2021 MAZDA CX-30

Recalls, Specs & Safety Report

Expert Verdict
ℹ️Average Safety Profile

This 2021 model shows average reliability, primarily driven by 2 recalls affecting the structure system.

Key Factor:structure recalls

📋Why This Matters

Understanding recall history helps predict future ownership costs. Each unaddressed issue represents potential repair expenses.

Insurance companies review vehicle reliability data when setting premiums. Models with elevated recall rates often see adjusted pricing.

Focus Area:general reliability
📊

Expert Analysis

  • 📈
    Recall Trend:No Change in recalls
  • ⚠️
    Primary Risk Area:Warning
  • ⚖️
    Vs Brand: Worse than avg (1.1)
    📝
    Summary:

Safety & Reliability Score

79/100

Score Breakdown

Recall Impact-16
Complaint Impact-4.6
Investigation Impact-0

Technical Specifications

Key specifications for the 2021 MAZDA CX-30

Model Year2021
MakeMAZDA
ModelCX-30
Fuel TypeGasoline
Body ClassPassenger Vehicle

Safety History Timeline

Jan21
NEWProduction
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
May21
ISSUEFirst Report

Consumer Complaint Analysis

⚠️

Most Reported Issue

27 complaints (29% of total)
➡️

Complaint Trend

Stable
No trend data

Safety Incidents

No critical incidents

Complaint Severity Distribution

Breakdown of 92 consumer complaints by severity level.

🟠High
10(11%)
🟡Medium
16(17%)
🟢Low
66(72%)

Mileage Failure Analysis

⚙️Engineering Insight

Based on consumer reports, issues for this vehicle tend to peak around the 0-20k mileage range. The average reported failure mileage is 13,176 miles.

📊 Mileage data extracted from 41 of 92 complaints (45% coverage)
0-20k
32 reports (78%)
20k-40k
7 reports (17%)
40k-60k
1 reports (2%)
60k-80k
1 reports (2%)
80k-100k
0 reports (0%)
100k+
0 reports (0%)
* Analysis based on mileage data extracted from consumer complaint descriptions. Actual failure rates may vary.

🛠️ DIY Diagnosis Center

Experiencing an issue? Select a symptom to find official manufacturer solutions (TSBs).

Primary Risk Areas

STRUCTURETIRES

Official Safety Recalls (2)

Campaign: 21V086000

STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE

Summary

Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2020-2021 CX-30 vehicles. When fully opened, the power liftgate may partially lower unexpectedly when the vehicle is parked facing uphill on a slope.

Consequence

If the power liftgate unexpectedly lowers while a person is accessing the rear storage area of the vehicle, it can increase their risk of injury.

Remedy

Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will update the power liftgate control module software and inspect the serial number of the power liftgate drive unit, replacing it if necessary, free of charge. The recall began April 8, 2021. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500 option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 4621B.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations

Campaign: 21V101000

TIRES:VALVE

Summary

Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2021 Mazda3 and CX-30 vehicles. Air may suddenly leak from the tire air valve.

Consequence

A sudden air leak from the tire air valve may cause a loss of vehicle control while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

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.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations

NHTSA Investigations

0 investigations

No active investigations for this vehicle.

Consumer Complaints

92 total complaints

Consumer-reported issues submitted to NHTSA for 2021 CX-30.

Common Reported SymptomsAI Analysis

Warning29%
Battery11%
Burn11%
Leak10%
Display8%
Acceleration Issues8%
Accident5%
Steering/Suspension🔵 Low
WHEELS

On December 13, 2025, my vehicle (2021 Mazda CX-30) was serviced at a Valvoline Instant Oil Change location. During service, the technician stated he was checking tire pressure and asked whether 36 PSI was acceptable. I agreed. When I pulled out of the bay, the tire pressure warning light remained on and showed 29 PSI. I stopped immediately and informed the technician. He then stated he could not inflate the rear-left tire because he could not remove the valve stem cap due to corrosion. This was not disclosed before the vehicle was released. The technician told me I should drive the vehicle anyway and suggested I try removing the cap myself using pliers. No written warning or safety notice was provided. On December 16, 2025, while traveling on Interstate 81, I heard a pop/rattle and the vehicle became progressively louder. A warning displayed: “TPMS Malfunction. Have the vehicle inspected.” I continued driving until I could safely exit. The tire was shredded by the time I pulled over. The incident appears consistent with progressive deflation/underinflation leading to tire failure. The vehicle was released for highway operation despite the technician’s stated inability to service the tire at the valve stem.

Electrical🔵 Low
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

Two issues A) my usb or display stop to work often I have reset to make it work again, look like loose electrical 2) many time it has also happened start key malfunction error I have jumped start, I have replaced battery same issue

Other🔶 Medium
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

The contact owns a 2021 Mazda CX-30. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was slightly depressed; however, the vehicle speed increased significantly independently. The contact stated that the failure occurred as the contact arrived at the contact's residence and was attempting to park the vehicle. The contact stated that the brake pedal was depressed; however the vehicle failed to stop, and the vehicle was uncontrollable. The contact stated that the vehicle crashed into the contact’s apartment building. The contact stated that the building siding and steps were damaged due to the failure. The contact was not injured; however the failure had caused serious anxiety issues for the contact. The vehicle was towed to a local tow yard. In addition, the contact stated that the vehicle was towed to the dealer two times prior to the failure because, when attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. The contact was informed that the vehicle's not starting was the result of a faulty battery, and the battery was replaced. In addition, the contact stated that the independent acceleration failure had occurred the day before the crash occurred; however the contact was planning to take the vehicle to the dealer the following day. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 47,000.

Engine/Powertrain🔵 Low
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE

As reported by others, Engine Malfunction light came on. Car running rough. Mazda dealer says corroded wiring harness and $5k to replace. They bypass the conventional repair and splice it in. Within a hour of driving after pick up, same engine malfunction light and rough running returns. This time they said I need a new transmission. Electrical issues and faulty transmission are both dangerous. With as much posted online regarding the transmission, I would hope to find a recall. $10k in repairs for a barely 4 yr old car!

Body/Interior🔶 Medium
SEATS

-Driver seatbelt retractor has failed. Will no longer retract and it is available for inspection. -Safety is compromised due to pretensioner will not function in the event of a collision. Seatbelt will not perform as designed. -I have not taken the vehicle into the dealer but will be doing so. -The seatbelt issue has not been inspected by anyone as of yet. I am filling this out in case there are other owners with similar issues. There are quite a few complaints about this issue in Mazda forums. -There are no dash lights on at all indicating an issue.

Brakes🔵 Low
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VISIBILITY

The contact owns a 2021 Mazda CX-30. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the interior rear mirror loosened and eventually fell from the roof of the vehicle. The cause of the failure was not yet determined, and the vehicle was not yet repaired. Additionally, while driving at an undisclosed speed, the message "Critical Brake System Malfunction" was displayed. The vehicle was taken to the local mechanic; however, the cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 22,000.

Brakes🔶 Medium
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

The contact owned 2021 Mazda CX-30. The contact stated while attempting to park the vehicle in the parking garage at her workplace, the contact reversed and then straightened the steering wheel; however, after shifting to drive and attempting to drive 6-10 feet forward into the parking space, the vehicle unintendedly accelerated and crashed into a pillar before coming to a stop. The contact stated that the engine had revved up, and the vehicle made an abnormally loud sound before the vehicle unintendedly accelerated. The contact stated that the brake pedal was depressed but the vehicle failed to respond, and the vehicle failed to stop as needed. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the air bags deployed as intended; however, a warning light indicating an air bag malfunction illuminated afterwards. The contact stated that the front driver's side and knee air bags had deployed as designed. The contact sustained pain and bruises on the left side of the chest, on the upper part of the left breast, on the left leg, and on the right wrist and right arm. The vehicle automatically called 9-1-1 for Emergency Assistance, but the contact declined to receive medical assistance. The contact was able to walk away from the scene. No Police report was filed. The contact was unsure whether there was any property damage. The vehicle was towed from the scene and totaled by the Insurance Company. The contact stated that the failure had occurred once before while driving at approximately 60-65 MPH, and the vehicle unintendedly accelerated with an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle, but the contact was able to depress the brake pedal and regained control of the vehicle. The dealer and the manufacturer were not yet notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 31,000.

Engine/Powertrain🔵 Low
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE

Received a "LOW ENGINE OIL LEVEL” warning message before the regular oil change interval of 7,500. Light came on 11/20/24 after purchasing the vehicle from a Mazda dealership 8/10/24 (~3 months). Model and VIN were impacted by the Mazda Valve Stem Seal Settlement. This issue was not disclosed by the dealer.

Other🔶 Medium
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

Upon opening rear hatch, loud banging/knock developed that happened on every opening. Sounded as if it were damaging the body or latch. Did online research of problem and found through Mazda owners forum Mazda TSB #09-009/23. The TSB notes the rear latch has an "internal fault in the liftgate latch and/or loose bolts." Dealers are advised to confirm the issue and replace with new latch and bolts - "This repair will be covered under Mazda's New Vehicle Limited Warranty term." My vehicle had 71,500 miles at the time of the issue, just beyond the warranty limits. I took my vehicle to the local dealership (Whitten) along with the TSB where the problem was confirmed and I was requested to approve replacement. I argued that this should be considered a recall and covered by Mazda given the language of the TSB. The dealership advised that I would need to pay for the repair and could take up the issue directly with Mazda. Therefore, I paid $512 for the latch repair because I considered the problem a potential safety issue - either it would stop opening or would not close leaving the hatch open during driving. I contacted Mazda USA requesting reimbursement for the repair given their admission that the latch was "faulty." They refused saying my vehicle was beyond the warranty period and I had approved and paid for the repair. They added that I should contact them in the future if there is a question about coverage of broken parts. Given their admission that the part installed at the factory had a fault and that this fault could result in a safety issue such as a non-closing hatch, I request that this issue become a recall, or that the warranty period be extended for this specific issue. (I would also like to be reimbursed for the cost of repairing this manufacturer's problem.)

Electrical🔶 Medium
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

For 4-5 weeks the car often would not start. Jump the battery and it would start. Run fine 1-2 days then require another jump. At end required jump nearly every time it was to be used. Presently at Mazda dealer. They confirm the problem. They cannot find the cause. Car has been there two weeks. Waiting for assistance from manufacturer. I researched this on the internet. Visited many Mazda forums an 'do it yourself" forums. This seems to be a common problem. NO where have I read about a satisfactory solution. In fact, it sounds like there is none. Dealer's proposal so far has been to replace rear wiring harness at $7000. It sounds to me that there is a manufacturing problem. Who ever heard of a wiring harness go bad? I believe this to be a poor electronic sensor/device, or perhaps poor wiring. Either case it would be the manufacturers fault. And I believe that the manufacturer should repair it at their expense. I grew up in a garage and never heard of anything like this. The car approximately 21000 miles. All of them are easy highway miles with no abuse or offroad/dirt road use. Yesterday my wife heard about a Subaru that was doing the same thing. Maybe someone in Japan is manufacturing faulty parts. If so that is the manufacturers problem, not mine. So far the car has not stalled going down the highway but one drives it with an uneasy feeling. Stopping without warning on the roadway would be very dangerous. Also, one could get stranded in poor conditions or environment, and that makes this a safety issue. I have attached file regarding battery etc. test I performed. These test have been confirmed by the dealer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any recalls for the 2021 MAZDA CX-30?

Yes, the 2021 MAZDA CX-30 has 2 recorded recalls from NHTSA. These recalls cover various components including STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE, TIRES:VALVE.

Is the 2021 MAZDA CX-30 safe to drive?

The 2021 MAZDA CX-30 has 2 recalls. If you own this vehicle, check with your dealer to ensure all recall repairs have been completed. Most recalls have free remedies available.

Where can I check if my 2021 MAZDA CX-30 has open recalls?

You can check for open recalls by visiting NHTSA.gov and entering your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), or by contacting your local MAZDA dealer.

📊Year-over-Year Context

➡️Stable Pattern

Compared to earlier years, the 2021 model shows stable reliability patterns. No meaningful structural change detected in recall frequency between adjacent model years.

🎯Risk Areas & Recommended Actions

Based on recall data, these components require verification:

1

Structure

Issue: increases occupant injury risk

If you already own this vehicle: Contact your dealer immediately to confirm structure recall is complete. Recall repairs are always free.

🔍

If you are evaluating a used example: Request VIN and verify all structure recalls are completed before purchase.

Campaign:21V086000
2

Tires

Issue: increases crash or loss-of-control risk

If you already own this vehicle: Contact your dealer immediately to confirm tires recall is complete. Recall repairs are always free.

🔍

If you are evaluating a used example: Request VIN and verify all tires recalls are completed before purchase.

Campaign:21V101000
💡Visit NHTSA.gov or contact your MAZDA dealer to verify recall completion status.

🧭What This Means for You

Both current owners and prospective buyers benefit from reviewing this safety analysis before making decisions.

If you're unsure, we recommend starting with a VIN check or consulting a certified mechanic.

🔑

If You Own This Vehicle

  • Verify all 2 recalls have been completed using your VIN at NHTSA.gov or through your MAZDA dealer.
  • If any recalls are open, schedule service immediately—recall repairs are always free.
  • Consider setting up VIN-specific alerts to receive notification of future recalls.
🛒

If You're Buying Used

  • Request documentation proving all recalls were addressed before finalizing purchase.
  • Factor potential recall-related service time into your ownership cost estimates.

This page is designed to help you decide, not alarm you.

Compare with Similar Vehicles

Data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Last updated: January 10, 2026.