2016 Mazda Cx-3 Safety Report
2016 Mazda CX-3: Strong crash test scores but notable issues with lighting, electrical systems, and rearview camera.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Mazda Cx-3
Reliability Score
The 2016 Mazda Cx-3 receives a reliability score of 68 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2016 Mazda Cx-3
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Mazda Cx-3:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rearview Camera Malfunction Recalls and complaints indicate that the rearview camera image may flicker, distort, or fail to display properly, reducing rear visibility and increasing the risk of a crash. |
Medium | Common | N/A miles |
| Headlight Moisture Infiltration Multiple owners report condensation and moisture accumulating inside the headlight assemblies, even without visible cracks, which can dim visibility and potentially lead to electrical issues. |
Medium | Common | N/A miles |
| Infotainment System Glitches Complaints describe the infotainment touchscreen registering 'ghost presses,' leading to unintended actions like changing channels, making calls, or system reboots, sometimes described as 'spiderweb' cracking on the screen. |
Medium | Common | N/A miles |
| Engine Stalling Several owners reported the vehicle stalling while driving, sometimes without warning lights, with issues traced to fuel system components like the fuel injector pump. |
High | Occasional | 30000-75000 miles |
| Steering Knuckle Separation A recall addresses the potential separation of the steering knuckle from the strut assembly, which could lead to a loss of steering control and increase the risk of a crash. |
High | Rare | N/A miles |
| Driver'S Seat Adjustment Failure Some owners report the driver's seat failing to maintain its height adjustment, sinking down while driving. |
Low | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Lane Departure Warning Intermittency Reports indicate the Lane Departure Warning system sporadically not functioning correctly. |
Low | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Rust On Hatch One complaint mentions rust on the hatch, similar to a recall in other markets. |
Low | Rare | N/A miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2016 Mazda Cx-3:
Moisture ingress and dimming visibility due to faulty seals or assemblies.
Issues with infotainment system glitches, ghost touches, and potential electrical impact from headlight moisture.
Problems with the rearview camera display, including flickering and distortion.
A category for miscellaneous issues not fitting other specific components.
Concerns related to visibility, potentially linked to headlight issues.
Complaints related to engine stalling and fuel system components.
Issues with the driver's seat not holding its position.
Complaints related to the vehicle losing power or stalling.
Engine stalling issues, sometimes related to fuel system components.
Malfunction chime for passenger airbags and disabled airbags.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Mazda Cx-3
Is the 2016 Mazda CX-3 safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 Mazda CX-3 has excellent crash test ratings (5-star overall), indicating strong occupant protection in collisions. However, there are notable recurring complaints and recalls concerning the rearview camera, exterior lighting, and potential engine stalling, which could impact safety in specific driving scenarios.
What are common problems with the 2016 Mazda CX-3?
The most reported issues include problems with exterior lighting (moisture in headlights), the electrical system (infotainment glitches, ghost touches), and the back-over prevention system (rearview camera malfunctions). Engine stalling and issues with the driver's seat are also reported.
Are there any safety recalls for the 2016 Mazda CX-3?
Yes, there are three recalls: one for the rearview camera system, one for a potential steering knuckle separation that could cause loss of steering control, and another related to the liftgate structure (though this recall primarily affects older models).
How reliable is the 2016 Mazda CX-3?
While crashworthiness is high, the frequency of complaints regarding electrical systems, lighting, and engine stalling suggests potential reliability concerns that buyers should consider.
What should I look out for when buying a used 2016 Mazda CX-3?
Pay close attention to the condition of the headlights for moisture, test the infotainment system thoroughly for glitches, and inquire about any past engine stalling issues or recall work performed, especially for the steering and camera systems.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Consider the strong crash test performance, but be aware of common issues like headlight moisture, infotainment glitches, and potential engine stalling; ensure all recalls have been addressed.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Mazda Cx-3
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Mazda Cx-3. The data includes 47 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 3 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 4 reported crashes, 2 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2016 Mazda Cx-3 an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.