2004 Mazda 3

Introduction

The 2004 Mazda 3 is a compact car that was available with two engine options: a 2.0L inline-four producing 148 horsepower and 135 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.3L inline-four producing 160 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission. The Mazda 3 was praised for its stylish design, sporty handling, and affordable price, but it was also criticized for its cramped interior and lack of features.

Engine

• 2.0L Inline-Four
  • Intake Cam Phaser Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The intake cam phaser, which adjusts the timing of the intake valves, can fail, causing a loss of power, rough idling, and increased fuel consumption.
    • Solution: Replace the intake cam phaser.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200+
    • Recalls: N/A
• 2.3L Inline-Four
  • Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Some 2.3L engines may consume excessive amounts of oil, leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage.
    • Solution: Replace piston rings and valve stem seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: N/A

Transmission

• Five-Speed Manual Transmission
  • Clutch Master Cylinder Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The clutch master cylinder, which hydraulically operates the clutch, can fail, causing the clutch pedal to become spongy or inoperable.
    • Solution: Replace the clutch master cylinder.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
    • Recalls: N/A
• Four-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • Transmission Control Module Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission control module (TCM), which controls the automatic transmission, can fail, causing transmission shifting issues, limp mode, or complete transmission failure.
    • Solution: Replace the TCM.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: N/A

Suspension

• Strut Mount Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The strut mount bearings, which connect the strut to the body of the vehicle, can wear out, causing a knocking or clunking noise when turning or going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mount bearings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: N/A

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The alternator, which charges the battery, can fail, leading to battery drain, flickering headlights, and potential electrical system issues.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: N/A

Exterior

• Rear Wheel Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear wheel bearings, which support the rear wheels and allow them to rotate smoothly, can fail, causing a grinding or humming noise when driving.
  • Solution: Replace the rear wheel bearings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: N/A

Interior

• Dashboard Rattle
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard can develop a rattle when driving over rough roads or at high speeds.
  • Solution: Some owners have reported success in устраняющий the rattle by applying lubricant to the dashboard or using foam tape to damp vibrations.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: N/A
  • Recalls: N/A

Summary

The 2004 Mazda 3 is a reliable and affordable compact car, but it is not without its issues. Some of the more common problems include intake cam phaser failure, oil consumption on the 2.3L engine, clutch master cylinder failure on the manual transmission, and transmission control module failure on the automatic transmission. While these issues can be expensive to fix, they are not widespread and are generally not considered to be major concerns. Overall, the Mazda 3 is a good value for the money and offers a fun and engaging driving experience.