🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

Mazda3

Model Generation:

Third Generation (BM/BN)

Model Years Covered:

2014, 2015

Chassis Code:

BM (Sedan/Hatchback)

Chassis Code Variant:

BN (Hatchback for some markets)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact car (C-segment)

Key Selling Points:

Stylish 'KODO – Soul of Motion' design language, engaging driving dynamics (Jinba Ittai - horse and rider as one), fuel-efficient Skyactiv technologies, premium interior feel.

Key Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, Subaru Impreza, Hyundai Elantra.

Design Philosophy:

KODO design, emphasizing dynamism, elegance, and a sculpted form.

Drivetrain Technology:

Skyactiv-G engines offer excellent balance of power and fuel economy; Skyactiv-Drive transmissions provide smooth and responsive gear changes.

Driving Dynamics:

Lightweight chassis, responsive steering, and finely tuned suspension contribute to Mazda's reputation for enjoyable driving.

📋 Manual Details

Engines Covered:

2.0L Skyactiv-G (PE-VPS), 2.5L Skyactiv-G (PY-VPS)

Transmissions Covered:

6-speed SKYACTIV-Drive automatic, 6-speed SKYACTIV-MT manual

Body Styles Covered:

4-door Sedan, 5-door Hatchback

Regions Covered:

Global (varies slightly by regional specifications)

Estimated Page Count:

Over 2000 pages (typical for comprehensive factory manuals)

Type:

Factory Service Workshop Manual

Purpose:

Repair, diagnostics, maintenance, specifications

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain Engine:

Engine mechanical (Skyactiv-G 2.0L PE-VPS, 2.5L PY-VPS), lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, emissions, engine control system (ECU/PCM), starting and charging system.

Powertrain Transmission:

SKYACTIV-Drive automatic transmission, SKYACTIV-MT manual transmission, transaxle, clutch, driveshafts, differential.

Chassis Suspension:

Front suspension (MacPherson strut), rear suspension (Multi-link), steering system (Electric Power Steering - EPS), wheel alignment specifications.

Chassis Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system components and diagnostics.

Electrical Body:

Body electrical systems, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), wipers, horn, power windows, power locks, mirrors, seats, sunroof, instrument cluster, gauges, warning lights.

Electrical HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, climate control, refrigerant servicing.

Electrical Infotainment:

Mazda Connect infotainment system, audio system, navigation system, Bluetooth, USB connectivity, backup camera.

Safety Restraints:

Airbag system (SRS - Supplemental Restraint System), seat belts, pre-tensioners, impact sensors.

Driver Assistance:

i-ACTIVSENSE features (e.g., Blind Spot Monitoring - BSM, Rear Cross Traffic Alert - RCTA, Smart City Brake Support - SCBS, Lane Departure Warning System - LDWS - if equipped).

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement, tire rotation.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) explanation, circuit diagrams, wiring schematics, diagnostic procedures for all major systems.

Repair Overhaul:

Engine overhaul procedures, transmission disassembly/assembly, brake caliper/rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, steering rack replacement, body panel repair/replacement, interior trim removal/installation.

Component Replacement:

Detailed instructions for replacing common wear items and major components such as alternators, starters, water pumps, radiators, fuel pumps, sensors, actuators.

Calibration Reset:

Procedures for resetting service indicators, calibration of electronic systems (e.g., steering angle sensor, throttle body), battery replacement procedures.

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic trees and electrical schematics.

Target Audience:

Professional dealership technicians, independent repair shops, experienced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text (OCR enhanced)

Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or sections.

Type:

Not Applicable (Digital)

Type:

Not Applicable (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

PE-VPS

Displacement 1:

2.0 Liters (1998 cc)

Configuration 1:

Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve, Dual S-VT (Sequential Valve Timing)

Compression Ratio 1:

13.0:1

Power Output 1:

Approx. 155 hp @ 6000 rpm (varies by market)

Torque 1:

Approx. 150 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (varies by market)

Engine Code 2:

PY-VPS

Displacement 2:

2.5 Liters (2488 cc)

Configuration 2:

Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve, Dual S-VT

Compression Ratio 2:

13.0:1

Power Output 2:

Approx. 184 hp @ 5700 rpm (varies by market)

Torque 2:

Approx. 185 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm (varies by market)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Direct Injection (DI) with Stratified Charge

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (Premium recommended for optimal performance, especially for 2.5L)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

6-speed SKYcdot-Drive automatic transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

6-speed SKYcdot-MT manual transmission

Automatic Features:

Lock-up torque converter, wide gear ratio spread, optimized shift patterns for fuel efficiency and responsiveness.

Manual Features:

Lightweight construction, short-throw shifter, close gear ratios for sporty feel.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Mazda Genuine ATF FZ (or equivalent meeting Mazda specification)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Mazda Genuine Gear Oil GL-4 75W-80 (or equivalent meeting Mazda specification)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 179.7 inches (4565 mm)

Width:

Approx. 70.7 inches (1796 mm)

Height:

Approx. 57.4 inches (1458 mm)

Length:

Approx. 169.1 inches (4295 mm)

Width:

Approx. 70.7 inches (1796 mm)

Height:

Approx. 57.3 inches (1455 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 106.3 inches (2700 mm)

Standard Tire Size:

205/60R16 (2.0L), 215/45R18 (2.5L - typically)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)

Wheel Size:

16-inch or 18-inch alloy

Cargo Volume Sedan:

Approx. 12.4 cu ft (351 L)

Cargo Volume Hatchback:

Approx. 21.7 cu ft (614 L) with rear seats up

Curb Weight Approx:

3000 - 3200 lbs (1360 - 1450 kg) depending on engine and trim

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

5-Star (for models equipped with specific safety features)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Top Safety Pick+ (for models meeting specific headlight and front crash prevention criteria)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Esc:

Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCS)

Driver Assistance Optional:

Available i-ACTIVSENSE suite: Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Smart City Brake Support (SCBS), Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), Radar Cruise Control (MRCC).

Airbags:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags (front and rear), driver's knee airbag.

Seat Belts:

3-point ELR seat belts with pre-tensioners and load limiters for all seating positions, LATCH child seat anchors.

💡 Technology Features

System Name:

Mazda Connect

Display Size:

7-inch touchscreen (typically)

Control Interface:

Commander Control knob, steering wheel controls, voice commands.

Features Standard:

AM/FM/HD radio, USB inputs, auxiliary audio input, Bluetooth connectivity for phone and audio streaming, Pandora integration (market dependent).

Features Optional:

Navigation system, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Bose premium audio system.

Suite Name:

i-ACTIVSENSE

Standard Features:

Rearview camera (standard on most trims).

Available Features:

Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Smart City Brake Support (SCBS) - forward and sometimes reverse, Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS), High Beam Control (HBC), Radar Cruise Control (MRCC).

Bluetooth:

Standard for hands-free calling and audio streaming.

Usb Ports:

Typically 1 or 2 USB ports for media playback and device charging.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, using Mazda Genuine Synthetic Oil or equivalent.

Tire Rotation:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed (often around 30,000 miles).

Cabin Air Filter:

Replace every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.

Spark Plugs:

Iridium type, typically recommended for replacement around 75,000 miles (120,000 km).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 0W-20 Synthetic (Mazda Genuine Ultra Green Oil or equivalent meeting API SN, ILSAC GF-5)

Coolant Type:

Mazda Genuine Long Life Coolant (FL22) - Blue color (or equivalent HOAT - Hybrid Organic Acid Technology)

Brake Fluid Type:

FMVSS No. 116 DOT 3 or DOT 4

Windshield Washer Fluid:

Mazda Genuine Washer Fluid or equivalent

Engine Performance:

Generally reliable, but some owners report occasional carbon buildup on intake valves in direct-injection engines, potentially requiring cleaning at higher mileage.

Transmission:

Skyactiv-Drive transmissions are typically robust. Some infrequent reports of minor shifting anomalies, but generally few widespread issues.

Electrical:

Minor issues like battery drain (especially with aftermarket accessories) or occasional infotainment system glitches have been reported, though not widespread.

Suspension Steering:

Some early models might experience minor suspension noise; check for loose components or worn bushings. EPS system generally reliable.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Philosophy:

Mazda is known for its focus on driving pleasure ('Jinba Ittai'), innovative engineering (e.g., rotary engines, Skyactiv technology), and distinctive design.

Mazda3 Lineage:

The Mazda3, introduced in 2003, replaced the Mazda Protégé and quickly established itself as a sporty and stylish compact car.

Third Gen Introduction:

The third generation (BM/BN) debuted for the 2014 model year, significantly updating the styling, interior, and introducing the full suite of Skyactiv technologies.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Japan (Hofu) and Mexico, with assembly plants in other regions depending on market.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Award:

Frequent recipient of IIHS Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ awards for its generation, depending on specific safety feature configuration.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Consistently rated well by Consumer Reports for predicted reliability and owner satisfaction, particularly for driving dynamics.

Car And Driver 10Best:

Mazda models, including the Mazda3, are often recognized by publications like Car and Driver for their driving pleasure and value.

Emissions Standards:

Complies with relevant EPA and CARB emissions standards for the respective model years.