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)
📊 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.
⚙️ 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
🔧 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
📐 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
🛡️ 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
💡 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.
🔧 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.
📚 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
🏆 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.
Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.