2004 Mazda 3 Review
2004 Mazda 3 Review
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Used 3 for sale
Appraise This CarMazda 3 model years
Mazda 3 types
- Hatchback
- Sedan
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Fun-to-drive character, stylish interior design, strong engines, hatchback utility.
Cons
- Ride might be too stiff for some, a few ergonomic quirks, tight rear legroom.
What’s new
The Mazda 3 is an all-new economy sedan and hatchback that replaces the Protege in Mazda's lineup.
Edmunds says
Good looks, strong engines and sharp handling add up to an economy car that feels anything but cheap.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2004 Mazda 3 i 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.36 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$152/mo for 3 i
3 i
vs
$174/mo
Avg. Compact Car
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2004 Mazda 3.
5 star(87%)
4 star(10%)
3 star(2%)
2 star(1%)
1 star(0%)
654 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.5 out of 5 stars
Love this car but beware
djshame, 04/23/2013
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
I have had this car since it had 6 miles on it. The only issues i had in the begining was a belt that broke and ignition coils. This car is very fun to drive. However be aware that after 100k the engine starts to burn oil. I wasn't aware of this and didn't feel the need to check my oil on the regular. Hence i now need a new motor. Just a word of advice check your oil levels regularly at … least once a week when you go over 100k in miles. Enjoy zoomzoom. Hence i bought a 2013 MSP3. love my Mazda's....
3.5 out of 5 stars
2.3L Engine Prone to Failure
mazdaharp, 09/07/2013
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
I've owned this car since day one. It is 9-1/2 years old and 103,000 miles on it. I've done all scheduled maintenance at the dealer. I've had a problem for a few years where this car has been chewing through oil but no one could out where it was going (no leaks, no visible burning, no blown head gasket). I'm adding about a quart every 750 miles. Insane. I finally took it to another … dealer with a better service department when the first failed to identify the problem. The piston rings have failed. The only solution... a new engine for $7,200. The more research I do, the more I see this is a common problem but Mazda is refusing to acknowledge it.
5 out of 5 stars
No regrets!
gwen, 07/12/2015
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
Bought my 2004 in 2006 while still under warranty, and 9 years and 138000 miles later am only now thinking of upgrading. Longest I've ever driven one particular vehicle. The most cost comes with replacing the low profile tires so frequently but otherwise has been essentially maintenance free with giving it regular oil changes and routine checkups. I absolutely love this solid little … car. I even discovered I could camp in it. As I age I need slightly better front seats for comfort and therefore am also looking to upgrade to maybe a Mazda CX-5. I love hatchbacks, I don't like SUVs, vans and sedans and this car is perfect.
4.75 out of 5 stars
Bet Car Purchase Ever
pagzzz, 12/23/2011
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
Bought this car new in 2004 and approaching 90k miles. Every mile has been enjoyable. Thought about getting a newer car with better performance and luxury, but decided that this car so perfectly meets my needs, I'm going to drive it into the ground.
No major problems (aside from nasty pothole related suspension stuff) and has maintained high 20's combined mileage while remaining fun to … drive. Won't win a drag race, but can slalom with many "performance" cars.
Definitely recommend upgrading stock rubber to slightly wider, stickier set. On my third set of BFG's 215/45R17 rubber. Great tires for this car.
2004 3 Highlights
Hatchback
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $17,105 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 25 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $167/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 17.1 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver4 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver3 / 5Passenger3 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalPoor
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintMarginal
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