2004 Mazda Mazda3 problems
The Mazda3 (known as the Mazda Axela in Japan (first three generations), a combination of "accelerate" and "excellent") is a compact car manufactured by Mazda. It was first introduced in 2003 as a 2004 model, replacing the Familia/323/Protegé in the C-segment.
The second-generation Mazda3 for the 2009 model year was unveiled in late 2008, with the sedan premiering at the Los Angeles Auto Show and the hatchback at the Bologna Motor Show. For the 2012 model year, Mazda began offering the Mazda3 with their newly developed Skyactiv technology, including a more rigid body, a new direct-injection engine, and a new 6-speed transmission.
The third generation was introduced in mid-2013 as a 2014 model year. The third-generation model is the first Mazda3 to adopt the "Kodo" design language and a more complete Skyactiv range of technologies.
The fourth-generation Mazda3 for the 2019 model year was unveiled in November 2018 at the Los Angeles Auto Show. For the 2019 model, the all-new Mazda3 is equipped with the updated Skyactiv technologies, including a spark-controlled compression ignition engine marketed as the Skyactiv-X.
A performance-oriented version of the Mazda3 was marketed until 2013 as the Mazdaspeed3 in North America, Mazdaspeed Axela in Japan, and the Mazda3 MPS in Europe and Australia.
The Mazda3 became one of Mazda's fastest-selling vehicles, with cumulative sales in January 2019 of over 6 million units.
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Common 2004 Mazda Mazda3 problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 2004 Mazda Mazda3, several common problems have been reported:
- Transmission Problems:
- Owners have reported issues with the transmission, including difficulties going into all gears, transmission fluid leaks, and rough shifting.
- These transmission issues can lead to significant repair costs, with an average cost to fix ranging from $3,100 to $3,200.
- Rough shifting can indicate potential transmission problems that may require attention to avoid further damage.
- Engine Problems:
- Complaints about engine problems, such as the motor blowing, have been highlighted by Mazda3 owners.
- The average cost to fix a blown motor is around $2,800, with an average mileage of 88,000 miles.
- Engine issues can significantly impact the performance and reliability of the vehicle, necessitating prompt attention and potentially costly repairs.
- Lights Problems:
- Some owners have reported lights-related problems with the 2004 Mazda3.
- Specific details about the nature of these lights issues are not provided in the search results, but addressing lighting problems is crucial for safety and legal compliance.
- AC / Heater Problems:
- Complaints related to the air conditioning and heater systems have been noted by Mazda3 owners.
- The search results mention issues with the AC system needing a new evaporator, which can affect the comfort and functionality of the vehicle, especially in extreme weather conditions.
- Suspension Problems:
- Suspension problems, including front end and rear shock absorber issues, have been reported by owners.
- Leaking shock absorbers and suspension components can impact the handling, comfort, and safety of the vehicle, requiring timely repairs to maintain optimal driving conditions.
- Electrical Problems:
- Electrical issues have been highlighted as a common problem with the 2004 Mazda3.
- Specific details about the nature of these electrical problems are not provided in the search results, but addressing electrical issues is crucial for the proper functioning of various vehicle systems.
These common problems reported by owners of the 2004 Mazda Mazda3 encompass a range of critical components, from the transmission and engine to lights, AC/heater, suspension, and electrical systems. Addressing these issues promptly and effectively is essential to ensure the safety, performance, and longevity of the vehicle.
Is Mazda 3 2004 a good car?
A cheap way to have fun and utility
Sporty and fun to drive, with lots of usable room because it's a hatchback. Fuel economy is good but not great (27-28 MPG) but overall I've been happy with it. Rating breakdown (out of 5): Comfort 4.0.
What is the most common problem with Mazda 3?
Mazda 3 Reliability and Common Problems
- The Mazda 3 is one of the most reliable compact sedans, with a high reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0 from RepairPal.
- Common problems with the Mazda 3 include lightning issues, infotainment problems, faulty brakes, and sway bar links that need to be replaced.
How many miles will a 2004 Mazda 3 last?
On the bright side, you can expect 150,000 to 200,000 miles from your Mazda 3 engine. If your vehicle has gotten lighter use and good routine maintenance has been performed at recommended intervals, you could expect to surpass 250,000 or even 300,000 miles!
Is the Mazda 3 really reliable?
Mazda as a brand performed fairly well in the 2023 What Car? Reliability Survey, claiming 13th place out of the 32 manufacturers ranked. Kia did better, coming eighth, but most rivals came lower down the table. Every new 3 comes with a three-year/60,000-mile warranty.
2004 Mazda Mazda3 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mazda Mazda3 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Air bags problems
- Power train problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2004 Mazda Mazda3 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2004 Mazda Mazda3
The NHTSA has received 170 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2004 Mazda Mazda3. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2004 Mazda Mazda3 vehicles.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-01
- VIN: JM1BK12F841
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: This model car has a fuse box under the glove box known as a "passenger junction box" that has a faulty or defective relay soldered onto the circuit board. The relay is tied to lighting that includes the interior lights, exterior front parking lights, exterior rear tail lights, and the license plate light and is controlled by the left turn signal stalk (rotating switch). Based on my experience and many others (on the Mazda 3 forums), this relay has the tendency to fail and cause all of these lights tied to this relay to intermittently or permanently be disabled. There is no warning for this; the driver will only notice when driving at night that the interior illumination of the dashboard goes completely dark, which could cause disorientation and confusion as to whether or not the car is operable. Subsequently, the problem can be recreated by attempting to turn the lights on and off and there will be no response (and no clicking noise...it is audible when working and it switches on); the relay fails to operate and all the lights will not turn on. Driving at night without tail lights is extremely dangerous and I am surprised this has not caused serious injury from rear-ending incidents in nighttime or inclement weather situations. The serial/model number of junction box on my vehicle is BN8B-66730-C and many others on the forums have had the same issue with the same model, as well as other variations of the box. Some on the forums went as far as replacing the culprit relay (see attachment); however, at the risk of destroying the entire junction box and rendering the vehicle unusable. I finally ended up purchasing a replacement unit on eBay which corrected the issue so far and has made the lights reliable again.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-01
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JM1BK143641
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Mazda 3 equipped with Hankook Tires, Tire Line: Ventus S1 Noble2, Tire Size: 205/50/R17, DOT Number: N/A. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 45 MPH, a loud explosion was heard. The contact's wife alerted him that the rear driver's side tire had blown out. The contact's vehicle was then rear-ended by another vehicle, causing his vehicle to turn 360 degrees. The air bags did not deploy. The contact was not injured, but his wife suffered from neck pain. Medical attention was not received. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to the contact's workplace and was not deemed totaled by the insurance company. A body shop repaired the vehicle. The tire manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact to send in the faulty tire. The tire failure mileage was unknown. The vehicle failure mileage was 150,000.
SUSPENSION,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-13
- VIN: JM1BK323041
- Components: SUSPENSION,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,STRUCTURE
- Summary: There has been no accident- the vehicle is my mother in laws vehicle- my concern is while at work she has at times loaded our daughter into the vehicle- I inspected the vehicle one day while as an employee of Les Schwab- the driver cvc axle vibrates so bad from the boot being torn and having no lubrication- these axles power the vehicle forward and if not maintained can snap and cause damage- the wipers no longer work correctly- the tires are 2017 and old and weather cracked- potential to separate while driving or blow out on the heated pavement. upon inspection also found that the front shocks are blown out and bouncing in the mounts under the hood- causing the tires to not have the correct contact patch on the road thus decreasing traction and control- on top of all this the vehicle hasn't been registered since 2020 and has no insurance on the vehicle- again there has been no accident...yet- this is my concern- that if this vehicle continues to remain operational and on the road it not only puts the driver and occupants at risk but also other drivers- kids- teens and anyone that may be on the other end o the crash when the vehicle does snap the cvc axle or blow i out a tire
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-10-28
- VIN: jm1bk323941
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Mazda Mazda3. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle and driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light was illuminated. The dealer was made aware of the failure but informed the contact that the VIN was not included in a recall. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and confirmed that the VIN was not included in a recall. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 04V468000 (Air Bags). The failure mileage was approximately 165,000.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-01
- VIN: JM1BK143841
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: THE CAR RAN GREAT FOR THE END OF 2019. I BOUGHT IT USED AT 145,000 MILES. THEN THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION STARTED TO SLIP. NOW ITS STUCK IN LIMP MODE.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-08-07
- VIN: JM1BK323X41
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE TAIL LIGHTS GO OUT INTERMITTENTLY DUE TO A DEFECTIVE PASSENGER JUNCTION BOX (FUSE BOX). TAPPING THE BOX WITH A SCREWDRIVER HANDLE WILL BRING THE TAIL LIGHTS BACK ON FOR A WHILE. THIS HAS BEEN A MAZDA 3 ISSUE OVER THE YEARS. THE SHOULD BE A RECALL ON THIS.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-05-01
- VIN: JM1BK143441
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 MAZDA 3. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS DIAGNOSED BY AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT MAIN MODULE NEEDED TO BE REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. AN UNKNOWN DEALER WAS CONTACTED, BUT COULD NOT ASSIST. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 128,680.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-01-08
- VIN: JM1BK143841
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: THE LOCK RELEASE LEVER ON THE STEERING WHEEL GET LOOSE WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION AND DOES NOT LOCKED IN PLACE. THIS CAN CAUSE AN ACCIDENT AND SERIOUS INJURIES. THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL TO GET THIS REPAIR.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-02-12
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I WAS REAR ENDED WHILE PREGNANT AND DRIVING MY 2004 MAZDA 3 HATCHBACK. THE AIRBAGS NEVER DEPLOYED BUT I WAS ON MY WAY TO A DOCTOR'S APPOINTMENT AND WAS ABLE TO HAVE AN ULTRASOUND TO ENSURE MY CHILD WAS SAFE. NO INSURANCE CLAIM WAS FILED BUT I WAS CONCERNED. I WAS AT A STOP SIGN.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-10
- VIN: JM1BK123941
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: NO PROBLEMS FROM CAR NO WARNING LIGHT. BIG BANG THEN ENGINE MAKING VERY LOUD KNOCKING NOISE...ON INTERSTATE... STILL CRANKS BUT NEEDS MOTOR...READ THAT LOT OF PEOPLE HAVE HAD SAME PROBLEMS
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-05-18
- VIN: JM1BK343241
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: DRIVER SIDE FRONT SEAT WOBBLES-ENTIRE ASSEMBLY NEEDS TO BE REPLACED-DANGEROUS IF WELD HAD BROKEN WHILE ON FREEWAY-WHY ISN'T THIS A SAFETY RECALL-NUMEROUS OTHER COMPLAINTS FOR VARIOUS MODEL YEARS EVEN WHEN NEW-ARE SEATS REMOVED BY L0-JACK TECHS WHEN INSTALLING LO-JACK DEVICES?
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-08-03
- VIN: JM1BK343841
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: POWER STEERING GOES OUT INTERMITTENTLY. OFTEN STARTS WHEN TURNING THE WHEEL TO THE LEFT. THE POWER STEERING FAILURE LIGHT , OR SOMETIMES ALL WARNING LIGHTS, COME ON. THE STEERING WHEEL BECOMES EXTREMELY DIFFICULT TO TURN IN EITHER DIRECTION AND THE CAR IS DIFFICULT AND HAZARDOUS TO NAVIGATE TO A STOP. ELECTRONICS FLASH ON AND OFF (HEADLIGHTS, RADIO, ETC.). CAR SOMETIMES DIES. IF THE STEERING WHEEL IS NOT PERFECTLY STRAIGHT WHEN THE CAR DIES, IT IS LOCKED AND THE CAR CANNOT BE RESTARTED UNTIL SOMEONE CAN WRENCH THE STEERING WHEEL STRAIGHT AGAIN. THIS HAS HAPPENED OFF AND ON FOR A YEAR. SINCE IT IS INTERMITTENT, MECHANICS ARE UNABLE TO FIND THE PROBLEM.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-04-29
- VIN: JM1BK323X41
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 MAZDA 3. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED, THE STEERING WHEEL LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE STEERING WHEEL LOCKED AND WAS HARD TO TURN. THE CONTACT TURNED THE VEHICLE OFF AND BACK ON A FEW TIMES AND SHIFTED THE STEERING WHEEL TO THE LEFT AND RIGHT, BUT THE WHEEL WOULD NOT UNLOCK. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 93,173.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-10-30
- VIN: JM1BK143X41
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON WITH EVAP LEAK CODE. SMALL LEAK AT FIRST THEN INCLUDED LARGE LEAK CODE LATER. ALSO BEGAN TO NOTICE STRONG GAS SMELL OUTSIDE VEHICLE AFTER FUELING. TURNED OUT THE FUEL PUMP RING THAT HOLDS DOWN AND SEALS FUEL PUMP TO FUEL TANK HAD CRACKED. OVER TIME THE SPLIT BECAME LARGER. WHEN TANK WAS FILLED, RAW FUEL WOULD LEAK OUT AROUND PUMP ON TOP OF TANK. WHICH ALSO HAPPENS TO BE RIGHT UNDER THE REAR SEAT WHERE ME KIDS SIT. REPLACEMENT WAS EXPENSIVE BECAUSE THE RING COULD NOT BE REMOVED FROM UNDER THE SEAT. IT REQUIRED DROPPING THE TANK TO REPAIR. MECHANIC FELT IT WAS A STRESS CRACK. THE FUEL PUMP HAD NEVER BEEN WORKED ON BEFORE. THE ORIGINAL RING WAS INSTALLED AT THE FACTORY.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-11-02
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JM1BK323841
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WAS IN ACCIDENT HIT DITCH AND TREE HEAD ON AND AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY, CAUSING INJURY TO FACE FROM HITTING STEERING WHEEL. WAS ON CITY STREET AND IN MOTION.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-08-21
- VIN: JM1BK12F041
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: THERE WAS A STRONG FUEL SMELL THAT WAS OCCURRING ON BOTH THE INSIDE AND OUTSIDE OF MY CAR EVERY TIME I FILLED MY CAR UP. I TOOK TO MY THE MECHANIC AND IT WAS FOUND MY FUEL TANK WAS LEAKING IN 2 SPOTS. ONE WAS PART OF THE GAS TANK THAT VENTS THE FUMES - THAT SEAL WAS LEAKING AND THE OTHER WAS PART OF THE LOCKING RING THAT IS ON THE GAS TANK ITSELF WAS CRACKED.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-12-17
- VIN: JM1BK323641
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 MAZDA 3. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED SEVERE CORROSION AND THE DOOR FRAME WAS STARTING TO DETACH FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THEY DIAGNOSED THAT PORTIONS OF THE VEHICLE COULD BE REPAIRED; HOWEVER, THE CORROSION WAS IN AREAS THAT WERE BEYOND REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-19
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: BOUGHT 4 NEW TIRES ON 3/23/12. THREE OF THESE TIRES DEVELOPED BUBBLES AND HAD TO BE REPLACED.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-12-01
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JM1BK143441
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: CLUTCH SLIPPING, HIGH RPMS, NOT RED LINING. TRANSMISSION EXPLODED CAUSING ENGINE FIRE AND BURNING MOTOR AND ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-05-01
- VIN: JM1BK12F241
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHEN STARTING THE CAR THE AIR BAG LIGHT COMES ON AND STAYS ON FOR WEEKS THEN IT WILL TURN OFF. THIS HAS BEEN HAPPENING FOR OVER A YEAR.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-11-01
- VIN: JM1BK12F241
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELT LIGHT COMES ON AND STAY FOR FEW DAYS THEN GO OFF AND BACK AGAIN
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-04-02
- VIN: JM1BK143611
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: I STARTED MY CAR AND MY POWER STEERING LIGHT CAME ON MY DASH WHEN I WAS LEAVING WORK ON 4/2/2015. I HAD NO POWER STEERING AT ALL. I'VE HAD A REPAIR SHOP TELL ME IT IS MY POWER STEERING PUMP THAT HAS FAILED. THEY STATED THAT THEY CANNOT ORDER THE PART NEEDED TO REPAIR MY VEHICLE, WHICH IS THE ELECTRIC POWER STEERING PUMP. I CALLED A NEARBY DEALERSHIP AND THEY SAID I HAVE TO GO THROUGH A ZIP DEALERSHIP BECAUSE IT IS A VIN SPECIFIC PART. THEY QUOTED ME $900 FOR A POWER STEERING PUMP AND $315 TO INSTALL IT! I RESEARCHED THE ISSUE ONLINE AND HAVE NOTICED THERE IS A RECALL ON THE SAME YEAR AND MODEL VEHICLE AS MINE. BUT AFTER CHECKING WITH YOUR WEBSITE, IT STATES THERE ISN'T A RECALL ON MY VEHICLE. I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW WHY MY VEHICLE HAS BEEN EXCLUDED FROM THIS RECALL BUT IS EXPERIENCING THE SAME ISSUES AS STATED IN THE RECALL INFORMATION. THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME AND ASSISTANCE. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-12-05
- VIN: JM1BK323341
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 MAZDA MAZDA3. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 04V468000 (AIR BAGS). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 127,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-09-17
- VIN: JM1BK343841
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: I HAD MY MECHANIC WORKING ON REPLACING A BURNT OUT LICENSE PLATE LIGHT WHEN HE DISCOVERED THAT THE TAIL LIGHTS WERE NOT WORKING. HE TURNED THE LIGHTS OFF AND BACK ON, AND THE TAIL LIGHTS STARTED WORKING AGAIN, TURNED THE LIGHTS BACK OFF AND ON AGAIN, AND THE TAIL LIGHTS WERE BACK TO NOT WORKING AGAIN. HE IDENTIFIED THE FUSE BOX TO BE THE CAUSE OF THIS ISSUE, AS WHEN THE TAIL LIGHTS WERE OUT, HE WOULD HIT THE FUSE BOX WHICH WOULD THEN CAUSE THE LIGHTS TO COME BACK ON, AND HE DEMONSTRATED THIS FOR ME. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY CONCERN TO ME AND AFTER ONLY A FEW MINUTES OF INTERNET RESEARCH I FOUND OTHERS WERE HAVING THE EXACT SAME ISSUE. I FEEL VERY FORTUNATE THAT I'VE NOT BEEN HIT FROM BEHIND. I'VE CALLED MAZDA AND THEY SAID THEY WERE NOT AWARE OF A KNOWN ISSUE AND THERE WERE NO RECALLS ON THE PART, BUT I'VE ALSO LEARNED THAT THIS PART HAS BEEN REISSUED 6 TIMES. THIS MAKES ME THINK IT HAS TO BE A KNOWN ISSUE, OTHERWISE WHY KEEP MODIFYING THE PART? *TR
STEERING,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-05-12
- VIN: JM1BK123241
- Components: STEERING,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 MAZDA MAZDA3. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE POWER STEERING WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME INOPERABLE. ALSO, THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR LIGHTS FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 125,000.
2004 Mazda Mazda3 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2004 Mazda Mazda3.
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2004-2007 Mazda3 vehicles. During air bag deployment, the plastic emblem on the steering wheel air bag module cover may shatter, and project plastic fragments into the vehicle.
- Consequence: Plastic fragments can hit occupants during air bag deployment, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the air bag module cover, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed between August 28, 2021 and October 28, 2021. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500 Option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 4921G.
- Manufacturer: THULE, INC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: THULE, INC. IS RECALLING 2,323 OWNER-INSTALLED ROOF-MOUNTED FIT KITS, MODELS 3068 AND 3069, MANUFACTURED BETWEEN JANUARY 1, 2008 AND FEBRUARY 28, 2009 THAT ARE USED WITH THULE PODIUM FOOT PACKS, MODELS 460 AND 460R. THESE FIT KITS WERE SOLD AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE BOLT(S) USED TO SECURE THE FOOT TO THE VEHICLE WAS MANUFACTURED TO A HARDNESS THAT MAY CAUSE THE BOLT(S) TO BE BRITTLE AND POTENTIALLY BREAK UNDER STRESS.
- Consequence: THIS MAY RESULT IN THE BOLT(S) SNAPPING OFF DURING USE OR WITHOUT A LOAD. THE UNSECURED RACK AND LOAD CAN THEN COME LOOSE WHILE DRIVING CREATING A POTENTIAL ROAD HAZARD, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: THULE WILL MAIL A RETRO FIT KIT ALONG WITH REPAIR INSTRUCTIONS TO OWNERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE APRIL 13, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT THULE TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-238-2388.
- Manufacturer: MAZDA NORTH AMERICAN OPERATIONS
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, A CRACK IN THE AIR BAG CRASH ZONE SENSOR HOUSING CAN ALLOW WATER TO ENTER THE SENSOR, CAUSING A SHORT CIRCUIT AND ILLUMINATING THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT.
- Consequence: IF THIS PROBLEM EXISTS, THE AIR WILL NOT DEPLOY AS DESIGNED IN CERTAIN TYPES OF FRONTAL CRASHES, INCREASING THE RISK OF DEATH OR SERIOUS INJURY TO THE DRIVER AND FRONT SEAT PASSENGER.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE CRASH ZONE SENSOR AND REPLACE IT, IF NECESSARY. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 28, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT MAZDA AT 1-800-222-5500.
Negative 2004 Mazda Mazda3 car reviews
Positive 2004 Mazda Mazda3 car reviews
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I see that you bought a Canadian Version Debut 2004 in Seattle. It sounds like a really peppy car, almost like driving a BMW, definitely not like an average Corolla, Sentra, or Civic. You bought it when it was 7 years old in 2011 with 116K Kms or 70 K miles approximately. Unfortunately, the power steering hose was leaking and the mechanic couldn't find the spares from Ford. That must have been frustrating! Eventually, the car locked up in the middle of a lane change and stalled. Luckily, you were able to replace the original OEM PS Pump for 1250 and haven't had any problems since. It's great that you've been able to keep the Michelin Tires from Costco that the previous owner had. I can imagine that it struggles a bit while climbing steep hills, but the pickup is awesome and can easily challenge a Dodge or BMW. The interiors sound amazing and the stereo is superior. Overall, it sounds like a great car!
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The Mazda 3i is a fantastic car! During our test drives, we compared it to the Civic, the Focus, and the Sentra, and the 3i was the clear winner. It had a smoother ride, better acceleration, and more features, all for a lower price than the others with similar equipment. We highly recommend the 5-speed option, which makes the car the ultimate in zoom-zoom!
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Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my Mazda. I bought it when it only had 4 miles on it and now, after almost 250,000 miles, it's still going strong! I've hardly had to do any maintenance on it, just regular oil changes, check-ups, and new tires. I've only spent about $300 a year on maintenance, which is amazing! Plus, since I paid off the car 12 years ago, it's been one of the best investments I've ever made. However, after all these years, the car is starting to show some wear and tear, like the paint beginning to fail and the seams of the seats coming apart. So, I think it's time to invest in a new car. Luckily, I've saved up enough money to pay cash for the next one, since I haven't had a car payment for the last 10 years!
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I spent 4 months researching cars before deciding to buy this vehicle. I couldn't afford any true sports sedans until I found this one. Over the past two years, I've taken the car on numerous long trips and driven it around town, and I must say that its performance is extraordinary and its comfort is way above average for its price class. The only downside is some road noise, but I was able to fix this issue with Ziebart sound deadener and some more carpet in the trunk. After two years of test driving, I can confidently say that this car excels in all aspects. It seems that Mazda has even addressed some of my suggestions for the '06 model.
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I absolutely love my Mazda3! Although, I do have a small issue with the visors as they seem a bit cheap and don't have any lights for night time touch-ups. We opted for the leather interior, which is much more comfortable than the cloth option. The only problem I've had was recently with my driver's side door, but my husband was able to fix it easily without having to take it in. Overall, it's the best car I've ever owned and the only reason I need to upgrade is because we're having another kid and the back seat isn't big enough for two car seats. We're so happy with Mazda that we're considering the new CX-7. I always get questions about my car and highly recommend Mazda!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2004 Mazda Mazda3 problems:
2004 Mazda 3 issues? : r/mazda
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Mazda 3 2004-2009: pros and cons, problems
Aug 6, 2023 ... Front end and suspension problems: Rear shock absorbers can leak, causing the rear end of the car to feel 'loose' and bouncy on bumps. The top ...
Other years of Mazda Mazda3
Are you having problems with your 2004 Mazda Mazda3?
Gennaro Dooley 2025-03-23
This new Mazda is certainly a head-turner, but unfortunately, I had some issues with my previous one. After three attempts to fix it, I had to have it replaced due to it being a lemon. Unfortunately, I experienced some issues with my replacement as well, as my clutch broke just four days after acquiring it. While it's certainly exciting to drive, it's important to consider the potential for issues. How long will the excitement last for you?
Newton Heidenreich 2025-02-21
The car looks great and is very comfortable, but unfortunately, the 2004 model has some first-year quality issues. If you're considering buying one, I would suggest waiting until 2006 when these issues have been resolved. It can be frustrating to have to keep going back to the dealership for various mechanical failures.
Garfield O'Reilly 2025-02-21
I've owned this car since day one and have taken great care of it, completing all scheduled maintenance at the dealer. Unfortunately, I've been experiencing an issue for a few years where the car has been using a lot of oil, about a quart every 750 miles, without any visible leaks or burning. After taking it to a different dealer, it was discovered that the piston rings have failed and the only solution is a new engine, which comes with a hefty price tag of $7,200. It's frustrating to learn that this is a common issue that Mazda has yet to acknowledge. However, I'm hopeful that we can find a solution together.
Keyshawn Lemke 2024-07-21
The Mazda 3 S is a great car, but unfortunately, the oil cartridge housing is poorly designed. Mazda has issued a service bulletin and reverted back to the cannister oil filter. It is important to note that several other Mazda 3 S owners have experienced this issue. To avoid major engine damage, it is recommended to pay $60.00 at the dealership. This is a small price to pay to ensure the longevity of your engine. It is also worth noting that the 2005 model has a similar filter, so it is important to be prepared.
Osbaldo Will 2024-07-02
I have a 2.3 AT version with currently 83K on it. I must say, it has been a challenging car to own. Despite recently changing all 4 shocks, bar links, rotors, caliper, leaking radiator, engine mount, heat shield, and fixing the exhaust pipe, there are still some issues. I have been adjusting the brakes frequently, but unfortunately, the noise persists. The right caliper needs to be changed soon, but I have decided to sell the car instead. Overall, I have had a tough time with this car and would not recommend it to anyone.