Segment:
Compact/Sport Compact
Target Audience:
Enthusiast drivers, budget-conscious buyers seeking sportiness and reliability
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic Si, Volkswagen GTI, Subaru Impreza WRX, Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart/Evolution
Distinguishing Features:
Engaging driving dynamics, distinctive styling, available turbocharged performance (MazdaSpeed 3)
Mazda3 Features:
Balanced handling, comfortable ride, refined interior for its class, good fuel economy
Mazdaspeed3 Features:
Turbocharged 2.3L DISI engine, limited-slip differential, aggressive styling, significantly enhanced performance
Engine Mechanical:
Cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing system, lubrication, cooling system
Engine Performance Controls:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, engine management systems (ECU), sensors, actuators
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox assembly, shift mechanism, final drive, fluid specifications
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transaxle assembly, valve body, torque converter, control systems, fluid specifications
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, CV joints, differentials, AWD system (if applicable)
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, calipers, rotors, pads, ABS, EBD, parking brake, bleeding procedures
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, springs, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic or electric), steering rack, tie rods, column, alignment
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), horn, wipers, washers
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, glass, seals, structural components, anti-corrosion protection
HVAC:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, blower motor, evaporator, condenser, refrigerant charging
Interior Trim:
Dashboard, seats, carpets, door panels, headliner, trim pieces, airbags
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seatbelt pre-tensioners, SRS module, diagnostics
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
OBD-II codes, diagnostic procedures, wiring diagrams, component testing
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, brake inspections
Major Repairs:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension replacement, brake system repair
Component Replacement:
Alternator, starter, water pump, fuel pump, sensors, actuators, body panels
Troubleshooting Guides:
System-specific symptom analysis and repair pathways
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems
Specifications Data:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, alignment angles
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of manufacturer-specific or specialized tools required for repairs
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to in-depth mechanical and electrical diagnostics and repair
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced troubleshooting for engine, transmission, ABS, SRS, and other electronic modules
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed instructions for engine and transmission disassembly, inspection, and reassembly
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-Star (2007 Mazda 3)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-Star (2007 Mazda 3)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:
5-Star (2007 Mazda 3)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:
5-Star (2007 Mazda 3)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Driver:
5-Star (2007 Mazda 3)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:
5-Star (2007 Mazda 3)
IIHS Front Offset Good:
Good (2007 Mazda 3)
IIHS Side Impact Good:
Good (2007 Mazda 3)
IIHS Rear Impact Good:
Good (2007 Mazda 3)
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) - standard on some trims and MazdaSpeed 3
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) - optional or standard on higher trims/MazdaSpeed 3
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags (standard on some, optional on others)
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters
Child Safety Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (check owner's manual for exact details based on driving conditions)
Air Filter Replacement:
Typically every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection
Spark Plug Replacement:
Platinum-tipped plugs: approx. 100,000 miles (160,000 km); Iridium-tipped plugs: approx. 100,000 miles (160,000 km) (check specific engine and plug type)
Coolant Replacement:
Initial change at 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) thereafter
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: Inspect periodically, replace as needed ( Mazda recommends checking); Automatic: Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or under severe conditions
Engine Oil Type Mazda3:
SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 API SM (check owner's manual for exact specification and capacity)
Engine Oil Type Mazdaspeed3:
SAE 5W-30 API SM or SN (check owner's manual for exact specification and capacity, often recommended synthetic)
Coolant Type:
Mazda Long Life Coolant (FL22) or equivalent G12/G12+ based coolant (ethylene glycol/silicate-free)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mazda ATF JWS 3309 or equivalent (e.g., Toyota Type T-IV)
Clutch Wear:
Accelerated clutch wear in some MazdaSpeed 3 models due to aggressive driving and torque output
Engine Carbon Buildup:
Potential for carbon buildup on intake valves, especially in direct-injection engines (MazdaSpeed 3), requiring periodic cleaning
Rust Corrosion:
Rust issues can affect wheel wells, rocker panels, and subframes, particularly in areas with road salt
Timing Chain Tensioner:
Some reports of timing chain tensioner wear or failure on older MZR engines, though less common in this generation
Power Steering Pump:
Potential for power steering pump leaks or failure on hydraulic systems
Engine Mounts:
Wear or failure of engine mounts can lead to increased vibration and noise
