Recall homework
There is 1 official recall listed for this model year. Before buying, use the VIN to confirm which campaigns are still open and ask for dealer repair records on completed work.
Vehicle report
2021 Mazda Mazda3
Recalls, consumer complaints, safety ratings, fuel cost estimate, and next steps from official public data sources.
1 Total recalls
Feb 22, 2021 Latest recall date
49 Complaint reports
$1,601 Estimated fuel cost
Buyer interpretation
What this record means before you buy
The useful question is not just whether this page has records. It is what those records should make you verify before money changes hands.
Owner complaint pattern
Owner complaints most often mention engine, air bags, unknown or other. Scan those categories before the test drive so you know what symptoms, warning lights, or service history to ask about.
Service bulletin signal
602 manufacturer communications are listed. These are not recalls, but they can reveal repair instructions, warranty extensions, software notices, or known service patterns.
Ownership-cost check
The fuel-cost estimate is based on a representative EPA match, not every trim. Confirm the actual engine, drivetrain, and tire setup before comparing this listing with another year or model.
Questions to ask the seller
- Can you show the current VIN recall status for this 2021 Mazda Mazda3?
- Do you have dealer invoices or campaign paperwork for the listed recall repairs?
- Have you noticed any issues related to engine, air bags, unknown or other?
- Can I review recent maintenance records before the test drive?
Used-car checklist
Thinking of buying this vehicle?
Use our buyer checklist to know what to inspect, ask, and verify before the test drive.
2021 Mazda Mazda3 Regular Gasoline
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Safety ratings
Official safety ratings were found for 4 tested variants of the 2021 Mazda Mazda3.
Safety ratings can vary by tested body style, trim, drivetrain,
or variant. Do not assume every trim has the same rating unless
the official record says so.
| Variant | Overall | Front | Side | Rollover |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 Mazda Mazda3 4 DR FWD Default | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| 2021 Mazda Mazda3 4 DR AWD | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| 2021 Mazda Mazda3 5 HB AWD | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| 2021 Mazda Mazda3 5 HB FWD | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
How many recalls does the 2021 Mazda Mazda3 have?
Verify with official VIN lookup1 official recall on record for the 2021 Mazda Mazda3. 8 matched quarterly completion reports are available.
Latest recall: February 22, 2021
Recall data is based on official records. This page is not an official VIN
recall check. Always confirm open recalls with an official VIN lookup, the
manufacturer, or an authorized dealer.
Completion reports are campaign-level, delayed, and not VIN-specific.
| Campaign | Component | Summary | Consequence | Remedy | Date | Completion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21V101000 | TIRES:VALVE | Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2021 Mazda3 and CX-30 vehicles. Air may suddenly leak from the tire air valve. | A sudden air leak from the tire air valve may cause a loss of vehicle control while driving, increasing the risk of a crash. | 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. | Feb 2021 | 2023-1 |
Are there manufacturer notices for the 2021 Mazda Mazda3?
Official records show 602 manufacturer communications on record for the 2021 Mazda Mazda3.
37 warranty 6 service campaigns 0 software/OTA
Manufacturer communications are not recalls. They can include
service bulletins, repair instructions, warranty extensions,
software updates, service campaigns, and other notices.
| Date | Type | Component | Summary | ID / document |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jul 2026 | Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions | UNKNOWN OR OTHER | This Service Alert supersedes the previously issued SAs listed below. The changes are noted in Red text. SA-017/25 12/16/25, 09/08/25, 07/14/25, 05/15/25 and 03/21/25 DESCRIPTION Mazda Connect Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Index General Questions MAZDA CONNECT Indication Setup and Getting Started Dealer Processes Registration / Enrollment / Take-Over Customer Subscription Status WI-FI General Informatio Opening the TCU Communication Line WI-FI How-To Conditions for Remote Engine Start Will Not Function WI-FI Trial Period Conditions for Remote Engine Start Function Will turn engine OFF Interacting With The App TCU Communication Line Status Service Issues Educational Videos Troubleshooting Resources MyMazda App Error Codes Customer Opt-Out | 11034448 |
| Jun 2026 | Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions | ENGINE | This SA supersedes the previously issued SA(s) listed below. The changes are noted in Red. SA-061/25 12/17/25 DESCRIPTION If you encounter any type of electrical concern (e.g, dead battery, engine no start, DTC(s) stored...), interview the customer before proceeding with normal MGSS diagnosis by asking if any aftermarket devices have been installed. Aftermarket devices may be the cause of the electrical concern. Below are a few examples of unusual electrical concerns caused by aftermarket devices. Examples: 1. Devices connected to the DLC-2 (battery discharge/DTC stored) 2. Devices plugged into the 12V outlet 3. GPS tracking device (engine no start/battery discharge) 4. Dash cam (DTC stored) 5. Non-certified USB cable (Apple Carplay™/ Android Auto™ will not connect) 6. Over-sized wheels/tires (incorrect GPS location) 7. DTC C0023:14 8. Decorative trim and/or cover on the START/STOP ENGINE button Example 1: Some electrical devices connected to the DLC-2 connector by insurance or mobile phone companies may cause: Battery discharge. The device may disrupt the CAN system battery saver mode. • IDS/MMDS will not communicate with the vehicle due to poor DLC-2 connection. The aftermarket device may cause DLC-2 female terminals to spread open. | 11034447 |
| Jun 2026 | Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions | ENGINE | This bulletin supersedes the previously issued bulletin(s) listed below. The changes are noted in Red. 09-012/21 12/13/21, 06/10/21 and 04/27/21 DESCRIPTION Some customers may experience all of following symptoms: The door lock/unlock operation will not work using the remote transmitter button. 1. The door lock/unlock operation will not work using the door lock/release touch sensor. 2. The engine will not start using the ignition switch. 3. The transmitter operates by itself. 4. The key battery drains faster than usual. 5. Symptoms 1-3: This may be caused when excess load is applied to the remote transmitter, deforming the electrical terminals and creating poor contact with the battery. To eliminate this concern, the structure in the remote transmitter has been modified to reduce the deformation of the electrical terminals. Symptom 4-5: This may be caused when excessive load is applied to the remote transmitter, creating a gap around the gasket where moisture enters and corrodes the circuit board which in turn drains the key battery faster than usual. To eliminate this concern, the thickness of the case wall on the gasket mounting surface has been increased and the bonding strength of the components has been improved to prevent deformation. REPAIR PROCEDURE • If the battery is bad or installed incorrectly, replace the battery and/or install it correctly. • If the remote power saving function is off and the battery is good and installed correctly, replace the defective remote transmitter with a modified one according to the instructions on MGSS (IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM-RELATED PARTS PROGRAMMING). NOTE: DO NOT replace other remote transmitter(s) for the vehicle if they not experiencing an issue. | 11034436 |
| Jun 2026 | Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions | ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | This SA supersedes the previously issued bulletin(s) listed below. The changes are noted below in Red. SA-027/26 04/16/26 DESCRIPTION The Mazda DCA-8000 is required for all warranty battery testing. If the Mazda DCA-8000 is not used, incorrect battery testing may result in unnecessary battery replacement. Use the following test procedures in this Service Bulletin to test Mazda vehicle batteries and to generate a Warranty Code. NOTE: A Warranty Code is required for warranty claim submission Battery Identification (Mazda batteries have 2 rating types) 1. JIS (Japanese Industrial Standard): JIS codes are six-digit alpha-numeric markings (excluding i-STOP batteries e.g. Q-85, S-95) molded into the top of the battery to identify a battery by the capacity (amps), dimensions, and battery terminal type. Vehicles manufactured in Japan come from the factory with a JIS rated battery. NOTE: Replacement batteries may use a CCA rating. If so, use the CCA rating listed on the battery. REPAIR PROCEDURE 1. Perform appropriate repair to vehicle. If needed, use the Battery Diagnostics of the DCA-8000 to test the charging and starting systems by following the on-screen instructions for entering the appropriate information. Refer to the Mazda DCA-8000 Instruction Manual for more information. | 11034439 |
| Jun 2026 | Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions | ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | DESCRIPTION Some customers may complain about any of the following: 1. Infotainment Center Display does not provide the Authorization Code (OTP) during the MyMazda App Connected Vehicle enrollment. 2. Remote function(s) inoperative. Engine Start / Stop Door Lock / Unlock Lights ON / OFF Climate Control 3. MAZDA CONNECT connected vehicle reception strength icon shows "X" or " ". Index MAZDA CONNECT 2 Center Display Status Icon MAZDA CONNECT 3 Center Display Status Icon Remote Engine Start Will Not Function Remote Engine Start Function Will turn engine OFF Customer Subscription Status TCU Communication Line Status | 11034845 |
| Jun 2026 | Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions | ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | This Service Alert supersedes the previously issued SA listed below. The changes are noted in Red text. SA-012/25 10/06/25, 08/21/25, 05/15/25 and 02/27/25 DESCRIPTION Customers having MAZDA CONNECT concerns should have their vehicle repaired using the following repair procedure. REPAIR PROCEDURE NOTE: Before proceeding: Document the vehicle's current MAZDA CONNECT CMU software version. • 2019-2022 Models - Go to TSB 16-003/23 and confirm the CMU Serial Number is not within the affected range. • Document customer device Brand/Model/Model Number/software version on the repair order. • Confirm that the Connectivity Master Unit (CMU) is updated to the latest software version. Go to MGSS -> Infotainment -> MAZDA CONNECT Updates ○ • If possible, complete the Microsoft Forms Questionnaire. Go to MGSS -> Infotainment -> MAZDA CONNECT Questionnaire. | 11034443 |
| Jun 2026 | Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions | UNKNOWN OR OTHER | This Service Alert supersedes the previously issued SA(s) listed below. The changes are noted in Red. SA-009/25 08/22/25 and 02/18/25 DESCRIPTION Some customers may experience a Connected Vehicle failure. The MyMazda App may display an Error Code. This document provides Error Code description and recovery information to assist with repairs. Index System Outline • MYMAZDA App Connected Vehicle (CV) Error Codes • Vehicle Confirmation Instructions • Troubleshooting Instructions • Resources | 11034444 |
| May 2026 | Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions | UNKNOWN OR OTHER | This service alert supersedes the previously issued service alert listed below. The changes are noted in Red text. SA-047/25 10/07/25 DESCRIPTION When the Telematics Control Unit (TCU) replacement is necessary due to a failure, use MDARS to activate the new TCU after replacement. Use the information in this service alert to initialize the new TCU until the procedure on MGSS is updated. CAUTION: DO NOT swap TCU with another vehicle as the TCU is VIN locked after activation. A TCU swap with another vehicle will disable Connected Services on both vehicles. • If TCU activation is not performed, connected vehicle functions will not operate. This will have a negative impact on the customer because they will need to return to the dealer for repairs. • If the Telematics Control Unit (TCU) replacement is necessary, check "Vehicle Communication Line Status Reference" status detail first. The TCU can only be replaced under the following "Status Detail" conditions: Open Completed (OK) ○ Closed Completed (OK) ○ ○ If the TCU is replaced under the following "Status Detail" conditions, the customer may not be able to enroll into the replacement TCU. Processing (NG) ○ Request Failed (NG) ○ Open Failed (NG) ○ Flag Setting Failed TCU Activation 1. Install the new TCU. | 11033447 |
| May 2026 | Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions | ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | DESCRIPTION Some customers may complain that the seat warmer does not operate when turning the ignition on while the seat is warm but when turning the ignition off then on again, the seat warmer begins to operate appropriately. DTCs “B1030:13” and/or “B1032:13” are stored. This is caused by the seat warmers fail-safe mode which prevents it from working during the initial drive cycle. To correct this issue, the seat warmer has been modified to optimize the temperature control. B1030:13 Seat warmer unit (LH) circuit malfunction (Heater side) B1032:13 Seat warmer unit (RH) circuit malfunction (Heater side) REPAIR PROCEDURE 1. Verify the customer concern. 2. Remove the front seat cushion trim and the front seat back trim for both the driver and passenger seats according to the instructions in MGSS. | 11033115 |
| May 2026 | Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions | FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM | This SA supersedes the previously issued SA(s) listed below. The changes are noted in Red. SA-011/25 10/16/25 and 02/27/25 DESCRIPTION Some customers will report that their fuel door (AKA, fuel filler door, fuel lid, and fuel-filler lid) was stuck closed and would not open to refuel the vehicle. Follow the repair steps below unless the conditions outlined in TSB 09-007/25 - FUEL-FILLER LID PANEL IS DEFORMED for 2019-2025 Mazda3 and 2020-2025 CX-30 are present. REPAIR PROCEDURE 1. Check for pry marks around the door opening. Are there any pry marks? YES: This is due to outside influence and is not covered by Mazda warranty. NO: Continue to the next step. 2. Check the fuel door lock operation. a. Lock the doors and verify if the fuel door lock is locking. NOTE: The default setting is a 90-second delay after the doors lock, but the customer can set that to 0, 30, 60, 90, or 120 seconds. b. Unlock the doors and verify if the fuel door lock is unlocking. NOTE: There is no delay to this function, but the fuel door must be locked to confirm it is unlocking. See the lock note above. Is the fuel door lock operation working correctly? YES: The fuel door repair IS NOT covered by Mazda warranty. The fuel door lock is OK and the door was damaged because the vehicle was not unlocked. NO: The fuel door repair IS covered by Mazda warranty. The fuel door lock is NOT OK and damage to the door was done in order to access the lock. NOTE: If the door was already broken when it arrived at the dealership, Mazda will pay for the fuel door repair under warranty if the vehicle does NOT have an emergency release. Mazda will NOT pay for the fuel door under warranty if it has an emergency release. | 11033445 |
What are the most common 2021 Mazda Mazda3 complaints?
ENGINE 16
AIR BAGS 4
UNKNOWN OR OTHER 4
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE 3
POWER TRAIN 3
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM 2
SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE 2
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LANE DEPARTURE 1
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER 1
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL 1
49 total complaints on record
How much does the 2021 Mazda Mazda3 cost in fuel?
Estimated annual cost $1,601 $133/month at 12,000 miles/year
Effective efficiency 31.1 MPG
Energy used 386 gal/yr
Price assumption $4.15 $/gal
Assumptions: 28 city / 36 highway / 31 combined MPG · Regular Gasoline · efficiency ratings from official public data when available · fuel price default: official public data (U.S. average, Jul 18, 2026)
287 g/mi CO2Fuel score 7/10Smog 7/10SmartWay