2011 Mazda 3 Sport

Vehicle Introduction:

The 2011 Mazda 3 Sport is a compact hatchback offered with multiple engine and transmission options. The 2.0L 4-cylinder engine produces 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque, while the 2.5L 4-cylinder engine produces 167 horsepower and 168 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual, and 5-speed automatic. The Mazda 3 Sport is praised for its sporty handling, stylish design, and spacious cabin, but criticized for its firm ride and lack of some premium features.

Engine

2.0L 4-Cylinder

• Intake Valve Carbon Buildup:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idle, loss of power
  • Solution: Intake valve cleaning
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Rattle:
  • Description/Symptoms: Noisy rattling sound from the engine, especially during startup
  • Solution: Replacement of timing chain and tensioner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $1,800+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L 4-Cylinder

• No Major Issues Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Shift Linkage Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises
  • Solution: Replacement of shift linkage
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: N130119000

6-Speed Manual

• No Major Issues Found

5-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fails to engage gears properly, slipping between gears
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Bushing Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Noisy suspension, poor handling
  • Solution: Replacement of rear suspension bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery discharge, warning lights on dashboard
  • Solution: Replacement of alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handle breaks off, unable to open door
  • Solution: Replacement of door handle
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: N162273001

Interior

• Climate Control Issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: Climate control system malfunctions, blowing hot or cold air erratically
  • Solution: Replacement of climate control module or actuators
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: N132368000
• Steering Wheel Buttons Sticking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Steering wheel buttons become stuck or unresponsive
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacement of steering wheel buttons
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

Overall, the 2011 Mazda 3 Sport has some potential issues, particularly with the engine and transmission. The intake valve carbon buildup and timing chain rattle can be significant concerns, while the transmission slipping can be costly to repair. However, the suspension, electrical, exterior, and interior issues tend to be less severe and less expensive to fix.