Last updated: 2026-03-27

Mazda CX-30

1 Mazda CX-30 Years to Avoid

Years that score significantly below the Mazda CX-30 average of 66/100

The Mazda CX-30 years to avoid are 2021 based on reliability scores, NHTSA recalls, and owner complaints. The worst year is 2021 with a reliability score of 60/100. The best Mazda CX-30 year to buy is 2025 68/100.

Verdict

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 scores significantly below the model average of 66/100. The weakest year is 2021 with a score of 60/100 due to engine (36) issues. The best year to buy instead is 2022 67/100.

See years to avoid ↓See best year ↓See all years ranked ↓

Mazda CX-30 Years to Avoid

These model years score significantly below the Mazda CX-30 average of 66/100.

#YearScoreRatingRecallsComplaintsTop Issue
1202160/100Good294Engine (36)

Why These Years Should Be Avoided

60
GoodReliability score: 60 out of 100, rated Good

2021 Mazda CX-30

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 has good reliability. There are 2 recalls and 94 owner complaints on file for the 2021 Mazda CX-30. Severity signals include 9 crash-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Engine (36), Electrical System (9), Visibility Wiper (8).

2 recalls94 complaintsEst. repair:

Top issues: Engine (36), Electrical System (9), Visibility Wiper (8), Unknown Or Other (7), Power Train (7), Vehicle Speed Control (5)

View full 2021 reliability report →

What Are Common Mazda CX-30 Problems?

Top reported issues across all Mazda CX-30 model years, based on NHTSA owner complaints.

ENGINE

44 complaints

Most reported in 2020, 2021, 2022

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

29 complaints

Most reported in 2020, 2021, 2022

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

28 complaints

Most reported in 2020, 2021, 2022

SERVICE BRAKES

15 complaints

Most reported in 2020, 2021, 2023

AIR BAGS

12 complaints

Most reported in 2021, 2022, 2023

VISIBILITY/WIPER

10 complaints

Most reported in 2021, 2023

Best Mazda CX-30 Year to Buy Instead

67
GoodReliability score: 67 out of 100, rated Good

2022 Mazda CX-30

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 has good reliability. There are 1 recall and 28 owner complaints on file for the 2022 Mazda CX-30. Severity signals include 4 crash-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Engine (6), Steering (4), Unknown Or Other (4).

Score: 67/100 (Good)1 recalls28 complaints
View full 2022 reliability report →

Found a Safe Year? Check the Specific Car

Even the best Mazda CX-30 year can have hidden problems. A VIN check reveals past accidents, title issues, and service gaps for the exact car you're considering.

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All Mazda CX-30 Years by Generation

All model years ranked by reliability score, grouped by generation.

Mazda CX-30 Reliability Scores by Year

Excellent Good Mixed Risky

Our data covers 2020–2025 model years.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Mazda CX-30 years should you avoid?
Based on our data, you should avoid the following Mazda CX-30 years: 2021 (score: 60/100). These model years score significantly below the Mazda CX-30 average of 66/100.
What is the best year for the Mazda CX-30?
The best year for the Mazda CX-30 is 2025, with a reliability score of 68/100 ("Good"). It has 1 recalls and 22 owner complaints.
How many recalls does the Mazda CX-30 have?
Across all years in our database, the Mazda CX-30 has a total of 10 recalls. Recall counts vary by year — check individual model year reports for details.
Is a used Mazda CX-30 worth buying?
Yes, especially the 2025 model year, which scores 68/100. Stick to years at or above the model average of 66/100 for the best ownership experience.
What are common Mazda CX-30 problems?
The most common Mazda CX-30 problems are engine (44 complaints), electrical system (29 complaints), unknown or other (28 complaints). These issues are reported across multiple model years based on NHTSA owner complaint data.
Is the Mazda CX-30 reliable long-term?
The Mazda CX-30 has an average reliability score of 66/100 across all model years in our database, rated "good". Overall, it is a reliable vehicle, though some model years perform better than others.
Is the 2025 Mazda CX-30 a good used buy?
Yes, the 2025 Mazda CX-30 is the highest-scoring model year with a reliability score of 68/100 ("Good"). It has 1 recalls and 22 owner complaints, making it a solid used buy.

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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