Market Position:
The Mazda 3 (2nd Generation) continued its strong presence in the compact car segment, renowned for its sporty handling, stylish design, and perceived quality. It competed with vehicles like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, and Volkswagen Golf.
Competitive Analysis:
The 2008 model year marked the latter part of the first-generation Mazda 3, which was well-received for its driving dynamics. This manual covers the transition year, offering vital support for owners of this popular vehicle.
Key Features:
Sporty driving experience, versatile hatchback and sedan body styles, efficient engines, upscale interior design for its class, and Mazda's Zoom-Zoom driving philosophy.
Engine Options:
Availability of economical 2.0L and more powerful 2.3L MZR engines, with the potent 2.3L DISI Turbo for the Mazdaspeed3 variant.
Coverage Areas:
Complete maintenance and repair procedures for all systems and components of the 2008 Mazda 3 (2nd Generation).
Page Count:
Estimated 1000-1500 pages (typical for a comprehensive service manual)
Estimated Sections:
Over 20 major sections covering all vehicle systems.
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF, downloadable)
Systems Covered:
Engine (MPI, DISI), Transmission (Manual, Automatic), Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes (ABS, DSC), Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Electrical System (including wiring diagrams), Climate Control, Body & Chassis, Interior Components, SRS Airbag System, Immobilizer System, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and Troubleshooting.
Chassis And Body Repair:
Includes procedures for body panel alignment, frame straightening (if applicable), door and latch adjustments, and interior trim removal/installation.
Safety Systems:
Detailed coverage of airbag deployment, seatbelt pre-tensioners, and SRS system diagnostics.
Procedures Included:
Scheduled maintenance, routine servicing, component removal and installation, disassembly and assembly, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting, repair techniques, specifications, torque values, diagnostic tool usage, wiring diagrams, and component testing.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all systems, aiding in troubleshooting electrical faults.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Step-by-step guides for diagnosing and resolving common and uncommon problems across all vehicle systems.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes and filter replacements to complex engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnostics, and body repair.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes:
Includes a comprehensive listing of DTCs, their meanings, and diagnostic flowcharts for identifying root causes.
Primary Engine:
2.3L MZR I4 (L3-VE)
Horsepower 2 3L:
156-167 hp (depending on trim and market)
Torque 2 3L:
150-154 lb-ft
Horsepower Mazdaspeed3:
263 hp (Mazdaspeed3)
Torque Mazdaspeed3:
280 lb-ft (Mazdaspeed3)
Fuel System:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine Variants Covered:
Includes information for the 2.0L MZR I4 (FE-DE/LF-VE) and the 2.3L MZR I4 (L3-VE), and potentially early information on the 2.3L MZR DISI Turbo (L3-VDT) found in the Mazdaspeed3.
Mazdaspeed3 Engine Variant Covered:
Likely includes information for the 2.3L MZR DISI Turbo (L3-VDT) found in the Mazdaspeed3 variant, offering performance tuning and repair data.
Standard Transmission:
5-speed manual transmission
Optional Transmission:
5-speed automatic transmission (FWD)
Transmission Features:
Sport Shift for automatic transmission in some trims, manual transmission with clutch operation and gear selection.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:
Mazda ATF JWS3309 or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil
Length:
Approx. 176.6 inches (sedan), 173.0 inches (hatchback)
Width:
Approx. 69.1 inches
Height:
Approx. 57.7 inches (sedan), 57.1 inches (hatchback)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,000 - 3,200 lbs (depending on configuration)
Cargo Volume Hatchback:
Approx. 15.7 cu ft (rear seats up)
Cargo Volume Sedan:
Approx. 14.0 cu ft
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5 Stars
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5 Stars
IIHS Front Offset Moderate Overlap:
Good
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) on some trims.
Passive Features:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags, active front head restraints, pretensioner seatbelts.
Infotainment Features:
Available Bose premium audio system, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, CD player, MP3 capability, auxiliary audio input jack.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, available fog lights, automatic climate control on higher trims.
Connectivity Features:
Bluetooth hands-free phone system (available on some trims), USB integration (less common on this year).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (whichever comes first), depending on driving conditions and oil used. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on spark plug type: standard, platinum, iridium).
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-20,000 miles or annually.
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-20 (API SN or higher)
Coolant Spec:
Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (FL22) or equivalent (ethylene glycol-based, long-life, green or blue)
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
Dexron III/Mercon compatible ATF or specific Mazda power steering fluid.
Clutch Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 brake fluid
Common Issues:
Rust formation (especially on rear fenders and rocker panels), potential for oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan, occasional transmission issues (automatic), power steering pump noise, exhaust system corrosion, and minor electrical gremlins.
Engine Oil Capacity 2 3L:
Approx. 4.8 quarts (with filter)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 6.1 quarts
Brand Heritage:
Mazda has a long history of producing reliable and engaging vehicles, often emphasizing driving pleasure ('Zoom-Zoom'). Their focus on innovative engineering and distinctive design has been a hallmark.
Model Evolution:
The Mazda 3, introduced for the 2004 model year, was Mazda's successful entry into the compact segment, replacing the Mazda Protegé. The 2008 model year is part of the first generation (BK), which received a significant facelift for 2007. The second generation (BL) began for the 2009 model year.
Facelift Details:
The 2007 facelift of the first-generation Mazda 3 included revised front and rear styling, updated interior materials, and improved features.
Production Years:
First Generation (BK): 2003-2008. The 2008 model year is the final year for this generation in most markets.
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan (Hofu Plant), North America (AutoAlliance International, Flat Rock, Michigan - for some markets).
Recognitions:
The first-generation Mazda 3, including models like the 2008, received numerous accolades, including being named to Car and Driver's 10Best list multiple times for its class-leading handling and value.
Ratings:
Consistently received good ratings from automotive journalists and consumer organizations for performance, design, and reliability within its segment.
