1995 Mazda Mx-3 problems
The Mazda MX-3 is a 2+2-seat, front-wheel drive coupé of a kammback design, manufactured and marketed by Mazda. It was first introduced at the Geneva Auto Show in March 1991 and marketed until 1998.
The MX-3 was also marketed as the Mazda MX-3 Precidia in Canada and as the Eunos Presso, Autozam AZ-3 and Mazda AZ-3 in Japan. In Australia it was marketed as the Eunos 30X until late 1996 when it became the Mazda-Eunos 30X.
History
The MX-3's platform is called the EC platform, and shares much with the BG platform of the contemporary Familia/323/Protegé. The first model year was available in Japan, Europe, Australia, and North America where it went on sale in September 1991, as a 1992. Originally available with a single-cam 1.6-liter inline-four or the 1.8-liter twin-cam V6, a few more engines were available as development continued. In the summer of 1991, the Autozam AZ-3 was added to the Japanese market lineup. It was known by two names;"Autozam" was meant to be Mazda's more youthful brand, so it combined a somewhat lower price with a sportier (but smaller) twin-cam 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, and also sold as the Eunos Presso, a companion, affordable sports hatchback to the Eunos Roadster.
The small displacement V6 was offered to set the small coupé apart in the marketplace, while providing a balanced, smooth running engine. Project Manager Tadayuki Hayashi had also used to be an avid motorcyclist and enjoyed engines with a peaky power delivery - the little V6 delivered its peak torque at an unusually high 5,300 rpm.
In January 1994, a DOHC version of the familiar B6 engine, the B6D, replaced the previous version. This provided a useful power increase but conversely also made the considerably more expensive V6 version less desirable. Sales of the V6 in the United States market came to an end after the 1994 model year, although they continued in Canada, Japan and many other export markets. While called K8-DE in North American specs, Japanese and other markets received an engine called the K8-ZE. Aside from emissions equipment and varying power claims due to myriad ratings methods, the differences are negligible.
Mazda referred to the car as a four-seater, but the rear seats were ostensibly designed to hold people of "AF 50" dimensions (50th percentile, Asian Female) and the car was a de facto 2+2 design. The MX-3 was only manufactured for one generation as the MX-5 proved more popular. As the Japanese asset price bubble effects became noticeable, Mazda had to cut back models that weren't selling well and the MX-3 was cancelled.
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Common 1995 Mazda Mx-3 problems
The Mazda MX-3, produced in 1995, is known to have several common problems that owners have reported. These issues include oil leaks, misfiring or lack of power, water pump failure, front coil spring problems, and transmission problems.
- Oil leak: If you notice oil around the spark plug lead area, it is likely caused by a leaking cam cover gasket. This issue can be resolved by fitting a replacement cam cover gasket.
- Misfiring or lack of power: If your MX-3 is struggling with engine misfiring or a lack of power under acceleration, the most likely cause is a faulty MAF sensor. Cleaning the MAF sensor with some MAF sensor cleaner and refitting it should resolve the problem. If not, you will need to fit a replacement MAF sensor.
- Water pump failure: The MX-3 has known issues with the water pump leaking, causing overheating. This problem seems to be more prevalent in cars with the V6 engine. If you notice that the water levels in the coolant reservoir are very low or there is water leaking onto the ground, it is likely that the water pump is the cause. You will need to fit a replacement water pump to fix the problem.
- Front coil spring problems: The MX-3 has experienced issues with the front coil springs breaking. If you notice that the car is leaning slightly to one side or is lower at the front, this could be the cause. This issue has been subject to three different recalls, so there is a good chance it will be covered under recall. If not, you can find a replacement front spring at a very low price.
- Transmission problems: The Mazda MX-3, being a sports car, requires special attention when inspecting the body for traces of corrosion. If the car has been in an accident, it is essential to ensure that the post-accident repair has been carried out professionally. The bodies of this model are completely galvanized, and the full side of the red disease indicates an unprofessionally performed post-accident repair .
In summary, these are some of the common problems reported by Mazda MX-3 owners. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent or detect these issues early, ensuring the longevity and reliability of your vehicle.
Is Mazda MX-3 reliable?
Owns this car
It was Super reliable and never ever gave me trouble. It got through the snow like it was a sled. I only wished mine had power windows and locks, can't ask for it all! I would recommend this for any one who is looking at a reliable fun car with great gas mileage.
What is the problem with the Mazda mx3 engine?
The MX-3 has known issues with the water pump leaking, causing overheating. This seems to be a particular problem on the V6 engine. If you have noticed that the water levels in the coolant reservoir are very low, or there is water leaking onto the ground then this will be the most likely cause.
What is the top speed of a 1995 Mazda MX-3?
Performance. The V6 MX-3 has a factory claimed top speed of 202 km/h (126 mph) in European trim.
What is the fuel mileage of a 1993 Mazda mx3?
1993 Mazda MX-3 review: Our expert's take
With the 130-horsepower V-6, the MX-3 shouts when it wants to, but it doesn't scream, as evidenced by the mileage rating of 23 m.p.g. city/28 highway.
1995 Mazda Mx-3 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mazda Mx-3 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Air bags problems
- Suspension problems
- Structure problems
- Equipment problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1995 Mazda Mx-3 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1995 Mazda Mx-3 complaints
The NHTSA has received 10 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1995 Mazda Mx-3.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-06-01
- VIN: JM1EC4357S0
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1995 MAZDA MX-3. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE CONTACT HEARD A LOUD CLUNKING NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. HE REMOVED THE PASSENGER SIDE FRONT TIRE AND NOTICED THAT THE COIL SPRING HAD FAILED. HIS VIN IS NOT INCLUDED IN RECALL # 97V116000 (SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:COIL SPRINGS). THE CONTACT FEELS THAT IT SHOULD BE INCLUDED BECAUSE HE IS EXPERIENCING THE SAME FAILURE AS NOTED IN THE RECALL. THE CURRENT MILEAGE IS 145,222 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000.
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-01-25
- VIN: PLEASE FILL
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: CONSUMER HAVE BEEN CONTINUALLY EXPRIENCING SUSPENSION PROBLEMS. REPLACED TIRE EVERY 3000 MILES. DEALER NOTIFIED, BUT MANUFACTURER REFUSED TO ALLOW DEALER TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM FOR UNKNOWN REASON. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-09-01
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: BRAKES LOCK UP WHEN DRIVING IN RAIN, CAUSING LOSS OF CONTROL.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-11-01
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JMIEC435450
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: NO DEPLOYMENT OF AIR BAGS DURING HEAD ON COLLISION WITH UTILITY POLE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-11-19
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JM1EC4352S0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AT STOP LIGHT, PROCEEDED FORWARD, TRUCK MAKING RIGHT TURN, APPLIED BRAKES, VEHICLE SLID INTO TRUCK, PASSENGER'S SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED, BUT DRIVER'S SIDE DID NOT; TRUCK LEFT SCENE OF ACCIDENT. *AK
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-11-26
- Crash: 1
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: DRIVING VEHICLE AT SPEED OF 25MPH, MAKING A RIGHT, VEHICLE WENT OUT OF CONTROL DUE FAULTY SUSPENSION, IMPACT 12:00, AND FLIPPED OVER. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-08-09
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JM13C4359S0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: NO DEPLOYMENT OF DRIVER'S/PASSENGER'S AIR BAGD DURING A FRONTAL IMPACT. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-01-11
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JM1EC4352S0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A FRONTAL COLLISION THE PASSENGER AIRBAG DEPLOYED BUT THE DRIVERS DID NOT. PLEASE DESCRIBE. TT
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-09-20
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHEN IN ACCIDENT PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG COMPARTMENT LID HIT WINDSHIELD WHEN AIR BAG DEPLOYED AND SHATTERED. PLEASE DESCRIBE DETAILS. TT
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-05-01
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHEN BRAKES WERE APPLIED ELECTRICAL ITEMS WOULD DIM. GIVE MORE DETAILS. TT
1995 Mazda Mx-3 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1995 Mazda Mx-3.
- Manufacturer: MAZDA (NORTH AMERICA),INC
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:COIL SPRINGS
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE FOLLOWING STATES: CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, NW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WEST VIRGINIA, WISCONSIN, AND WASHINGTON, DC. IN AREAS WHERE LARGE QUANTITIES OF ROAD SALT ARE USED, CORROSIVE PITS CAN DEVELOP ON THE SURFACE OF THE FRONT SUSPENSION COIL SPRING. REPEATED USE CAN EVENTUALLY CAUSE THE COIL SPRING TO BREAK AND A TIRE COULD BE PUNCTURED FROM CONTACT WITH THE BROKEN COIL SPRING.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION INCREASES THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A GUARD ASSEMBLY WHICH WILL PREVENT THE BROKEN COIL SPRING FROM CONTACTING THE TIRE. IN ADDITION TO PERFORMING THE RECALL CAMPAIGN, MAZDA IS EXTENDING THE WARRANTY COVERAGE ON THE FRONT COIL SPRINGS FOR THE LIFT OF THE VEHICLE. IF OWNERS HAVE ALREADY PAID FOR THE REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT OF THESE FRONT COIL SPRINGS, DUE TO ROAD SALT DAMAGE, MAZDA WILL REIMBURSE THESE OWNERS FOR REASONABLE EXPENSES.
Negative 1995 Mazda Mx-3 car reviews
Positive 1995 Mazda Mx-3 car reviews
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I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to let you know that I've had an mx-3 for a couple of years now and I really like it. How about you?
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I hope this message finds you well! I just wanted to share that I have been the first owner of my car and, aside from regular maintenance, I have had no major problems. I truly believe it was well worth the money spent.
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I've owned my Mazda MX-3 for five years now, and I'm happy to say that it's been a great car. It still looks fantastic and fits in perfectly with all the new sporty cars. The best part is that it's fast and reliable! The only minor issues I've had are with the placement of the cupholders and the small backseats. However, it's so easy to find replacement parts for it online, and the gas mileage is incredible. Overall, I'm more than satisfied with my purchase, and I would definitely recommend this car to anyone looking for a cute and reliable ride.
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This car is really fun to drive, and I can tell you that I absolutely love driving it.
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Good car overall! Although it could use more space, it's small yet reliable and economical on gas.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1995 Mazda Mx-3 problems:
Considering buying an MX-3 V6 : r/mazda
Feb 17, 2018 ... ... MX-3 V6 : r/mazda ... As the title says I'm considering buying an MX-3 with the 1.8L V6 from 1995. ... known common problems as the Probe GT and ...
1992 Mazda Mx-3: NO SPARK!!! | Mazda World Forum
Jun 5, 2007 ... Everywhere I've read, yes, they are common problems in the V6 MX3. Unfortunately, a refurbed one at an auto-parts store costs around $500 ...
1993 Mazda MX-3 Problems and Complaints - 3 Issues
Problem with your 1993 Mazda MX-3? Our list of 3 known ... Find the most common issues based on car owner complaints ... 1995 Mazda MX-3 problems. (3). View all.
Common MX6 problems | Mazda MX-6 Forum
Sep 12, 2003 ... Common MX6 problems · Transmission jerks hard occasionally going from first to second gear; feels like you hit one huge pot hole. · Driver's side ...
Mazda MX-3 Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
Get Mazda MX-3 repair and maintenance costs, common problems, recalls, and more ... Mazda MX-3 vehicles have 3 known recalls. ... Mazda MX-3 Model Years · 1995 ...
Other years of Mazda Mx-3
Are you having problems with your 1995 Mazda Mx-3?
Fredy Stamm 2024-02-05
Hi there! I wanted to share my car repair history with you. Unfortunately, I've had to replace the clutch twice and the check engine light always flashes, even after multiple attempts to fix it by the dealer. On top of that, I had to spend $1600 (cdn) on new tires and replace the transmission. The electrical system has also failed on me several times, even after being repaired by the Mazda dealership. To make matters worse, the trunk release broke after just a year and I've had to deal with consistent fluid leaks, some of which were quite expensive to repair. It's been quite a journey, but I'm hopeful that things will start looking up soon!