Market Position:
The 2003 Mazda B3000 was a compact pickup truck, often considered a rebadged Ford Ranger, positioned as a practical and affordable option in its segment. It competed with vehicles like the Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier, and Chevrolet S-10.
Competitive Analysis:
The B3000 offered a blend of Ford's robust chassis and powertrain with Mazda's styling cues and interior refinement. Its strong point was its value proposition and the availability of reliable mechanicals.
Key Features:
Reliable 3.0L V6 engine, available 4x4, practical bed length, comfortable interior for its class, Ford mechanical underpinnings.
Coverage Areas:
Operation, Maintenance, Safety, Features, Troubleshooting, Specifications, Care and Cleaning, Emergency Procedures, Warranty Information
Page Count:
Approx. 150-200 pages (typical for this model year)
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual
Systems Covered:
Engine, Transmission, Brakes, Steering, Suspension, Electrical System, Lighting, HVAC, Audio System, Body and Trim, Restraint Systems, Wheels and Tires
Procedures Included:
Dashboard Indicators and Warnings, Starting and Driving, Fueling, Maintenance Checks (Oil, Coolant, etc.), Tire Inflation, Fuse Replacement, Bulb Replacement, Jacking and Tire Changing, Jump Starting, Exterior/Interior Adjustments, Towing Information, Minor Troubleshooting Steps
Technical Depth:
Covers essential owner-level maintenance and operation. Does not include detailed diagnostic procedures, component removal/installation, or complete repair instructions typically found in a service manual.
Wheelbase:
104.7 inches (Regular Cab), 113.7 inches (SuperCab)
Length:
177.6 inches (Regular Cab), 195.6 inches (SuperCab)
Height:
63.4 inches (2WD), 63.7 inches (4WD)
Bed Lengths:
6.0 ft, 7.5 ft
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,500 - 3,900 lbs
Towing Capacity:
Up to 3,900 lbs (properly equipped)
Payload Capacity:
Up to 1,200 lbs (properly equipped)
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4/5 stars (likely for models equipped with airbags)
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - standard on front disc brakes
Passive Features:
Driver and Passenger Front Airbags, Three-point Seatbelts, Child Seat Anchors (LATCH)
Safety Notes:
ABS was typically standard, but availability of airbags could vary by trim and region. Always consult the specific manual for definitive safety equipment.
Infotainment Features:
AM/FM Radio, Cassette Player, CD Player (optional), basic speaker system.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited to ABS. No advanced electronic driver aids like stability control or traction control were commonly available.
Connectivity Features:
Typically a 12V power outlet. No USB or Bluetooth connectivity in standard configuration.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (or refer to manual for synthetic oil recommendations).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on driving conditions; automatic transmission fluid is critical)
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-3 years
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 (check manual for exact specification)
Engine Oil Capacity:
5.0 US quarts (with filter) for 3.0L V6
Transmission Fluid Specification Auto:
MERCON V Automatic Transmission Fluid (or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Capacity Auto:
Approx. 3.0 US quarts (dry fill) for 4-speed automatic
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically green or orange (consult manual for specific type and mix ratio)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3
Known Issues:
Intake manifold gasket leaks, heater core failures, occasional transmission issues in high-mileage vehicles, rust on frame and body panels (depending on climate).
Oil Filter Part Number:
e.g., Motorcraft FL-820-S or equivalent Wix/Fram/Purolator.
Tire Size:
P215/70R15, P225/70R15, P235/75R15 (depending on trim and configuration)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5 x 4.5 inches (5 x 114.3 mm)
Brand Heritage:
Mazda has a long history in automotive manufacturing, known for sporty and reliable vehicles. In the compact truck segment, their offerings were often based on collaborations.
Model Evolution:
The B-Series truck (and its Mazda rebadge, the B3000) has roots dating back to the 1960s. The 2003 model year falls within the second generation's second facelift, sharing significant mechanical components with the Ford Ranger.
Production Location:
Ionia, Michigan, USA (as part of Mazda-Ford collaboration)
Production Years:
1994-2009 (for the B-Series/B-series rebadges in North America)
