Mazda Mazda3 2021 recalls, problems, complaints and safety

NHTSA lists 1 safety recall issued for the Mazda Mazda3 2021 and 54 complaints filed by owners. It has 5% more 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 2021

Tires
NHTSA campaign 21V101000 · 2021-02-22

What happens

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.

The repair is free at any dealer of the brand.

NHTSA 21V101000

Complaints from other owners

54 complaints filed with NHTSA by owners of this model.

2 with a crash · 2 with a fire · 1 injury

Most reported problems on the Mazda Mazda3 2021

• Engine: 19 (35% of complaints)
• Electrical system: 7 (13% of complaints)
• Forward collision avoidance: 7 (13% of complaints)
• Brakes: 5 (9% of complaints)
• Powertrain and transmission: 4 (7% 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 2021

• Confirm by VIN on NHTSA that the recalls on this list were repaired.
• Start it cold, listen for noises, look for oil or coolant leaks and exhaust smoke.
• Test lights, windows, locks, the screen and dashboard warning lights; have trouble codes scanned.
• Ask whether the system braked on its own for no reason ("phantom braking") and whether software updates are pending.
• 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 2021 have?

NHTSA lists 1 safety recall issued for the Mazda Mazda3 2021. 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 2021?

In complaints filed with NHTSA, the most mentioned component is: engine (19 of 54 complaints). Complaints aren't verified one by one, but they show trends.