Throttlebook

2021 Mazda Mazda3

The 2021 Mazda Mazda3 earns a strong Throttlebook Ownership Score of 74/100. Expect about $38,022 to own it for five years, or $634 a month. NHTSA lists 1 recall campaign that may apply, so check the exact VIN at nhtsa.gov before you buy. Owners have filed 55 complaints.

Recalls
1
Complaints
55
5-yr cost
$38k
MPG (EPA)
—
0
Strong
Ownership Score

2021 Mazda Mazda3 vs nearby years

Compare this year with the model years next to it on the same hub.

Looking at a specific Mazda3?

Paste its VIN for the exact trim, recalls that may apply, and a Fits / Stretch / Not yet verdict for your budget. Free.

1 recall may apply

For the 2021 Mazda Mazda3. NHTSA matches recalls by model and year — confirm by VIN.

  • What's wrong: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2021 Mazda3 and CX-30 vehicles. Air may suddenly leak from the tire air valve.

    Risk: A sudden air leak from the tire air valve may cause a loss of vehicle control while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.

    Fix: 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.

Check recalls for this exact VIN at NHTSA

Recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer.

5-year cost to own

Estimated $13,000 price, 20% down, 11.19% APR for 60 months (Experian avg.), 12,000 mi/yr.

$38,022
$634/month · $0.63/mile
Depreciation$4,150
Insurance (national avg.)$12,000
Fuel / charging$6,700
Maintenance$6,400
Repairs$3,400
Loan interest$3,592
Taxes & fees$1,780

Estimate, not financial advice. How we calculate.

Owner complaints & safety

What real owners reported to NHTSA for this model year.

55 complaints2 involved a crash2 involved a fire
  • Engine19
  • Electrical System7
  • Forward Collision Avoidance7
  • Unknown Or Other7
  • Power Train5
  • Service Brakes5

Complaint counts scale with how many were sold; compare against similar models.

NHTSA crash-test stars
Overall
5 out of 5 stars
Frontal
5 out of 5 stars
Side
5 out of 5 stars
Rollover
5 out of 5 stars

Rated as: 2021 Mazda Mazda3 5 HB AWD

What to check on a used 2021 Mazda Mazda3

Ordered by what owners of this model year reported most. Reports are not proof of a defect.

  • Engine and transmission
    • Cold start: listen for knocking, ticking or rough running.
    • Shifts should be smooth with no slipping or jerking.
  • Driver-assist systems
    • Ask if the systems work as designed and if any warnings stay on.
    • Test the backup camera and parking sensors if fitted.
  • Electrical and lights
    • Test every window, lock, light and wiper.
    • Watch for warning lights that stay on after start-up.

If anything in a safety area feels wrong (brakes, steering, airbags, tires), stop driving and get it inspected before you buy or drive it further. Paste a VIN above for the full printable checklist.

Common 2021 Mazda Mazda3 problems

Cheaper alternatives

FAQ

Is the 2021 Mazda Mazda3 a good car to buy?
The 2021 Mazda Mazda3 earns a strong Throttlebook Ownership Score of 74/100. Expect about $38,022 to own it for five years, or $634 a month. NHTSA lists 1 recall campaign that may apply, so check the exact VIN at nhtsa.gov before you buy. Owners have filed 55 complaints.
Does the 2021 Mazda Mazda3 have recalls?
NHTSA lists 1 recall campaign for the 2021 Mazda Mazda3, including Tires › Valve. Recalls are matched by model year, so check your exact VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Recall repairs are free at authorized dealers.
What are the most common 2021 Mazda Mazda3 problems?
Owners filed 55 complaints with NHTSA. The most-reported areas are engine (19), electrical system (7), forward collision avoidance (7), power train (5).
How much does a 2021 Mazda Mazda3 cost to own for 5 years?
About $38,022 over 5 years ($634/month) at an estimated $13,000 purchase price and 12,000 miles a year, including depreciation, insurance, fuel, maintenance, repairs, loan interest and taxes. Run a VIN report to personalize it.

Sources: NHTSA recalls, complaints and NCAP ratings; EPA fueleconomy.gov. Data refreshed weekly. Complaint counts scale with sales volume.