repaired · 2026 Q2
Sensing system: camera
Risk. A rearview camera that does not display properly can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
2021 Mazda CX-3Problems, recalls & complaints
NHTSA has logged 4 owner complaints about the 2021 Mazda CX-3, most often about the steering. It is covered by 1 safety recall, and for recall 23V-487 the manufacturer reports only 42% of affected cars repaired.
Source: NHTSA complaints, recalls, investigations and manufacturer recall reports, through July 23, 2026. Updated daily. Photo: Elise240SX, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Complaints by system
Where the 2021 Mazda CX-3 has problems
4 complaints grouped by the system owners reported.
3Steering
1Electrical system
1Forward collision avoidance
1Service brakes
| System | Complaints | Crash, fire or injury |
|---|---|---|
| Steering | 3 | 0 |
| Electrical system | 1 | 0 |
| Forward collision avoidance | 1 | 0 |
| Service brakes | 1 | 0 |
Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. Complaints are submitted by the public and are not verified by NHTSA.
1 recall
2021 Mazda CX-3 recalls and how many were fixed
Each ring shows the share of affected cars repaired, from the manufacturer’s latest quarterly report to NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at authorized dealers.
Recalls apply to specific cars. To see whether a recall is still open on yours, enter the 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or with Mazda.
Best & worst years
2021 vs. every other CX-3 year
Bars show complaints per model year. Colors show the CarFlaw verdict: complaints weighted for crashes, fires and injuries, adjusted for years on the road and compared with the CX-3 median. How we score
'14'16'17'18'19'20'21
- Avoid
- Caution
- Solid
- Best
- Not rated
NHTSA crash tests
2021 Mazda CX-3 safety ratings
2021 Mazda CX-3 SUV AWD in NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program. Photos are from NHTSA's crash tests.
★★★★★
Frontal crash★★★★★
Side barrier★★★★★
Side pole★★★★★
- Rollover: 4 stars (13.6% risk)
- Stability control: Standard
- Forward collision warning: Standard
- Lane departure warning: Standard
In owners' words
What CX-3 owners report
Recent steering complaints filed with NHTSA, shortened. Personal details are removed.
All of the issues listed in Mazda Technical Service Bulletin 06-001/20, however this bulletin does not cover my model. Inspected by dealer, possible solution intended to be relubrication of the worm gear/worm shaft in the steering assembly. Issue presented itself in the last year and is most…
The Mazda CX-30 2021 I purchased from Mastria Mazda in Raynham, Massachusetts has a steering problem that is a significant safety concern. The steering wheel has resistance that can most notably be felt at highway speeds (around 65 mph). When making small corrections to the steering wheel to stay…
Having the exact same issue as was outlined and allegedly repaired in the prior service bulletin 06-001/20. Obviously this bulletin only applies to vehicles up to model year 2020. I have checked the model number on the steering motor to determine that it is the "updated" design. Obviously, the…
Own a 2021 CX-3?
Decode your VIN to see the recalls for your exact car, then confirm open recalls with NHTSA.