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2020 Mazda CX-3 Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 12, 2026·Daniel Wilson
2020 Mazda CX-3 Report

Overall Score

8.3/ 10
Our Verdict
Recommended

Key Takeaways

  • The 2020 CX-3 earns excellent safety ratings, including 5 stars overall, 5 stars for frontal and side impacts, and 4 stars for rollover.
  • Expect good fuel economy with a combined EPA rating of 29 MPG.
  • The primary ownership concern is a recall for the rearview camera display; ensure this has been addressed by the manufacturer.
  • While no owner complaints were logged, a high TSB count (53) indicates potential for minor, non-critical issues.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2020 Mazda CX-3

The 2020 Mazda CX-3 presents itself as a stylish subcompact SUV with a focus on driving dynamics and safety. It achieves a commendable 29 MPG combined, making it an economical choice for daily commuting. Safety is a strong suit, with top marks in frontal and side crash tests. However, used car shoppers should be aware of its average reliability rating, primarily influenced by a single recall concerning the rearview camera display. While owner complaints are absent, a high TSB count suggests potential for minor, non-safety-critical issues that may require dealer attention.

Critical Failure Risk

The rearview camera may flicker, distort, or fail to display an image. This is due to a recall (23V487000) addressing potential issues with the camera module or wiring harness. While the recall remedy aims to fix this, owners should ensure it is completed.

Early detection can help you avoid a $300-$700 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls1
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
29
MPG
City
27
MPG
Highway
32
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.2/ 10

Practicality

5.2/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious commuters seeking good fuel economy and strong safety scores.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Those seeking a vehicle with a proven track record of exceptional long-term reliability.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2020 Mazda CX-3 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2020 Mazda CX-3.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
FWD/Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Hatchback
EPA Combined MPG
29

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Rearview Camera Display Malfunction

Most reported

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change and Tire Rotation (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter)

Est. shop cost: $100 - $150

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (6 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
1 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2020 Mazda CX-3 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2020 Mazda CX-3 is 9.2/10. Reliability score is 9.2/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2020 Mazda CX-3 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.2/10. EPA combined economy is 29 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2020 Mazda CX-3?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2020 Mazda CX-3 is 8.3/10. Overall score is 8.3/10 (Strong). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.5/10. Practicality 5.2/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2020 Mazda CX-3?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change and Tire Rotation (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: Rearview Camera System (typical at 40,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $700).

What is the MSRP range for the 2020 Mazda CX-3?▾

Base MSRP is $27,000.

What engine is in the 2020 Mazda CX-3?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2020 Mazda CX-3 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Mazda CX-3, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is FWD/Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2020 Mazda CX-3?▾

EPA combined estimate is 29 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2020 Mazda CX-3?▾

12 standard and 1 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2020 Mazda CX-3?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Mazda CX-3, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2020 Mazda CX-3?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Mazda CX-3, body style is hatchback.

What drivetrain does the 2020 Mazda CX-3 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Mazda CX-3, drivetrain is FWD/Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2020 Mazda CX-3?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2020 Mazda CX-3?▾

This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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