Segment:
Compact Car / Sport Compact
Target Audience:
Enthusiast drivers, DIY mechanics, professional technicians
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic Si, Volkswagen GTI, Subaru Impreza WRX, Ford Focus ST
Mazdaspeed Focus:
Performance-oriented variant with turbocharged engine, sport-tuned suspension, and upgraded brakes
Handling Dynamics:
Renowned for 'Jinba Ittai' (horse and rider as one) driving feel, responsive steering, and balanced chassis
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides OEM-level accuracy and detail for efficient and correct vehicle maintenance and repair, saving time and money.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete disassembly, assembly, diagnosis, and repair of all engine variants (MZR, DISI Turbo)
Engine Management:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, ECU diagnostics, sensor functions
Transmission Manual:
Disassembly, assembly, diagnosis, and repair of manual transmissions
Transmission Automatic:
Disassembly, assembly, diagnosis, and repair of automatic transmissions
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, axles, CV joints, differentials
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment procedures, shock absorbers, springs, control arms
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic), steering rack, steering column, diagnosis and repair
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS, EBD, brake pads, rotors, calipers, lines, master cylinder, troubleshooting
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, wipers, horn, power windows, power locks
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, dashboard, trim, sound deadening
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, refrigerant, diagnosis, and repair
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seat belts, SRS module diagnosis
Diagnostics:
OBD-II procedures, trouble code interpretation, diagnostic scan tool usage
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation
Component Replacement:
Detailed steps for replacing all major and minor components
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon faults
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance, pressure specifications
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems
Technical Service Bulletins:
Likely includes information that would be found in TSBs, though not explicitly stated as a separate section.
Depth:
Complete Workshop Level (from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds)
Engine Code:
MZR LF-VDS (2.0L), MZR L3-VE (2.3L)
Displacement Mazda3:
1998 cc (2.0L), 2261 cc (2.3L)
Horsepower Mazda3:
Approx. 148 hp (2.0L), Approx. 167 hp (2.3L NA)
Torque Mazda3:
Approx. 135 lb-ft (2.0L), Approx. 160 lb-ft (2.3L NA)
Primary Engine Mazdaspeed3
Engine Code:
MZR L3-VDT (2.3L DISI Turbo)
Displacement Mazdaspeed3:
2261 cc (2.3L)
Horsepower Mazdaspeed3:
263 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque Mazdaspeed3:
280 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium recommended for Mazdaspeed3)
Injection Type:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for NA engines, Direct Injection Spark Ignition (DISI) for Mazdaspeed3
Turbocharger:
Yes (Mazdaspeed3 only, Mitsubishi TD04-15G or similar)
Mazda3 Standard:
5-speed manual (GX), 6-speed manual (GT)
Mazda3 Optional:
5-speed automatic (GX, GT)
Mazdaspeed3 Transmission:
6-speed manual
Limited Slip Differential:
Yes (Helical Type, Mazdaspeed3)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Mazda GL-4 SAE 75W-90 (e.g., Mazda Genuine Gear Oil)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mazda ATF-Type T-IV or equivalent (e.g., Mazda Genuine ATF-Type T-IV)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5 Stars (for most configurations)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for many configurations)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution
Traction Control:
Standard (TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard (DSC - Dynamic Stability Control)
Airbags:
Front airbags, side-impact airbags, curtain airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point front and rear seat belts with pretensioners
Audio System:
Available Bose premium audio system, CD player, MP3 compatibility, auxiliary input.
Navigation:
Optional GPS navigation system.
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional, depending on trim level.
Keyless Entry:
Available keyless entry and push-button start.
Bluetooth:
Available Bluetooth hands-free connectivity.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, or per oil life monitor.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement Mazda3:
Iridium plugs typically every 75,000 miles (120,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement Mazdaspeed3:
Often recommended at shorter intervals due to performance demands, check manual for specific recommendations (e.g., 30,000-50,000 miles).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 L) for 2.0L/2.3L NA, Approx. 5.0 quarts (4.7 L) for 2.3L DISI Turbo.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
0W-20 (preferred for fuel economy and all-season use), 5W-20 also acceptable depending on climate.
Coolant Type:
Mazda FL22 Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent HOAT coolant.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Mazdaspeed3 Clutch:
Clutch wear can be accelerated with aggressive driving; some models may experience clutch chatter.
Intake Valve Carbon Buildup:
Direct injection engines (Mazdaspeed3) can be prone to intake valve deposits over time; requires specific cleaning procedures.
Engine Mounts:
Worn engine mounts can lead to increased vibration and noise, particularly in the Mazdaspeed3.
Fuel Pump Recall:
Certain models may have had fuel pump recalls; check VIN for affected vehicles.