2020 Mazda Cx-3 problems
The Mazda CX-3 is a subcompact crossover SUV (B-segment) manufactured by Mazda. Based on the same platform as the third-generation Mazda2, it was revealed on November 19, 2014 ahead of the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show as a production vehicle for the 2016 model year.
Since mid-2022, the production in Japan was shifted to Mexico and Thailand. Since then, sales of the CX-3 in the Japanese market are served by imported units from Thailand.
Markets
United States
CX-3 sales began in the United States in the end of 2015, as a model for 2016. It replaced the similar Mazda2 subcompact in the market in North America.
Across the model lineup, power is provided by an updated (2018) 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G engine that develops 146 bhp (109 kW) and 148 lb ft (201 Nm) of torque. It is connected to a six speed automatic transmission that can be paired to an optional all wheel drive system.
In the United States, the entry level CX-3 Sport, Touring and Grand Touring all feature cruise control, power windows/lock, and a 60/40 split folding rear seat. Other highlights include a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and an infotainment system, Mazda Connect, with a 7-inch display as standard equipment.
For the 2020 model year in the United States, the Touring and Grand Touring trim levels were dropped in order to make room for the Mazda CX-30 leaving only the base Sport trim, with AWD being the only option. Newly standard equipment for the Sport trim include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as the i-Activesense safety suite.
The CX-3 was discontinued in United States for 2022, marking 2021 as the final model year. It was effectively replaced by the Mazda CX-30, which was introduced in 2020.
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Common 2020 Mazda Cx-3 problems
The Mazda CX-3, introduced in November 2014, is a subcompact crossover SUV known for its stylish, sporty looks and reliable powertrain. However, like any vehicle, it has encountered some common problems that owners have reported.
One issue found in the Mazda CX-3 2014 is a loose connection between the stub axle and the shock absorber, which may result in a loss of steering.
Another common problem in the Mazda CX-3 2014 is a defective engine control unit (ECU), which could result in a short circuit and damage to the converter, potentially leading to a fire.
The low-pressure fuel pump impeller may become deformed in the Mazda CX-3, leading to fuel pump failure.
While there is no specific information about the 2020 Mazda CX-3, it is worth noting that Mazda issued 194 technical service bulletins for this model year, which is almost half the number of TSBs for the 2019 CX-3. This decrease in TSBs could indicate fewer issues with the 2020 model.
In summary, the Mazda CX-3 has encountered some common problems, particularly in the 2014 model year. These issues include a loose connection between the stub axle and the shock absorber, a defective engine control unit, and fuel pump impeller failure. While there is limited information about the 2020 Mazda CX-3, the decrease in technical service bulletins for this model year may suggest fewer problems.
Does the Mazda CX-3 have any problems?
Mazda CX engine problems
On the whole, Mazda CX models are known for good quality engines with a limited range of faults reported. That being said however, there are still some issues with both CX-3 and CX-5 models. An issue reported with the CX-3 is the engine cranking and failing to fire.
Is the Mazda CX-3 a reliable vehicle?
Similarly, copilotsearch.com indicates that the Mazda CX-3 is a popular and reliable alternative to other common small SUVs like the Honda HR-V and Toyota C-HR. Overall, though, your mileage may vary in terms of overall reliability with the Mazda CX-3.
How many miles will a Mazda CX-3 last?
200,000 miles
A Mazda CX-3 can last over 200,000 miles. When it comes to determining how long your vehicle will last, you are the biggest factor. If you make sure to keep up with oil changes, brake checks, tire rotations, and drive carefully, you can expect your vehicle to stay with you for a long time.
Why was the CX-3 discontinued?
All it said was it would not offer the CX-3 and Mazda6 for the 2022 model year as “consumer interests continue to evolve.” Ever since Mazda introduced the CX-30 in 2020, we had a feeling that the CX-3's days were numbered. The introduction of the all-new CX-30 practically marked the CX-3 for dead.
2020 Mazda Cx-3 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mazda Cx-3 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2020 Mazda Cx-3 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2020 Mazda Cx-3 complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2020 Mazda Cx-3.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-22
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JM1DKFB74L1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: On 1/22/21, I was driving for Lyft. I had a passenger in this car and I was giving her a ride home. I had a seizure towards the end of the ride, and was completely amnesiac to the crash that occurred. During my seizure, I was unable to check for clearance before I entered a highway and I crashed into another car. In the police report, it states that my air bags didn't go off. As a result, my head hit the windshield and I suffered a traumatic brain injury which was a brain hemorrhage. I had to spend a night in the hospital and I got 13 staples in my head. Now, over a year later I still get migraines and I can no longer drive due to symptoms from my complex PTSD. This has affected all aspects of my life, including my ability to find employment in my field of mental health. I have nine years of experience as a mental health professional, and most of the jobs in my field require a driver's license and car. This accident could have killed me, as well as the passenger in my car and the people in the car that I crashed into. I should have reported this accident earlier, but I was dealing with a deep depression and didn't even know I could report this until after I contacted a lawyer.
2020 Mazda Cx-3 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2020 Mazda Cx-3.
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
- Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Mazda3 and 2016-2021 CX-3 vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display properly by showing a flickering or distorted image.
- Consequence: A rearview camera that does not display properly can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the rearview camera, as necessary. In addition, dealers will install a wiring harness fastening seal. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed September 13, 2023. Final owner letters for affected models and model years in the states of CT, MA, MD, NJ, NY, PA and VA were mailed August 14, 2024. The remaining owner notification letters will be mailed at a future date, anticipated on or before May 1, 2025. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, Option 6. Mazda's number for this recall is 6023G.
Negative 2020 Mazda Cx-3 car reviews
Positive 2020 Mazda Cx-3 car reviews
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The Mazda CX-3 handles better than any other car in its class. I test drove five other vehicles including the Mini, and the Mazda was easily the most fun to drive. My fuel economy to date has been excellent, better than expected. Seat comfort is very important to me for long trips, and once again the CX-3 provides very supportive and comfy seats that come very close to my old Volvo. Love this compact SUV and the high end feel inside and out.
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I absolutely love Mazda! I've been driving one since July 1991 and it has been a great experience. It's perfect for both rural and suburban driving, and I get an impressive 33+ mpg. The steering is incredibly tight and has the smallest turning radius I've ever experienced. The car has plenty of power and acceleration. Although I don't use the rear seats often, I haven't received any complaints from passengers. I traded in my 2012 Mazda 6 for this car, and while some might say it's a step down, I think it's a downsizing with style.
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The suspension is quite firm, which can make the ride a bit uncomfortable when going over bumps on the road.
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My wife and I have driven many subcompact and compact SUVs, but this one stood out to her the most. We were lucky enough to find a nearly new 2019 FWD Touring in Soul Red Crystal with the Sunroof/BOSE package. It's perfect for her daily suburban commute, and since we don't have kids, it's just the right size for a single person or couple. The handling is fantastic, and it's very easy to park. Plus, it has a sleek and stylish exterior with a premium interior. We added Android Auto for just $400 and had the windows tinted for $200, which solved any minor issues we had.
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I test drove this vehicle to see what it was all about. It's very nimble for a CUV and has decent pep, along with great safety features. The interior is just right, especially for rear passengers, although there is little cargo room. While I wish they hadn’t discontinued the Touring and Grand Touring models, I ultimately decided to purchase a Hyundai Elantra GT N-Line instead, since it offered everything I wanted for not much more money. Overall, the Mazda CX-3 is a good car, it just wasn’t the right fit for me.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2020 Mazda Cx-3 problems:
Here Are The Mazda CX-3 Years To Avoid - CoPilot
Aug 17, 2022 ... Engine trouble is the most common issue, with specific problems including starting difficulties and sudden power loss. Electrical and fuel ...
2020 MAZDA CX-3 Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2020 MAZDA CX-3? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
2020 MAZDA CX 3 Steering issue
May 22, 2021 ... So my steering is having issues and I've been back and forth with Mazda and no one feels the issue when they test drive it for 5 minutes.
Transmission problems 2020 Mazda 3 : r/mazda3
Jan 17, 2022 ... The second gear low-RPM wobble is I think normal, it is present with manual transmissions on any modern Mazda I drove (diesel 6, gasoline CX-3 ...
Mazda CX-30 Clunk/knocking sound from front suspension | Mazda ...
Jun 16, 2022 ... What could it the issue be? And is this common problem from Mazda CX-30? Or is it normal? i wanna hear your opinions.
Other years of Mazda Cx-3
Are you having problems with your 2020 Mazda Cx-3?
Marlon Christiansen 2025-01-11
Five years ago, we purchased a Mazda CX-3 and were thrilled with the 5-year unlimited kilometers warranty, especially since we drive quite a bit. Overall, we had a positive experience with the car and were considering buying a CX-30. However, when the transmission failed 2 months after our warranty ended, we were disappointed. Despite reaching out to Mazda Canada and the dealership, they were unable to assist us beyond offering a good deal on a new car. While they claimed that transmission issues were rare, we later discovered that a friend who purchased a Mazda 3 at the same time as us had a similar issue, which was fortunately covered under warranty. We ultimately took our car to a local transmission shop, where the owner was surprised that Mazda was unwilling to fix the issue, as there is a TSB indicating that Mazda transmissions have a bearing problem. It was disheartening to learn that Mazda does not stand behind their products, and we hope that others who have purchased Mazdas do not experience similar issues. While we ultimately decided to purchase a new GMC, we would encourage Mazda owners to sell their cars before their warranty expires to avoid costly repairs.
Norbert Roob 2024-09-08
Although the gas mileage is decent, there are several issues with the car that make it unsatisfactory. The console area is cramped, it takes a lot of time to get up to speed on highways, and there seems to be a blown gasket causing engine problems before reaching 60,000 miles. As a result, I have decided to return to Honda vehicles and will not be trying something different again.
Israel Sawayn 2024-07-25
Hey there! Just wanted to let you know that the car is more of a 2-seater. Unfortunately, the Mazda dealers in my area weren't able to offer any deals on the 2018 model. However, it's definitely not as great as the car I'm driving now, which is a 2012 Mazda.
Maynard Yundt 2024-06-13
I really like the look of the car and it's great for zipping around the city. However, I find that I have to use a heavy foot when driving on the highway. It would be much more enjoyable if it had at least 20 more horsepower. Today was a beautiful day in Seattle, with temperatures reaching 67 degrees and sunny. I had to turn the AC on pretty high to deal with the heat in the car. I'm worried about how it will perform in 80 to 90-degree weather, especially since it lacks tinting. Another drawback is the lack of Apple CarPlay. Additionally, I've noticed that I'm having trouble making U-turns that I had no problem making in my 2016 Mazda3 and 2016 VW Tiguan. It now takes two moves, which is frustrating. I almost got hit by an oncoming car that was over 2 blocks away when I started the turn. Overall, I don't think I'll be getting this car again unless the aforementioned issues are improved.
Roman Larkin 2024-03-13
The title of this car is fitting for not only the Mazda CX-3, but also its competitors. It can be frustrating to spend months test-driving small SUVs from different brands, only to find that they are all overpriced and underpowered. Unfortunately, the Mazda CX-3 is no exception, especially in the base sport trim. However, the exterior styling of the CX-3 is modern and attractive, which is likely why it is selling well. As consumers, we should demand more for our money and not settle for less. It is unreasonable that the standard for small SUVs is a 148 horsepower engine, when other engine choices are available in different models from each brand. For example, my 2016 Hyundai Veloster Turbo has 200 horsepower and achieves 33 miles per gallon on the interstate. We should not have to spend upwards of $30k to get what should be the standard in an SUV. While the CX-3 is a great looking car, it is disappointing that engineers only added a paltry 2 horsepower bump. Let's demand more from the industry and not settle for less.