Last updated: 2026-04-20

2024 Mazda 3
RELIABILITY SCORE: 78/100 (GOOD)

2024 Mazda 3 Reliability Report

The 2024 Mazda 3 scores 78/100 ("Good"). With 2 recalls and 22 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Recalls

2

Complaints

22

Complaint Rate

5.7per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

$433

Annual Fuel Cost

$1,950–$2,300

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity74/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs80/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact80/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity82/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.

Top Issues to Watch

  • AIR BAGS (6)
  • FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (3)
  • LANE DEPARTURE (3)

Should You Buy the 2024 Mazda 3?

At 78/100, the 2024 Mazda 3 lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading.

Owners log 22 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 air bags (6). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.

Compared to the 2025 Mazda 3, which scored 1 points higher. See also the 2023 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

  • AIR BAGS: Several issues with the 2024 Mazda 3's airbag system (6 complaints)
  • LANE DEPARTURE issues reported (3 complaints)

Compare 2024 Mazda 3 With

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK
  • 2 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK
  • AIR BAGS (6)
  • FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (3)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

2

recalls on record

The 2024 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

5.7

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 5.4

LowAvgHigh
Low

Safety Incidents

2

Crashes

1

Fires

3

Injuries

0

Deaths

NHTSA 5/5 Stars

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2024 Mazda 3 Recall Details

2 recalls have been issued for the 2024 Mazda 3. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

24V6490002024-09-03

LANE DEPARTURE, EXTERIOR LIGHTING, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2024 Mazda 3, CX-30, and 2025 CX-50 vehicles. A malfunction in the forward sensing camera (FSC) may prevent the automatic emergency braking system and the lane-keep assist system from functioning. In addition, the headlights will not automatically adjust from high beams to low beams as intended.

Consequence

Automatic braking, steering assist, and headlight control systems that do not function as intended can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and replace the forward sensing camera as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 24, 2024. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, Option 6. Mazda's number for this recall is 6824H.

25V3570002025-05-29

AIR BAGS

Mazda North American Operations is recalling certain 2024-2025 Mazda3 and CX30 vehicles. The Sophisticated Air Bag Sensor (SAS) units may set an error code and deactivate the air bags, due to a low battery condition.

Consequence

Air bags that do not deploy in the event of a crash increase the risk of injury.

Remedy

Dealers will reprogram the SAS unit with improved software or replace the unit, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 24, 2025. Mazda's number for this recall is 7525E.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2024 Mazda 3? Check its history first

Every 2024 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.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. No VIN? Just hit “Check VIN” to look one up.

  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

2024 Mazda 3 NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Overall safety rating: 5 out of 5
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 5/5Passenger: 5/5

Rollover risk: 14.7%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Advanced Belt Feature (Not Available)Seat Belt Pretensioners (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Seat Belt Load Limiters (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Head Protection (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Torso and/or Pelvis Protection (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Knee (Driver, Front Passenger)Additional Air Bags (None)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (2nd row)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row, Roof)
View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Mazda 3Repair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

4Maintenance rating: 4 out of 5

Based 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

3
$433
Category Avg
$526
All Vehicles
$652

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 2024 model year.

Value Retained
64.8%

after 5 years

Depreciation
35.2%

over the same period

Listings Analyzed
141

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.com

MPG & Annual Running Costs

Gas

26–31 MPG

Running cost: $2,400–$2,750/yr

Fuel + repair

23–27 city / 31–37 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 2024 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims
TrimDriveTrans.CityHwyCombFuel Cost
3 4-Door 2WD 2.5L 4-cylFront-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S6)273731$1,950
3 4-Door 4WD 2.5L 4-cyl4-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S6)263530$2,000
3 5-Door 2WD 2.5L 4-cylFront-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S6)273530$2,000
3 5-Door 2WD 2.5L 4-cylFront-Wheel DriveManual 6-spd263630$2,000
3 5-Door 4WD 2.5L 4-cyl4-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S6)263329$2,050
3 4-Door 4WD 2.5L 4-cyl4-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S6)233227$2,200
3 5-Door 4WD 2.5L 4-cyl4-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S6)233126$2,300

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2024 Mazda 3.

  • Inspect transmission for whining or grinding noises

  • Check airbag system for warning lights or unexpected deployment

  • Test forward collision avoidance system for unexpected braking

  • Verify electrical system functionality, including warning lights and rearview camera

  • Ensure keyless entry system operates correctly and car starts reliably

  • Check for any open recalls and confirm they have been addressed

2024 Mazda 3 Common Problems by Component

22 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

6
3
3
3
AIR BAGS (6)FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (3)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3)LANE DEPARTURE (3)ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (2)POWER TRAIN (1)SERVICE BRAKES (1)EXTERIOR LIGHTING (1)Other (2)

AIR BAGS

6 complaintsSafety-related

Owners report several issues with the 2024 Mazda 3's airbag system. Complaints frequently mention unexpected airbag deployment, with one instance causing bruising during a crash at highway speed. Another owner describes airbags deploying without warning, resulting in injury and a lack of warranty coverage. In some cases, airbag warning lights indicate that passenger airbags are not engaged, persisting even after dealer service attempts. These issues are noted in vehicles with mileage as low as 2,500 to 4,006 miles. Safety implications include the potential for injury during airbag deployment and the risk of airbags not functioning in an accident.

6 complaints total1 crash2 injuries

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

3 complaints

Owners report issues with the 2024 Mazda 3's forward collision avoidance system, particularly during highway driving and turns. Complaints frequently mention unexpected braking when navigating curves, with some noting speed reductions of 5 to 12 mph despite no immediate obstacles. Another common issue involves the cruise control system, where abrupt acceleration occurs upon re-engagement, described as similar to flooring the accelerator. These problems are reported at low mileages, such as 2,500 miles, indicating early onset. No crashes or loss of control incidents have been reported, but the unexpected braking and acceleration could pose potential safety concerns for drivers.

3 complaints total

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

3 complaints

Owners of the 2024 Mazda 3 report several issues primarily related to the vehicle's transmission and electronic systems. A recurring complaint involves the automatic transmission, which develops a loud whining and grinding noise, leading to a complete failure without triggering any warning lights, typically around 20,000 miles. This issue results in a significant safety risk due to the potential for sudden loss of propulsion while driving. Another common problem is the disconnection of Apple CarPlay during use, causing driver distraction. Additionally, there are reports of keyless entry system malfunctions, preventing the car from starting and leading to extended wait times for roadside assistance. These issues are critical for potential buyers to consider, especially regarding the transmission's impact on vehicle safety and usability.

3 complaints total
LANE DEPARTURE (3 complaints)

LANE DEPARTURE

3 complaints

Owners report issues with the lane departure and related safety systems on the 2024 Mazda 3, with frequent mentions of the vehicle's emergency braking system activating unexpectedly. Complaints describe the car mistakenly identifying objects or shadows as obstacles, leading to sudden braking that poses a rear-end collision risk. Additionally, some owners note problems with lane assistance and blind spot detection, particularly when using turn signals. These issues are reported shortly after purchase, with no specific mileage range mentioned. Safety implications include the potential for accidents due to unexpected braking and non-functional safety features, which some owners have been unable to resolve through dealership visits.

3 complaints total
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (2 complaints)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

2 complaints

Owners of the 2024 Mazda 3 report issues with the electrical system, particularly involving the instrument panel and vehicle settings. Complaints frequently mention illuminated warning lights on the instrument panel, alongside failures of the rearview camera and cruise control, typically occurring at low mileage around 900 miles. Additional reports describe inconsistent operation of door locks and settings such as lane departure and blind spot monitoring, with door locks failing to remain secure while driving or when parked. These issues could have safety implications due to the potential for distraction or unexpected vehicle behavior. Buyers should be aware of these reported electrical system inconsistencies when considering a used 2024 Mazda 3.

2 complaints total
POWER TRAIN (1 complaints)

POWER TRAIN

1 complaint
2026-01-01

I had both the left front and right front CV axles fail. My car only has 11.5k miles on. I first heard the clunking noise at 11k miles, went right to the dealer and had them watch me recreate the noise and they determined the axles needed to be replaced. This is incredible dangerous as the CV axle could have been completely disconnected from the wheel assembly leaving my car useless and uncontrollable.

SERVICE BRAKES (1 complaints)

SERVICE BRAKES

1 complaintSafety-related
2025-11-30Crash reported1 injury

The contact rented a 2024 Mazda CX-30. The contact stated that while driving at highway speeds, an "i-ACTIVSENSE Partially Disabled Front Radar Malfunction" warning message appeared on the instrument panel. The contact attempted to exit the highway; however, the vehicle failed to stop upon depression of the brake pedal. The contact continued to pump the brakes and even engaged the emergency brakes, but the vehicle failed to stop. Due to the failure, the contact crashed into the vehicle in front of her as the "Vehicle System Malfunction, Have the Vehicle Inspected" warning message appeared on the instrument panel. The air bags did not deploy upon impact. The contact later sought medical attention for pain in her back; the other driver sustained injuries; however, the injuries are unknown as she did not seek medical attention from the paramedics that arrived at the scene. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed from the scene to an independent mechanic, where it remained in their possession. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer had yet been notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 38.377.

EXTERIOR LIGHTING (1 complaints)

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

1 complaint
2025-08-05

Headlight module, ballast, bad noises from passenger side, under hood right next to passenger headlight.

STRUCTURE (1 complaints)

STRUCTURE

1 complaint
2025-04-25

The sunroof exploded. Was no external debris or damage. Glass pushed outwards. 47 degrees outside. Very sudden and scary.

SEATS (1 complaints)

SEATS

1 complaintSafety-related
2025-03-13Fire reported

I have a brand new Mazda CX-30 with less than 10k miles. I was not made aware of the seat material being highly flamible. Luckily I nor my kids were in the car when the seat caught fire due to a magnifying effect. Magnifying Effect (Sunlight): If a clear glass or plastic object (like a water bottle, eyeglasses, or even a certain type of air freshener) was left on the seat in direct sunlight, it could have acted as a lens, focusing the sun's rays onto a small area of the seat material. Over time, this concentrated heat could become intense enough to ignite the fabric, especially if it's dry and flammable. This is more likely to happen on a hot, sunny day. I brought this up with the dealership and their reply was to contact Mazda! YOU are Mazda!

When Do 2024 Mazda 3 Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

20,000 milesTransmission failures
2,500–4,006 milesAirbag malfunctions
2,500 milesForward collision avoidance issues
900 milesElectrical system failures

Best & Worst Mazda 3 Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best Mazda 3 Years to Buy

The 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.

Mazda 3 reliability scores by year
YearScoreRating
201879/100Good
201978/100Good
202170/100Good
202278/100Good
202378/100Good
202478/100Good
202579/100Good
202684/100Excellent

Mazda 3 Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
YearScorevs Prior YearRatingRecallsComplaints
202684/100+5Excellent00
202579/100+1Good120
2024(selected)78/1000Good222
202378/1000Good119
202278/100+8Good126
202170/100-8Good395
201978/100-1Good226
201879/100Good19

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2024 Mazda 3 reliable?
The 2024 Mazda 3 has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 78/100. It is reasonably reliable with 2 recalls and 22 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2024 Mazda 3?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2024 Mazda 3 include: AIR BAGS (6 complaints), FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (3 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3 complaints), LANE DEPARTURE (3 complaints), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (2 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.
How many recalls does the 2024 Mazda 3 have?
The 2024 Mazda 3 has 2 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.
Is the 2024 Mazda 3 expensive to maintain?
The 2024 Mazda 3 has estimated annual repair costs of $433/year, which is $93 less than the compact cars average of $526. With a reliability score of 78/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2024 Mazda 3 without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

Look Up a VIN →

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

1

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.

2

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

3

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.

4

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.

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