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Mazda Mazda3: which year should you buy?

Across the 2011 to 2024 model years, the public record is strongest on the 2020 (95/100). Every year below is scored on its own NHTSA complaint and recall history. Pick the year, not just the nameplate.

Best years to target

2020 95 · 2013 92 · 2021 90 · 2011 89

Every model year, scored

Same math for every year (how we score). A neutral Unproven or Too New stamp means too few owner reports are on file to affirm the year, not that it’s clean.

202464/100
Unproven

10 complaints · 3 recalls

202190/100
Buy

49 complaints · 1 recalls

202095/100
Buybest year

32 complaints · 2 recalls

201986/100
Buy

73 complaints · 6 recalls

201879/100
Buy

107 complaints · 4 recalls

201787/100
Buy

83 complaints · 2 recalls

201664/100
Caution

102 complaints · 6 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

201564/100
Caution

129 complaints · 4 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

201482/100
Buy

137 complaints · 4 recalls

201392/100
Buy

117 complaints · 1 recalls

201288/100
Buy

226 complaints · 1 recalls

201189/100
Buy

131 complaints · 2 recalls

Zeroing in on the 2020?

The full year-by-year verdict is free. When you’re ready to inspect and negotiate one specific car, the Full Report turns the 2020 Mazda Mazda3’s complaint breakdown and recall list into an inspection-ready, shareable PDF.

Recalls, complaint breakdown & inspection checklist, all in a shareable PDF

Cross-shopping a different nameplate? Compare the 2024 Mazda Mazda3 head-to-head →

The fine print: each year’s verdict is computed from public NHTSA complaint and recall records for the Mazda Mazda3 as a model, not for any individual car. A well-kept example of a weaker year can outlast a neglected strong one. Informational only, so always get a professional pre-purchase inspection.