Vehicle Segment:
Compact/Sport Compact
Positioning Statement:
The Mazda3 and its high-performance variant, the Mazdaspeed3, represented Mazda's commitment to 'Zoom-Zoom' driving dynamics within the highly competitive compact car segment.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic Si, Volkswagen GTI, Subaru WRX, Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart/Evolution.
Mazda3 Strengths:
Sharp handling, stylish design, refined interior, fuel efficiency (standard models).
Mazdaspeed3 Strengths:
Potent turbocharged engine, aggressive styling, performance-oriented suspension, sport seats, limited-slip differential.
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, performance enthusiasts, owners seeking in-depth maintenance and repair knowledge.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts, timing system, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection, ignition system (for both naturally aspirated and turbocharged engines).
Engine Performance:
Turbocharger system (for Mazdaspeed3), boost control, intercooler, ECU tuning (diagnostic aspects).
Transmission:
Manual transmission (MT) and Automatic transmission (AT) service, repair, overhaul, clutch system, differential, drivetrain components.
Brakes:
Brake system components, hydraulic systems, ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake rotor and pad replacement, caliper service, parking brake.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings), steering system, power steering, wheel alignment specifications.
Electrical Electronics:
Wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrument cluster, power windows, door locks, mirrors, audio system, climate control ECU.
Body Chassis:
Body panel repair, door, hood, trunk, bumper removal/installation, interior trim, structural components, rust prevention.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator).
Safety Restraints:
Airbag system diagnosis, SRS components, seat belt service.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, brake pad replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, common fault identification, wiring diagram interpretation.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major vehicle systems, including engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, electrical diagnostics and repair.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing, actuator testing, ECU diagnostic procedures.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics).
Mazda3 Engine Mzr 2 5L:
2.5L naturally aspirated inline-4 (L5-VE), DOHC, 16 valves, variable valve timing (S-VT).
Mazdaspeed3 Engine Mzr 2 3L Turbo:
2.3L turbocharged MZR DISI direct-injection inline-4 (L3-VDT).
Mazda3 2 5L Hp:
167 hp @ 6000 rpm
Mazda3 2 5L Torque:
168 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Mazdaspeed3 2 3L Turbo Hp:
263 hp @ 5500 rpm
Mazdaspeed3 2 3L Turbo Torque:
280 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Mazda3 Fuel System:
Electronic Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Mazdaspeed3 Fuel System:
Direct Injection (DISI) with turbocharging
Fuel Requirement Mazda3:
87 Octane (Recommended)
Fuel Requirement Mazdaspeed3:
91 Octane (Premium Unleaded Required)
Transmission Type Mazda3:
6-speed Manual Transmission (M5-NP1 for early models, potentially others)
Transmission Type Mazda3 Auto:
5-speed Automatic Transmission (FS5A-EL/FW5A-EL)
Transmission Type Mazdaspeed3:
6-speed Manual Transmission (MZR MMT6)
Limited Slip Differential:
Yes (Standard on Mazdaspeed3)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific GL-4 or GL-5 specification, and viscosity (e.g., 75W-90).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mazda ATF-SP-III or equivalent.
Length Overall:
Approximately 176.8 - 177.1 inches (4491 - 4498 mm) depending on model/trim
Width Overall:
Approximately 69.1 - 70.1 inches (1755 - 1780 mm) depending on model/trim
Height Overall:
Approximately 57.9 - 58.7 inches (1470 - 1491 mm) depending on model/trim
Curb Weight Estimate:
Approx. 3000-3300 lbs (1360-1500 kg) for Mazda3, Approx. 3100-3350 lbs (1406-1520 kg) for Mazdaspeed3
Wheelbase:
Approximately 103.9 inches (2640 mm)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5 x 114.3 mm (5 x 4.5 inches)
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-Star (for driver and passenger) for 2010-2011 models (typical).
IIHS Front Crash Test:
Good (for 2010-2011 models).
IIHS Side Impact Test:
Good (for 2010-2011 models).
Traction Control:
Standard on most trims, advanced DSC on Mazdaspeed3.
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution:
EBD (Standard)
Brake Assist:
BA (Standard)
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags (standard on most trims).
Seatbelts:
Pretensioners and load limiters for front seats.
Infotainment System:
Mazda's optional Bose audio system, SiriusXM satellite radio, CD player, MP3 input, Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio streaming (on higher trims).
Adaptive Front Lighting System:
AFS (Optional, on higher trims and specific packages).
Keyless Entry Start:
Push-button start and keyless entry (Optional/Higher Trims).
Bluetooth:
Standard on many trims for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (typical, consult manual for exact recommendation).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (typical).
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (typical).
Spark Plug Replacement 2 5L:
Approximately 75,000 miles (NGK Iridium type, refer to manual for part number).
Spark Plug Replacement 2 3L Turbo:
Approximately 45,000 miles (NGK Iridium type, specific heat range crucial).
Engine Oil Type Mazda3:
SAE 5W-20, API SN/SP or ILSAC GF-5/GF-6 (Consult manual for exact spec).
Engine Oil Type Mazdaspeed3:
SAE 5W-30 or 0W-30 Full Synthetic, API SN/SP or ILSAC GF-5/GF-6 (Higher viscosity recommended due to turbocharging).
Coolant Type:
Mazda FL22 Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Green) or equivalent HOAT coolant.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (Consult manual).
Clutch Wear Mazdaspeed3:
Early clutch wear can be an issue for aggressively driven Mazdaspeed3 models.
Turbocharger Oil Feed Line:
Potential for oil coking/blockage in the turbo oil feed line on Mazdaspeed3 if maintenance is neglected or hot shutdown practices are not followed.
Engine Mounts:
Some reports of premature engine mount wear on both models, particularly the passenger side mount.
Power Steering Pump:
Occasional reports of power steering pump noise or failure.
