Market Segment:
Compact car, C-segment, often positioned as a sporty and driver-focused alternative
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf, Subaru Impreza
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its 'Zoom-Zoom' driving philosophy, responsive handling, and engaging driving experience
Design:
Sporty exterior styling and a well-appointed interior for its class
Value For Owner:
Empowers owners and independent mechanics to perform maintenance and repairs accurately and efficiently, reducing reliance on dealerships.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, valve train, timing belt/chain, lubrication system, cooling system
Engine Management:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, engine control module (ECM) diagnostics and programming
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, gear shifting mechanisms, transmission assembly, bearings, seals
Transmission Automatic:
Torque converter, planetary gear sets, hydraulic control systems, transmission control module (TCM) diagnostics and programming
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, axles, drive shafts, CV joints, rear differential (if applicable)
Suspension:
Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings), rear suspension (independent/semi-independent, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings)
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic/electric), steering rack, tie rods, steering column, wheel alignment specifications
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (discs/drums), hydraulic lines, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS, EBD, DSC system diagnostics
Electrical System:
12V battery system, charging system (alternator), starting system, fuse box diagrams, wiring diagrams, lighting systems
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, frame specifications, corrosion prevention, interior trim
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater core, climate control module, refrigerant, troubleshooting
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seat belt pretensioners, SRS module diagnostics
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, spark plug replacement
Diagnostic Procedures:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) system, trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment
Troubleshooting:
Detailed guides for diagnosing and resolving common and uncommon faults
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners across various systems
Depth:
Comprehensive (covering basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission overhauls)
Engine 2.0L:
MZR LF-VE, 2.0-liter DOHC Inline-4, approximately 148 hp @ 6500 rpm, 135 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Engine 2.3L:
MZR L3-VE, 2.3-liter DOHC Inline-4, approximately 156 hp @ 6500 rpm, 144 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Engine 2.3L Turbo Mps:
MZR DISI Turbo L3-VDT, 2.3-liter turbocharged Direct Injection Spark Ignition Inline-4, approximately 263 hp @ 5500 rpm, 280 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (Mazdaspeed model)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for all variants; Direct Injection for the turbocharged DISI engine
Emission Control:
Catalytic converter, Oxygen (O2) sensors, Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP) system
Length:
Approx. 4580-4595 mm (179.9-180.9 in) depending on body style (sedan/hatchback)
Width:
Approx. 1755 mm (69.1 in)
Height:
Approx. 1470-1485 mm (57.9-58.5 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2640 mm (103.9 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1300-1500 kg (2866-3307 lbs) depending on configuration
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle's VIN plate/documentation
NHTSA Rating:
Typically 4 or 5 stars in frontal and side impact tests (may vary by specific test and year)
IIHS Rating:
Often received 'Good' ratings in crashworthiness tests
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brakeforce Distribution
Dsc TCS:
Optional Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, side-impact airbags, curtain airbags (availability depends on trim level)
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific Severe vs. Normal duty cycles.
Air Filter Replacement:
Approximately every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Iridium plugs typically last 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km); consult manual for specific type and interval.
Coolant Flush:
Every 45,000-60,000 miles (72,000-96,000 km) or 3-4 years
Engine Oil Specification:
API SN, ILSAC GF-5; Viscosity: 0W-20 is commonly recommended, check manual for engine variant specifics.
Coolant Specification:
Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (FL22), a green ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual; typically ATF Dexron-III or specific Mazda power steering fluid.
Oil Consumption:
Some reports of increased oil consumption in higher mileage vehicles, especially with certain engine variants. Regular checks are advised.
Clutch Wear:
Manual transmission clutches can wear over time, particularly with aggressive driving. Clutch pedal engagement issues may indicate wear.
Suspension Bushings:
Worn control arm bushings or sway bar bushings can lead to clunking noises and compromised handling.
Evaporative Emissions System:
Faulty EVAP purge valves or canister issues can trigger check engine lights.
Rust Corrosion:
Potential for rust formation in wheel wells, rocker panels, and around the rear hatch on vehicles operated in harsh climates. Regular washing and undercoating can help.
Mazda Philosophy:
Mazda is known for its engineering prowess, focus on driving dynamics ('Jinba Ittai' - horse and rider as one), and distinctive rotary engine history.
Mazda3 Generation Context:
The 2010 model year falls within the second generation (BL, 2008-2013) of the Mazda 3, which succeeded the highly popular first generation (BK, 2003-2008).
Second Generation Updates:
The BL generation featured revised styling, improved aerodynamics, enhanced safety features, and updated powertrains compared to its predecessor.
Assembly Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan (Hofu) and also in other Mazda global facilities.