazda3?
Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2021 Mazda Mazda3, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.