Last updated: 2026-04-20
2019 Mazda 3 Reliability Report
The 2019 Mazda 3 scores 78/100 ("Good"). With 2 recalls and 26 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
2
Complaints
26
Complaint Rate
5.1per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$433
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,000–$2,200
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues to Watch
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (8)
- STEERING (5)
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (2)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2019 is the first model year of the Fourth generation (BP).
- First-year models may have unresolved issues from the new design.
- Redesigned for the 2019 model year.
- 4th generation 3 (US).
What this means for buyers
First-year models carry more risk — early production issues are common. Consider waiting for the second year if reliability is a priority.
Compare 2019 pricing and recall counts against 2020+ before deciding.
2019: Fourth generation (BP) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
Should You Buy the 2019 Mazda 3?
At 78/100, the 2019 Mazda 3 lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. As a first-year redesign, early-adopter issues are common.
Owners log 26 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.
Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to electrical system (8). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2021 Mazda 3, which scored 8 points lower. See also the 2018 Mazda 3 for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +$93 cheaper to maintain than avg compact cars
- +Infrequent unscheduled repairs
- +Low major repair risk (10%)
Cons
- −ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Owners of the 2019 Mazda 3 frequently report issues related to the electrical... (8 complaints)
- −STEERING: Resistance to movement, which can lead to oversteering (5 complaints)
Compare 2019 Mazda 3 With
2019 Subaru Impreza
Reliability: 66/100
2019 KIA Forte
Reliability: 67/100
2019 Volkswagen Golf
Reliability: 65/100
2019 BMW 2-Series
Reliability: 73/100
2019 Subaru WRX
Reliability: 72/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 2 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (8)
- STEERING (5)
Recall Overview
2
recalls on record
The 2019 Mazda 3 carries 2 recalls — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
5.1
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 18.3
Safety Incidents
1
Crashes
0
Fires
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2019 Mazda 3 Recall Details
2 recalls have been issued for the 2019 Mazda 3. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2018 Mazda3, Mazda6, 2019 CX-3, 2018-2019 MX-5, CX-5, CX-9, and 2019-2020 Mazda2 vehicles. The impeller inside the low-pressure fuel pump may crack and deform, potentially causing the fuel pump to fail.
Consequence
Fuel pump failure may cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the fuel pumps, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 18, 2022. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500 Option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 5321K.
BACK OVER PREVENTION
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.
Buying a used 2019 Mazda 3? Check its history first
Every 2019 Mazda 3 has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2019 Mazda 3 NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 13.8%
Safety Technologies
Mazda 3Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
4Maintenance rating: 4 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$433
vs $526 avg for compact cars
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.3
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
10%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
Mazda 3 Resale Value
The Mazda 3 is estimated to retain about 64.8% of its original value after 5 years, based on observed used-car listings.
This benchmark covers the Mazda 3 model overall and is not specific to the 2019 model year.
- Value Retained
- 64.8%
- Depreciation
- 35.2%
- Listings Analyzed
- 141
after 5 years
over the same period
U.S. used-car listings
Listings observed in . This is a historical market benchmark, not a current price quote.
Explore Mazda 3 depreciation and resale value on CarResaleValue.comMPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
27–30 MPG
Running cost: $2,450–$2,650/yr
Fuel + repair
24–27 city / 32–36 hwy MPG
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2019 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 4-Door 2WD 2.5L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S6) | 26 | 35 | 30 | $2,000 |
| 3 4-Door 2WD 2.5L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S6) | 27 | 36 | 30 | $2,000 |
| 3 5-Door 2WD 2.5L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S6) | 26 | 35 | 30 | $2,000 |
| 3 5-Door 2WD 2.5L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 25 | 35 | 29 | $2,050 |
| 3 4-Door 4WD 2.5L 4-cyl | 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S6) | 25 | 33 | 28 | $2,150 |
| 3 5-Door 4WD 2.5L 4-cyl | 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S6) | 24 | 32 | 27 | $2,200 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2019 Mazda 3.
Inspect steering for resistance or stiffness, especially at highway speeds
Check for electrical issues like battery drain or key fob malfunctions
Test sunroof for integrity and check for any signs of stress cracks
Verify fuel gauge accuracy and inspect for any fuel system recalls
Examine windshield for stress cracks and ensure replacement availability
2019 Mazda 3 Common Problems by Component
26 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
8 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Mazda 3 frequently report issues related to the electrical system. Common problems include battery failures, with some owners experiencing battery replacements at low mileages, such as 1,840 miles, and others reporting unexplained battery drain. Key fob malfunctions are also noted, with instances of the key fob disconnecting, leading to lock/unlock failures and starting issues, despite attempts to replace batteries and reprogram the fobs. Complaints also mention the entire dashboard lighting going dark while driving, which has been reported multiple times by individual owners. These issues typically arise at varying mileages, with some occurring as early as 20,000 miles. No direct safety incidents such as crashes or fires are reported, but the loss of dashboard lights and key fob connectivity could potentially impact vehicle operation.
STEERING
5 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Mazda 3 frequently report issues with the steering system, particularly involving resistance to movement, which can lead to oversteering. Multiple complaints describe the steering wheel as becoming "stuck," especially at highway speeds, necessitating forceful corrections that result in the vehicle jerking. Some owners note that these issues began around 14,000 miles, with one reporting a diagnosis requiring a steering shaft replacement. The automated lane departure system's overcorrection is also mentioned, occurring intermittently without warning lights. Safety implications include the potential for loss of control, as evidenced by one crash report, although the crash's direct connection to a steering defect is not explicitly stated.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
3 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Mazda 3 report issues primarily related to the sunroof and air conditioning system. One owner describes the sunroof shattering unexpectedly while driving, attributing the incident to a possible pressure change, although no external impact was involved. Another complaint involves an air conditioning condenser leak at approximately 17,000 miles, with the owner suspecting a defect similar to a previous recall on older Mazda models. There are no reports of injuries or accidents associated with these issues, but the sunroof incident poses a potential safety risk if glass were to fall into the cabin while the vehicle is in motion. These complaints suggest that prospective buyers should inspect the sunroof and AC system when considering this model.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (2 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2 complaintsOwners report issues with the fuel system of the 2019 Mazda 3, particularly related to inaccurate fuel level readings and fuel pump reliability. One complaint describes the vehicle running out of gas despite the dashboard indicating 40 miles of fuel remaining, highlighting a potential risk of unexpected stalling. Another owner mentions a recall for the fuel pump, citing concerns about its potential failure and the lack of an available fix. These issues pose safety implications, such as the risk of being stranded or losing power unexpectedly, which buyers should consider when evaluating this model.
VISIBILITY/WIPER (2 complaints)
VISIBILITY/WIPER
2 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Mazda 3 frequently report issues with stress cracks developing in the front windshield. The complaints describe cracks appearing without any impact from external objects, suggesting a stress-related origin from the windshield's edges or pillars. These incidents typically occur without warning and can impair the driver's view of the road. One owner notes difficulty in obtaining a replacement windshield due to a backlog, indicating potential supply issues. While no crashes or injuries are reported, the impaired visibility could pose a safety risk if not addressed promptly.
FUEL SYSTEM (2 complaints)
FUEL SYSTEM
2 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Mazda 3 frequently report issues related to recall repairs for the fuel system, specifically citing the unavailability of parts required to address NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V875000. Complaints describe a delay in obtaining necessary parts, with some owners feeling that the manufacturer has taken an excessive amount of time to provide a solution. No specific symptoms or failures are mentioned in these reports, and no mileage range is provided. There are no reports of crashes, fires, or loss of control associated with this issue. Potential buyers should be aware that delays in recall repairs might affect the readiness of this vehicle for safe operation.
AIR BAGS (1 complaints)
AIR BAGS
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2019 Mazda CX-3. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the air bag warning light remained illuminated. The contact stated that occasionally the air bag warning light flashed off and on. Additionally, the rear hatch door failed to open as needed. The cause of the failures has not yet been determined. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 21,000.
BACK OVER PREVENTION (1 complaints)
BACK OVER PREVENTION
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2019 Mazda CX-3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V487000 (Back Over Prevention) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was contacted and confirmed that the parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and provided the contact with a case number. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaintRough starting, stalling while going to switch gears, hesitating when pressing gas.
SERVICE BRAKES (1 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaintTL* THE CONTACT LEASED A 2019 MAZDA CX-3. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE CONTACT HEARD AN ABNORMAL GRINDING NOISE COMING FROM THE VEHICLE AND BRAKES. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO SMITH CAIRNS FORD LINCOLN (900 CENTRAL PARK AVE, YONKERS, NY 10704, (914) 377-8100) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT PEBBLES WERE CAUSING THE ABNORMAL NOISE AND THE BRAKES NEEDED TO BE RESURFACED. THE FRONT AND REAR ROTORS WERE REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND PROVIDED CASE NUMBER: 1-2295928510. NO FURTHER ASSISTANCE WAS PROVIDED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 1,000.
When Do 2019 Mazda 3 Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Mazda 3 Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Mazda 3 Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Mazda 3 year is 2026 with a reliability score of 84/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2025 (79/100) and 2018 (79/100).
Mazda 3 Years to Avoid
The worst Mazda 3 year is 2021 with a score of 70/100, primarily due to engine (36) issues.
Mazda 3 Reliability Score Trend
Mazda 3 reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 78/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 79/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 78/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 70/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 78/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 78/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 78/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 79/100 | Good |
| 2026 | 84/100 | Excellent |
Mazda 3 Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2019 Mazda 3 reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2019 Mazda 3?
How many recalls does the 2019 Mazda 3 have?
Is the 2019 Mazda 3 expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2019 Mazda 3 without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the Mazda 3.
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