🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

Mazda 3

Model Generation:

Second Generation (BL)

Model Year:

2010

Engine Code Variant:

MZR 2.5L DISI Turbo (for specific markets/trims) or naturally aspirated MZR 2.5L

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact/Small Family Car

Target Audience:

Enthusiast drivers, DIY mechanics, and professional automotive repair shops.

Key Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf.

Vehicle Strengths:

Engaging driving dynamics (Mazda's Zoom-Zoom philosophy), stylish design, good fuel economy, available AWD (in some trims/markets).

Manual Benefit:

Enables owners and technicians to perform accurate diagnostics, repairs, and maintenance, saving time and money while ensuring vehicle longevity and performance.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, as implied by 'complete in...')

Estimated Page Count:

Likely 1000+ pages (typical for a comprehensive factory service manual)

Manual Classification:

Official Factory Service Manual (FSM) equivalent

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions control, engine management (ECU), intake and exhaust systems, variable valve timing (VVT).

Transmission Systems:

Manual and Automatic transmission (FWD/AWD), clutch, gear shift mechanisms, transmission control module (TCM).

Drivetrain Systems:

Front and rear axle systems, drive shafts, CV joints, differentials.

Suspension Systems:

Front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, wheel bearings.

Steering Systems:

Power steering system (hydraulic or electric), steering column, tie rods, steering rack.

Brake Systems:

Front and rear brakes (disc), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), brake lines, master cylinder, brake calipers, pads, rotors.

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system, starter motor, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, multiplex communication systems.

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk lid, interior trim, seats, airbags, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system, seat belt pretensioners, active safety features (ABS, EBD, DSC/TCS).

Diagnostic Systems:

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) fault codes, diagnostic procedures, scan tool usage, sensor diagnostics.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, tire rotation.

Scheduled Maintenance:

Detailed service intervals for all major components and systems as per manufacturer recommendations.

Major Engine Repairs:

Engine disassembly and reassembly, piston and ring replacement, cylinder head service, crankshaft and bearing service, timing belt/chain replacement (if applicable).

Transmission Overhaul:

Transmission removal and installation, internal component repair, clutch replacement, torque converter service.

Brake System Repair:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, brake fluid flush and bleed, master cylinder replacement, ABS component diagnosis and replacement.

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Component replacement (struts, shocks, ball joints, tie rods), alignment specifications, power steering pump/rack replacement.

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Diagnosis of electrical faults using wiring diagrams, testing of circuits, switches, sensors, actuators, and control modules.

Bodywork And Trim Repair:

Body panel removal and installation, interior trim piece removal and installation, door hardware repair.

HVAC System Service:

Refrigerant handling, compressor replacement, evaporator and condenser service, blend door actuator diagnosis.

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, fault code interpretation, and symptom-based troubleshooting.

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive factory-level repair procedures, including detailed specifications, torque values, special tool requirements, and diagnostic flowcharts.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Advanced diagnostics for engine management, transmission control, ABS, airbags, and other electronic systems.

Repair Methodology:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, adjustment, and repair, often accompanied by exploded views and illustrations.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format) - optimized for searchability and readability.

Digital Rendering:

High-resolution digital reproduction of original manufacturer documentation, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.

Digital Access:

Downloadable file, accessible on multiple devices (PC, tablet, smartphone).

Digital Medium:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, Naturally Aspirated (MZR series)

Engine Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2488 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

87.0 mm x 103.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.7:1 (typical for this engine variant)

Valvetrain:

DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft), 16 valves, VVT (Variable Valve Timing)

Engine Code:

L5-VE

Horsepower:

Approximately 167 hp @ 6000 rpm (US Market)

Torque:

Approximately 167 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (US Market)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher recommended, check owner's manual for specific octane requirements).

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Approximately 14.5 gallons (55 liters)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

6-speed Automatic Transmission (with Sport mode/paddle shifters on some trims)

Automatic Transmission Features:

Active Adaptive Shift (AAS) control, Sequential Sport Shift

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Mazda ATF-FZ (check manual for exact specification and quantity)

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (check manual for exact specification and quantity)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 177.6 inches (4510 mm)

Width:

Approx. 69.7 inches (1770 mm)

Height:

Approx. 57.5 inches (1460 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 103.9 inches (2640 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 5.5 inches (140 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3100 - 3300 lbs (1406 - 1500 kg), varies by trim and transmission

Cargo Volume Sedan:

Approx. 11.8 cu ft (334 liters)

Cargo Volume Hatchback:

Approx. 17.7 cu ft (501 liters) behind rear seats, expandable

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:

5-Star (for driver and passenger, typically)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Yes (for many 2010 Mazda 3 models)

Active Safety Systems:

ABS, EBD, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), TCS (Traction Control System).

Passive Safety Features:

Multiple airbags (front, side, curtain), front seatbelt pretensioners, crumple zones, side-impact door beams.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Mazda's infotainment system featuring AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio, auxiliary input jack, and often Bluetooth connectivity on higher trims. Navigation system was optional.

Display Type:

Center console mounted LCD display (size varies by trim level).

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control, optional rearview camera (on some trims/packages), advanced keyless entry and start.

Connectivity Options:

Auxiliary audio input, Bluetooth (phone and audio streaming on select trims), USB port (optional).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using conventional oil); 7,500 miles or 12 months (using synthetic oil, consult manual for specific synthetic recommendations).

Air Filter Replacement Interval:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement Interval:

Every 12,000 - 15,000 miles or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Approximately 75,000 - 100,000 miles for iridium-tipped spark plugs.

Brake Fluid Flush Interval:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (consult manual for specific recommendation).

Engine Oil Type Capacity:

SAE 5W-20 (synthetic blend or full synthetic recommended), Capacity: Approx. 5.5 quarts (5.2 liters) with filter change.

Engine Coolant Type:

Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with silicate inhibitors. Capacity: Approx. 7.4 quarts (7.0 liters).

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Dexron III/Mercon ATF (or specified Mazda equivalent).

Common Problems:

Some reported issues include occasional oil consumption, potential for exhaust manifold cracks (especially on earlier models of this generation, though less common on the 2.5L), and minor electrical gremlins.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Philosophy:

Focus on driving enjoyment ('Zoom-Zoom'), innovative technology, and stylish design.

Generation Context:

The 2010 model year falls into the second generation (BL) of the Mazda 3, which debuted for the 2009 model year. It featured an updated exterior and interior design, improved safety, and refined driving dynamics over the first generation.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primary production for North America typically occurred in Hofu, Japan, and sometimes at other Mazda plants globally.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Award:

Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Top Safety Pick

Kbb Expert Review Rating:

Generally positive, often praising its driving dynamics and value for money.