2012 Mazda 3 Sport

Introduction:

The 2012 Mazda 3 Sport is a compact car that offers sporty handling and a comfortable ride. It is available with a choice of four-cylinder engines and either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. The standard 2.0-liter engine produces 148 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque, while the optional 2.5-liter engine produces 167 horsepower and 168 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive is available on models equipped with the 2.5-liter engine.

Owners like the 3 Sport’s stylish design, responsive handling, and comfortable interior. However, they have also reported some issues with the vehicle, including problems with the engine, transmission, and suspension.

Engine

2.0-liter engine

• Intake valve carbon buildup: Carbon deposits can build up on the intake valves over time, which can lead to decreased engine performance and fuel economy. The issue can be resolved by cleaning the valves. $100 - $200+
• Timing chain tensioner failure: The timing chain tensioner can fail, which can lead to a loss of engine power. In severe cases, it can even cause the engine to seize. A new timing chain tensioner will need to be installed. $500 - $1,000+
• Engine oil consumption: The 2.0-liter engine may consume excessive oil, especially at high mileage. Topping up the oil regularly is required, but eventually, a new engine may be necessary. $800 - $5,000+
• Recalls: 02V622000

2.5-liter engine

• Spark plug failure: The spark plugs can fail prematurely, which can cause misfires and a decrease in engine power. New spark plugs need to be installed. $100 - $200+
• Fuel injector failure: The fuel injectors can fail, which can cause rough idling, difficulty starting, and a decrease in engine power. $500 - $1,000+
• Recalls: 02V622000

Transmission

Six-speed manual transmission

• Slave cylinder failure: The slave cylinder can fail, which can make it difficult or impossible to shift gears. A new slave cylinder will need to be installed. $500 - $1,000+
• Recalls: N/A

Six-speed automatic transmission

• Torque converter failure: The torque converter can fail, which can cause slipping gears, shuddering, and difficulty accelerating. A new torque converter will need to be installed. $1,500 - $3,000+
• Transmission control module failure: The transmission control module can fail, which can cause the transmission to shift erratically or not at all. A new transmission control module will need to be installed. $500 - $1,000+
• Recalls: N/A

Suspension

• Strut mount failure: The strut mounts can fail, which can cause clunking noises and a decrease in ride quality. New strut mounts will need to be installed. $500 - $1,000+
• Sway bar end link failure: The sway bar end links can fail, which can cause a clunking noise when driving over bumps. New sway bar end links will need to be installed. $100 - $200+
• Recalls: N/A

Electrical

• Battery drain: The battery can drain prematurely, especially if the vehicle is not driven regularly. The battery may need to be replaced and the source of the drain identified. Varies
• Alternator failure: The alternator can fail, which can prevent the battery from charging and cause the vehicle to stall. A new alternator will need to be installed. $500 - $1,000+
• Recalls: N/A

Exterior

• Door handle failure: The door handles can fail, which can make it difficult to open the doors. New door handles will need to be installed. $100 - $200+
• Tail light condensation: The tail lights can develop condensation, which can impair visibility and cause the lights to fail. The tail light assembly may need to be replaced. $100 - $200+
• Recalls: N/A

Interior

• Center console lid failure: The center console lid can fail, which can prevent it from closing properly. A new center console lid may need to be installed. $100 - $200+
• Dashboard rattle: The dashboard can develop a rattle, which can be annoying and distracting. The rattle may be caused by loose screws or a faulty component. Varies
• Recalls: N/A

Summary:

Overall, the 2012 Mazda 3 Sport is a reliable and enjoyable car to own. However, it is not without its issues. Some of the more common problems include engine carbon buildup, transmission slipping, and suspension noise. While most of these issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, some, such as timing chain tensioner failure or torque converter failure, can be more severe and costly to repair.