Mazda MX-3 years to avoid
The Mazda MX-3 years to avoid are 1993, 1992 — each drew complaint volumes well above the model's norm or has an open safety investigation. The 1990 is the cleanest year on record.
155
Total complaints
3
Recall campaigns
1990–1999
Years covered
2
Years to avoid
Complaints by model year
MX-3 years to avoid
| Year | Why | Complaints | vs avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1993 | High complaint rate | 69 | |
| 1992 | High complaint rate | 50 |
Every MX-3 year
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Investigations |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1999 | 1 | 0 | |
| 1996 | 2 | 0 | |
| 1995 | 12 | 1 | |
| 1994 | 20 | 1 | |
| 1993avoid | 69 | 3 | |
| 1992avoid | 50 | 3 | |
| 1991 | 1 | 0 | |
| 1990 | 0 | 0 |
Common questions
What are the worst Mazda MX-3 years?
Based on NHTSA complaint rates and open investigations, the MX-3 years to avoid are 1993, 1992. The cleanest year on record is 1990.
What is the best year for the Mazda MX-3?
By complaint volume, 1990 has the cleanest NHTSA record among MX-3 years with enough data to compare.
How many recalls does the Mazda MX-3 have?
Across all model years, the MX-3 has 3 distinct NHTSA recall campaigns and 155 consumer complaints on file.
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 28, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.