2021 Mazda Mazda3 engine problems
This is a safety-related system. If you notice symptoms, stop driving and have it inspected.
What owners report
“Low engine oil message appeared on dash. Had car towed to Mazda. Had valve stem seals replaced under warranty.”
NHTSA complaint · filed 09/28/2026
“Spontaneous loss of power while driving on highway. Check engine light came on. Speed limited by car. Continues to vibrate especially at idle from cold start. Code P0304 intermittently popping up.”
NHTSA complaint · filed 04/23/2025
“The thermostat malfunctioned on this vehicle, resulting in the thermostat remaining open and providing excess coolant to the engine, which in turn damaged internal components of the engine (compromises safety), decreased fuel economy, increased emissions (compromised safety), and decreased the life of the engine within the vehicle. It is available for inspection upon request. The vehicle has been inspected by an independent mechanic and will be inspected by the Mazda dealership in 7 days. There …”
NHTSA complaint · filed 02/21/2025
“The contact owns a 2021 Mazda Mazda3. The contact received notification of an unknown Class Action Lawsuit Number however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.”
NHTSA complaint · filed 12/16/2024
“Low oil light - car is burning oil and only has 11,400 miles. Approx 3/4 to 1 quart missing...”
NHTSA complaint · filed 09/21/2024
“Driving on a remote highway in northern WI and low oil light illuminated, 1000 miles before oil change was due with less than 10k miles on the vehicle. Made it to a gas station and oil was a quart low. Vehicle burns over a quart every oil change interval, since this has been occurring since day 1 it is likely going to cause premature engine failure which would be a safety issue.”
NHTSA complaint · filed 06/19/2024
“Received Low Oil Level warning ... checked engine oil and it is under the minimum level on the dip stick. Car has only 11,725 miles”
NHTSA complaint · filed 04/06/2023
“Experiencing a known excessive oil consumption issue. Low engine oil warning light came on and upon checking, oil was low. This occured at 4000 to 4200 miles. It occured again about 4000 miles later and again at a similar interval. I notified the dealer and scheduled a repair date but I am concerned of other possible damage that may have already occured due to this issue. An oxygen sensor needs to be replaced and is most likely due to the engine malfunction. The cause of the consumption is said …”
NHTSA complaint · filed 04/02/2023
Unverified owner reports from NHTSA's public complaint database.
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- How common are 2021 Mazda Mazda3 engine problems?
- 19 owners reported engine issues to NHTSA for the 2021 Mazda Mazda3. Counts scale with how many were sold.
- Is there a recall for 2021 Mazda Mazda3 engine problems?
- No matching recall is on file. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest.