Head-to-head reliability
Mazda CX 3 vs Chevrolet Silverado
How the Mazda CX 3 and Chevrolet Silverado compare on NHTSA complaints, recalls and crash reports — and which is the lower-risk used buy.
Based on NHTSA owner-complaint & recall records
Mazda CX 3 vs Chevrolet Silverado: The CX-3 has 111 complaints over 7 years (about 16 per year) and 9 recalls, while the Silverado has 5,105 complaints over 10 years (about 511 per year) and 100 recalls. The Silverado also reports 104 injuries and 1 death, versus 3 injuries and 0 deaths for the CX-3. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.
The picture
Is the Mazda CX 3 or Chevrolet Silverado more reliable?
A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.
Mazda CX 3
The Mazda CX-3 is a subcompact SUV with a relatively low complaint volume: 111 complaints over 7 years, averaging about 16 per year. The most common issues involve the electrical system, fuel/propulsion system, and back-over prevention, with some owners reporting stalling and infotainment glitches. There are 9 recalls, including fuel pump and rear camera problems, and 3 injuries but no deaths reported. Overall, it appears to have fewer reported problems per year than the Silverado, but buyers should still check for open recalls and test electrical functions.
Chevrolet Silverado
The Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup with a much higher complaint volume: 5,105 complaints over 10 years, averaging about 511 per year. The most frequent problem areas are the engine, power train, electrical system, and service brakes, with owners describing severe issues like sudden power loss, transmission failures, and brake problems. There are 100 recalls and 104 injuries, plus one death, indicating a higher rate of serious safety-related complaints. Buyers should be aware that this truck may require more frequent attention to major systems.
The numbers
Side-by-side NHTSA record
Lower is better in every category. The highlighted cell is the stronger result.
| Category | Mazda CX 3 | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| Total complaintsAll model years combined | 111 Better | 5,105 |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 9 Better | 100 |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 9 Better | 117 |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 15.9 Better | 510.5 |
| Reported injuriesTied to owner complaints | 3 Better | 104 |
| Reported deathsTied to owner complaints | 0 Better | 1 |
Source: NHTSA owner complaints & recall records.
What actually goes wrong
The problems owners report
The most-complained-about systems on each vehicle — what fails, and what owners say in their own words.
Mazda CX 3
- 01ELECTRICAL SYSTEM25
- 02UNKNOWN OR OTHER17
- 03FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM16
- 04BACK OVER PREVENTION10
- 05EXTERIOR LIGHTING10
Owners report the car sometimes won't shut off, making noises and beeping, which drains the battery. Another complaint describes the throttle opening wide while braking, causing the car to jump a curb. These issues can leave you stranded or cause loss of control.
There are reports of the car stalling at highway speed, sometimes restarting after a few minutes. One owner identified a faulty fuel pump part number. Stalling in traffic is dangerous and can lead to a crash.
The rear camera and driver assistance features may fail or restart continuously in cold weather, making it hard to see behind you. A recall was issued for the camera system, but parts may not have been available, so not all vehicles are fixed.
Some complaints duplicate the throttle and stalling issues, but also mention infotainment and navigation problems. These can be distracting and affect safe driving.
“I have had this happen multiple times. I try to turn off the car and it will not shut off. It makes noises and beeps, but you can do nothing to turn off the car. This makes the battery die. The first time I freaked out and called Mazda headquarters. They got…”
“WHILE I WAS PARKING MY CAR AND BRAKING THE THROTTLE OPENED WIDE AND I JUMPED THE CURB. I REAPPLIED THE BRAKES HARD AND THE CAR CAME TO A STOP AFTER SKIDDING 4 FEET. (TIRE MARKS MEASURED). I HAD THE CAR TOWED TO THE DEALER WHERE THEY COULD FIND NOTHING WRONG.…”
Chevrolet Silverado
- 01ENGINE1,698
- 02POWER TRAIN1,453
- 03ELECTRICAL SYSTEM982
- 04SERVICE BRAKES691
- 05UNKNOWN OR OTHER542
Owners of newer Silverados report engine failures, including a 6.2L motor that failed shortly after purchase, and diesel particulate filter issues requiring dealer service. These can cause sudden loss of power and expensive repairs.
Complaints include the vehicle suddenly shifting into neutral while driving slowly uphill, and transmission problems. This can leave you unable to accelerate or move, increasing crash risk.
Reports describe a sudden loss of normal braking, with a firm pedal but reduced stopping power, and at 70 mph, loss of motive power, brakes, and steering. These are severe safety failures that could lead to a crash.
Owners report the brake pedal remaining firm but braking effectiveness reduced, making it hard to stop. This is a critical safety issue that needs immediate attention.
“I purchased the 2026 Chevrolet Silverado with a 6.2L motor "new" from the dealer with 5700 miles on XXX. Roughly a month and 2500 miles later, my family and I were in the vehicle, 750 miles from home, returning from a vacation to [XXX] from the [XXX]/[XXX] ar…”
“My 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 with the 6.6L Duramax diesel has experienced three separate P2463 Diesel Particulate Filter excessive soot accumulation events at approximately 4,300, 5,500, and 10,280 miles. Each event required a Chevrolet dealer to perform…”
Official recalls
Safety recalls on record
Federal recall campaigns — the defect, the risk, and the fix. Confirm any open recall was completed before you buy.
Mazda CX 3 — 9 recalls
The defect: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Mazda3 and 2016-2021 CX-3 vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display properly by showing a flickering or distorted image.
The risk: A rearview camera that does not display properly can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
The fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the rearview camera, as necessary. In addition, dealers will install a wiring harness fastening seal. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safe…
The defect: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Mazda3 and 2016-2021 CX-3 vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display properly by showing a flickering or distorted image.
The risk: A rearview camera that does not display properly can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
The fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the rearview camera, as necessary. In addition, dealers will install a wiring harness fastening seal. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safe…
The defect: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Mazda3 and 2016-2021 CX-3 vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display properly by showing a flickering or distorted image.
The risk: A rearview camera that does not display properly can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
The fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the rearview camera, as necessary. In addition, dealers will install a wiring harness fastening seal. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safe…
The defect: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Mazda3 and 2016-2021 CX-3 vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display properly by showing a flickering or distorted image.
The risk: A rearview camera that does not display properly can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
The fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the rearview camera, as necessary. In addition, dealers will install a wiring harness fastening seal. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safe…
Chevrolet Silverado — 100 recalls
The defect: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, 3500, GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500 vehicles equipped with power-unlatching tailgates. The tailgate's electronic gate-release switch may short circuit due to water intrusion, which can result in the tailgate inadvertently…
The risk: An unlatched tailgate may open while driving and result in a loss of unsecured cargo, creating a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Owners are advised to check that the tailgate is closed and latched before driving. Dealers will replace the exterior touchpad switch assemblies, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 17, 2024. Owners may contact Chevr…
The defect: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, 3500, and GMC Sierra 2500, 3500 vehicles. The steering gear shaft may fracture and disconnect from the steering arm.
The risk: A steering arm that disconnects may result in a total loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the steering gear, if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 22, 2023. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-800-4…
The defect: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2024 Chevrolet Silverado HD 2500, 3500, and GMC Sierra HD 2500, 3500 vehicles equipped with power-unlatching tailgates. The tailgate's electronic gate-release switch may short circuit due to water intrusion, which can result in the tailgate inadvertentl…
The risk: An unlatched tailgate may open and result in a loss of unsecured cargo, creating a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Owners are advised to check that the tailgate is closed and latched before driving. Dealers will replace the exterior touchpad switch assemblies, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 17, 2024. Owners may contact…
The defect: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2023-2024 GMC Hummer EV pick up, 2024 GMC Hummer EV SUV, and 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV vehicles. The left or right front seat belt buckle attachment bolts may not be tightened properly.
The risk: An improperly tightened seat belt buckle may not restrain an occupant as intended, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
The fix: Dealers will tighten the left and right front seat belt buckle attachment bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 21, 2023. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-833-EVCHEVY (1-833-382-4389) (TTY 711 /…
Buyer analysis
Mazda CX 3 or Chevrolet Silverado: which should you buy?
The Mazda CX-3 has far fewer complaints per year (about 16) compared to the Chevrolet Silverado (about 511). In practice, this means the CX-3 is likely to have fewer reported problems and may be less likely to leave you stranded or require major repairs. However, the CX-3 still has notable stalling and electrical issues, so neither vehicle is problem-free.
Key differences
- The Silverado has about 32 times more complaints per year than the CX-3, with engine and power train issues being the most common.
- CX-3 owners report stalling and electrical shutdown problems, while Silverado owners report sudden loss of power, braking, and steering.
- The Silverado has 100 recalls versus 9 for the CX-3, covering major systems like brakes, steering, and seat belts.
- The CX-3 has 3 injuries and 0 deaths reported, while the Silverado has 104 injuries and 1 death, indicating more severe outcomes in crashes.
- Check for open recalls on the fuel pump and rear camera; confirm they have been repaired.
- Test the ignition shut-off and electrical system; listen for unusual noises or beeping when turning the car off.
- Inspect for engine and transmission issues; look for signs of rough running, delayed shifting, or warning lights.
- Test the brakes thoroughly; a firm pedal with poor stopping may indicate a brake system problem.
Before you buy
- Ask for the vehicle's recall history and verify all recalls are fixed.
- Take a test drive that includes highway speeds and braking to check for stalling or brake issues.
- Have a trusted mechanic inspect the fuel pump, electrical system, and brakes.
- For the Silverado, check for transmission smoothness and any engine noises or power loss.
- Review NHTSA complaints for the specific model year you are considering.
Year by year
Which model years to avoid
Complaints per model year for both vehicles — lower is better. The spikes are the years to scrutinize.
| Year | Mazda CX 3 | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 0 | 1340 |
| 2021 | 4 | 934 |
| 2020 | 1 | 0 |
| 2019 | 27 | 1992 |
| 2018 | 10 | 591 |
| 2017 | 21 | 0 |
Check the actual car
Comparing models is smart. Checking the VIN is essential.
Brand averages tell you the trend. A VIN check tells you what's wrong with the specific Mazda CX 3 or Chevrolet Silverado in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.
Go deeper
Full reliability reports
- Comparison
- Mazda CX 3 vs Chevrolet Silverado
- Mazda CX 3 total complaints
- 111
- Chevrolet Silverado total complaints
- 5,105
- Mazda CX 3 total recalls
- 9
- Chevrolet Silverado total recalls
- 100
- Mazda CX 3 avg complaints/year
- 15.9
- Chevrolet Silverado avg complaints/year
- 510.5
- More reliable overall
- Mazda CX 3
- Mazda CX 3 top complaint area
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Chevrolet Silverado top complaint area
- ENGINE