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Is a 2021 Mazda Cx 3 Worth Buying?

Full decision report — reliability data, walk-away price, and a BUY / NEGOTIATE / WALK verdict. Enter your deal below for a personalized analysis.

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Mazda Cx 3 2021

Full Decision Report · 55,000 mi · Asking $22,000

🚗
Mazda Cx 3
WALK AWAY

The risks outweigh the value at this price.

Walk-away price: $16,300 · Risk score: 74/100 · Confidence: Low (50%)

Analysis Summary
High Risk
Walk-away Price
$16,300
Risk Score
74/100
Confidence
Low (50%)
Input Summary
VehicleMazda Cx 3 2021
Mileage55,000 miles
Asking Price$22,000
Ownership Years5 years
Driving Profilenormal
Risk Tolerancemedium
Risk Score Breakdown
Base Risk60
Mileage Modifier0
Price Modifier+8
Ownership Modifier+6
Driving Modifier0
Risk Tolerance Modifier0
Final Risk Score74/100
Cost of Ownership Over 5 Years
Risk Score Breakdown
Final Risk Score: 74/100
5-Year Ownership Cost Estimate
Maintenance$3,000
Repairs$4,140
Insurance$7,275
Depreciation$13,875
Total Estimated Cost$28,290
Range: $27,219 - $29,718
5-Year Cost Breakdown
$28,290
Total Estimated Cost
Assumptions:
• Model-based estimates; not VIN-specific.
• Actual costs vary widely by use and maintenance.
• Reliability data is estimated; actual values may vary.
Vehicle Specifications
Engine2.5L I4
Horsepower185 HP
DrivetrainFWD
TransmissionAutomatic
Body StyleSedan
Seating5 seats
Fuel Economy
City28 MPG
Highway35 MPG
Combined31 MPG
Standard Features
  • ✓Rearview Camera (federally mandated)
  • ✓Bluetooth Connectivity
  • ✓USB / Aux Input
  • ✓Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
  • ✓Keyless Entry
  • ✓Cruise Control
  • ✓Lane Keep Assist (most trims)
Vehicle Quirks & Notes
  • •Regular fuel (87 octane) recommended
  • •Limited reliability data available - consider additional research
Known Failure Modes
  • •
    High-mileage wear components
    Mileage Range: 80k+
    Medium
  • •
    Electrical system components
    Mileage Range: Any
    Low
  • •
    Suspension components
    Mileage Range: 60k+
    Medium
Reliability Metrics
Overall Reliability80/100
Avg Annual Maintenance$600
Avg Repair Cost$900
Data confidence: 60% (estimated data)
Key Considerations

Price Analysis

• Listed Price: $22,000
• Market Median: $18,500
• Price Difference: 18.9% above market average
• Recommended Maximum: $16,300 (based on risk factors)

Risk Assessment

• Overall Risk Score: 74/100 (High risk)
• Confidence Level: Low (50%)
• Multiple risk factors present - review breakdown above

Cost Considerations

• Estimated 5-year ownership cost: $28,290
• Range: $27,219 - $29,718
• Depreciation: $13,875 over 5 years

Recommended Next Steps

  • Get a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic
  • Review maintenance history and service records
  • Negotiate to $16,300 or below based on risk factors
  • Compare with similar vehicles in your area before committing
  • Factor total 5-year ownership cost into your budget
💬 Negotiation Script

Use these lines word-for-word with the seller. They are grounded in real data.

1.

"I have some concerns about this vehicle's risk profile at this price point."

2.

"Specifically, this model is known for High-mileage wear components and Electrical system components, and at 55,000 miles that's a near-term cost."

3.

"For me to consider this, the price would need to be significantly lower — at least $15,000 — to account for the risk."

4.

"At that range I'd also want a 90-day powertrain warranty included."

5.

"I'm happy to make a decision today, but only at a number that makes sense given the data."

Target price: $16,300. If the seller won't move to this range, use your walk-away number — the data supports it.

🔧 Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
☐Engine oil — color, level, any milky residue (head gasket)
☐Transmission fluid — color and smell (dark = overheated)
☐Coolant — level and color (no oil sheen)
☐Under-car rust — frame rails, subframe, floor pans
☐Tire wear — even wear across all 4 (alignment/suspension)
☐Brake pad depth — look through wheel spokes
☐All electrical — windows, locks, AC/heat, infotainment
☐VIN check — frame VIN vs. door VIN vs. title
☐Test drive — cold start, highway acceleration, hard braking
☐OBD-II scan — check for any stored or pending fault codes
☐Specifically inspect: High-mileage wear components (known at 80k+)
☐Specifically inspect: Electrical system components (known at Any)
☐Specifically inspect: Suspension components (known at 60k+)
🔍 Looking for a better deal? Browse 2021 Mazda Cx 3 listings
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