2004 Mazda 3 S review from North America

Everything has basically been in tip top shape.

The Previous owner didn't do much scheduled maintenance, but I got all the fluids flushed and it's fine now.

The clip that holds the privacy cover up in the hatch gets fatigued due to design and sometimes have to be replaced.

I used to work for a Mazda dealership service department and that's where I fell in love with the car.

The carrier bearing in the front axle has a tendency to leak. If it does then the front axle has to be replaced. If your vehicle is under warranty, you should have it checked because it can get pretty pricey.

A Mazda technician that I keep in touch with says that small amounts of oil leaking from the rear main is completely normal and not worth wasting money on fixing it.

All the technicians have said that the 3S is the most dependable and well designed car on the market in it's class. Rest easy when you go with the 3.

I love this car and will not drive anything else until the day I die.

The handling is second to none.

The outside appearance will break necks as you go buy. I have passed police officers on the highway and I caught them gawking at my car. They forget to pull you over.

Very Powerful. AEM cold air intake is a must. They run around $216.00.

You cannot put a turbo on this car without voiding your warranty. Make sure the JUICE is worth the squeeze. They also cost around $4,500 dollars to get, and good luck getting a certified tech. to put it in.