2021 Mazda Mazda3 Safety Report
2021 Mazda3: Excellent Crash Test Scores, but Engine and Drivetrain Reliability Concerns Emerge from Owner Complaints
AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Mazda Mazda3
Reliability Score
The 2021 Mazda Mazda3 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 2021 Mazda Mazda3
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Mazda Mazda3:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Excessive Engine Oil Consumption Multiple reports of the engine burning excessive oil, leading to low oil warnings and requiring frequent top-offs, sometimes within 2,000-4,000 miles of an oil change. Mazda has a TSB but no permanent fix. |
Medium | Common | 4000-17000 miles |
| Rear Differential Case Cracking/Lock-Up Rear differential case cracking, causing the AWD system to lock up the drivetrain when engaged, leading to a sudden loss of control, particularly at lower speeds. |
High | Occasional | 30000-31000 miles |
| Forward Collision Avoidance System Malfunctions The system detects non-existent objects or vehicles, leading to sudden, unnecessary braking or steering interventions, increasing the risk of a collision. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Spontaneous Loss Of Engine Power Vehicle experiences sudden loss of power while driving, check engine light illuminates, and speed is limited, often accompanied by vibration. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Thermostat Malfunction/Engine Damage Thermostat remains open, leading to excess coolant to the engine, damaging internal components and compromising engine safety and longevity. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
| Tire Air Valve Leak Recall issued for air valves that may suddenly leak, causing a loss of tire pressure and potential loss of vehicle control. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2021 Mazda Mazda3:
Frequent complaints about excessive oil consumption, spontaneous power loss, and thermostat issues leading to engine damage.
Malfunctions causing false warnings, sudden braking, or steering interventions when no hazard is present.
Reports of rear differential case cracking and drivetrain lock-up.
Air bag malfunction light coming on and off intermittently.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Mazda Mazda3
Is the 2021 Mazda Mazda3 safe?
Based on NHTSA crash test ratings, the 2021 Mazda3 is exceptionally safe in a collision, earning a perfect 5-star overall rating. However, consumer complaints indicate potential safety risks from mechanical failures, particularly with the engine and forward collision avoidance system, which could lead to dangerous situations on the road.
What are common problems with the 2021 Mazda Mazda3?
The most reported issues for the 2021 Mazda3 are related to the ENGINE (16 complaints), primarily excessive oil consumption and sudden power loss. Other common problems include malfunctions with the FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE system (3 complaints), and issues with the POWER TRAIN, specifically rear differential cracking.
Are there any recalls for the 2021 Mazda Mazda3?
Yes, there is one recall for the 2021 Mazda Mazda3 concerning the 'TIRES:VALVE' component. This recall addresses a potential issue where air may suddenly leak from the tire air valve, which could lead to a loss of vehicle control and increase the risk of a crash.
How does the 2021 Mazda Mazda3 perform in crash tests?
The 2021 Mazda Mazda3 performs excellently in crash tests, receiving a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. It achieved 5 stars in Frontal Crash, Side Crash, and Rollover resistance tests, indicating strong occupant protection in various collision scenarios.
Should I be concerned about the engine in a 2021 Mazda Mazda3?
Yes, there are significant concerns regarding the engine in the 2021 Mazda Mazda3. With 16 complaints, issues like excessive oil consumption, spontaneous loss of power, and even thermostat malfunctions leading to internal engine damage are frequently reported. This could impact long-term reliability and safety.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2021 Mazda3 offers top-tier crash safety, potential buyers should be aware of recurring engine oil consumption and forward collision avoidance system issues reported by owners; consider a pre-purchase inspection focusing on these areas.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Mazda Mazda3
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Mazda Mazda3. The data includes 49 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 1 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 2 reported crashes, 2 fire incidents, 1 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2021 Mazda Mazda3 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 5 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.