Hyundai Elantra vs Mazda MAZDA3
For 2005–2022 models, the Mazda MAZDA3 has 16.8 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 22.2 for the Hyundai Elantra. Below: what each one’s owners report most, when it shows up, and what it costs to fix.
Both rates cover the same model years (2005–2022), counting each complaint once and dividing by US sales, so the more popular vehicle isn’t penalized for being popular. Years too new to judge are left out. How this is calculated.
Hyundai Elantra
22.2 complaints per 10,000 sold
1.3× the Mazda MAZDA3’s rate
- Complaints
- 6,396
- Sold
- 2,877,054
- Recall campaigns
- 29
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 3
Most complaints: 2010, 2012–2013 and 2017. Fewest: 2005, 2015 and 2021–2022. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 78,500 mi
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 59,850 mi
-
Internal engine (bearings, pistons, rings)
Typically around 80,000 mi
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 45,000 mi
-
Wiring harness, grounds and connectors
Typically around 77,000 mi
Mazda MAZDA3
16.8 complaints per 10,000 sold
24% fewer than the Hyundai Elantra
- Complaints
- 2,635
- Sold
- 1,565,366
- Recall campaigns
- 22
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 1
Most complaints: 2008 and 2010. Fewest: 2005 and 2022. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 58,000 mi
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 65,915 mi
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 51,250 mi
-
Power steering pump, rack and lines
Typically around 52,000 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
TPMS sensors and warnings
Typically around 52,558 mi · repair $230–$430
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Hyundai Elantra or the Mazda MAZDA3?
For 2005–2022 models, the Mazda MAZDA3 has 16.8 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Hyundai Elantra has 22.2, counting the same model years for both.
What is the most common problem on the Hyundai Elantra?
The most-reported problem on the Hyundai Elantra is airbags, seatbelts and restraints, typically around 78,500 miles.
What is the most common problem on the Mazda MAZDA3?
The most-reported problem on the Mazda MAZDA3 is doors, windows, latches, seats and trim, typically around 58,000 miles.
Which Hyundai Elantra and Mazda MAZDA3 years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Hyundai Elantra: 2010, 2012–2013 and 2017; Mazda MAZDA3: 2008 and 2010.
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, recalls and investigations; US sales from public industry figures; repair costs from book labor hours and parts pricing at national rates. Complaints are self-reported and not independently verified. Problem lists cover each vehicle’s full history. This is not a recommendation to buy or avoid either vehicle.