2021 Mazda 3

Introduction

The 2021 Mazda 3 is a compact sedan and hatchback that offers a stylish design, a well-equipped interior, and a fun-to-drive experience. It is available with two engine options: a 155-horsepower 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine and a 186-horsepower 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine. Both engines can be paired with a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed automatic transmission. The 2.5-liter engine is also available with a 6-speed automatic transmission that features paddle shifters. The Mazda 3 has received praise for its handling, fuel efficiency, and interior quality. However, some owners have reported issues with its engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical systems.

Engine

2.0-liter Engine

• Carbon Buildup: Carbon can build up on the intake valves, which can lead to reduced engine power and fuel efficiency.
  • Solution: Cleaning the intake valves and using a fuel additive to prevent further buildup.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5-liter Engine

• Piston Ring Failure: Piston rings may fail, which can lead to excessive oil consumption and engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacing the piston rings and honing the cylinders.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-speed Manual Transmission

• Grinding Noises: Grinding noises may occur when shifting gears, especially when the transmission is cold.
  • Solution: Replacing the synchronizers or other transmission components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

6-speed Automatic Transmission

• Shifting Hesitations: The transmission may hesitate or jerk when shifting gears.
  • Solution: Updating the transmission software or replacing the transmission fluid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Noise: The front struts may make a clunking or rattling noise when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacing the struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain: The battery may drain quickly, even when the vehicle is not in use.
  • Solution: Identifying and repairing the source of the battery drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Exhaust System: The exhaust system may develop rust, especially on the muffler and tailpipes.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected exhaust components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Radio Antenna Malfunction: The radio antenna may malfunction, causing poor radio reception.
  • Solution: Replacing the radio antenna.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Loose Dashboard Trim: The dashboard trim may become loose or rattle over time.
  • Solution: Tightening or replacing the trim.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cracking Rearview Mirror Glass: The rearview mirror glass may crack or develop lines.
  • Solution: Replacing the rearview mirror.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Mazda 3 is a generally reliable vehicle with good fuel efficiency and handling. However, it has had some reported issues with its engine, transmission, suspension, electrical systems, and interior. The severity and cost of these issues vary, but some of them can be expensive to fix. Overall, the Mazda 3 is a solid choice for those looking for a compact sedan or hatchback, but potential buyers should be aware of the potential issues before making a purchase.