Post
Research the Car Logo

2020 Mazda 3

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2020 Mazda 3, formatted for your website and tailored to specific engine and transmission configurations. The 2020 Mazda 3 is a compact car known for its stylish design, engaging driving dynamics, and premium interior. Available engines include a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine producing 186 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine producing 155 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque (not available in all markets). Transmission options include a six-speed manual and a six-speed automatic. Owners often praise its handling and upscale feel, but some common complaints involve infotainment system glitches and potential for road noise.

Engine

2.5L Naturally Aspirated I4

  • Excessive Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report higher-than-normal oil consumption, requiring more frequent oil top-offs between scheduled oil changes. This can manifest as a low oil level warning light or noticing a significant decrease on the dipstick.
    • Solution: Monitor oil levels regularly. Some owners have had success with different oil brands or weights. More severe cases might require engine internal inspection to check for worn piston rings or valve seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Depending on the cause, repairs could range from a few hundred dollars (oil change and monitoring) to several thousand for internal engine work.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Rough Idling or Stalling
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with rough idling or stalling, particularly when the engine is cold.
    • Solution: Potential causes include issues with the mass airflow sensor, throttle body, or fuel injectors. Cleaning or replacing these components may resolve the issue. A software update to the engine control module (ECM) might also be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the part requiring repair
    • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Naturally Aspirated I4

No Issues Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

  • Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report experiencing harsh or jerky shifts, especially between certain gears. Hesitation or delays in shifting can also occur, particularly when accelerating.
    • Solution: Start with checking the transmission fluid level and condition. A transmission fluid flush and filter replacement might resolve the issue. If the problem persists, valve body issues or solenoids within the transmission may need to be inspected and potentially replaced. Software updates to the Transmission Control Module (TCM) may also be available.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+, depending on the severity and components needing replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual

No Issues Found

Suspension

  • Rear Suspension Noise
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported a clunking or rattling noise coming from the rear suspension, particularly when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces.
    • Solution: Inspect the rear sway bar end links, bushings, and shock absorbers. Worn or loose components should be replaced. In some cases, tightening the suspension bolts may resolve the noise.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ depending on the component requiring replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Infotainment System Freezing/Rebooting
    • Description/Symptoms: The Mazda Connect infotainment system can sometimes freeze, become unresponsive, or spontaneously reboot. This can affect navigation, audio, and other features.
    • Solution: Try performing a soft reset of the infotainment system. A software update from the dealer might be available to address known bugs and improve stability. In some cases, the infotainment unit itself may need to be replaced.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software updates may be free, but unit replacement could cost $500 - $1500+.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Blind Spot Monitoring System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The blind spot monitoring system may provide false warnings or fail to detect vehicles in the blind spot.
    • Solution: Check the sensors located in the rear bumper for damage or obstructions. The system might need to be recalibrated by the dealer.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$400+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rusting around taillight
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported minor rust around the tail light.
    • Solution: Repair minor rust to prevent it from getting worse.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Rattling Dashboard/Trim
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported rattling noises coming from the dashboard, door panels, or other interior trim pieces, especially on rough roads.
    • Solution: Identifying the source of the rattle can be challenging. Tightening loose screws or applying felt tape to contact points may help.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: This can range from a DIY fix to professional help costing $50 - $200+.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Sunroof Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroofs may get stuck, or make a loud noise when opening and closing.
    • Solution: Clean and lubricate the sunroof track, or if it is serious, the sunroof motor might need to be replaced.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Mazda 3 generally enjoys positive reviews, but some common issues include infotainment glitches, occasional transmission issues, and potential for oil consumption in the 2.5L engine. While some repairs can be relatively inexpensive, others, such as engine or infotainment system replacements, can be costly. Severity ranges from minor annoyances (rattles) to potentially more significant mechanical concerns. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues and carefully inspect the vehicle before purchasing.

This post is licensed under CC BY 4.0 by the author.