Mazda Mazda3 2020 recalls, problems, complaints and safety

NHTSA lists 2 safety recalls issued for the Mazda Mazda3 2020 and 32 complaints filed by owners. It has 38% fewer complaints than the average Mazda Mazda3 from 2016–2025 (51 per year).

These are recalls issued for this model and year, not for your specific car. A car may already be repaired or may not be included. Confirm with your VIN on NHTSA.

Recalls issued for the Mazda Mazda3 2020

Brakes (hydraulic)
NHTSA campaign 20V346000 · 2020-06-12

What happens

Mazda 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.

Consequence

Loose brake calipers can reduce braking performance or interfere with wheel rotation, affecting vehicle handling. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the front brake caliper bolts, tightening them as necessary. If bolts are missing, the affected brake caliper will be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began July 24, 2020. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, Option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 4420F.

The repair is free at any dealer of the brand.

NHTSA 20V346000

Forward collision avoidance
NHTSA campaign 19V907000 · 2019-12-19

What happens

Mazda 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.

Consequence

Stopping the vehicle unexpectedly increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will update the SBS software. In addition, vehicles with certain production dates will receive an instrument cluster software update or replacement and a replacement owner's manual. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began February 14, 2020. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, Option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 4219L.

The repair is free at any dealer of the brand.

NHTSA 19V907000

Complaints from other owners

32 complaints filed with NHTSA by owners of this model.

Most reported problems on the Mazda Mazda3 2020

• Forward collision avoidance: 15 (47% of complaints)
• Steering: 3 (9% of complaints)
• Electrical system: 3 (9% of complaints)
• Fuel and propulsion: 2 (6% of complaints)
• Suspension: 2 (6% of complaints)

Complaints are written by owners and NHTSA doesn't verify each one. They're useful to spot trends.

What to check before buying a Mazda Mazda3 2020

• Confirm by VIN on NHTSA that the recalls on this list were repaired.
• Ask whether the system braked on its own for no reason ("phantom braking") and whether software updates are pending.
• The wheel should be centered going straight, with no vibration, noises when turning or stiffness.
• Test lights, windows, locks, the screen and dashboard warning lights; have trouble codes scanned.
• Get an inspection from an independent mechanic before paying.

Safety rating (NCAP)

Mazda Mazda3 recalls by year

• 2016 : 6 recalls · 103 complaints
• 2017 : 2 recalls · 84 complaints
• 2018 : 4 recalls · 109 complaints
• 2019 : 6 recalls · 74 complaints
• 2020 : 2 recalls · 32 complaints
• 2021 : 1 recall · 54 complaints
• 2022 : 0 recalls · 24 complaints
• 2023 : 0 recalls · 12 complaints
• 2024 : 3 recalls · 12 complaints
• 2025 : 1 recall · 8 complaints

Guides for this check

• What is a car recall and how to get it fixed for free
• Pre-purchase inspection for a used car: what to check
• Questions to ask the seller of a used car

Frequently asked questions

How many recalls does the Mazda Mazda3 2020 have?

NHTSA lists 2 safety recalls issued for the Mazda Mazda3 2020. That doesn't mean every car has them open: confirm with the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. The repair is free at the dealer.

What is the most common problem with the Mazda Mazda3 2020?

In complaints filed with NHTSA, the most mentioned component is: forward collision avoidance (15 of 32 complaints). Complaints aren't verified one by one, but they show trends.