2008 Mazda 3 Service and Repair Manual

Regular price $29.99 USD
Covers all 2008 3 trims — i Sedan 4-Door, S Hatchback 4-Door, GS Sedan 4-Door +5 more ·
Digital format
Any device
Yours forever
Money-back
4.7 · Trusted by 14,000+ mechanics & DIYers
2008 Mazda 3 Service and Repair Manual preview page 1
2008 Mazda 3 Service and Repair Manual preview page 2
2008 Mazda 3 Service and Repair Manual preview page 3
2008 Mazda 3 Service and Repair Manual preview page 4
2008 Mazda 3 Service and Repair Manual preview page 5
2008 Mazda 3 Service and Repair Manual preview page 6
2008 Mazda 3 Service and Repair Manual preview page 7
2008 Mazda 3 Service and Repair Manual preview page 8
2008 Mazda 3 Service and Repair Manual preview page 9
2008 Mazda 3 Service and Repair Manual preview page 10
End of Preview

Unlock the Full Manual

Complete repair procedures
Wiring diagrams & schematics
Torque specifications
Full search & bookmarks
$29.99
Scroll to view more pages
Buy 2+ Manuals, Save 20% Discount applied automatically at checkout
20% OFF

2008 Mazda 3 service and repair manual — a detailed, factory-style reference for maintenance, diagnostics, and repair. Use it to confirm correct procedures, specifications, and system coverage before you start work.

Designed for technicians and DIY owners, this manual helps you diagnose issues correctly, follow proven repair steps, and use wiring diagrams and system sections to track faults faster.

What’s included

  • Step-by-step repair procedures and service information
  • Specifications and reference data (where provided)
  • Electrical diagnostics with wiring diagrams
  • Coverage across major systems: engine, transmission/driveline, brakes, steering, suspension, HVAC, and more

Trims covered

  • i Sedan 4-Door
  • S Hatchback 4-Door
  • GS Sedan 4-Door
  • GT Sedan 4-Door
  • S Sedan 4-Door
  • Mazdaspeed Hatchback 4-Door
  • GT Hatchback 4-Door
  • GX Sedan 4-Door

Engines covered

  • 2.0L 2000CC 122Cu. In. l4 GAS DOHC Naturally Aspirated
  • 2.3L 2260CC l4 GAS DOHC Naturally Aspirated
  • 2.3L 2260CC l4 GAS DOHC Turbocharged

Index / Table of contents

  • Body
  • Brakes
  • Chassis Electrical
  • Driveline
  • Engine Cooling
  • Engine Electrical
  • Engine Mechanical
  • Engine Performance & Emission Controls
  • Fuel System
  • General Information & Identification
  • Heating, Ventilation, & Air Conditioning
  • Hybrid & Electric Vehicle Systems
  • Steering
  • Suspension
  • Transmission, Clutch, & Transfer Case
  • Wiring Diagrams
NHTSA #11V32900015/06/2011Component: 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.

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.

NHTSA #10V37400012/08/2010Component: 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.

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.

NHTSA #09E01100002/04/2009Component: EQUIPMENT

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.

TSB #11032103

This Service Alert supersedes the previously issued SA listed below: The changes are noted in Red. SA-011/24 02/12/24, 06/06/24, 07/29/24 DESCRIPTION Mazda has developed factory recommended scheduled maintenance services that support all ma

TSB #11026917

If you encounter any type of electrical concern (e.g, dead battery, engine no start, DTC(s) stored...), interview the customer before proceeding with normal MGSS diagnosis by asking if any aftermarket devices have been installed. Aftermarke

TSB #11026904

A musty/mildew type odor may come from the vents when the air conditioning (A/C) system is operating. It is most noticeable when the A/C is first turned ON. This odor is the result of mold growth in the A/C evaporator/cooling unit which is

TSB #11022742

Some vehicles may experience exterior trim heat damage such (melted, separating, etc.) when parked near a glass building or Low-E windows. This may be caused by the sun's reflection. If a structure's windows create enough of a curve, the co

TSB #11022727

When replacing the SiriusXM satellite radio unit, a call must be made to inform SiriusXM of the existing Radio ID and the new/replacement SAT Radio ID as soon as possible to ensure the customer leaves the dealership with an active SAT radio

TSB #11020039

Some customers may complain about a noisy HVAC blower motor or odor after a cabin air filter replacement. Foreign debris on the blower motor after servicing the cabin air filter may be the cause. During the removal of the cabin air filter,

TSB #11017699

A musty/mildew type odor may come from the vents when the air conditioning (A/C) system is operating. It is most noticeable when the A/C is first turned ON. This odor is the result of mold growth in the A/C evaporator/cooling unit which is

TSB #11007022

Some vehicles may experience exterior trim heat damage such (melted, separating, etc.) when parked near a glass building or Low-E windows. This may be caused by the sun's reflection.

Showing the 8 most recent of 153 technical service bulletins on file with NHTSA.

08/13/20Component: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTSCrash reported3 injured

I WAS INVOLVED IN A FOUR CAR COLLISION. I WAS THIRD IN LINE, AND WAS HIT REALLY HARD FROM BEHIND AND THEN HIT THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME. MY AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AND MY SEAT BELT DID NOT LOCK. I SLAMMED INTO THE STEERING WHEEL AND BUSTED MY FOREHEAD OPEN. *TR

02/24/20Component: AIR BAGSCrash reported2 injured

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

04/17/20Component: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING2 injured

PRODUCT INVOLVED = 2008 MAZDA 3 PRODUCT BRAND NAME/MANUFACTURER = BUTCH OUSTALET MAZDA MANUFACTURER STREET ADDRESS = AIRPORT RD PLACE WHERE MANUFACTURED (CITY AND STATE OR COUNTRY) = GULFPORT, MS - FROM JAPAN PRODUCT MODEL, SERIAL #, DATE OF MANUFACTURER OR DATE CODEWHEN PRODUCT PURCHASED = 11/30/2007 DO YOU STILL HAVE THE PRODUCT? = YES USE YOUR NAME WITH THIS REPORT? = RELEASE NAME TO THE MANUFACTURER AND PUBLIC INCIDENT OR HAZARD DESCRIPTION = I BOUGHT A 2008 MAZDA 3, 4 MONTHS AGO. THE CAR BEGAN MAKING ME SICK - BAD HEADACHES AND LOSS OF CONCENTRATION. MY WIFE FOR 2 MONTHS AND GAVE C

08/14/20Component: WHEELSCrash reported1 injured

I WAS DRIVING AROUND A TURN GOING APPROXIMATELY 25-30 MPH WHEN I LOST CONTROL OF THE CAR. IT IS BELIEVED THAT THE TIRE SUDDENLY LOST AIR PRESSURE AND RAN ME OFF THE ROAD. I WAS LEFT IN THE CREEK WITH MY TWO AND THREE YEAR OLD. TWO GUYS HELPED ME GET THE KIDS AND MYSELF OUT THE CAR SAFELY. MY CAR IS NOW TOTALED DUE TO THE FAILURE OF THE PASSENGER SIDE TIRE. TIRE SIZE WAS 205 55 16. THERE WAS NO PUNCTURE HOLES ON THE TIRE SO NO REAASON FOR THE SUDDEN LOSS OF AIR.

02/16/20Component: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINECrash reported1 injured

CAR ACCIDENT GOING AROUND 60MPH ON A HIGHWAY, HIT GUARDRAIL HEAD ON DUE TO BLACK ICE AND RAIN, SPINNING TWICE HITTING GUARDRAILS AGAIN FRONT AND BACK MULTIPLE TIMES, NOT A SINGLE AIRBAG DEPLOYED. THANK GOODNESS FOR THE SEATBELT AS I'M SURE DEATH WOULD HAVE OCCURRED IF THAT FAILED TOO. GOING THROUGH THE INSURANCE PROCESS NOW AND WILL HAVE MORE PICTURES AND POLICE REPORT IN HAND SHORTLY. I THOUGHT MY WIFE AND KIDS WERE IN A SAFE CAR... I GUESS NOT.

08/27/20Component: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,STRUCTURECrash reported1 injured

MY BOYFRIEND WAS IN A ROLL OVER ACCIDENT WHERE THE AIRBAG SENSORS WERE COMPLETELY RIPPED OFF ALONG WITH THE BUMPER AND THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AND THE SEATBELT DID NOT LOCK UP UNTIL HE CAME TO A STOP. *TR

06/30/20Component: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKESCrash reported1 injured

TL * THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 MAZDA3. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL SUDDENLY SEIZED. THE CONTACT DEPRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL, BUT THE BRAKES FAILED TO RESPOND. THE VEHICLE SPUN AND CRASHED INTO A GUARD RAIL. THE CONTACT WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE EMERGENCY ROOM BY AMBULANCE AND WAS TREATED FOR BRUISING, WHIPLASH, ACUTE NECK, BACK, SHOULDER, AND LEG TRAUMAS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY REPAIRED ACCORDING TO NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 10V374000 (STEERING). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.

11/18/20Component: STEERING,STRUCTURECrash reported1 injured

THIS IS NOT DIRECTLY RELATED TO THE POWER STEERING PUMP RECALL ISSUE. THE RECALL WORK HAS BEEN PERFORMED ON THIS VEHICLE BY THE DEALER. I AM WRITING TO COMPLAIN ABOUT A BIGGER ISSUE REGARDING "DESIGN NEGLIGENCE" BY MAZDA AS IT RELATES TO THE PLACEMENT OF THE POWER STEERING PUMP ON THIS 2008-3. YOU SEE, THE PUMP (AN ITEGRAL PART OF THE STEERING AND VEHICLE SAFETY CONTROL SYSTEM) IS MOUNTED OUTSIDE THE CAR'S FRAME, JUST FORWARD OF THE PASSENGER FRONT TIRE. IT IS BASICALLY JUST BEHIND THE PASSENGER HEADLIGHT/FOGLIGHT/BUMPER/QUARTER PANEL ASSEMBLY. THIS LOCATION MAKES IT VERY SUSCEPTIBLE TO D

Showing the 8 most serious of 303 complaints filed with NHTSA.

Other Years of the Mazda 3

More Mazda Models