ECU, Engine Control, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, HVAC Control, Power Accessories, SRS (Airbag) System, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Torque Specifications for all fasteners, Clearances, Pressures, Voltages, Resistance Values, Fluid Capacities, Part Numbers
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive (covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics and bodywork repairs)
๐ Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Searchable:
Likely searchable text content for keywords
Printable:
Printable pages for workshop use
Print Quality
Quality:
High-resolution diagrams and text, suitable for professional use
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Completeness
Content:
Complete Factory Service Manual content, not a condensed version.
โ๏ธ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code:
LF-VDS (MZR DISI Turbo)
Engine Type:
Inline-4, turbocharged, direct-injection gasoline
Displacement:
2261 cc (2.3 L)
Performance
Horsepower:
263 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque:
280 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Fuel System
Induction:
Direct Injection (DISI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Turbocharger
Turbocharger Type:
Mitsubishi TD04-15G or similar variable geometry turbocharger
Cooling System
Cooling Type:
Liquid-cooled
Lubrication System
Oil Capacity:
5.4 US quarts (5.1 liters) with filter change
Engine Management
ECU:
Denso ECU, specific part numbers vary
๐ง Transmission
Standard
Type:
6-Speed Manual Transmission (Aisin AY6)
Gear Ratios 1:
3.45:1
Gear Ratios 2:
2.03:1
Gear Ratios 3:
1.31:1
Gear Ratios 4:
1.00:1
Gear Ratios 5:
0.77:1
Gear Ratios 6:
0.62:1
Final Drive Ratio:
3.85:1
Optional
Type:
Not Available (MPS models exclusively came with manual transmission)
Features
Limited Slip Differential:
Standard, Helical Type
Fluid Specifications
Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-4 Manual Transmission Fluid (e.g., Mazda Genuine Oil API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 2.0 - 2.2 liters
Clutch
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated, Single dry plate
๐ Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
177.0 inches (4495 mm)
Width:
70.1 inches (1780 mm)
Height:
57.7 inches (1465 mm)
Wheelbase:
103.9 inches (2640 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 5.6 inches (142 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3289 lbs (1492 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 4250 lbs (1928 kg)
Cargo
Trunk Volume Sedan:
11.8 cu ft (334 L)
Cargo Volume Hatchback:
15.5 cu ft (439 L) with seats up
Wheels Tires
Standard Wheel Size:
18 x 7.5 inch alloy
Standard Tire Size:
225/40R18
Bolt Pattern:
5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inch)
Center Bore:
67.1 mm
๐ก๏ธ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Impact:
5-Star
NHTSA Rollover:
4-Star
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for applicable model years)
Active Features
Traction Control:
Standard (TCS)
Stability Control:
Standard (DSC - Dynamic Stability Control)
Anti Lock Brakes:
Standard (ABS)
Passive Features
Airbags Front:
Dual front airbags
Airbags Side:
Front side-impact airbags
Airbags Curtain:
Side-impact curtain airbags (front and rear)
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system
๐ก Technology Features
Infotainment
Display:
Standard 5.8-inch color display (may vary by trim).
Audio System:
Bose premium audio system often available, with specific speaker configurations and amplifier details in the manual.
Connectivity:
Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio streaming, USB/Auxiliary input.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard
Navigation System:
Optional
Keyless Entry Start:
Standard (Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry and Start System)
Powertrain Control
Engine Management System:
Advanced engine management system utilizing sensors for direct injection, turbo boost pressure, camshaft phasing, and knock detection. Manual details sensor locations, testing, and ECU strategies.
๐ง Maintenance
Service Intervals General
Oil Change Interval Normal:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (check manual for severe conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. High-performance driving may require more frequent checks.
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Platinum or Iridium plugs typically rated for 100,000 miles (160,000 km), but manual will specify exact type and interval.
Coolant Replacement:
First replacement at 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 4 years.
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Transmission Fluid Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years for manual transmission.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-30 Synthetic (API SN, ILSAC GF-5 or higher).
Coolant Type:
Mazda FL22 Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent HOAT blue coolant).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid.
Known Issues
Fuel System Injector Clogging:
Direct injection system can be prone to carbon buildup on injectors and intake valves, particularly with less than ideal fuel quality. Manual provides cleaning procedures.
Engine Mounts:
Hydraulic engine mounts can fail over time, leading to increased vibration. Manual details inspection and replacement.
Clutch Wear:
High-performance nature can lead to faster clutch wear in aggressive driving. Manual covers clutch inspection and replacement.
Turbocharger Hose Leaks:
Boost hoses can degrade or crack, leading to boost leaks and loss of power. Manual details routing and clamp torque.
High Pressure Fuel Pump (Hpfp):
Potential for wear or failure over time, affecting fuel delivery and engine performance. Manual provides diagnostic procedures.
๐ Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mazda Performance Legacy:
Mazda's long history of producing sporty, driver-focused vehicles, exemplified by the RX-7 and Miata.
Model Evolution
Mazda3 Generations:
The Mazdaspeed 3 (MPS) is the high-performance variant of the second-generation Mazda 3 (BL chassis, 2009-2013).
First Gen Ms3:
The first generation Mazdaspeed 3 (BK chassis, 2007-2009) introduced the concept of a factory-tuned, turbocharged Mazda 3.
2012 Updates:
The 2012 model year saw a mid-cycle refresh for the second-generation Mazda 3, including minor styling tweaks and potential feature updates, which are also covered in this manual.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan (Hofu) and also in other Mazda plants globally.
Production Years Ms3:
2007-2013
๐ Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best:
Mazda 3 (including performance variants) has historically been recognized by Car and Driver's 10Best lists for its value, performance, and driving dynamics.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
Mazda 3 has been a finalist for MotorTrend Car of the Year.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Varies by model year; manual provides diagnostic insights for common wear items.
Certifications
Emissions Compliance:
Meets EPA and CARB emissions standards for its model year.