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Mazda · Known Issues

2007 Mazda Mazda3 Problems: 7 Known Issues

2007 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2007 Mazda Mazda3 has 7 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are 2004-2009 Mazda3 FN4A-EL Four-Speed Automatic Shift Solenoid and Valve Body Faults ($400-$2,500 repair) and 2007-2009 Mazda3 Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering Pump Failure - Sudden Loss of Assist (Recall 10V374 / Mazda 6010H) ($700-$1,500 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $150 to $2,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Mazda3 Transmission1
  • Mazda3 Steering1
  • Mazda3 Body/Panels1
  • Mazda3 Engine1
  • Mazda3 Electrical1
  • Mazda3 Suspension1
  • Mazda3 Emissions1
  • Recalls8
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Transmission1
  • Steering1
  • Body/Panels1
  • Engine1
  • Electrical1

All 7 Known Issues

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On the 2004-2009 Mazda Mazda3, the FN4A-EL (Mazda's version of the Ford 4F27E) four-speed automatic used in the BK Mazda3 suffers sticking shift solenoids and worn valve-body bores. When a solenoid sticks or its driver circuit in the TCM fails, line pressure is no longer properly controlled: the car bangs into gear, flares between shifts, holds a single gear in limp mode, or refuses to shift out of first. Owners report the P0766/P0767 (shift solenoid D) and P0771 (shift solenoid E) family of codes, frequently after the fluid has gone past its life and clutch debris has circulated through the valve body. Long-neglected fluid accelerates it - the burnt clutch material is what makes the solenoid valves stick in the first place.

Common Symptoms

  • Harsh or banging shifts
  • Flare or slip between gears
  • Stuck in one gear / limp mode
  • No upshift from first
  • Check engine light with transmission solenoid codes
  • Burnt-smelling dark ATF

How to Fix

Scan for the specific solenoid code before assuming the transmission is finished. Start with a proper drain-and-fill using Mazda ATF M-V (never a generic Dexron substitute) and inspect the pan and magnet for clutch material. If codes return, the correct repair is a valve body with new shift solenoids - Mazda's own guidance for a stuck 1-2 solenoid control valve is valve body replacement. Verify the TCM solenoid driver circuits and the internal harness before installing a valve body, since a failed driver in the module will set the same code on a brand new solenoid. Where the fluid was burnt and the car slips under load, a full rebuild is the durable answer.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Mazda ATF M-V transmission fluid 0000-77-112E-01
    OEMMazda 0000-77-112E-01

    Exact Mazda M-V fluid for a correctly scoped drain-and-fill on the FN4A-EL/non-SKYACTIV automatic Fitment/availability: Live direct OEM page identifies Mazda transmission fluid 0000-77-112E-01 at $9.03 with Add to Cart and 1-2-business-d…

    MazdaPartsNow

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$400 - $2,500

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Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

On the 2007-2009 Mazda Mazda3, the BK Mazda3 uses an electro-hydraulic power steering unit. Rust and debris from the steel pressure lines between the pump and the rack contaminate the pump's internal sensor/control circuitry, causing the electric pump to shut down and drop assist without warning. NHTSA opened investigation PE10-021 after 143 complaints and multiple crash/injury reports, which led Mazda to recall roughly 215,000 US Mazda3 and Mazda5 vehicles built April 2007 - November 2008. Owners describe the wheel going abruptly heavy at low speed, often preceded by a growl or whine from the pump at idle. Cars outside the build-date window fail the same way but are not covered, and forum threads document owners replacing the unit at their own expense.

Common Symptoms

  • Sudden loss of power steering assist while driving
  • Steering becomes very heavy at parking-lot speeds
  • Whining or growling from the power steering pump at idle
  • Intermittent assist that returns after restarting the car
  • Power steering warning indication

How to Fix

Check the VIN against recall 10V374000 first - covered cars get a free power steering pump and pressure line replacement at a Mazda dealer. Outside the recall, the fix is replacement of the electro-hydraulic pump assembly together with the high-pressure lines (replacing the pump alone lets the same rust contamination kill the new unit) and a full fluid flush. Do not ignore an early whine or intermittent heavy-steering event; it precedes total loss of assist.

Typical repair cost:$700 - $1,500

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

On the 2004-2009 Mazda Mazda3, the BK Mazda3's rear quarter panel lip has a folded seam with inadequate sealer and drainage. Salt-laden water and grit pack into the fold behind the plastic arch liner and the panel rusts from the inside out, so by the time bubbles appear in the paint above the rear wheel the metal underneath is already perforated. Door bottoms and the lower door seams go the same way. 2004-2007 cars are the worst; 2008-2009 production improved. The pattern was widespread enough that Mazda Canada extended perforation coverage to six years and paid claims, while US owners were largely left to fund the repair themselves - which is why so many BK Mazda3s in salt states carry bondo or patched arches.

Common Symptoms

  • Paint bubbling above the rear wheel arch
  • Rust holes in the rear quarter panel lip
  • Corrosion along the lower door seams
  • Flaking paint and brown staining behind the wheel arch liner

How to Fix

Pull the rear plastic arch liner and inspect the seam early - surface bubbling is the last symptom, not the first. Caught before perforation, the fix is cutting back to clean metal, treating with a rust converter, priming, painting and cavity-waxing the seam from behind. Once perforated, the correct repair is a cut-and-weld quarter-panel patch, not filler, followed by seam sealer and internal cavity wax. On any surviving BK Mazda3 in a salt region, an annual underbody wash and a cavity-wax treatment of the rear arch and door bottoms is the only real preventive measure.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • 3M Cavity Wax Plus 08852, 18 oz
    OEM3M 08852

    Internal corrosion protection after metal, weld, primer, sealer and paint repairs are complete Fitment/availability: Live direct U.S. product page identifies 3M 08852 Cavity Wax Plus, 18 oz, at $33.99 with 2,138 units shown in stock and …

    PBE Direct

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$400 - $2,000

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

On the 2004-2011 Mazda Mazda3, on the MZR family (LF 2.0, L3 2.3, including the Mazdaspeed3 L3-VDT) the intake-side VVT actuator/cam phaser bleeds down when the engine sits. On the next cold start the lock pin does not fully engage - Mazda's own tech tip attributes it to insufficient clearance between the actuator and lever and to the lock-pin bore - so the phaser rattles against its stop and the timing chain slaps the cover for one to three seconds. Owners hear a loud diesel-like rattle or ticking at start-up that disappears once oil pressure builds. Left alone the actuator wears further and can eventually throw cam-correlation codes. Mazda revised the actuator (adding heat treatment around the lock-pin bore) on later production.

This issue also affects: Mazda B-Series, Mazda CX-9, Mazda Mazda6

Common Symptoms

  • Loud rattle or ticking for 1-3 seconds on cold start-up
  • Diesel-like clatter from the front of the engine that fades as oil pressure builds
  • Noise worst after the car has sat overnight
  • Occasional cam/crank correlation check engine light in advanced cases

How to Fix

Confirm the noise is start-up-only and stops within a few seconds. Change to the correct-viscosity oil on the specified interval first - extended intervals and thick sludge make the bleed-down worse. The real fix is replacing the intake variable valve timing actuator with the updated OEM part; if the chain has been slapping for a long time also inspect the timing chain, tensioner and guides while the front cover is open.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Mazda non-turbo VVT actuator LF94-12-4X0D
    OEMMazda LF94-12-4X0D

    Current LF94 actuator for the VIN-confirmed non-turbo 2.0L or later applicable 2.3L branch Fitment/availability: Live direct OEM page identifies LF94-12-4X0D as a variable-timing actuator, superseding LF94-12-4X0C and earlier suffixes, a…

    MazdaPartsNow
  • Genuine Mazda Mazdaspeed VVT actuator L3K9-12-4X0C
    OEMMazda L3K9-12-4X0C

    Mazdaspeed3 2.3L turbo VVT actuator after the cold-start lock-pin condition is confirmed Fitment/availability: Live direct OEM page identifies L3K9-12-4X0C as the variable-timing actuator for 2007-2013 Mazdaspeed3 2.3L, at $139.78 with 1…

    MazdaPartsNow

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$400 - $1,100

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

On the 2004-2009 Mazda Mazda3, the BK Mazda3's door lock actuators are integrated into the latch assembly, and the small DC motor inside wears its brushes and commutator from years of cycling. The driver's door is used most and almost always fails first: the fob and the master switch lock the other three doors while the driver's door buzzes, hums or clicks without moving, or locks but will not unlock. Cold weather makes it worse. Because the actuator lives inside the latch, a dying unit can also leave a door that will not unlock from either the inside handle or the key, trapping an occupant or locking valuables in. Forum threads across both major Mazda3 boards show this as a routine high-mileage failure rather than a one-off.

Common Symptoms

  • Driver's door will not lock or unlock with the key fob or master switch
  • Buzzing, humming or clicking from inside the door when locking
  • Other doors lock normally but one does not
  • Intermittent operation that is worse in cold weather
  • Door will not unlock from the interior handle

How to Fix

Confirm the actuator, not wiring, by checking whether the other doors still respond and whether the failing door draws current at the connector when commanded. Replace the door lock actuator/latch assembly for the affected door - the panel, water shield and window regulator area have to come apart. A cheaper route many owners take is disassembling the latch and replacing just the small internal motor. Check the door harness boot between the body and the door for broken wires before buying parts, since chafed conductors there produce the same intermittent behavior.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine front-left door latch and actuator assembly W0133-1989784
    OEMGenuine W0133-1989784

    Front-left/driver power-door-lock latch assembly after wiring and mechanical binding are excluded Fitment/availability: Live direct item page identifies Genuine W0133-1989784 as the front-left latch assembly including actuator for 2004-2…

    PartsGeek

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$150 - $450

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

On the 2004-2009 Mazda Mazda3, first-generation Mazda3 models develop worn rear shock absorber upper mounts, producing a hollow knocking sound from the rear over bumps and rough roads. The rubber bushing in the upper mount compresses and deteriorates, and the mount bearing can seize. This causes the rear of the car to feel unsettled and bouncy, particularly noticeable on highway expansion joints and rough pavement.

This issue also affects: Mazda Mazda6

Common Symptoms

  • Knocking or clunking from rear over bumps
  • Bouncy ride quality
  • Rear end feels unsettled
  • Noise worse in cold weather
  • Visible shock fluid leak

How to Fix

Replace the rear shock absorbers and upper mounts as a set. OEM or quality aftermarket shocks (KYB Excel-G, Monroe) with new mounts are recommended. The rear shocks are straightforward to replace with basic tools — no spring compressor needed as the springs are separate from the struts on this model. Budget about 1-2 hours for both sides.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • KYB rear upper shock mount SM5619
    OEMKYB SM5619

    Primary upper-mount replacement after the rear knock is localized to the mount Fitment/availability: The inspected direct page identifies KYB SM5619 for the 2004-2009 Mazda3, shows $26.99 and a live Add to Cart control. KYB catalogs SM56…

    MADNESS Autoworks
  • KYB Excel-G rear shock absorber 343412
    OEMKYB 343412

    Conditional rear-damper branch when inspection proves a shock is leaking, weak or damaged Fitment/availability: The inspected direct page identifies KYB 343412 as a rear shock for 2004-2009 Mazda3, lists applicable first-generation trims…

    PartsGeek

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$200 - $500

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium Confidence

On the 2004-2010 Mazda Mazda3, mazda bulletin 01-002/18 provides a diagnosis path for a 2004-2010 Mazda3 with P0441, P0442, P0455, or P0456. The same code family can come from a loose, damaged, rusty, or leaking filler cap or neck; another EVAP-system leak; or a purge solenoid that does not seal or flow correctly. Mazda specifically notes that P0441 can be stored because of a fuel-filler-cap leak. The bulletin is not evidence that 2014-2018 SkyActiv purge valves commonly fail, and it does not identify PE01-18-741 as a universal fix.

This issue also affects: Mazda Mazda5

Common Symptoms

  • Check-engine light with an applicable EVAP code
  • P0441 incorrect purge flow
  • P0442, P0455, or P0456 EVAP leak code

How to Fix

Do not replace a purge valve from the code alone. Preserve the codes, confirm the cap was tightened correctly, and have a qualified technician follow Mazda bulletin 01-002/18: check related fuel-system DTCs; run the KOEO EVAP test; inspect the filler cap, threads, pipe, and neck; locate other leaks with the specified detector or smoke-test process; and test purge-valve gas tightness. For P0441, run Mazda's KOER purge-flow self-test. Replace the purge solenoid only if it fails the stated sealing or flow test, then repeat the EVAP test. Order any required component by VIN and current Mazda catalog after the failed component is known.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Mazda purge solenoid LF82-18-740
    OEMMazda LF82-18-740

    Naturally aspirated i/S purge-valve branch after Mazda's sealing or flow test proves failure Fitment/availability: Live direct OEM page identifies LF82-18-740 as a solenoid valve at $75.33 with 1-2-business-day shipping and Add to Cart. …

    MazdaPartsNow
  • Genuine Mazda 2.3L purge solenoid L301-18-741
    OEMMazda L301-18-741

    2004-2009 Mazda3 2.3L S/SP23/Mazdaspeed purge-solenoid branch after failed sealing or flow test Fitment/availability: Live direct OEM page identifies L301-18-741, replacing L801-18-741, at $120.84 with 1-2-business-day shipping and Add t…

    MazdaPartsNow
  • Genuine Mazda 2010 Mazdaspeed purge solenoid L518-18-741
    OEMMazda L518-18-741

    2010 Mazdaspeed3 2.3L turbo purge-solenoid branch after failed sealing or flow test Fitment/availability: Live direct OEM page identifies L518-18-741 at $62.09 with 1-2-business-day shipping and Add to Cart. Its fitment table lists 2010-…

    MazdaPartsNow

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipDo not clear the code before diagnosis. Record every stored DTC and whether the cap was recently removed, because Mazda's workflow branches on those facts.
  • WarningFuel-system cleaner and a routine fuel filter do not repair a verified EVAP leak or a purge solenoid that fails Mazda's sealing or flow test.

Research This Issue

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Manually Verified
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026
NHTSA Recalls8 recalls

VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:MOTOR

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.

Campaign #11V32900015/06/2011

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL

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.

Campaign #21V49400001/07/2021

SEATS

Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2011 Mazda2 and 2010-2011 Mazda3 and Mazdaspeed3 vehicles equipped with a manual seat lifter. In the affected vehicles, the seat height adjustment lifter links may break or detach from the seat frame and the seat angle may incline causing the driver to not be able to maintain an appropriate driving position.

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Other Mazda Models

Mazda CX-530Mazda CX-6027Mazda CX-5026Mazda MX-5 Miata22Mazda MX-621Mazda CX-7019

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Mazda Mazda3 problems?

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2007 Mazda Mazda3 has 7 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 2004-2009 Mazda3 FN4A-EL Four-Speed Automatic Shift Solenoid and Valve Body Faults, 2007-2009 Mazda3 Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering Pump Failure - Sudden Loss of Assist (Recall 10V374 / Mazda 6010H), 2004-2009 Mazda3 Rear Wheel Arch and Door-Seam Perforation Rust. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Mazda Mazda3 reliable?

The 2007 Mazda Mazda3 has 7 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 2 issues are rated critical: 2004-2009 Mazda3 FN4A-EL Four-Speed Automatic Shift Solenoid and Valve Body Faults and 2007-2009 Mazda3 Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering Pump Failure - Sudden Loss of Assist (Recall 10V374 / Mazda 6010H). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Mazda Mazda3 problems?

Repair costs for known Mazda Mazda3 issues range from $150 to $2,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, 2004-2009 Mazda3 FN4A-EL Four-Speed Automatic Shift Solenoid and Valve Body Faults, typically costs $400-$2,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2004-2009 Mazda Mazda3 2004-2009 Mazda3 FN4A-EL Four-Speed Automatic Shift Solenoid and Valve Body Faults?

The FN4A-EL (Mazda's version of the Ford 4F27E) four-speed automatic used in the BK Mazda3 suffers sticking shift solenoids and worn valve-body bores. When a solenoid sticks or its driver circuit in the TCM fails, line pressure is no longer properly controlled: the car bangs into… Repairs typically run $400-$2,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2007-2009 Mazda Mazda3 2007-2009 Mazda3 Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering Pump Failure - Sudden Loss of Assist (Recall 10V374 / Mazda 6010H)?

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, automotive forums, and AI-assisted research. No aggregated owner-report counts available for this vehicle yet.

  • Suspension1
  • Emissions1
  • Recalls8
  • FAQ
  • Campaign #17V08200009/02/2017

    STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE

    Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2010-2013 Mazda3 and Mazdaspeed3 vehicles manufactured November 18, 2008, to June 8, 2013, 2012-2015 Mazda5 vehicles manufactured October 26, 2010, to June 22, 2015, 2016 CX-3 vehicles manufactured June 1, 2015, to December 26, 2015, and 2013-2016 CX-5 vehicles manufactured December 15, 2011, to December 26, 2015. On the affected vehicles, the lift gate support struts may corrode, possibly causing the struts to break and/or the lift gate to drop unexpectedly.

    Campaign #16V64400006/09/2016

    STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM

    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.

    Campaign #10V37400012/08/2010

    + 3 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

    Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

    The BK Mazda3 uses an electro-hydraulic power steering unit. Rust and debris from the steel pressure lines between the pump and the rack contaminate the pump's internal sensor/control circuitry, causing the electric pump to shut down and drop assist without warning. NHTSA opened… Repairs typically run $700-$1,500. Severity: high.

    What is the 2004-2009 Mazda Mazda3 2004-2009 Mazda3 Rear Wheel Arch and Door-Seam Perforation Rust?

    The BK Mazda3's rear quarter panel lip has a folded seam with inadequate sealer and drainage. Salt-laden water and grit pack into the fold behind the plastic arch liner and the panel rusts from the inside out, so by the time bubbles appear in the paint above the rear wheel the me… Repairs typically run $400-$2,000. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2004-2011 Mazda Mazda3 2004-2011 Mazda3 MZR Engine Cold-Start Rattle from Variable Valve Timing Actuator Lock Pin?

    On the MZR family (LF 2.0, L3 2.3, including the Mazdaspeed3 L3-VDT) the intake-side VVT actuator/cam phaser bleeds down when the engine sits. On the next cold start the lock pin does not fully engage - Mazda's own tech tip attributes it to insufficient clearance between the actu… Repairs typically run $400-$1,100. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2004-2009 Mazda Mazda3 2004-2009 Mazda3 Power Door Lock Actuator Motor Wears Out - Driver's Door Fails First?

    The BK Mazda3's door lock actuators are integrated into the latch assembly, and the small DC motor inside wears its brushes and commutator from years of cycling. The driver's door is used most and almost always fails first: the fob and the master switch lock the other three doors… Repairs typically run $150-$450. Severity: low.

    What is the 2004-2009 Mazda Mazda3 Rear Shock Absorber Upper Mount Failure?

    First-generation Mazda3 models develop worn rear shock absorber upper mounts, producing a hollow knocking sound from the rear over bumps and rough roads. The rubber bushing in the upper mount compresses and deteriorates, and the mount bearing can seize. This causes the rear of th… Repairs typically run $200-$500. Severity: low.

    What is the 2004-2010 Mazda Mazda3 2004-2010 Mazda3 EVAP Leak or P0441 - Test Before Replacing the Purge Valve?

    Mazda bulletin 01-002/18 provides a diagnosis path for a 2004-2010 Mazda3 with P0441, P0442, P0455, or P0456. The same code family can come from a loose, damaged, rusty, or leaking filler cap or neck; another EVAP-system leak; or a purge solenoid that does not seal or flow correc… Severity: low.