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2006 Mazda Mazda3 recalls and problems

The 2006 Mazda Mazda3 has 1 safety recall and 166 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Mazda dealer.

Recalls
1
Complaints
166
Crashes / fires
21 / 3
Injuries / deaths
15 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2006 Mazda Mazda3 vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2006 Mazda Mazda3 recalls

Recall 21V-494: Air Bags

Reported Jul 1, 2021 · 260,915 vehicles affected · Mazda North American Operations

Problem: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2004-2007 Mazda3 vehicles. During air bag deployment, the plastic emblem on the steering wheel air bag module cover may shatter, and project plastic fragments into the vehicle.

Risk: Plastic fragments can hit occupants during air bag deployment, increasing the risk of injury.

Fix: Dealers will replace the air bag module cover, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed between August 28, 2021 and October 28, 2021. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500 Option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 4921G.

2006 Mazda Mazda3 problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Steering29
Air Bags27
Electrical System22
Power Train21
Engine and Engine Cooling17
Engine17
Tires14
Suspension14
Structure12
Service Brakes8
Unknown or Other8
Vehicle Speed Control7

Most reported parts

  • Structure › Frame and Members — 5
  • Structure › Body — 5
  • Electrical System › Instrument Cluster/Panel — 4
  • Power Train › Automatic Transmission — 4
  • Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine — 4
  • Electrical System › Wiring › Fuses and Circuit Breakers — 2
  • Exterior Lighting › Headlights — 2
  • Suspension › Front — 2

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 71,000 miles (median of owner reports).

Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.

Recent 2006 Mazda Mazda3 complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Structure · reported Feb 22, 2023
Im having issues with rust the car it’s getting pretty much the car it’s falling apart the under body it’s nothing but rust I’m scared of changing a tire because there’s actually not a good grip where I can lift the car without feeling it’s going to fall apart, the rear or the disks it’s falling by chunks and just yesterday the rear shock plate broke out of place because it’s way too rust same thing with my muffler I don’t feel safe I’m My car which I love, I truly do but I feel like at any minute its just going to break apart right now it’s the shock rear driver side but…
Electrical System · reported Jan 20, 2023
When I take the key out of the ignition the car doesn't recognize the key is out and won't stop beeping. I can't use the key fob to lock or unlock the car. I have to use the original door key to lock and unlock or the alarm will go off. I have replace the ignition switch cylinder 2 times and it still doesnt work. There is a little bit of "play" that is keeping it from not beeping and beeping. I can take it out slowly and it will work but then it slips again and I get locked out of the car and the alarm goes off again until I use the key to manually unlock the car door.
Air Bags · reported Nov 2, 2021
The contact owned a 2006 Mazda Mazda3. The contact stated while driving approximately 25 mph when the driver-side airbag deployed without warning which resulted in the contact losing control of the vehicle. The contact was the only injured and sought medical treatment. The contact sustained bruising on the right wrist and chest. A police report was taken and the vehicle was towed to a police lot where it was diagnosed as destroyed. The contact stated no warning lights were illuminated. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was unavailable
Unknown or Other · reported Aug 30, 2021
This vehicle has one unrepaired recall. When I tried to make an appointment with the Mazda dealer to correct it, no recall is found after giving my VIN number. Is there any other way to have them repair it?
Air Bags · reported Aug 4, 2021
My 2006 Mazda was in a serious accident last month and my air bag did not inflate properly along with the warning logo a few days before the accident. My car was picked up and released to Geico yesterday for inspection from their at fault driver totalling my vehicle. It was a head on collision so the air bag is a big factor in a serious wreck. It was confirmed to have an active recall. The warning logo appeared on my dash right before the accident that caused a broken and dislocated hip resulting into two surgeries and a long recovery period.

Other Mazda Mazda3 years

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Frequently asked questions

Does the 2006 Mazda Mazda3 have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2006 Mazda Mazda3: 21V-494 (air bags). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2006 Mazda Mazda3?

Owners report steering problems most often (29 reports), followed by air bags (27). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 71,000 miles.

Are Mazda recall repairs free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Mazda dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.