2012 Mazda 3

Introduction:

The 2012 Mazda 3 is a compact car offered with three engine options: a 2.0L naturally aspirated engine, a 2.5L naturally aspirated engine, and a 2.5L turbocharged engine. Transmission options include a six-speed manual, a six-speed automatic, and a five-speed automatic. The 2.0L engine produces 148 horsepower and 140 pound-feet of torque, while the 2.5L naturally aspirated engine produces 167 horsepower and 168 pound-feet of torque. The turbocharged 2.5L engine produces 263 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The Mazda 3 is known for its stylish design, handling, and fuel efficiency. However, owners have reported some issues with the vehicle, which are detailed below.

Engine 2.0L Engine

• Intake manifold cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Intake manifold cracks can cause a rough idle, loss of power, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing chain tensioner failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Timing chain tensioner failure can cause a rattling noise from the engine, loss of power, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L Engine

• Carbon buildup on intake valves
  • Description/Symptoms: Carbon buildup on intake valves can cause loss of power, decreased fuel efficiency, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Clean the intake valves.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission 6-Speed Manual Transmission

• No Issues Found 6-Speed Automatic Transmission
• Shifting issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shifting issues can include difficulty shifting gears, slipping gears, or a transmission refusing to shift into gear.
  • Solution: Replace the transmission control module or transmission solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V671000

5-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Torque converter failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Torque converter failure can cause slipping gears, difficulty shifting, and a burning smell.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front strut mounts failing
  • Description/Symptoms: Failing front strut mounts can cause noise and vibrations in the front end of the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear shock absorbers leaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking rear shock absorbers can cause a bouncy ride and difficulty braking.
  • Solution: Replace the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Alternator failure can cause dim headlights, weak battery, and a flickering dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery drain can cause the battery to die prematurely.
  • Solution: Inspect for parasitic draw and replace any faulty components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlight condensation can cause fogging and reduced visibility at night.
  • Solution: Replace the headlights.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate control malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Climate control malfunction can cause the system to blow hot or cold air even when the desired temperature is set.
  • Solution: Replace the climate control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power window failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power window failure can cause the windows to become stuck or move slowly.
  • Solution: Replace the window motor or window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Mazda 3 is a generally reliable vehicle, but it has some known issues that owners should be aware of. The most common issues are related to the intake manifold, timing chain tensioner, and transmission. These issues can be costly to fix, so it’s important to have the vehicle inspected regularly and to address any problems as soon as they arise.