2014 Mazda 3

The 2014 Mazda 3 is a compact car that was praised for its sporty handling, fuel efficiency, and stylish design. It was available as a sedan and a hatchback. Two engine options were offered: a 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G inline-4 producing 155 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque and a 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G inline-4 producing 184 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were available with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. People generally liked the Mazda 3’s responsive steering, comfortable ride, and upscale interior for its class. Some common complaints included the infotainment system being less intuitive than competitors and some road noise.

Engine

2.0L Skyactiv-G Inline-4

• Purge Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idling, difficulty starting after fueling, and potential stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the purge valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive engine vibration, noise, and clunking sounds, especially during acceleration and deceleration.
  • Solution: Replace the engine mount.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L Skyactiv-G Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Low oil level warnings, the need to frequently add oil between oil changes, and blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Could range from replacing the PCV valve, monitoring oil levels and adding oil as needed, or in more severe cases, engine repair or replacement involving piston rings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (PCV Valve) - $3000+ (Engine Repair/Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic Transmission (Both Engines)

• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: A vibrating or shuddering sensation felt during light acceleration or cruising, typically at lower speeds.
  • Solution: Replacing the transmission fluid with updated fluid specifications might alleviate the issue. In severe cases, the torque converter may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (Fluid Change) - $800+ (Torque Converter Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Harsh or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or delayed gear changes, particularly between certain gears.
  • Solution: Check transmission fluid level and condition. A fluid change might help. If the problem persists, valve body issues or other internal transmission damage could be the cause, requiring more extensive repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (Fluid Change) - $2000+ (Transmission Repair/Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Creaking or clunking sounds coming from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps or uneven surfaces.
  • Solution: Inspect and potentially replace rear sway bar bushings and end links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Rebooting
  • Description/Symptoms: The Mazda Connect infotainment system sporadically freezes, reboots, or experiences glitches.
  • Solution: Software updates may address the issue. In some cases, the infotainment unit may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update) - $500+ (Unit Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain, especially if the car sits for extended periods.
  • Solution: Check for parasitic draws by testing all electrical components such as lights and infotainment. Replace the battery if necessary and eliminate the parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Cracked Windshield
  • Description/Symptoms: Windshield cracks easily, potentially due to stress or thin glass.
  • Solution: Windshield Replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, particularly in warmer climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 Mazda 3 generally offers a reliable driving experience, but some owners have reported issues with the engine (purge valve and oil consumption), transmission (shuddering), suspension (rear noises), electrical system (infotainment glitches and battery drain), and interior (dashboard cracks). The severity and cost of these issues vary, ranging from relatively inexpensive fixes like replacing a purge valve or sway bar bushings to more costly repairs such as torque converter replacement or addressing excessive oil consumption. Potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and thoroughly inspect the vehicle before purchasing.