Launched in 2019, the CX-30 is an extra-small SUV from Japanese automaker Mazda.
Squeezing between the smaller CX-3 and larger CX-5 in Mazda’s SUV lineup, the CX-30 offers an upscale cabin, poised handling and a comfortable ride.
If you’re considering this model as your next purchase, you might be wondering about its average lifespan, durability and quality.
We’ll cover all that in this article, read on to find out…
Table of Contents
Here is the short answer to how long Mazda CX-30 last:
The Mazda CX-30 is expected to last between 200,000 – 250,000 miles when adequately maintained and driven conservatively. Based on an annual mileage of 15,000 miles per year, the CX-30 will provide, on average, 13 to 17 years of service before breaking down or requiring expensive repairs.
How Many Miles Can You Expect from a Mazda CX-30?
The CX-30 is one of the latest editions to Mazda’s SUV collection and having been around for such a short amount of time there is relatively little historical data surrounding it.
Introduced in 2019 for the 2020 model year, most CX-30 models are yet to hit big numbers however based on Mazda’s track record for producing durable vehicles, we are confident that a well-kept CX-30 will last well into the 200k-250k region.
Across owner forums, reports so far for the CX-30 have been largely positive, with owners clocking up miles with relatively few problems.
In their most recent annual reliability survey, Consumer Reports named Mazda’s new cars as the most reliable in the world.
Vehicle design and quality engineering will only get you so far though, and getting the most life from your CX-30 will come down to a few key factors at the ownership level.
Driving habits will play a big part in how long it will last.
The CX-30 is designed for light off-roading, but being too aggressive with the gas and brake pedals or overworking the engine will hamper its lifespan.
The life expectancy of your CX-30 will be cut short if you avoid:
- Using quality parts
- Service appointments
- Routine oil changes
- Tire rotations
- Driving smoothly
Do Mazda CX-30’s Rust Easily?
The Mazda CX-30 is not known to rust easily and are generally considered to be quite rust resilient. We have been unable to find any notable rust complaints from owners.
Rust on a new CX-30 is is out of the ordinary and should you experience any issues your first port of call should be your dealership.
Residents of cold-weather states that use a heavy dose of salt in the winter should take extra precautions, as salt can drastically accelerate rusting.
Similarly, those living by the coast where salt in the air is prevalent should also be mindful.
Owners residing in drier, hotter states such as Arizona are far less likely to experience rusting issues – although paint fading is more common.
Tips to keep your CX-30 rust-free:
- Regularly wash and dry your car: This includes its underside (especially during the winter) to remove the salt, dirt and grime that causes rust. We recommend having a detail shop wash everything underneath at the end of each winter.
- Repair paint damage and scratches: Exposed metal will oxidize. If it’s beyond a DIY fix speak to your local body repair shop.
- Garage: Store your CX-30 in a garage to protect it from harsh weather and bird droppings.
- Waxing: Wax your car twice a year. Not only will this make your CX-30 look amazing, it also gives a protective coating against rust.
- Rustproofing: If you’re planning on keeping your CX-30 well past it’s warranty you might want to consider a rustproofing treatment, popular choices are Krown and Rust Check.
- Ceramic Coating: A popular choice for those who want to add an extra layer of protection to the paint job.
Mazda offers a 5-year/unlimited mileage limited warranty against corrosion perforation for CX-30 models.
Related: 8 Most Common Mazda CX-30 Problems (Explained)
What is High Mileage for a Mazda CX-30?
A Mazda CX-30 with over 60,000 miles on the odometer is considered high mileage due to the relative age of the model. If the car has averaged a lot more or a lot less than 10,000-15,000 miles per year, you might want to further investigate why.
Buying one with over 60k miles won’t necessarily equate to a sour outcome; a well-maintained CX-30 with 60,000 miles might be a better purchase than one with 30,000 miles that had multiple owners, led a rough life or was a prior rental car.
When buying a second-hand CX-30, consider the following:
- Maintenance history. Check that the car was properly serviced and the owner can provide proof of this.
- Get a second opinion: Take it to an independent auto diagnostic clinic or have it inspected by a mechanic.
- Check the CarFax. This doesn’t guarantee anything but it will help provide a clearer picture of wear-and-tear. Ensure it has minimal damage if any. Review the information to make sure if something happened, it wasn’t engine related or mechanical.
- Number of previous owners. As a general rule, less is better. More owners usually mean more wear and tear. If one family owned it and drove the full mileage and serviced the car, then you can almost guarantee they took good care of it throughout their ownership.
- How long you are planning on keeping the car. If you’re planning on keeping the car for a long time, you should evaluate whether the short-term savings outweigh spending a bit extra into something more reliable.
Mazda offers a 3-year/36,000-mile new-vehicle limited warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, and all new models receive a 3-year/36,000-mile roadside assistance program too. Most CX-30s on the roads today are still covered by these warranties.
How Long Do Mazda CX-30 Last Compared to Similar Car Models?
In this section we’ll compare the CX-30 to some of its rivals.
Mazda CX30 vs. Subaru Crosstrek
Launched in 2016, the Crosstrek is a utilitarian and practical compact SUV.
The Crosstrek can last between 200,000 to 250,000 miles or 13 – 16 years, which is on par with the Mazda CX-30.
- Across all model years, Consumer Reports has given the Crosstrek an average of 4/5 for reliability vs. 5/5 for the CX-30.
- The Crosstrek has an annual average repair and maintenance cost of $492 vs. $462 for Mazda models.
- J.D Power scores the Crosstrek 77/100 for quality and reliability while the CX-30 outscores that with 82/100.
- U.S.News ranks the 2021 CX-30 in 1st place, above the 2021 Crosstrek which is ranked 8th for best compact SUV.
Those looking for a rugged compact SUV with good light-off-road capabilities should opt for the Crosstrek whilst those looking for a more premium driving experience should choose the CX-30.
You may also be interested in our article: How Long Do Subaru Crosstrek Last?
Mazda CX-30 vs. Kia Soul
The Kia Soul was launched in 2008 and is known for its boxy, eye-catching design.
The Soul can last between 200,000 to 250,000 miles or 13 – 16 years, which is the same as the CX-30.
- Across all model years, Consumer Reports has given the Kia Soul an average of 4/5 for reliability vs. 5/5 for the CX-30.
- The Soul has an annual average repair and maintenance cost of $492 vs. $462 for Mazda models.
- J.D Power scores the Soul 89/100 for quality and reliability while the CX-30 has a score of 82/100.
- U.S.News ranks the 2021 CX-30 in 1st place, above the 2021 Soul which is ranked 3rd for best compact SUV.
The CX-30 outpoints the Soul in several departments including a more premium interior and comes with a more powerful engine, the Soul however is more spacious and offers better cargo space overall.
Mazda CX-30 vs. Hyundai Kona
Launched in 2018, the Kona offers a fun driving experience and a long list of standard features all at an accessible price.
The Kona can last between 200,000 to 250,000 miles or 13 – 16 years, which is on par with that of the CX-30.
- Across all model years, Consumer Reports has given the Kona an average of 5/5 for reliability vs. 5/5 for the CX-30.
- Hyundai has an annual average repair and maintenance cost of $468 vs. $462 for Mazda models.
- J.D Power scores the Kona 81/100 for quality and reliability while the CX-30 has a score of 82/100.
- U.S.News ranks the 2021 CX-30 in 1st place, above the 2021 Kona which is ranked 2nd for best compact SUV.
The Kona has a slightly more economical base model and seems to come with more power however the CX-30 is noted for having a more upscale cabin.
You may also be interested in our article: How Long Do Hyundai Kona Last?
Comparison Chart
CX-30 | Crosstrek | Soul | Kona | |
Annual Repair Cost | $462 | $492 | $492 | $468 |
Consumer Reports Reliability Rating | 5/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 5/5 |
Lifespan (miles) | 200k-250k | 200k-250k | 200k-250k | 200k-250k |
U.S. News Ranking | 1st | 8th | 3rd | 2nd |
Is the Mazda CX-30 Reliable?
Japanese automakers are known to produce some of the most dependable cars on the planet, and the Mazda CX-30 is no exception.
The CX-30 has only been available since 2019 and there are very few reports of problems with this model to date. However, automotive journalists, industry experts, and consumers have scored the CX-30 very highly for reliability.
- Consumer Reports has awarded the CX-30 a reliability verdict of 5/5 across all model years, and named Mazda’s new cars as the most reliable in the world.
- The Kelley Blue Book consumer rating index gives the CX-30 a reliability rating of 4.5 / 5.
- RepairPal scored Mazda a reliability rating of 4.0 / 5 and is 5th out of 32 brands listed according to reliability.
- JD Power rated the CX-30 with a consumer quality and reliability rating of 82 / 100.
The Best and Worst Years for Mazda CX-30
Despite relatively few models, we’ve done some digging to find out which model year is the best and which is the worst…
Worst Model Year
Out of the model years that are currently available, the 2020 model year is considered the ‘worst’.
It’s common for car models to have a higher number of issues for their debut year, and our research indicates this is the case for the CX-30 too.
According to Car Complaints, the 2020 CX-30 received a complaint about a windshield that seems blurry and distorted.
After some digging on Mazda owner forums, some common complaints associated with the 2020 model are:
- The transmission is a bit jumpy at low speeds
- The air conditioner doesn’t get super-cold
- Some people find the seats hard
- The factory tires are so-so
Best Model Year
The best model year for the CX-30 is the 2021 model, having addressed any teething issues from the previous year.
For the 2021 year Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both standard features, and there is also the addition of an optional 2.5-liter turbocharged engine.
Motoring journalists scored the 2021 CX-30 highly, with Car and Driver rating this model with a 9.5/10 score.
This model also scooped the 2020 Red Dot Design Award in the Passenger Car category as well as being selected by Consumer Reports as a Top Pick for Subcompact SUVs under $25,000.
The 2021 CX-30 has also received the Top Safety Pick+ award by the IIHS – vehicles that perform best in their crash prevention and crashworthiness evaluations qualify for this award.
Model Year and Number of Complaints
Here are the number of complaints for each CX-30 model year from the Car Complaints database.
Model Year | No. of Complaints |
2021 | 0 |
2020 | 1 |
What About Recalls for These Models?
The CX-30 has 5 recalls across all model years, these recalls were related to various issues including loose brake calipers, fuel leaks, faulty power liftgate and tires that leak air.
You can check if your CX-30 has been subject to a recall campaign by entering your Vehicle Identification Number into the NHTSA’s website.
It is important to note that recalls are manufacturing faults repaired at no charge to the consumer.
Here are the total number of recall campaigns per year for the Mazda CX-30:
- 2021: 2
- 2020: 3
Mazda CX-30 Model Year List
First Generation:
- 2021 Mazda CX-30
- 2020 Mazda CX-30
Are Mazda CX-30 Expensive to Maintain?
Our research indicates that a Mazda CX-30 will have very affordable ownership costs, not only in comparison to other SUVs in its segment but across all car models.
According to Car Edge:
A Mazda CX-30 will cost about $7,249 repairs and maintenance during its first 10 years of service, this beats the industry average for popular SUV models by $1,631.
According to RepairPal:
Mazda models have an annual maintenance and repair cost of $462, while the average annual cost across all car model years is $652.
How Long Do the Brakes Last?
The CX-30’s brakes may last up to 60,000 miles for highway drivers and for city drivers 25,000 miles until the brakes may require attention. There is a wide range for break life expectancy.
- You can expect your brakes to wear out sooner if you frequently stop and accelerate in rush-hour traffic
- Brake pad replacement, which includes parts and labor, can cost anywhere between $150 – $300 per axle.
- Full and complete stops from a high speed are the #1 cause of premature brake pad wear.
- A sporty driving style will lead to faster deterioration of brakes, a slow and steady style will help them last longer.
You may also be interested in our article: How Long Do Mazda CX-9 Last?
How Long Do the Tires Last?
Stock tires on a Mazda CX-30 usually last around 50,000 miles or 3 years, however they can wear out much sooner. This is dependent on various factors such as driving habits, climate, and road conditions.
- Rotate tires every 5,000 miles to ensure even wear.
- If you have to drive on rough or flooded roads, or go off-roading, your tires will take more of a beating.
- Check your tire pressures every few weeks to make sure they’re at the correct tire pressure.
- Have a mechanic check your wheel alignment every 6 months
How Long Do Mazda CX-30 Engines Last?
The engines of the CX-30 will typically last 200,000 – 250,000 miles or 13 – 16 years. This can vary drastically depending on maintenance and the overall care of the vehicle.
If you take good care of your Mazda there’s no reason why these mileages can’t be exceeded.
How Long Do Mazda CX-30 Batteries Last?
The Mazda CX-30 battery usually lasts between 3-5 years. A vehicle’s battery life varies depending on factors such as climate, driving habits, the type of battery, and more.
- Keep your battery tightly fastened: The vibrations of your car can loosen the connections, potentially resulting in short circuits and internal damage.
- Limit short rides: Quick car rides prevent the battery from fully charging.
- Storage: Keep your Kona stored indoors away from extreme changes in temperature.
- Control Corrosion: Clean the terminals (toothbrush dipped in baking soda and water mixture) and keep them free from build-up.
How Long Do the Spark Plugs Last?
Mazda CX-30 spark plugs can last 100,000 miles though some may last as long as 120,000 miles.
Spark plugs are usually inspected, and if needed, replaced when you go for routine maintenance.
Signs of a fouled spark plug include:
- Reduced gas mileage
- Lack of acceleration
- Rough idling
- Hard starts
- Engine misfires
What About Insurance Cost?
A CX-30’s average cost for full comprehensive coverage is $1,290 per year, or $108 per month. In comparison, its segment competitors cost an average of $1,366 per year to insure which works out at $114 per month.
Insurance costs can vary from person to person; be sure to shop around to find the best possible deal.
Tips to Prolong the Life of Your Mazda CX-30
- Adopt smooth driving habits.
- Keep up to date with factory-recommended maintenance.
- Use quality parts and fluids.
- Keep on top of repairs to prevent them from developing into larger problems.
- Regularly wash your CX-30 to remove dirt and grime to protect the paint and undercarriage from rust developing.
- Check your CX-30s engine oil, coolant, brake, and transmission fluid levels and top them up when required.
- Keep your CX-30 in a garage to help protect it from the elements.
- Read the owner’s manual to learn the location of important components, what your Kona needs and what quantity and to understand the symbols and dashboard warning lights.
Resources
https://www.kbb.com/mazda/cx-30/
https://www.mazdausa.com/vehicles/cx-30
https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2021/mazda/cx-30
https://www.cars.com/research/mazda-cx_30/recalls/
https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/mazda/cx-30-4-door-suv/2021
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Hyundai/Kona/
https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2021/hyundai/kona
https://enginepatrol.com/how-long-do-audi-q5-last/
https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2021/kia/soul
https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2021/subaru/crosstrek
https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2021/mazda/cx-30
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-best-cars-top-picks-2021/
https://www.topgear.com.ph/news/car-news/mazda-2020-red-dot-awards-a4354-20200402
https://www.caranddriver.com/mazda/cx-30
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Mazda/CX-30/
https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/rankings/subcompact-suvs