2023 Mazda 3 Sport

The 2023 Mazda 3 Sport is a compact car known for its stylish design, engaging driving dynamics, and upscale interior. The “Sport” trim is essentially the base model. While it offers a spirited driving experience, it’s often considered less powerful than the higher trim levels with the more powerful 2.5L turbo engine option. The base engine option is a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine producing 191 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with either a six-speed automatic transmission or a six-speed manual transmission (though the manual is less common, especially on the base trim). Owners generally praise the Mazda 3 for its handling, comfortable interior, and attractive styling. Common complaints include the limited rear seat space, road noise, and the somewhat basic features on the Sport trim.

Engine

2.5L Naturally Aspirated I4

• Engine Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption, requiring more frequent oil top-ups between scheduled oil changes. Symptoms include the low oil pressure light illuminating, engine knocking, and visible blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Closely monitor oil levels and top up as needed. A dealer may perform an oil consumption test to determine the severity. In some cases, the engine may need to be rebuilt or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000+ for engine replacement
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Purge Valve
  • Description/Symptoms: The purge valve controls the amount of fuel vapors that the engine burns. A faulty purge valve will cause the vehicle to be hard to start.
  • Solution: Replace the purge valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing rough or harsh shifting, particularly between certain gears. This can manifest as a noticeable jerk or lurch during acceleration or deceleration.
  • Solution: Check the transmission fluid level and condition. A transmission flush or fluid replacement may resolve the issue. If the problem persists, it may indicate a more serious internal transmission issue requiring professional diagnosis and repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 for fluid change; $3,000+ for transmission repair/replacement
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual

No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of clunking or rattling noises emanating from the rear suspension, especially when driving over bumps or uneven road surfaces. This can be due to worn or loose suspension components.
  • Solution: Inspect the rear suspension components, including the shocks, struts, bushings, and sway bar links. Replace any worn or damaged parts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+, depending on the parts needing replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Lagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The Mazda Connect infotainment system can occasionally freeze, lag, or become unresponsive. This can affect navigation, audio, and other functions.
  • Solution: Try restarting the system. If the problem persists, a software update may be available from the dealer. In some cases, the infotainment unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 for software update; $500+ for unit replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Malfunctioning Sensors
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of various sensors malfunctioning, particularly those related to the advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). This can include issues with the blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, or adaptive cruise control. Warning lights may illuminate on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Diagnose the specific sensor that is malfunctioning and replace it.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+, depending on the sensor and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Windshield Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported that the windshield is more prone to cracking or chipping than expected. This could be due to the windshield’s design or manufacturing.
  • Solution: Replace the windshield.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noises coming from various interior components such as the dashboard, door panels, or center console.
  • Solution: Identify the source of the rattling and secure the loose components. This may involve tightening screws, adding padding, or replacing clips.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $200+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2023 Mazda 3 Sport generally receives positive reviews, but like any vehicle, it has potential issues to be aware of. The most concerning issues appear to be the potential for engine oil consumption, rough shifting with the automatic transmission, and electrical glitches in the infotainment system. While the other issues are less severe, they can still be frustrating. The cost to fix these issues can range from minor expenses to significant repairs, particularly if engine or transmission work is required. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle, especially the infotainment system, during a test drive and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic.