1999 Mazda Mx-3 problems

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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.

1999 Mazda Mx-3

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Common 1999 Mazda Mx-3 problems

The Mazda MX-3, particularly the 1999 model, has been known to experience several common problems based on complaints from its owners. Here are some of the issues and details about them:

  • Faulty injectors: In some cases, the Mazda MX-3 may experience problems with the fuel injectors. The injectors may need to be cleaned properly to resolve the issue. A mechanic can diagnose and clean the injectors to restore the car's performance.
  • Distributor problems: The distributor in the Mazda MX-3 can fail, causing the car to not start. The rotor arm contact pin may break, and the distributor cap center pin may also be problematic. Replacing these parts may not always solve the issue, as the coil may not be supplying voltage. Locating the coil and checking its voltage can help diagnose the problem further.
  • Idle issues: The 1999 Mazda MX-3, especially the V6 model, can have issues with idle, causing hesitation and low power. The car may have a very bad idle, going from almost stopping to 2000 RPM and back again. This issue may require a mechanic's diagnosis and repair.

These are some of the common problems reported by Mazda MX-3 owners, particularly for the 1999 model. Regular maintenance and addressing these issues promptly can help ensure the longevity and performance of the vehicle.

1999 Mazda Mx-3 engine

1999 Mazda Mx-3 complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1999 Mazda Mx-3.

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Other years of Mazda Mx-3

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Mx-3 1991
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mazda mx-3 1996 photo
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1999 Mazda Mx-3 photo