2006 Mazda 3

The 2006 Mazda 3 is a compact car known for its sporty handling, responsive steering, and attractive styling. The 2006 Mazda 3 came with either a 2.0L inline-4 engine producing 150 horsepower and 135 lb-ft of torque or a 2.3L inline-4 engine producing 160 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. Both engines could be paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Some owners appreciate the car’s affordability, fuel efficiency, and fun-to-drive nature. Common complaints include issues with rust, electrical problems, and some engine-related issues.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4

• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the valve cover gasket, often noticed as oil residue on the engine block or a burning smell.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found

2.3L Inline-4

• VVT Actuator Failure (Variable Valve Timing)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, decreased fuel economy, engine rattle upon startup, and potential engine stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the VVT actuator and possibly the timing chain and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coil Pack Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfiring engine, check engine light illuminated, rough idle, and reduced power. Often affects one or more of the ignition coils.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ignition coil(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 per coil (parts and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Erratic Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed or harsh shifts, slipping between gears, and difficulty engaging gears. Can be accompanied by a check engine light.
  • Solution: In some cases, a fluid flush and filter change may resolve the issue. However, more severe cases may require a transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid/filter) - $2500+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Grinding Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting into certain gears, especially 2nd and 3rd, accompanied by a grinding noise. This can indicate worn synchronizers.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement, including replacing the worn synchronizers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Trailing Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or squeaking noise from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps. Can also lead to poor handling and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the rear trailing arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not operating or operating intermittently. Often affects one or more windows.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350 per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• BCM (Body Control Module) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical issues, including but not limited to: doors not locking/unlocking correctly, interior lights malfunctioning, and issues with the immobilizer system.
  • Solution: Replacement of the BCM and reprogramming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Especially Rear Wheel Arches and Rocker Panels)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust forming on the rear wheel arches, rocker panels, and other areas of the body. This is a very common issue on older Mazda 3 models, particularly in areas with salted roads.
  • Solution: Rust repair, including cutting out the rusted metal, welding in new metal, and repainting. In severe cases, entire body panels may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ depending on the severity and extent of the rust.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, often due to prolonged sun exposure.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (cover) - $1000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Radio Display Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The radio display screen goes blank or displays incorrect information.
  • Solution: Radio replacement or repair (if possible).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the complexity of the radio and if you buy a new or used one.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2006 Mazda 3 has several common issues, with rust being a significant concern. Engine issues such as VVT actuator failure and coil pack failure can be costly. Transmission problems can also lead to expensive repairs. Electrical issues and suspension problems add to the potential maintenance costs. Overall, the severity and cost of repairs can vary widely depending on the specific issue and the vehicle’s condition. Addressing rust is crucial to prevent further damage.