2013 Mazda 3

The 2013 Mazda 3 is a compact car known for its sporty handling, fuel efficiency, and attractive design. It was available as a sedan and a hatchback. Engine options include a 2.0-liter inline-4 engine producing 155 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque and a 2.5-liter inline-4 engine producing 167 horsepower and 168 lb-ft of torque. Transmission choices were a 6-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic (for the 2.0L) and a 6-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic (for the 2.5L). Owners generally appreciate the Mazda 3 for its driving dynamics and fuel economy. Common dislikes often include a relatively small back seat and some road noise.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4

• Purge Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated with code P0441 (Evaporative Emission Control System Incorrect Purge Flow), rough idle, difficulty starting after refueling.
  • Solution: Replace the purge valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Low oil level warning, frequent need to add oil between changes, blue smoke from exhaust in extreme cases.
  • Solution: In some cases, piston ring replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Low oil level warning, frequent need to add oil between changes, blue smoke from exhaust in extreme cases.
  • Solution: In some cases, piston ring replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, especially between certain gears.
  • Solution: Fluid flush, valve body cleaning or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual

No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Shock Absorber Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, especially over bumps, visible fluid leaks from the rear shock absorbers.
  • Solution: Replace the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Car is dead in the morning or after sitting for extended periods. Jumps usually work.
  • Solution: Diagnose parasitic draw, replace battery, or faulty components draining power
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• TPMS Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Tire Pressure Monitoring System light illuminates even with correct tire pressure, individual sensor malfunction.
  • Solution: Replace faulty TPMS sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rear Wheel Arches (Especially in areas with road salt)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust forming on the rear wheel arches.
  • Solution: Body work to remove rust, treat the metal, and repaint.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ per wheel arch
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, particularly in hot, sunny climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement (expensive) or dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (cover) - $1500+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation System Issues (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Slow response times, freezing, inaccurate GPS location.
  • Solution: Software update (if available), or unit replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (update if available) - $500+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Mazda 3 is a generally reliable vehicle, but owners have reported some common issues. The most concerning are the potential for excessive oil consumption with both engine options and dashboard cracking in warmer climates. Other issues, such as purge valve failure and rear shock absorber leaks, are less severe and have a lower cost to repair. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and inspect the vehicle carefully before purchasing.