Mazda Cx-30 problems

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The Mazda CX-30 is a subcompact crossover SUV produced by Mazda. Based on the fourth-generation Mazda3, it debuted at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show, to slot in between the CX-3 and the CX-5. It went on sale in Japan on 24 October 2019, with global units being produced at Mazda's Hiroshima factory, North and South American units built in Salamanca, Guanajuato, Mexico, Thailand and initial Australian units made at the AutoAlliance Thailand plant in Rayong, and China-market units produced in Nanjing by Changan Mazda.

Overview

The CX-30 features lightweight construction to improve performance and economy, and is offered in either front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive.

According to Naohito Saga, the CX-30's program manager, the new model is targeted to drivers who are still single or are married and starting a family in the United States. Mazda chief designer Ryo Yanagisawa said that it will be more acceptable as a family car in Europe and Japan. Saga also noted that Mazda named the vehicle CX-30, to avoid confusion with the China-only CX-4.

The CX-30 was released in the UK in December 2019 and in North America in January 2020. It was launched in the Philippines on 28 November 2019, Malaysia on 15 January 2020, Indonesia on 28 January 2020, and Thailand on 6 March 2020. The 2.5 turbo model was released internationally in February 2021.

photo of Mazda Cx-30 car production

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Mazda Cx-30 model years

mazda cx-30 2023 photo
Cx-30 2023
Mazda

10

1

15

4.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda cx-30 2022 photo
Cx-30 2022
Mazda

19

1

14

4.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda cx-30 2021 photo
Cx-30 2021
Mazda

83

2

24

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda cx-30 2020 photo
Cx-30 2020
Mazda

21

3

28

3.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Common Mazda Cx-30 problems

The Mazda CX-30 has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from its owners. One of the most significant issues is related to the transmission, specifically in the 2020 model. Owners have reported lunging and chirping noises, which make the vehicle unsafe to drive. This problem was first noticed at around 40,000 miles.

Another common issue is related to the engine, particularly in the 2021 model. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has received 54 complaints about the 2021 CX-30 model, with over half of them specifically about the engine. The reported problems include battery, network, and engine oil issues, with some owners expressing concerns about possible engine damage due to oil consumption issues.

Visibility and wiper problems are also common in the CX-30, with two complaints about warped glass impairing visibility, particularly in the windshield area. Electrical system issues have been reported five times, with some of these problems leading to auto light and power steering malfunctions.

The vehicle's Forward Collision Avoidance system has also been a source of concern, with three complaints about unexpected automatic braking that nearly caused accidents. Other issues include problems with powertrain, service brakes, vehicle speed control, and airbags.

The 2020 and 2021 Mazda CX-30 models are considered years to avoid due to potential reliability issues, with most complaints related to the engine, fuel propulsion system, and service brakes.

In summary, the Mazda CX-30 has several common problems related to the transmission, engine, visibility, electrical system, and Forward Collision Avoidance system. The 2020 and 2021 models have been reported to have the most significant issues, making them years to avoid for potential buyers.

Mazda Cx-30

What are the problems with the Mazda CX-30?

Obviously, the most concerning factor that may affect the car's long-term reliability is the engine issues. According to the reports, these engine problems include battery, network, and engine oil issues, with some owners expressing concern about possible engine damage due to oil consumption issues.

Is a Mazda CX-30 reliable?

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 has a predicted reliability score of 80 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.

What is the best year for a Mazda CX-30?

Like with many automobiles, the newer years are usually more reliable compared to earlier iterations of the same car. That's certainly true with the Mazda CX-30; the most reliable Mazda CX-30 years include the 2020 Mazda CX-30 and the 2021 Mazda CX-30.

Is CX-30 a good buy?

The CX-30 is easy and engaging to drive. The base engine provides better-than-average power for this class. Our test CX-30 needed 9 seconds to reach 60 mph, where rivals take more than 10 seconds. Of course, you can always go with the turbocharged engine if you have the need for speed.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Mazda Cx-30 years

We have researched Mazda problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Mazda Cx-30 cars and compiled the top 4 most problematic Mazda Cx-30 model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Mazda Cx-30 model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Mazda Cx-30 years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Mazda Cx-30 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Mazda Cx-30 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Engine problems
  • Unknown or other problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Forward collision avoidance problems
  • Electrical system problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Mazda Cx-30 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Cx-30 model years

A total of 11 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Cx-30 model years

There were a total of 12 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 133 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Mazda Cx-30 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Mazda Cx-30 vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Mazda Cx-30 2021
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-10
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-11
  • VIN: 3MVDMBBL2MM
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: For 4-5 weeks the car often would not start. Jump the battery and it would start. Run fine 1-2 days then require another jump. At end required jump nearly every time it was to be used. Presently at Mazda dealer. They confirm the problem. They cannot find the cause. Car has been there two weeks. Waiting for assistance from manufacturer. I researched this on the internet. Visited many Mazda forums an 'do it yourself" forums. This seems to be a common problem. NO where have I read about a satisfactory solution. In fact, it sounds like there is none. Dealer's proposal so far has been to replace rear wiring harness at $7000. It sounds to me that there is a manufacturing problem. Who ever heard of a wiring harness go bad? I believe this to be a poor electronic sensor/device, or perhaps poor wiring. Either case it would be the manufacturers fault. And I believe that the manufacturer should repair it at their expense. I grew up in a garage and never heard of anything like this. The car approximately 21000 miles. All of them are easy highway miles with no abuse or offroad/dirt road use. Yesterday my wife heard about a Subaru that was doing the same thing. Maybe someone in Japan is manufacturing faulty parts. If so that is the manufacturers problem, not mine. So far the car has not stalled going down the highway but one drives it with an uneasy feeling. Stopping without warning on the roadway would be very dangerous. Also, one could get stranded in poor conditions or environment, and that makes this a safety issue. I have attached file regarding battery etc. test I performed. These test have been confirmed by the dealer.
Mazda Cx-30 2021
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-19
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-26
  • VIN: 3MVDMBBL0MM
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Mazda CX-30. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The messages "Engine Malfunction" and "Computer System Issues" were displayed. The contact was able to pull over to the side of the road. Another driver assisted the contact in jumpstarting the vehicle. The contact was able to drive to her friend's residence. The contact then drove to her residence the following day. The contact stated while starting the vehicle, the vehicle jerked and the failure recurred. An unknown dealer was notified of the failure and provided an estimate for a diagnostic test. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 30,590.
Mazda Cx-30 2022
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-24
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-24
  • VIN: 3MVDMBDY5NM
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: Low oil level message on cluster 1000 mile away from my oil change mileage indicated by the dealer.
Mazda Cx-30 2020
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-10
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-18
  • VIN: 3MVDMBEM8LM
  • Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
  • Summary: Defective windshield. There is visible warping in the windshield and Mazda won't cover the cost of the replacement. This is a known issue.
Mazda Cx-30 2022
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-16
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-09
  • VIN: 3MVDMBCLXNM
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: I travelled to Phoenix for a concert and after the concert I was driving back to my hotel room. I was traveling on the freeway and I heard a popping sound like a gunshot was hitting my window. I slowed down and ducked, thankfully no traffic surrounding me, only behind me. No vehicles were in front of me, as it was late at night, only two vehicles behind me and no overpasses. I pulled off the road, and found that my sunroof had exploded. It seems like the glass had blown from the inside shooting outward. It was very scary and thankfully no vehicles or heavy traffic as it would have caused an accident if there was. I’m not sure how anything could have hit the window because there was no traffic and no one in front of me to kick up debris. I did google and see that pressure changes have been causing this to happen to other vehicles and the only thing I can think of is the pressure changes of traveling to a new city which is very hot and driving with my ac on for long period of time possibly caused the sunroof to explode. It is currently awaiting repair at my local Mazda dealership now. The vehicle is just under 2 years old and has no damage. I don’t currently have any invoices because it’s still waiting at my local dealership.
Mazda Cx-30 2022
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-20
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-03
  • VIN: 3MVDMBEY9NM
  • Components: STEERING,STRUCTURE
  • Summary: The steering wheel seems to prematurely wear on newer Mazda vehicles including my Mazda CX-30 from 2022. Mazda claims hand sanitizer to be the main culprit but I suspect quality issues and materials to play a factor. Many can be found with wear on the steering wheel even starting with less than 50 thousand miles. Some have received warranty claims while others are denied.
Mazda Cx-30 2021
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-31
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-26
  • VIN: 3MVDMBAL0MM
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: Battery would be completely drained overnight if the doors are not locked.
Mazda Cx-30 2021
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-03
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-17
  • VIN: 3MVDMBDY0MM
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
  • Summary: While I was driving on I-90, I lost control of the acceleration of my vehicle. The vehicle was towed and has been diagnosed with a failed transmission! The car would not accelerate or it would accelerate in bursts or rapidly slow down. I was able to pull over and the car failed to move at all after. My safety and others was put at risk as I lost the ability to control the speed of the vehicle on a road where the speed limit is 65mph in traffic around me. When the problem began no lights illuminated, until ~30 seconds in the yellow engine failure light illuminated and then the yellow transmission failure light illuminated. The car was brought to a dealership for inspection and they diagnosed it as a transmission failure. This is unacceptable for such a young vehicle (2021). It should be noted that the car manufacturer immediately approved the replacement the same day it was diagnosed (dealership said it usually takes 48 hours), but the part is back-ordered for months (probably because they know this is happening and trying to cover it up).
Mazda Cx-30 2021
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-19
  • Date Complaint: 2024-07-19
  • VIN: 3MVDMBBL9MM
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: Vehicle makes a noise on the driver side headlight when light is on. Once headlight is off, noise is gone.
Mazda Cx-30 2021
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-12
  • Date Complaint: 2024-07-17
  • VIN: 3MVDMBBL9MM
  • Components: SEATS
  • Summary: Seatback fold mechanism loose. Vehicle only has 23,000 miles and seat is starting to come loose.
Mazda Cx-30 2021
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-03-04
  • Date Complaint: 2024-07-15
  • VIN: 3MVDMBAY6MM
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: Had to replace tie rods two times before 11,000 miles.
Mazda Cx-30 2021
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-06-14
  • Date Complaint: 2024-07-07
  • VIN: 3MVDMBAY9MM
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
  • Summary: My oil changes were affected as well.
Mazda Cx-30 2021
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-06-15
  • Date Complaint: 2024-06-27
  • VIN: 3MVDMBDM2MM
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
  • Summary: Car lunged forward when lightly stepping on the gas while making a turn onto a busy street. Then it later lagged in responding when I stepped on the gas. About 5 minutes later, the car dashboard lit up and said there was a transmission error. Mechanic's diagnosis found code P0756 for a shift solenoid B stuck off. The car is unsafe to drive.
Mazda Cx-30 2020
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-06-26
  • Date Complaint: 2024-06-26
  • VIN: 3MVDMBEMXLM
  • Components: SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: Front and rear brakes premature wear, would have failed safety inspection under 30,000 miles but brakes were inspected just outside of warranty with metal on metal. RIGHT rear coil spring snapped lower middle of coil while driving on flat even ground. Just outside of warranty.
Mazda Cx-30 2021
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-05-20
  • Date Complaint: 2024-05-20
  • VIN: 3MVDMBDY7MM
  • Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: Low engine oil light is on again, I had one at 4600 miles and keep happening every 5-6000 miles. I had 7!! oil changes on a car that is 2.5 years old and it is at 29000 miles. I am sitting at the dealership and they are telling me nothing is wrong and despite of the valve stem cap replacement available they are not willing to replace it. In addition I had my battery die and needed to be replaced at 23 months after purchasing a brand new car - due to a faulty system. This is getting extremely upsetting. And dealearships do not care.

Latest 5 recalls Mazda Cx-30

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 7 recalls for different components of the Mazda Cx-30.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Mazda Cx-30 2022
  • Report Received Date: 2023-04-18
  • Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
  • Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2022-2023 CX-30 and 2023 CX-50 vehicles. The anti-lock brake system (ABS) Hydraulic Control Unit (HCU) may be damaged, which can result in reduced braking ability.
  • Consequence: Reduced braking ability can increase the distance required to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the ABS HCU, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 12, 2023. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500 Option 6. Mazda's number for this recall is 5823D.
  • Model: Mazda Cx-30 2023
  • Report Received Date: 2023-04-18
  • Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
  • Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2022-2023 CX-30 and 2023 CX-50 vehicles. The anti-lock brake system (ABS) Hydraulic Control Unit (HCU) may be damaged, which can result in reduced braking ability.
  • Consequence: Reduced braking ability can increase the distance required to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the ABS HCU, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 12, 2023. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500 Option 6. Mazda's number for this recall is 5823D.
  • Model: Mazda Cx-30 2021
  • Report Received Date: 2021-02-22
  • Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
  • Components: TIRES:VALVE
  • Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2021 Mazda3 and CX-30 vehicles. Air may suddenly leak from the tire air valve.
  • Consequence: A sudden air leak from the tire air valve may cause a loss of vehicle control while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace all four tire air valves with new parts, free of charge. The recall began April 6, 2021. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500 Option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 4721B.
  • Model: Mazda Cx-30 2020
  • Report Received Date: 2021-02-18
  • Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
  • Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE
  • Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2020-2021 CX-30 vehicles. When fully opened, the power liftgate may partially lower unexpectedly when the vehicle is parked facing uphill on a slope.
  • Consequence: If the power liftgate unexpectedly lowers while a person is accessing the rear storage area of the vehicle, it can increase their risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will update the power liftgate control module software and inspect the serial number of the power liftgate drive unit, replacing it if necessary, free of charge. The recall began April 8, 2021. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500 option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 4621B.
  • Model: Mazda Cx-30 2021
  • Report Received Date: 2021-02-18
  • Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
  • Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE
  • Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2020-2021 CX-30 vehicles. When fully opened, the power liftgate may partially lower unexpectedly when the vehicle is parked facing uphill on a slope.
  • Consequence: If the power liftgate unexpectedly lowers while a person is accessing the rear storage area of the vehicle, it can increase their risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will update the power liftgate control module software and inspect the serial number of the power liftgate drive unit, replacing it if necessary, free of charge. The recall began April 8, 2021. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500 option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 4621B.

Latest negative Mazda Cx-30 car reviews

  1. Lincoln Auer 2024-11-28

    Vehicle year: 2021

    I own a 2021 CX30, and I am dissatisfied with its performance. The battery is not designed for cold weather, and each time the temperature drops below -15, it discharges automatically, requiring a boost. Additionally, the cruise control does not function correctly when a car stops in the road, such as at a red light. It fails to detect the stopped car, causing the vehicle to come to an abrupt halt with the emergency brake. These issues require immediate attention and resolution.

  2. D'angelo Altenwerth 2024-11-27

    Vehicle year: 2022

    After driving the CX-30 for 3 months, I have noticed some pros and cons. On the positive side, the car looks great, has a good layout, and the info system with knob works very well after some practice. The seats are comfortable for short trips and the car handles well. However, there are some areas that could be improved. Firstly, there is a constant beeping as soon as the engine is turned on, which can be quite annoying. Secondly, the built-in spyware can be a concern for some drivers. If you use Mazda connect, you are tracked for speed, location, and driving habits. Although you can turn this off in the menu, it asks you every time you start the car if you want to enable it. Thirdly, the gas tank is quite small, which means frequent refilling is required. Fourthly, the driving position is great for short trips under 30 minutes, but for longer trips, it can feel a bit uncomfortable. Lastly, the electronics can be inconsistent at times. Despite these issues, I appreciate the CX-30 for what it is and would recommend it to others with similar needs.

  3. Furman Lueilwitz 2024-11-26

    Vehicle year: 2020

    My wife and I recently test drove a CX-30 Select in our search for a compact SUV. We were impressed and decided to purchase a red CX-30 with the Preferred package. However, upon driving it home, we noticed that the ride was a bit stiff and the throttle was sensitive at lower speeds. Additionally, the transmission seemed to downshift too quickly and unnecessarily shift gears. We also found it difficult to enter the vehicle due to the low windshield pillar. Unfortunately, we experienced buyer's remorse and decided to contact the dealer the next morning to see if we could return the vehicle. The dealership was very understanding and the whole deal was nullified, which was a huge relief. Although we were disappointed with this particular CX-30, we understand that it may have been due to the Bridgestone Turanza el400 tires, which have received poor reviews. While Mazda's are known for their sharp steering response, this CX-30 did not measure up. Overall, we cannot give this CX-30 a high rating, although the first one we tested was certainly better.

  4. Rocky Huels 2024-11-26

    Vehicle year: 2021

    I have recently acquired a BRAND NEW CX30, however, I have encountered an issue with the passenger airbag sensor. The sensor is currently not functioning, and as per the manual, it is not safe to drive the car. I am confident that the issue will be resolved soon and I am looking forward to enjoying my new car.

  5. Dante Conn 2024-11-16

    Vehicle year: 2021

    I would have given 5 stars to the dealership (112) Mazda in Medford, New York and Joe Caggiano (salesman) as they were exceptional. However, I was disappointed with Mazda and the CX-30 appointments. I leased the CX-30 Premium model, which had gadgets like heads-up display and adaptive cruise control, but lacked certain 'basics' that have been in every vehicle I have owned over the last 20 years, such as auto-dimming rearview mirror, home link, and front and rear parking assist. Although I didn't ask about these features, I was surprised to find them missing. I am not complaining about the dealership and sales team, but I would advise others to check every detail in a new Mazda and not take anything for granted. Mazda should consider adding these features to their vehicles to keep up with the times.

Latest positive Mazda Cx-30 car reviews

  1. Devante Bins 2024-11-23

    Vehicle year: 2023

    I test drove one and it was comfortable and really nice looking in and out. More like a luxury car than a standard SUV. The turbo engine has a lot of pep and is fun to drive. However, I noticed that there were some significant issues with the field of vision. The rear blind spots and rather short side windows give you a poor side view.

  2. Andy Stanton 2024-11-23

    Vehicle year: 2020

    I'm glad to hear that you love it!

  3. Domenico Oberbrunner 2024-11-18

    Vehicle year: 2020

    Took it for a short ride from the dealer, both my wife and I. I thought it was pretty good, especially for the value. My wife loved it!

  4. Hilbert Grimes 2024-11-12

    Vehicle year: 2022

    I really love my new Mazda! It's such a sexy car and drives so well. I'm so happy to be a part of the Mazda community!

  5. Gianni Williamson 2024-11-03

    Vehicle year: 2020

    I've been driving my 2020 Mazda CX30 premium for a year now and I absolutely love it! It's compact, comfy, sporty/nimble, great on gas, and has awesome tech. The interior cabin is also very quiet while driving, almost like German quiet. However, I did have an issue with the AC not working properly. Whenever I accelerated with the AC on, it would start blowing hot air and I couldn't get it to stop. I took it to the dealer and was initially told that it was designed that way, but later found out that there was a software upgrade available. I was thrilled when I got it fixed! However, before the summer temperatures in CA began, I noticed that the AC just couldn't get cold enough. Even during summer, I'm struggling to feel comfortable in my car because the interior temperature doesn't drop below 57-60 degrees. I'm taking it to the dealer for another recall this week and I hope they can fix my AC issue because my sister's CX5 has ice-cold AC. Also, I've noticed that the heated seats don't always work.

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