Positioning:
The MazdaSpeed 3 (also known as Mazdaspeed3) is a high-performance, sport compact hatchback designed to compete in the enthusiast segment, offering a blend of practicality and exhilarating driving dynamics.
Competitors:
Key competitors during its era included the Volkswagen GTI, Subaru WRX, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (though typically more expensive), and the Honda Civic Si.
Performance Focus:
Emphasizes powerful turbocharged engine, sport-tuned suspension, and responsive handling for spirited driving.
Practicality:
Offers hatchback versatility with usable rear seating and cargo space, making it a practical daily driver for performance enthusiasts.
Engine And Powertrain:
Operation, break-in procedures, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system (including high-pressure direct injection), ignition system, turbocharger operation, exhaust system.
Transmission And Drivetrain:
Operation of the 6-speed manual transmission, clutch operation, all-wheel drive system (if applicable to this generation's specific models, though typically FWD for Speed3), differential, drive shafts.
Brakes:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), brake fluid type, basic brake care and inspection.
Steering And Suspension:
Power steering system, suspension components (front struts, rear multi-link), wheel alignment basics.
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses and relays, power windows, central locking, keyless entry.
Climate Control:
Air conditioning system, heater, ventilation, recirculation modes, cabin air filter replacement.
Safety Systems:
Airbags (front, side, curtain), seat belts (pre-tensioners), child restraint systems (ISOFIX/LATCH), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Traction Control System (TCS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC).
Infotainment And Accessories:
Audio system operation, CD player, radio, auxiliary input (if equipped), instrument cluster and indicators, trip computer, power outlets.
Basic Maintenance:
Checking and topping up fluids (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure checks and adjustments, bulb replacement, wiper blade replacement, engine air filter inspection/replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Understanding warning lights and messages on the instrument cluster, basic diagnostic tips for common issues.
Operation:
Detailed instructions on operating all vehicle features, including engine start/stop, gear shifting, lighting controls, climate control, infotainment, and safety systems.
Emergency Procedures:
Jumping a dead battery, changing a flat tire, engine overheating, brake system issues, what to do in case of an accident.
Depth:
Owner-level operation, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting. Does not contain detailed repair procedures, diagnostic codes, or factory service manual-level technical data for component replacement or advanced diagnostics.
Type:
6-Speed Manual Transmission
Type:
None available for the Speed3 model.
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios vary by gear, designed for performance. Manual provides general usage instructions, not specific ratios.
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch.
Fluid Type:
Refer to manual for specific manual transmission fluid (MTF) specification, typically a GL-4 rated gear oil.
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
5-Star (for driver and front passenger, 2007 model)
NHTSA Side Crash Rating:
4-Star (for front and rear passengers, 2007 model)
IIHS Front Offset Score:
Good (for 2007-2009 models)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with integrated TCS
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear side-curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts with pre-tensioners and load limiters for front seats, three-point seat belts for rear seats.
Child Safety:
Rear door child safety locks, ISOFIX/LATCH lower anchor points for child seats.
Tpms:
Standard Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) with dashboard indicator.
Audio System:
Bose premium audio system with amplifier and subwoofer (optional on some trims).
Head Unit:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, auxiliary audio input jack.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control on steering wheel. No adaptive cruise control available.
Bluetooth:
Not standard on the 2007 model. Some later trims or aftermarket installations may include it.
Gauges:
Includes tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, coolant temperature gauge, and a boost gauge integrated into the center console on some models.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for severe driving conditions.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Recommended replacement around 30,000 miles or sooner if dirty.
Cabin Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Recommended replacement around 15,000-20,000 miles or sooner if airflow is reduced.
Spark Plugs:
Replace approximately every 60,000 miles (specific type dependent).
Coolant Change:
First change at 60,000 miles or 4 years, then every 30,000 miles or 2 years. Use FL22 coolant.
Brake Fluid Change:
Recommended replacement every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30, API SN or higher, ILSAC GF-5 or higher (check manual for exact OEM spec, often a full synthetic recommended for turbo).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 5.4 US quarts (5.1 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Mazda Genuine FL22 Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (blue)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mazda Genuine ATF-HP or equivalent (check manual for precise specification).
Engine Oil Consumption:
Some early models may experience higher than average oil consumption; regular checks are vital.
Clutch And Flywheel:
Can be prone to wear under aggressive driving conditions; some owners report premature clutch failure.
Turbocharger Lines:
Oil feed and return lines for the turbocharger can develop leaks over time.
Engine Mounts:
Performance-oriented mounts can stiffen and wear, leading to increased vibration or noise.
Fuel Injectors:
Direct injection system requires specialized injectors, which can be susceptible to carbon buildup or failure.
Corrosion:
As with many vehicles of this age, rust can be an issue, particularly on the undercarriage and wheel wells in areas with road salt.
Mazda Performance History:
Mazda has a long history of building engaging and driver-focused vehicles, from the rotary-powered RX-7 to the Miata. The 'Mazdaspeed' nameplate signifies a factory-tuned performance variant.
Mazda3 Generation:
The first generation Mazda3 (BK) was produced from 2003 to 2008. The Mazdaspeed3 variant was introduced for the 2007 model year.
Mazdaspeed3 Generation 1:
The first-generation Mazdaspeed3 (BK) was based on the standard Mazda3 platform but featured a significantly upgraded turbocharged engine, sport-tuned suspension, and distinct aerodynamic styling.
Manufacturing Location:
Hofu, Yamaguchi, Japan