Used Mazda 3: Inspection checklist
Pick the model year you are going to see. Each sheet lists the checks for the problems owners reported on that year, in the order you would do them at the car. Owners filed 217 complaints across these 7 years; the 2021 drew the most.
Choose a model year
2025
Most reported: electrical
20 complaints1 recallOpen checklist
2024
Most reported: airbags
22 complaints2 recallsOpen checklist
2023
Most reported: brakes
19 complaints1 recallOpen checklist
2022
Most reported: engine
26 complaints1 recallOpen checklist
2021
Most complaintsMost reported: engine
95 complaints3 recallsOpen checklist
2019
Most reported: electrical
26 complaints2 recallsOpen checklist
2018
Fewest complaintsMost reported: backup camera
9 complaints1 recallOpen checklist
Problems that follow the 3 from year to year
Each of these is a top-three complaint area in at least two model years. Darker cells mean more complaints that year. Whatever year you are looking at, give these extra time.
| Area | 2018 | 2019 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical | 2 | 8 | 9 | 3 | 2 | 8 | 32 | |
| Engine | 36 | 6 | 42 | |||||
| Brakes | 7 | 3 | 2 | 12 | ||||
| Steering | 5 | 4 | 3 | 12 |
3 generations and updates
First years of a new generation and mid-cycle updates are marked. Each year links to its checklist.
Fourth generation
2019–2023
Third generation
2014–2018
2016 update: New dashboard layout; Updated front and rear exterior styling; Added safety features including traffic sign recognition
Mileages where 3 problems start
From owner reports for each model year, lowest mileage first. Compare these with the odometer of the car you are seeing.
Every 3 recall to confirm
7 recalls cover the 3years on this site. Open a campaign number for NHTSA's full notice. 3 campaigns span more than one model year.
