2008 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 2008 Mazda Mazda3 problems
The 2008 Mazda MAZDA3 is a popular compact car, but like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues based on complaints from owners:
- Engine Knock: This issue affects the 2008 MAZDA3's engine, with 33 NHTSA complaints reported. The average cost to fix this problem is $4,500, and it typically occurs at an average mileage of 26,000 miles.
- Rod Bearing Failure: This is another engine-related problem, with 16 NHTSA complaints. The average cost to fix this issue is $3,200, and it typically occurs at an average mileage of 98,000 miles.
- Premature Shock, Strut Wear: This suspension-related problem has 12 NHTSA complaints, with an average cost to fix of $2,500 and an average mileage of 84,000 miles when it occurs.
- Transmission Issues: The 2008 MAZDA3 has 4 NHTSA complaints related to transmission problems, with issues such as jerking, hesitation, and slipping.
- Interior Accessories Problems: There are 3 NHTSA complaints related to interior accessories, including issues with the power windows, power locks, and audio system.
- Lights Problems: Three NHTSA complaints are related to lighting issues, such as headlights not working properly or failing prematurely.
- Suspension Problems: There are 15 NHTSA complaints related to suspension issues, including problems with the shocks, struts, and wheel bearings.
- AC/Heater Problems: Two NHTSA complaints are related to air conditioning and heating issues, such as the system not blowing cold or hot air as expected.
- Brake Problems: There is 1 NHTSA complaint related to brake issues, such as the brake pedal feeling spongy or not working properly.
- Clutch Problems: One NHTSA complaint is related to clutch issues, such as the clutch pedal feeling hard to press or not engaging properly.
- Electrical Problems: One NHTSA complaint is related to electrical issues, such as the car not starting or the battery dying prematurely.
- Seat Belt/Airbag Problems: One NHTSA complaint is related to seat belt and airbag issues, such as the airbags not deploying in a crash or the seat belts not retracting properly.
These problems can affect the overall safety, reliability, and cost of ownership of the 2008 MAZDA3. It is essential to address these issues promptly to ensure the vehicle remains safe and reliable.
Is the 2008 Mazda 3 good or bad?
The Madza3's very good interior quality stands out in a category where many vehicles are cheaply finished. However, rear-seat room and trunk space are relatively tight. The Mazda3 received a Poor rating in the IIHS side-crash test when configured without side- or head-protection airbags.
What is the problem with the 2008 Mazda 3?
The problems found on the 2008 Mazda3 include broken rear motor mounts, hesitation from the transmission, and worn-out door locks. Overall, the problems are less severe than some other compact cars from 2008, and repair costs are average for a car in its price range.
Does a 2008 Mazda 3 have a timing belt or chain?
To get straight to the heart of the matter: Only the very first turbo-diesel Mazda 3 from around 2007 (to about 2009) has a timing belt and the rest have a chain.
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.
2008 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:
- Steering problems
- Tires problems
- Wheels problems
- Air bags problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2008 Mazda Mazda3 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2008 Mazda Mazda3
The NHTSA has received 302 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2008 Mazda Mazda3. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2008 Mazda Mazda3 vehicles.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-02
- VIN: JM1BK343781
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: There is a plastic ring on top of the gas tank that holds down the fuel pump.I filled up my tank and looked under the car afterwards,at this time I noticed gas coming out from the tank until is was flushed with the top and then stopped.I pulled out the back seat,found the inspection plate and for sure this was and did happen,now nothing could be done at the time because the inspection plat hole was smaller than the ring,the tank had to be dropped.It had to be fixed,about $600.00 later and tank filled up it was repaired.I still have the ring and pictures where the ring was cracked around the threads.send me a e-mail address and I can send pictures and a copy of the bill.later on I went on line and discovered that I was not the only one.This happen about 2 years back.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-10
- VIN: JM1BK323181
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Transmission control module.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-22
- VIN: JM1BK12F781
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: Drivers side lower control arm failed at the lower ball joint mounting hole, allowing the ball joint to separate from the arm. All vehicle steering and control was lost due to the failure. This failure: 1. Has extreme danger for traffic fatalities. 2. Suggests substandard materials, design, or manufacturing. Control arm manufacturer: DLZ Sold by: partsgoing Vendor: Amazon.com
FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-28
- VIN: JM1BK12F281
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL
- Summary: 2008 MAZDA 3. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMP.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-08-05
- VIN: JM1BK32F481
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 MAZDA MAZDA3. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED LOSS OF POWER STEERING ASSIST WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEED AND MAKING TURN. THE POWER STEERING FAILED AND THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME DIFFICULT TO TURN. THE PARKING BRAKE AND POWER STEERING ASSIST WARNING LIGHTS WERE ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE OCCURRED FIVE TIMES IN TWO DAYS. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT AN UNKNOWN RECALL REPAIR WAS COMPLETED ON THE VEHICLE FOR THE POWER STEERING, HOWEVER THE REPAIR HAD NOT CORRECTED THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT A RECALL REPAIR WAS COMPLETED FOR THE SAME FAILURE AND IT WAS A ONE-TIME FREE FIX AND PROVIDED A CASE NUMBER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 90,000.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-07-15
- VIN: JM1BK344881
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: MY MAZDA3 DIES WHILE I AM DRIVING WITHOUT ANY INDICATION OF WHAT IS GOING ON (NO CHECK ENGINE LIGHT). WHEN IT DOES, I WAIT FOR A WHILE AND IT WILL START BACK UP AGAIN! MY SHOP AND I HAVE TRIED EVERYTHING WE CAN, BUT WE CAN'T FIGURE OUT WHY IT IS DOING THAT! I CALLED THE MANUFACTURE AND THEY SAID IT WAS RECALLED FOR POWER STEERING ASSIST FAILURE AND FIXED IN 2010 BUT TO US IT SOUNDS IT IS THAT ISSUE CAUSING IT TO STOP WHILE IN MOTION! THIS CAR IS UNSAFE!! NO CAR SHOULD STOP IN MOTION FROM NOWHERE! THE MANUFACTURE SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THAT!
STEERING,AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-07-01
- VIN: JM1BK32F281
- Components: STEERING,AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: AIRBAG LIGHT IS ON.....LOST POWER STEERING AT ONLY 110,000 MILES...ABS BREAK SYSTEM NOT WORKING
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-07-13
- VIN: JM1BK32F981
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: AT AND YELLOW CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AND CAR WAS IN LIMP MODE FIRST THING IN MORNING AFTER HAVING NO ISSUES WITH MY MAZDA PREVIOUSLY. CODES CAME BACK WITH SOLENOIDS A, B, C, D, E ALL HAVE ELECTRICAL FAILURE, AND ISSUES WITH THE OXYGEN SENSOR. MY CAR HAS HAD REGULAR MAINTENANCE DONE ON IT. NO SIGNS OR SYMPTOMS OF TRANSMISSION FAILURE BEFOREHAND. HAPPENED INSTANTLY OVERNIGHT. TCM IS NOT IN STOCK ANYWHERE AND I SUSPECT THAT IS THE CULPRIT DUE TO OTHER MAZDA OWNERS SIMILAR SITUATIONS. 95K MILES.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-11-28
- VIN: JM1BK32F681
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: BRAKES BECAME SPONGY AFTER HARD BRAKING AT INTERSTATE HIGHWAY SPEED OF 65 MPH. AFTERWARD, SPORADICALLY, BRAKES WOULD REQUIRE SEVERAL PUMPS OF THE PEDAL TO BUILD ENOUGH HYDRAULIC PRESSURE TO STOP THE VEHICLE. I'M REPORTING THIS INCIDENT NOW AFTER LEARNING ABOUT FORD RECALL 19S54, NHTSA IDENTIFIER 19V904. BRAKE PARTS ON THIS CAR WERE MADE BY FOMOCO. ABS HYDRAULIC UNIT, P/N BVSN-43-7AZD, WAS REPLACED BY MAZDA DEALER TO CORRECT PROBLEM AT A COST OF $1200.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-21
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JM1BK32F181
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE CAR HIT A BANK THEN WENT AIRBORNE AND CAME TO TO A TREE AND NEITHER AIRBAG DEPLOYED THE CAR ALSO HIT A ROAD SIGN AND IT WAS BEING DRIVING DOWN ROAD
STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-01
- VIN: JM1BK324381
- Components: STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING MY CAR I COMPLETELY LOST MY POWER STEERING GOING ABOUT 55 MPH, WE LIVE IN A VERY RURAL CURVEY AREA. AT OTHER TIMES I HAVE BEEN GOING IN REVERSE OR DRIVING AND MY CAR WOULD SHAKE AND JUST SHUT OFF! THIS.WOULD HAPPEN WOULD TURNING ONTO.THE ROAD OR GOING DOWN THE ROAD. IT HAPPENED AT DIFFERENT SPEEDS. SOMETIMES THE CAR WOULD INSTANTLY START BACK UP OR I WOULD HAVE TO PUSH THE CAR IN A SAFE AREA (IF POSSIBLE) AND WAIT. I HAVE A 5 MONTH OLD AND 8 YEAR OLD SON HAVING A RELIABLE CAR IS EXTREME PRIORITY FOR US, I'M SO SCARED OF MY CAR. WE DO NORMAL MAINTENANCE AND I TOOK IT IN TO BE LOOKED AT WHEN IT SHUT OFF AND THE MECHANIC COULDNT FIND ANYTHING NOTICEABLE. HE SAID I WOULD BASICALLY HAVE TO JUST START REPLACING PARTS AND SEE WHICH PART FIXES THE PROBLEM.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-10
- VIN: JM1BK32F881
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY JERKS, PULLS, STOPS AFTER ABOUT 10 MINUTES RUNNING TIME. TOLD BY MECHANIC THAT IT IS THE TRANSMISSION CONTROL MODULE. HE SAID THIS MODEL IS NOTORIOUS FOR HAVING THEM FAIL. THEY ARE ON BACK ORDER WITH MAZDA WITH NO LEAD TIME, WHICH ALSO SAYS SOMETHING. THE VEHICLE IS VERY DANGEROUS TO DRIVE. MECHANIC SAID THE ORIGINAL DESIGN HAS BAD PLACEMENT WHICH CAUSES THEM TO HEAT UP AND FAIL.
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-11-05
- VIN: JM1BK32F181
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: WHEN MY USED 2008 MAZDA 3 CAR IS PARKED OVER A DAY OF MORE WITHOUT BEING PLUGGED TO A CHARGER IT WILL NOT START. NOTHING WILL WORK EVEN THE REMOTE TO OPEN THE DOOR. NOTE THE HUNDREDS OF OWNERS WITH HIS PROBLEM. CHECK THE WEB FOR THIS PROBLEM. I SPENT $870.00 TO HAVE THIS FIXED TO NO AVAIL.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-12-29
- VIN: JM1BK323581
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: POWER STEERING GOES IN AND OUT WHILE DRIVING
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-09-02
- VIN: JM1BK32G581
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: LOSS OF STEERING, IMMEDIATELY FIXED ITSELF BUT WITH STEERING WHEEL LIGHT ON DASH. VEHICLE IN MOTION. LOSS OF ABILITY TO STEER VEHICLE. VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION.
STEERING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-12-20
- VIN: JM1BK343881
- Components: STEERING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE SPEED GOES UP AND DOWN ON ITS OWN THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION OF MY 2008 MAZDA 3 SHIFTS DOWN FROM THE 5TH TO THE 3RD GEAR. THIS CAUSES THE CAR TO JERK VIOLENTLY AND THE CONTROLS TO ILLUMINATE INCLUDING CHECK ENGINE, NO TRACTION AND AT. MY MECHANIC COULD NOT FIND A CAUSE OF THIS, AND HE SERVICED THE TRANSMISSION BY CHANGING THE FILTER AND TRANSMISSION FLUID BUT THE PROBLEM PERSISTS. ONE MECHANIC SAID IT IS THE SPEED SENSOR ANOTHER THE TRANSMISSIONS COMPUTER I HAVE SPEND ABOUT 1,800 AND I STILL HAVE THE SAME PROBLEMS. IT IS VERY SCARY FOR MY KIDS AND MYSELF WHILE DRIVING AND I CAN'T AFFORD TO GET ANOTHER CAR. WHAT IS THE PROBLEMS WITH MAZDA WITH MY CAR? CAN SOMEONE PLEASE HELP?! ALSO ALL THE ELECTRICAL STOP WORKING ABOUT TWO YEARS AGO, ANOTHER THING IS THE STEERING WHEELS PROBLEMS WHEN MAKING A TURN IT REALLY TIME FOREVER AND IT IS REALLY SLOW AND HEAVY.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-03-07
- VIN: JM1BK343381
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: THIS VEHICLE HAS HAD 3 REPEATED MAJOR SERVICE REPAIR ATTEMPTS RELATED TO THE TCM, PCM AT LIGHT, CHECK ENGINE/TRANSMISSION LIGHT TRYING TO RESOLVE THIS ISSUE PERMANENTLY. THIS VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION AND STATIONARY ON A CITY STREET WHEN EXPERIENCING ALL OF THESE PROBLEMS. THIS VEHICLE HAS ONLY APPROXIMATELY 68,000 MILES. THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE THAT NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED BY MAZDA OR BUY BACK THIS VEHICLE. NO ONE SHOULD HAVE TO BE FACED WITH THESE KINDS OF CONCERNS. THESE SYSTEMIC ISSUES HAS NOT BEEN FAVORABLE IN MY VIEW AND WILL HAVING A MAJOR DETERMING EFFECT IN FUTURE CAR PURCHASE. BRAND LOYALTY. [BLAH, BLAH, BLAH...] 4-3-2019 AT 9:27AM
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-01-04
- VIN: JM1BK32F181
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: THE BRAKES NORMALLY FUNCTION CORRECTLY EXCEPT FOR WHEN, AND FOR SOME TIME AFTER THE ABS ACTIVATES. AFTER THE ABS ACTIVATES YOU MUST PUSH THE BRAKE PETAL NEARLY TO THE FLOOR BEFORE THE BRAKES ENGAGE. USUALLY, THE BRAKES SEEM TO "RESET" AFTER 3 OR 4 HARD BRAKING ATTEMPTS.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-12-17
- VIN: JM1BK344381
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: THE VEHICLE WHEN IN MOTION ATTEMPTING TO BRAKE HAS SOFT BRAKES THAT WHEN ENGAGED, THE BRAKE PEDAL MOVES TO APROX. 1 INCH FROM THE FLOOR. THE BRAKES ONLY SLIGHTLY ENGAGE, HOWEVER, IF NEEDED THE ABS SYSTEM AND THE BRAKING ABILITY IS HINDERED WHEN HARD STOPPING. THE ROTORS AND PADS WERE REPLACED, AND THE BRAKE LINES BLED HOPING TO SOLVE THE ISSUE. YET, FURTHER DIAGNOSTICS SHOW THAT THE ABS CONTROL MODULE IS FAULTY.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-11-02
- VIN: JM1BK12GX81
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: SINCE THE COURSE OF ABOUT A YEAR, I HAVE EXPERIENCED TRAUMATIC MOMENTS WHILE DRIVING MY VEHICLE PERTAINING TO IT'S ELECTRICAL/TRANSMISSION FUNCTIONALITY. WHEN DRIVING THE VEHICLE AT NORMAL SPEEDS (EX. 50MPH) THE MAZDA WOULD BUCKLE, REV ABNORMALLY, ALL WHILE MY GEAR INDICATOR WOULD FLICKER. THIS WOULD HAPPEN AFTER ABOUT 10 MINUTES OF DRIVING AND CONTINUE ON FOR THE REMAINDER OF THE DRIVE ABOUT EVERY 20 MINUTE INTERVAL. THIS IS QUITE UNSAFE, AND THE REPAIRS THAT MULTIPLE MECHANICS INCLUDING MAZDA THEMSELVES SUGGESTED TO REPAIR THE ISSUE DID NOT ACCOMPLISH ANYTHING UNFORTUNATELY. REPAIRMEN FLUSHED AND REPLACED THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID, REPLACED MY OUTPUT SPEED SENSOR, CHANGED OUT MY SHIFT SOLENOIDS, GEAR SHIFTER, AND EVEN REPLACED MY ENTIRE PCM. I HAVE NOT ONLY TAKEN PICTURES AND VIDEOS OF THESE HORRID INCIDENCES, BUT THERE SEEMS TO BE OTHER INSTANCES OF PEOPLE HAVING THIS IDENTICAL ISSUE WITH THEIR MAZDA'S AS WELL. IF THERE IS A WAY TO SHOW MY VIDEO EXAMPLES FOR STUDY, THEN I WILL GLADLY SEND THEM.
AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-11-06
- VIN: JM1BK344981
- Components: AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: #1 AIR BAG WARNING DASH LIGHT REMAINS ILLUMINATED AND HAS STAYED ILLUMINATED FOR APPROXIMATELY 1 1/2+ YEARS. THERE IS NO MAZDA DEALERSHIP IN MY AREA AND I INITIALLY BELIEVED IT WAS MY RESPONSIBILITY TO REPLACE OR REPAIR AT MY EXPENSE DUE TO THE VEHICLE'S AGE. #2 BRAKES: VEHICLE WAS RECENTLY SERVICED AND COMPREHENSIVE SAFETY INSPECTED ON 6 NOV 2018. I ASKED THE SHOP TO CHECK THE BRAKE PEDAL FOR ABNORMAL PRESSURE. I FELT THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS NOT MAINTAINING A FIRM PEDAL PUSH WHILE DRIVING, BUT AT FIRST FELT FIRM THEN SOFTENED ALMOST ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR BOARD. I RETURNED TO THE AUTO SERVICE TO POINT THIS OUT AND THE REPRESENTATIVE RESPONDED NO EVIDENCE OF BRAKE FLUID LEAKING OUT AND EARLIER WHILE THEY DROVE IT AROUND THEIR FACILITY IT FELT FINE, THEREFORE IT WAS OK TO DRIVE LIKE THIS. TODAY IS 3 DECEMBER AND IT IS STILL A MUSHY BRAKE.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-09-10
- VIN: JM1BK344X81
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 MAZDA 3. WHILE DRIVING 5 MPH, THE POWER STEERING WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED AND THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME DIFFICULT TO MANEUVER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE EXHIBITED THE SAME SYMPTOMS AS LISTED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 10V374000 (STEERING). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER TO BE DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN A RECALL. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 100,000.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-07-25
- VIN: JM1BK343881
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: I HAVE HAD ISSUES WITH THE FRONT AND REAR LIGHTS. DISCOVERED THAT THE SOCKET TO THE HEADLIGHT ON THE DRIVERS SIDE WAS MELTED WHEN I WENT TO REPLACE THE BULB. AFTER REPLACING THE SOCKET THE LIGHT WORKED ONLY INTERMITTENTLY. THERE SEEMED TO BE A POOR CONNECTION AND I WOULD HAVE TO ADJUST THE WIRING LEADING TO THE BULB UNTIL I GOT A GOOD CONNECTION. THIS CONNECTION WAS EASILY LOST HITTING BUMPS IN THE ROAD. TRIED ANOTHER REPLACEMENT SOCKET AND THIS ONE WORKS MUCH BETTER. ALSO DISCOVERED A MELTED SOCKET ON THE PASSENGER SIDE BRAKE LIGHT ALONG WITH A MELTED LIGHT HOUSING. DESPITE THE LIGHT NOT WORKING IT WAS EXTREMELY HOT WHEN I WENT TO REMOVE IT. WHILE THE DRIVER'S SIDE BRAKE LIGHT IS CURRENTLY WORKING, IT TOO SEEMS TO BE OVER HEATING. THE SOCKET IS CRACKED IN TWO PLACES AND THE LIGHT HOUSING IS ALSO MELTED.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-07-02
- VIN: JM1BK343981
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: THE BRAKE PEDAL GOES TOO FAR BEFORE ENGAGING. I'VE HAD THE BRAKE FLUID REPLACED AND AFTER ABOUT 6 MONTHS, THE PROBLEM HAS OCCURED AGAIN. THE RESEARCH THAT I HAVE DONE SHOWS THAT IT IS A PROBLEM WITH THE ABS ACTUATOR. THERE'S APPEARS TO BE A FAULT THAT ALLOWS PRESSURE TO BLEED PAST THE VALVES IN THE ACTUATOR. THIS IS A SERIOUS PROBLEM AS STOPPING DISTANCE IS AFFECTED. THERE NEEDS TO BE A RECALL.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-06-09
- VIN: JM1BK32F581
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING ON A 30 MPH ROAD NEAR MY APARTMENT AND WHEN I WENT TO BRAKE WHILE MOVING, THE BRAKES FAILED ON MY MAZDA 3. I WAS PRESSING THE BRAKES AND THEN ALL OF THE SUDDEN THE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR AND THE CAR CONTINUED ROLLING. LUCKILY THE CAR WAS NOT GOING FAST AND WAS ABLE TO ROLL TO A STOP WITH JUST THE HAND BRAKE. MY CAR ONLY HAS 104,000 MILES ON THE ODOMETER. THERE WERE NO LIT UP INDICATORS ON THE DASHBOARD AND NO WARNING SIGNS BEFORE THE CATASTROPHIC FAILURE. BASED ON MY TRIP TO TWO MECHANICS AND THE DEALERSHIP, THE ABS UNIT FAILED AND ALLOWED AIR INTO THE SYSTEM WHICH CAUSES A CATASTROPHIC LOSS OF BRAKES WITHOUT WARNING. THIS IS A SERIOUS AND POTENTIALLY DEADLY FLAW THAT I BELIEVE MAZDA SHOULD PAY IN FULL TO REMEDY. THIS SEEMS TO BE A COMMON SAFETY PROBLEM IN MAZDA CARS FROM ABOUT 2004 TO 2016 BASED ON MY RESEARCH. I FOUND MULTIPLE OTHER SOURCES THAT HAD THE SAME PROBLEM.
2008 Mazda Mazda3 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2008 Mazda Mazda3.
- Manufacturer: MAZDA MOTOR CORP
- Components: VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:MOTOR
- Summary: MAZDA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008-2009 MAZDA3 AND MAZDASPEED3 VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JANUARY 7, 2008, THROUGH NOVEMBER 28, 2008. THE GROUND TERMINAL OF THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR MAY HAVE BEEN INADVERTENTLY BENT DURING ASSEMBLY. IF THIS CONDITION EXISTS THEN OVER TIME THE ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE OF THE MOTOR CIRCUIT MAY INCREASE UP TO A POINT THAT THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS WOULD NOT WORK.
- Consequence: THE LOSS OF WIPER FUNCTION IN ADVERSE WEATHER COULD POTENTIALLY INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL AN ADDITIONAL GROUND HARNESS ON THE WIPER MOTOR FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE JULY 15, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MAZDA CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE CENTER AT 1-800-222-5500.
- Manufacturer: MAZDA MOTOR CORP
- Components: STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
- Summary: MAZDA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2007-2009 MAZDA3 AND MAZDA5 VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM APRIL 2, 2007 THROUGH NOVEMBER 30, 2008. THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE A CONDITION IN WHICH A SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER STEERING ASSIST COULD OCCUR AT ANY TIME WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE.
- Consequence: POWER STEERING ASSIST IS SUDDENLY LOST REDUCING THE DRIVER'S ABILITY TO STEER THE VEHICLE AS TYPICALLY EXPECTED, AND INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: MAZDA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE POWER STEERING PUMP AND LINES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 15, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MAZDA CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE CENTER AT 1-800-222-5500.
- 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.
Negative 2008 Mazda Mazda3 car reviews
Positive 2008 Mazda Mazda3 car reviews
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This car has been absolutely reliable. The handling is superb. It looks sharp. I do wish the mpg was better, at 26-27, but that's still better than many comparable vehicles. It's worth noting that the tires can be expensive, as it's considered a sports car, and all-season tires don't cut it in the snow. Overall, I love this car!
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I was searching for a car with good gas mileage that didn't require super unleaded gas. I also wanted a sporty-looking car with an attractive interior and exterior. This car met all my requirements perfectly. I test drove other high-end cars such as the Audi A4, Volvo S40, and Subaru WRX, but I found the interior of this car to be the best. The leather is of high quality and very comfortable. I would highly recommend this car to any driver, regardless of age!
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"It must have love but it's over now..."Just as so many of them, my engine failed at just 28k very light miles. Bought the car used (Certified) at d Mazda dealership with only 19k miles. No warning signs, no lights, not even signs of oil consumption. Noticed a subtle rattling noise over 2500 RPM, took it to the dealer - death certificate issued in 2 hours. The car was still under Mazda power train warranty. Mazda Motors of America refused to honor it.Used top shelf synthetic oil, name-brand filters, never seen jiffy-lube places...kept all records and receipts and yet - warranty denied due to "lack of maintenance". Save yourself the trouble, do your research, on the 2.3l engine. Don't buy.
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I'm so glad to hear that you're still enjoying your 3 after a full year of driving! It sounds like you did your research and made a great choice. The build quality and creature features are superb, and the performance and handling are excellent. Even though it doesn't have the same acceleration as the Speed3, it's still fun to drive after a year. Living in snowy New Hampshire can be tough, but it's great to hear that you were able to get through several storms with no problem. Although, I would highly recommend snow tires for added safety. Lastly, I'm relieved to hear that you were uninjured after being rear-ended at a stop light. That's a testament to the safety of the car!
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Hey there! I noticed that you mentioned some issues with your car. It can be frustrating when unexpected repairs come up, but it's great that you were able to get the car paid off. It sounds like the car has a lot of great features, like a large trunk and being a great winter car. However, I also understand that there may not be much room in the back for passengers. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
Additional sources
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2008 MAZDA MAZDA3 Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2008 MAZDA MAZDA3? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
Other years of Mazda Mazda3
Are you having problems with your 2008 Mazda Mazda3?
Camren Mueller 2024-11-26
This 2008 car has 24,000 miles on it and is driven quite a few miles a day as my work car. Although there is some tire noise and a loud noise coming from the right front fender area, I am confident that the issue can be resolved. The Mazda mechanic at the shop was unable to hear the noise due to the tire noise, but the Mazda rep was contacted and came to the dealer in Ottawa IL. Although they did not inspect my car, Mazda has agreed to pay one third of the cost to replace the tires if they are replaced at the dealer. The dealer has recommended a different brand of tire to solve the problem, and I trust their expertise in this matter.
Solon D'Amore 2024-11-10
My Mazda performs poorly in snowy and icy conditions, with absolutely no traction. Additionally, the braking system is loud and unnerving. These issues need to be addressed to improve the car's performance and safety.
Durward Franecki 2024-08-27
This car should be great. It looks good, handles really well, and, from reviews, is reliable. Unfortunately, my experience has been less than ideal. My car has been as reliable as a mid 70's Fiat, breaking down more often than not. Not only does it stall frequently, but it took over a year to diagnose the root cause of the problem. While part of the issue was a dirty EGR valve, the other part remains undiagnosed.