2009 Mazda 3

Introduction to the 2009 Mazda 3

The 2009 Mazda 3 is a compact car available with a range of engine and transmission options. Its standard engine is a 2.0L inline-four that produces 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. A 2.3L inline-four is also available, providing 167 horsepower and 168 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a five-speed manual, a five-speed automatic, or a six-speed automatic. The Mazda 3 is praised for its stylish design, handling, and fuel efficiency, while some criticism is directed towards its cramped rear seat and limited cargo space.

Engine

2.0L Inline-Four

• Hesitation or stumbling during acceleration
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine may hesitate or stumble when accelerating, particularly at low speeds or under load.
  • Solution: Replace the throttle position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
  • Recalls: N/A
• Oil consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs.
  • Solution: Replace the piston rings or perform an engine rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: N/A

2.3L Inline-Four

• No significant issues reported

Transmission

Five-Speed Manual

• Difficulty shifting into certain gears
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may become difficult to shift into specific gears, especially when the vehicle is cold.
  • Solution: Replace the shift linkage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: N/A

Five-Speed Automatic

• Rough or delayed shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may shift roughly or hesitate when changing gears.
  • Solution: Replace the transmission control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
  • Recalls: N/A

Six-Speed Automatic

• No significant issues reported

Suspension

• Strut mount noise
  • Description/Symptoms: A rattling or clunking noise from the front of the vehicle, especially over bumps or uneven surfaces.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: N/A

Electrical

• Battery drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly and requires frequent recharging or jump-starting.
  • Solution: Replace the battery or diagnose a potential electrical fault.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
  • Recalls: N/A

Exterior

• Door handle failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The door handles may become loose or break, making it difficult to open the doors.
  • Solution: Replace the door handles.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: N/A

Interior

• Dashboard trim cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: The plastic trim on the dashboard may develop cracks or breaks over time.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard trim.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: N/A

Summary

While the 2009 Mazda 3 is generally a reliable vehicle, it is not immune to certain issues. The engine and transmission problems can be concerning, especially the oil consumption issues with the 2.0L engine. Other issues are less severe and relatively inexpensive to fix. Overall, the cost of repairs for the Mazda 3 can range from minor to moderate, depending on the issue and its severity.