2021 Mazda 3

The 2021 Mazda 3 is a popular compact car known for its stylish design, engaging driving dynamics, and premium interior. Engine options include a 2.0-liter inline-4 producing 155 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque, a 2.5-liter inline-4 producing 186 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 producing 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque (on 87 octane) or 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque (on 93 octane). Transmission options include a 6-speed manual (available on select trims) and a 6-speed automatic. Owners often praise the Mazda 3 for its sporty handling, upscale cabin, and comfortable ride, but some find the rear seat space and cargo area to be smaller than competitors.

Engine

2.5L Naturally Aspirated Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption, requiring more frequent oil top-ups between scheduled oil changes. This can manifest as low oil level warnings or the need to add oil every few thousand miles.
  • Solution: Regular monitoring of oil levels and potential repair including piston ring replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:

2.5L Turbocharged Inline-4

• Engine Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported engine failure due to rod bearing failure.
  • Solution: Full engine replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $6000+

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing rough or jerky shifts, particularly when the transmission is cold or during low-speed maneuvers. This can be more pronounced between certain gears.
  • Solution: Performing a transmission fluid flush or replacing the solenoids.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported slipping when shifting from one gear to another, often between 2nd and 3rd gear.
  • Solution: Replacing the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+

Suspension

No Issues Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Rebooting
  • Description/Symptoms: The Mazda Connect infotainment system can occasionally freeze, become unresponsive, or spontaneously reboot. This can interrupt navigation, audio playback, and other system functions.
  • Solution: Software updates, system reset, or replacement of the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1000+ (unit replacement)
• TPMS Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Erroneous or non-responsive TPMS sensor readings on the infotainment system
  • Solution: Replace TPMS Sensors or clear TPMS errors and re-scan sensors
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Windshield Cracks
  • Description/Symptoms: The windshield can be prone to cracking or chipping easily due to the angle and thinness of the windshield.
  • Solution: Windshield Replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported various rattling noises emanating from the dashboard, door panels, or rear cargo area. These rattles can be intermittent and difficult to pinpoint.
  • Solution: Identifying and securing the source of the rattle, which may involve adding insulation or tightening loose components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50-$500+ depending on the location and if you DIY or take to a mechanic.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Mazda 3 generally exhibits a mix of minor and potentially more significant issues. The infotainment glitches and rattling noises, while annoying, are typically not critical. However, oil consumption issues and transmission issues with the automatic can become expensive to address if left unaddressed. Considering the overall reliability reputation of Mazda, the 2021 3 presents a relatively manageable set of common problems that potential buyers should be aware of.