📚 Vehicle Manual Information

2011 Mazda 3 Four Door Owners Manual

🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

3 (Mazdaspeed3)

Year:

2011

Body Style:

4-Door Sedan

Vin Position 10:

B (for 2011 model year)

Factory Code:

BM5A

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2011 Mazda 3 was positioned as a sporty, engaging compact car, known for its Zoom-Zoom driving dynamics, stylish design, and good value. It competed with vehicles like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, and Volkswagen Jetta.

Competitive Analysis:

The Mazda 3 differentiated itself with a focus on driver enjoyment, superior handling characteristics, and a more premium interior feel compared to some rivals. The availability of performance-oriented trims (like the Mazdaspeed3) further set it apart.

Key Features:

Responsive handling, upscale interior design for its class, available Skyactiv-G engines (though not standard on all 2011 models), sporty styling, good fuel economy, and solid reliability.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All systems and components of the 2011 Mazda 3 4-Door Sedan, including operation, maintenance, safety, and troubleshooting.

Page Count:

Approx. 400 pages (typical for this model year and type)

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed Booklet

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Instrument panel indicators, gauges, warning lights, climate control system, audio system, navigation system (if equipped), power windows, door locks, mirrors, seats, lighting (interior and exterior), wipers, defroster, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), keyless entry, starting and driving, fuel, engine oil, coolant, braking system, steering system, suspension, exhaust system, electrical system, battery, fuses, exterior features, interior features, maintenance, emergency procedures, roadside assistance, towing, specifications.

Procedures Included:

Checking fluid levels (engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid), tire pressure adjustment, changing wiper blades, refueling, operating climate control, using infotainment features, understanding dashboard warnings, basic troubleshooting for common issues, emergency kit contents, jump starting the battery, changing a flat tire, safe towing procedures.

Technical Depth:

Covers operation, basic maintenance, and safety. Does not include detailed diagnostic or repair procedures typically found in a Service Manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

N/A (Physical Product)

Print Quality:

High-quality, durable paper with clear text and diagrams.

Binding Type:

Stapled or perfect bound, designed for durability in a vehicle environment.

Paper Type:

Glossy or semi-gloss paper for longevity and clarity of images.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

2.5L MZR Inline-4 (L5-VE)

Horsepower 2 5L:

167 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque 2 5L:

168 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine Type Mazdaspeed:

2.3L MZR DISI Turbocharged Inline-4 (L3-VDT)

Horsepower Mazdaspeed:

263 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque Mazdaspeed:

280 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Fuel Octane Recommendation:

87 octane (regular unleaded) for 2.5L; 91 octane (premium unleaded) recommended for Mazdaspeed3

Injection System:

Electronic multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for 2.5L; Direct Injection Spark Ignition (DISI) Turbo for Mazdaspeed3

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

6-speed manual transmission (MT)

Optional Transmission:

5-speed automatic transmission (AT) with Activematic for 2.5L models

Transmission Features Mazdaspeed:

Sport-tuned 6-speed manual transmission with short-throw shifter.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 177.1 inches (4498 mm)

Width:

Approx. 69.7 inches (1770 mm)

Height:

Approx. 57.7 inches (1465 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 103.9 inches (2640 mm)

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 96.7 cubic feet (2738 L)

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 11.7 cubic feet (331 L)

Curb Weight 2 5L At:

Approx. 3109 lbs (1410 kg)

Curb Weight Mazdaspeed:

Approx. 3197 lbs (1450 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

5 Stars

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Driver:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:

5 Stars

IIHS Front Overlap Crash Test:

Good

IIHS Side Impact Crash Test:

Good

IIHS Roof Strength:

Good

IIHS Head Restraints And Seats:

Good

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC).

Passive Features:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-impact curtain airbags (front and rear), active front head restraints, 3-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Available Bose premium audio system, multi-information display, Bluetooth hands-free phone capability (with compatible phones), USB audio input, SiriusXM Satellite Radio.

Driver Assistance:

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), cruise control, available rearview camera (on select trims/packages).

Connectivity Features:

Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB port for device charging and audio playback.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed.

Spark Plug Replacement 2 5L:

Platinum-tipped: Approx. 75,000 miles (120,000 km)

Engine Oil Type 2 5L:

SAE 5W-20, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified

Engine Oil Capacity 2 5L:

Approx. 4.9 US quarts (4.6 L) with filter change

Coolant Type:

Mazda Genuine Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Green) or equivalent (ethylene glycol based, phosphate-free, silicate-free, amine-free, borate-free).

Transmission Fluid Type Auto:

Mazda Genuine ATF (JWS 3309 or equivalent)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Known Issues:

Some reported issues include minor oil leaks from the valve cover gasket or oil pan, potential for clutch wear in manual transmissions with aggressive driving, and occasional electrical gremlins. Mazdaspeed models might exhibit turbocharger-related issues if not maintained properly. Rust can be a concern in certain climates.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mazda has a history dating back to 1920, evolving from a cork manufacturer to an automotive producer. Known for its engineering prowess and focus on driving pleasure ('Zoom-Zoom' philosophy).

Model Evolution Gen 2:

The 2011 Mazda 3 is part of the second generation (2009-2013), which featured a more refined exterior and interior design, improved chassis dynamics, and a focus on aerodynamics. The Mazdaspeed3 variant received specific performance enhancements.

Production Location:

Primary assembly in Hofu, Yamaguchi, Japan. Some models may have been assembled in other Mazda plants globally.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The Mazda 3 consistently received positive reviews for its driving dynamics and styling. The Mazdaspeed3 version was lauded as a top-performing hot hatch. Specific awards varied by year and publication, but generally included 'Most Fun to Drive' categories and good value assessments.

Ratings:

Edmunds: Rated highly for performance and handling. Kelley Blue Book: Praised for value and sporty feel. Consumer Reports: Generally good reliability ratings, though some specific components might have varying scores.

Certifications:

Not applicable for owner's manuals themselves, but the vehicle's safety features contributed to its strong safety ratings from organizations like NHTSA and IIHS.