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Introduction
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Market Position
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Segment:
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Compact Car (C-segment)
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Target Audience:
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Young professionals, small families, individuals seeking a sporty and reliable compact car.
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Competitive Analysis
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Key Competitors:
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Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf, Subaru Impreza.
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Mazda3 Advantage:
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Often praised for its engaging driving dynamics, sporty handling ('Zoom-Zoom' philosophy), and stylish design, differentiating it from more comfort-oriented or economy-focused rivals.
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Key Features
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Design:
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Sporty and aerodynamic exterior, well-appointed interior with a driver-focused cockpit.
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Performance:
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Responsive engines and sharp handling contribute to an enjoyable driving experience.
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Reliability:
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Generally good reliability, though specific model years and engine variants may have known issues.
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Manual Coverage
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Systems Covered
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Powertrain:
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Engine mechanical (LF-VDS, LF-VE, L3-VDT), Fuel system, Cooling system, Lubrication system, Ignition system, Exhaust system, Turbocharger system (L3-VDT), Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain (FWD/AWD).
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Chassis:
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Suspension (Front MacPherson Strut, Rear Multi-link), Steering system (Power Steering), Brakes (ABS, EBD, Front Disc, Rear Disc/Drum), Wheels & Tires.
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Electrical:
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Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Lighting system, Instrumentation, Audio system, HVAC controls, Power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), SRS Airbag system, Immobilizer system, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).
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Body And Interior:
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Body panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Seats, Trim, Upholstery, Glass, Seals.
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Procedures Included
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Maintenance:
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Scheduled maintenance intervals, Oil changes, Filter replacements, Spark plug replacement, Fluid level checks and top-offs, Belt inspections and replacement, Brake pad and rotor replacement, Tire rotation and balancing.
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Repair And Rebuild:
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Engine overhaul, Transmission overhaul, Clutch replacement, CV axle replacement, Suspension component replacement, Brake system repair, Electrical component diagnosis and replacement, HVAC system repair.
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Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
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Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) interpretation, Symptom-based troubleshooting guides, Electrical circuit diagrams and testing, Component testing procedures, Fuel system pressure testing, Ignition timing checks.
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Bodywork:
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Panel alignment, Dent repair, Welding procedures, Painting guidelines, Sealant application.
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Technical Depth
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Depth:
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Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, detailed repair procedures, advanced diagnostics, component replacement, and system overhauls for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
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Engine Specifications
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Primary Engine
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Engine Code Petrol Base:
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LF-VE
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Displacement Base:
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2.0 Liters (1998 cc)
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Configuration Base:
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Inline-4, DOHC, 16 Valves
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Horsepower Base:
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Approx. 148 hp @ 6000 rpm
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Torque Base:
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Approx. 135 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
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Optional Engine Petrol Performance
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Engine Code Performance:
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L3-VDT (DISI Turbo)
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Displacement Performance:
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2.3 Liters (2261 cc)
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Horsepower Performance:
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Approx. 263 hp @ 5500 rpm (Mazdaspeed3)
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Torque Performance:
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Approx. 280 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (Mazdaspeed3)
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Optional Engine Diesel
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Engine Code Diesel:
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LF-VDS
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Displacement Diesel:
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2.0 Liters (1998 cc)
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Horsepower Diesel:
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Approx. 143 hp @ 3500 rpm
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Torque Diesel:
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Approx. 207 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm
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Fuel System
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Type Petrol:
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Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI for LF-VE, GDI for L3-VDT)
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Fuel Type Petrol:
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Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher recommended)
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Fuel Type Diesel:
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Diesel Fuel
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Ignition System
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Type:
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Electronic ignition with individual ignition coils (Coil-on-Plug)
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Transmission
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Standard
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Type Base:
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5-speed Manual
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Optional
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Type Optional Auto:
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4-speed Automatic (FWD models)
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Type Optional Manual Performance:
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6-speed Manual (Mazdaspeed3)
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Type Optional Auto Performance:
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5-speed Activematic Automatic (Sport models)
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Features
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Drivetrain:
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Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), with Optional All-Wheel Drive (AWD) on some models.
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Fluid Specification Manual:
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Refer to manual for specific GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, e.g., Mazda Genuine Gear Oil 75W-90.
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Fluid Specification Automatic:
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Mazda Genuine ATF-MV or equivalent (check manual for exact spec).
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Dimensions
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Exterior
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Length:
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Approx. 177.1 in (4498 mm) for Sedan, 167.7 in (4260 mm) for Hatchback
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Width:
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Approx. 69.1 in (1755 mm)
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Height:
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Approx. 57.7 in (1465 mm) for Sedan, 57.1 in (1450 mm) for Hatchback
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Wheelbase:
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Approx. 104.0 in (2640 mm)
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Cargo
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Trunk Volume Sedan:
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Approx. 14.0 cu ft (396 L)
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Cargo Volume Hatchback:
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Approx. 15.5 cu ft (439 L) with seats up
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Weights
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Curb Weight Base:
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Approx. 3000 - 3200 lbs (1360 - 1450 kg) depending on configuration
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Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
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Refer to vehicle placard
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Maintenance
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Service Intervals
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Oil Change Interval:
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Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (synthetic recommended).
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Engine Air Filter:
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Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
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Cabin Air Filter:
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Replace annually or every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).
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Spark Plugs:
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LF-VE: Iridium spark plugs, typically 75,000 miles (120,000 km). L3-VDT: Check manual, often similar or slightly shorter interval.
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Transmission Fluid Auto:
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Refer to manual; often considered 'lifetime' but fluid service recommended every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) for longevity.
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Brake Fluid:
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Flush and replace every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
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Fluid Specifications
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Engine Oil Petrol Lfve:
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API SN or ILSAC GF-5, SAE 5W-20 (check owner's manual for exact specification).
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Engine Oil Petrol L3Vdt:
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SAE 5W-30, full synthetic, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 (check owner's manual).
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Coolant:
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Mazda Genuine FL22 Engine Coolant (or equivalent long-life ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically P-HOAT).
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Known Issues
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Engine Oil Consumption Lfve:
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Some 2.0L engines may experience oil consumption, especially at higher mileage. Regular checks are advised.
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Rust And Corrosion:
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Susceptible to rust, particularly in areas with harsh winters and road salt. Check wheel wells, rocker panels, and subframes.
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Automatic Transmission Issues:
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Some reports of hesitation or rough shifting on older automatic transmissions; fluid service can mitigate.
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Interior Rattles:
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Plastic trim pieces can sometimes develop rattles; the manual will detail disassembly and reassembly procedures to address these.
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L3Vdt Timing Chain Tensioner:
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Early versions of the MZR DISI turbo engines (pre-2008) had reports of timing chain tensioner issues. The 2010 model's L3-VDT engine is generally more robust, but it's still a point to be aware of.
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Vehicle History
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Brand Heritage
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Mazda Philosophy:
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Mazda's 'Zoom-Zoom' philosophy emphasizes driving pleasure, responsive handling, and engaging performance.
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Model Evolution
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First Generation Launch:
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The Mazda3 was introduced in 2003 as a replacement for the Mazda Familia/323.
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Facelift Impact:
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The 2010 model represents the second model year of the facelifted first generation (BK), introduced for the 2007 model year. It featured updated styling, revised powertrains, and improved interior appointments.
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Production
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Manufacturing Locations:
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Japan (Hofu), China (Changan Mazda), Thailand (AutoAlliance Thailand), Russia (Mazda Sollers).
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