Complaints Over Time
All Mazda Models
| Model | Complaints | Recalls |
|---|---|---|
| MAZDA3 | 7,912 | 48 |
| 626 | 7,754 | 6 |
| CX-5 | 5,938 | 20 |
| MAZDA6 | 5,792 | 63 |
| TRIBUTE | 5,658 | 29 |
| CX-9 | 3,550 | 42 |
| CX-7 | 3,078 | 26 |
| PROTEGE | 2,754 | 9 |
| MPV | 2,312 | 17 |
| RX-8 | 2,006 | 37 |
| B-SERIES TRUCK | 1,776 | 21 |
| MAZDA5 | 1,058 | 9 |
| MX-5 MIATA | 780 | 0 |
| MILLENIA | 676 | 0 |
| CX-30 | 594 | 10 |
| MX-6 | 482 | 5 |
| CX-90 | 472 | 13 |
| 929 | 416 | 3 |
| RX-7 | 410 | 0 |
| 323 | 408 | 6 |
| MX-5 | 386 | 17 |
| NAVAJO | 374 | 0 |
| CX-90 PLUG-IN HYBRID | 322 | 0 |
| MAZDASPEED3 | 310 | 8 |
| CX-3 | 294 | 9 |
| RX7 | 288 | 0 |
| CX-50 | 250 | 5 |
| MX3 | 236 | 2 |
| MAZDA | 158 | 0 |
| MX6 | 122 | 0 |
| MAZDA2 | 120 | 7 |
| CX9 | 116 | 0 |
| CX-70 | 92 | 4 |
| MX-3 | 74 | 0 |
| MAZDASPEED6 | 66 | 8 |
| B2000 | 42 | 0 |
| CX-50 HYBRID | 36 | 5 |
| TRIBUTE HYBRID | 32 | 3 |
| MAZDA TRUCK | 26 | 0 |
| B2200 | 14 | 0 |
| B SERIES | 12 | 0 |
| ATENZA | 10 | 0 |
| GLC | 10 | 0 |
| B2600 | 6 | 0 |
| 323 WAGON | 2 | 0 |
| CX-70 PLUG-IN HYBRID | 2 | 0 |
| PROTEGE 5 | 2 | 0 |
| RX2 | 2 | 0 |
Mazda Models to Avoid
The most complained-about Mazda models are largely explained by their popularity and longevity in the market. The Mazda3 leads with 7,912 complaints but has been one of the best-selling compact cars globally for over two decades. The 626 (7,754 complaints) and Mazda6 (5,792 complaints) represent Mazda's mid-size sedan legacy, with many of these vehicles now 10-20+ years old. The CX-5 (5,938 complaints) has become Mazda's volume leader in the crossover segment. The Tribute (5,658 complaints), their early foray into compact SUVs, saw significant sales during the 2000s-2010s. These complaint volumes reflect market success rather than exceptional unreliability—when spread across production runs and model years, per-unit complaint rates remain competitive. The most common issues center on powertrain (8,558 total), airbag systems (5,104), electrical components (4,320), and engines (3,510), issues typical across the automotive industry.
Most Reliable Mazda Models
Mazda owners seeking reliable vehicles have several standout options. The Mazda3 remains an excellent choice for compact car buyers despite complaint volume—its popularity means more owners and thus more opportunities for complaints, but reliability ratings are strong. The MX-5 Miata is legendary for durability and simplicity, with fewer electronic systems meaning fewer failure points. Newer CX-5 models represent Mazda's modern reliability commitment with updated safety systems and powertrains. The Mazda2 offers economical, dependable transportation in the subcompact segment. For those valuing the brand's driving dynamics heritage, the RX-8 remains a unique option for enthusiasts, though parts availability for rotary engines requires specialized knowledge.