2020 Mazda Cx-30 Safety Report

2020 Mazda CX-30: Excellent crash test scores offset by significant recall issues and electrical/powertrain concerns.

31Complaints
3Recalls
★★★★★Safety Rating
65/100Reliability Score
1Crash Reports
Most reported components: Unknown Or Other (5)Electrical System (3)Structure (3)Power Train (2)Engine (2)Service Brakes,Forward Collision Avoidance (2)Exterior Lighting,Service Brakes,Fuel/Propulsion System (1)Power Train,Seat Belts,Unknown Or Other (1)Suspension (1)Visibility/Wiper (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2020 Mazda Cx-30

The 2020 Mazda CX-30 presents a mixed safety profile. It achieves excellent NHTSA crash test ratings, with a 5-star overall safety score, 5 stars for frontal and side impacts, and 4 stars for rollover resistance. This indicates strong performance in simulated crash scenarios. However, the vehicle has been subject to three recalls, addressing critical safety concerns. These include a power liftgate that may lower unexpectedly when parked uphill, a potential fuel leak from the evaporative vent hose in AWD models which could increase fire risk or cause stalling, and improperly tightened front brake caliper mounting bolts that could affect braking performance and vehicle handling. While the total complaint count of 31 is relatively low for its segment, specific patterns emerge. Electrical system issues, including intermittent no-start conditions and battery drain, are noted. There are also reports of transmission problems, including jerky shifting and premature failure. Other concerns include premature brake wear, suspension issues like broken coil springs, and unexpected activation of the Automatic Emergency Braking system. The "UNKNOWN OR OTHER" category being the most frequent complaint suggests potential for issues not yet clearly categorized.

Reliability Score

The 2020 Mazda Cx-30 receives a reliability score of 65 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 2020 Mazda Cx-30

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2020 Mazda Cx-30:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Power Liftgate May Lower Unexpectedly
Recall addresses the risk of injury if the power liftgate unexpectedly lowers while a person is accessing the rear storage area, particularly when parked facing uphill.
Medium Occasional N/A miles
Potential Fuel Leak
Recall for AWD models where a disconnected evaporative vent hose can lead to fuel leaks (fire risk) or engine stalling while driving.
High Rare N/A miles
Improperly Tightened Brake Caliper Bolts
Recall due to front brake caliper mounting bolts not being tightened properly, potentially reducing braking performance or interfering with wheel rotation.
High Rare N/A miles
Intermittent No-Start/Electrical Failure
Complaints describe random electrical failures causing the vehicle to not respond to key fobs or ignition, with dashboard lights off.
High Occasional 10000-50000 miles
Transmission Jerky Shifting/Failure
Reports of jerky transmission shifting and premature transmission failure, with some units requiring replacement shortly after purchase or within a few years.
High Occasional 30000-70000 miles
Premature Brake Wear
Front and rear brakes showing significant wear, sometimes to metal-on-metal condition, before 30,000 miles, potentially failing safety inspections.
Medium Occasional 20000-40000 miles
Broken Suspension Coil Springs
Reports of rear coil springs breaking during normal driving conditions, rendering the vehicle unsafe to drive.
Medium Occasional 30000-40000 miles
Automatic Emergency Braking (Aeb) Malfunction
The AEB system activates unexpectedly and brings the vehicle to a complete stop without any apparent obstruction, posing a risk of rear-end collisions.
High Occasional 10000-30000 miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2020 Mazda Cx-30:

Unknown Or Other 16% of complaints

This category, the most frequently cited, includes a variety of issues not specifically categorized, such as instrument gauge cover scratches and odometer rollback.

Electrical System 10% of complaints

Includes intermittent no-start conditions, battery drain issues, and key fob failures impacting battery life.

Structure 10% of complaints

Related to the power liftgate recall and concerns about the inability to open the rear hatch from the inside without tools.

Power Train 6% of complaints

Encompasses issues with the transmission, including jerky shifting and premature failure.

Engine 6% of complaints

Includes reports of low oil pressure warnings, engine malfunction detection, and oil consumption.

Service Brakes, Forward Collision Avoidance 6% of complaints

Covers issues with brake performance, premature wear, and unexpected activation of the Automatic Emergency Braking system.

Fuel System, Gasoline 3% of complaints

Related to the fuel leak recall and potential fire risk.

Suspension 3% of complaints

Includes reports of broken coil springs.

Visibility/Wiper 3% of complaints

Includes complaints about defective or warped windshields affecting visibility.

Exterior Lighting 3% of complaints

While not detailed in specific complaints, this component was listed as a top complaint area.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2020 Mazda Cx-30

Is the 2020 Mazda CX-30 safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2020 Mazda CX-30 has excellent crash test ratings (5-star overall). However, it has experienced three safety recalls related to the liftgate, fuel system, and brakes, and has a notable number of complaints regarding electrical systems, transmissions, and braking issues.

What are common problems with the 2020 Mazda CX-30?

The most reported issues include electrical system failures leading to no-start conditions, transmission problems like jerky shifting and premature failure, and concerns with the service brakes, including premature wear and unexpected activation of the emergency braking system. Suspension issues like broken coil springs have also been reported.

Are there any major recalls for the 2020 Mazda CX-30?

Yes, there are three significant recalls: one for a power liftgate that may lower unexpectedly, another for a potential fuel leak in AWD models, and a third concerning improperly tightened front brake caliper mounting bolts.

How does the 2020 Mazda CX-30 perform in crash tests?

The 2020 Mazda CX-30 received top marks in NHTSA crash testing, achieving a 5-star overall safety rating, 5 stars for frontal and side impacts, and 4 stars for rollover resistance.

What should I be aware of before buying a used 2020 Mazda CX-30?

Be aware of the potential for electrical system issues, transmission problems, and brake concerns. It is crucial to verify that all safety recalls have been addressed by a qualified mechanic.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: While the 2020 Mazda CX-30 boasts excellent crash test scores, potential buyers should be aware of significant recall history and common complaints related to electrical systems and the powertrain. Thorough inspection and verification of recall completion are highly recommended.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2020 Mazda Cx-30

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2020 Mazda Cx-30. The data includes 31 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 3 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 1 reported crashes, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

The NHTSA has assigned the 2020 Mazda Cx-30 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.