1995 Mazda MX-3

1995 Mazda MX-3

The 1995 Mazda MX-3 is a compact sports car available with either a 1.6L inline-4 engine or a 1.8L V6 engine. The 1.6L engine produces 118 horsepower and 106 lb-ft of torque, while the 1.8L engine produces 130 horsepower and 135 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission.

Owners of the MX-3 generally praise its sporty handling, responsive engines, and stylish design. However, some common issues have been reported with the vehicle.

Engine

1.6L Inline-4

• Intake manifold gasket failure: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing vacuum leaks that can lead to rough idling, poor engine performance, and increased fuel consumption. The gasket needs to be replaced. $200 - $300+
• Timing belt failure: The timing belt can fail, causing catastrophic engine damage. The timing belt should be replaced according to the manufacturer’s recommended schedule. $600 - $900+

1.8L V6

• Valve cover gasket leak: The valve cover gasket can develop a leak, causing oil to leak onto the engine. The gasket needs to be replaced. $150 - $250+

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Synchronizer wear: The synchronizers in the manual transmission can wear out, making it difficult or impossible to shift gears. The transmission may need to be rebuilt or replaced. $1,000 - $2,500+

4-Speed Automatic

• Transmission fluid leaks: The transmission fluid lines or seals can develop leaks, causing the transmission to lose fluid. The leaks need to be repaired, and the transmission fluid needs to be replaced. $200 - $500+

Suspension

• Rear suspension noise: The rear suspension can develop a clunking or knocking noise. The noise may be caused by worn bushings or suspension components. The affected components need to be replaced. $200 - $600+

Electrical

• Alternator failure: The alternator can fail, causing the battery to discharge and the vehicle to lose power. The alternator needs to be replaced. $400 - $600+
• Starter failure: The starter can fail, preventing the engine from starting. The starter needs to be replaced. $300 - $500+

Exterior

• Rust on the rear bumper: The rear bumper may develop rust. The rust can be repaired or the bumper can be replaced. $150 - $600+

Interior

• Dashboard cracking: The dashboard can develop cracks. The dashboard can be repaired or replaced. $200 - $500+
• Air conditioning compressor failure: The air conditioning compressor can fail, causing the air conditioning to stop working. The compressor needs to be replaced. $600 - $1,000+

Summary

The 1995 Mazda MX-3 is a reliable and fun-to-drive sports car. However, it is not without its issues. The most common problems include engine gasket failures, transmission issues, suspension noise, electrical failures, and interior problems. The severity and cost of these issues can vary depending on the specific problem and the extent of the damage.