If your Mazda 3 won't start, it can interfere with your daily schedule. So what could be wrong with your car if it won't start? We have done the research to help you troubleshoot this issue!
If your Mazda 3 won't start, then it could be due to the following:
- Dead Battery
- Corroded Battery Terminals
- Loose Battery Connection
- Failing Alternator
- Bad Starter Motor
- Faulty Starter Solenoid
- Bad Starter Relay
- Worn Spark Plugs
- Clogged Fuel Filter
- Clogged Air Filter
- Bad Fuel Pump
- Blown Engine
As you can see, there are several reasons why your Mazda 3 won't start. First, however, it is essential to understand the signs of these issues when trying to pinpoint the problem.
This article will take a closer look at each of these mechanical components and why they could cause your car not to start. In addition, we will discuss the life expectancy of a Mazda 3 engine and how often you should service it, so read on!
Mazda 3 Won't Start - What Could Be Wrong?
The Mazda 3 is a compact but efficient car with excellent fuel mileage. However, fuel mileage doesn't do any good if your car won't start. If your car doesn't start, then it can make you late for work or unable to get your errands one on your day off.
So what could be the issue? Well, several things could be wrong. First, however, let's look at the most common culprits to this problem and the warning signs of each.
Dead Battery
This is probably one of the most common reasons people think their Mazda 3 won't start. This can happen for several reasons but typically happens due to the age of your car.
Batteries have a typical three to five years, depending on how well you maintain them. Though this lifespan will vary, it gives you an idea of how long your battery should last.
If you're noticing that your car is taking longer to start or if it's completely dead, then it might be time for a new battery. However, the first thing you should do is try jumpstarting the battery.
If that doesn't solve the problem, you can take the battery to an automotive store to check the battery. They will be able to tell you if it's time for a new battery or if the battery is fine. That means there is something else wrong with the car.
Corroded Battery Terminals
Another reason why your Mazda 3 won't start is corroded battery terminals. If you notice any corrosion on the posts of your car, then it's best to clean them with a mix of baking soda and water with a toothbrush or scrubber.
The corrosion could be due to many factors, including having too much moisture around your car or even allowing water or fluid to sit for an extended period. In addition, if you live in a humid area, then this could be why your battery is corroding.
Loose Battery Connection
If your battery is loose, it will not make a good connection with the starter. This can be due to the vibration or movement of the car. Therefore, it's essential to check the battery connections every so often and tighten them if they are loose.
Failing Alternator
The alternator is responsible for supplying power to the battery and other electrical components in the car. If your alternator is failing, then it may not be able to keep up with the demand of starting your car.
Some warning signs that your alternator may be failing are dimmed headlights when the car is running or if the battery light comes on. In addition, components such as your radio or air conditioning will turn off.
If you're experiencing any of these, it's best to take your car to a mechanic to have it checked.
Bad Starter Motor
The starter motor is responsible for starting the engine. If it's bad, then your car will not start. There are a few signs that your starter motor may be bad. One sign is if you hear a clicking noise when you turn the key in the ignition. Another sign is if your car turns over slowly or not at all.
Faulty Starter Solenoid
The starter solenoid is an electrical component that controls the functions of your starter. Unfortunately, it can also fail and cause your car not to start at all, which would be a symptom similar to having a bad starter motor.
Bad Starter Relay
The starter relay is responsible for the starting circuit. If it's bad, then your car will not start. The warning signs of a bad starter relay are when the headlights or other electrical components in your car turn off when you try to start the engine.
Worn Spark Plugs
If your spark plugs are worn, then your car will not start. You should replace your spark plugs every 30,000 miles. However, this may vary depending on the make and model of your car and how you drive.
If you're unsure if it's time to replace your spark plugs, you can take them to a mechanic, and they will be able to tell you if they need replacing or not. When spark plugs are changed, it's recommended that you change your spark plug wires simultaneously.
Clogged Fuel Filter
If your fuel filter is clogged, you won't get gas into the engine. This could be due to low-quality gas or if you don't change your fuel filter often enough.
Clogged Air Filter
Your car needs a clean air filter for the engine to produce as much power as possible from the fuel it is receiving from the gas tank. If you have never changed your air filter or you have not changed it recently, then this could be why your Mazda 3 won't start.
Check your air filter to see if it is clean. If it's not, take out all of the debris and vacuum it. Then put it back into the car and try starting it to see if this solves your problem.
Bad Fuel Pump
There are a few signs that your fuel pump may be bad. One sign is if you hear a humming noise when you turn the key in the ignition. Another sign is if your car hesitates when you try to start it.
Blown Fuse
If you have blown a fuse, then it means that there is an electrical component in your car that is not getting power.
There are usually signs of a blown fuse. One sign is when one or more of your car's electrical components stop working. Another sign is if the fuse box is hot to the touch.
How Long will a Mazda3 Engine Last?
On average, you can expect your Mazda 3 engine to last 200,000 miles. However, this can depend on how the car is cared for. If a Mazda 3 is not correctly maintained, it may require more frequent repairs and breakdowns.
Be sure you are sticking to the regular maintenance schedule to increase the lifespan of your Mazda 3.
How Often does a Mazda3 Need Servicing?
When it comes to servicing your Mazda 3, you will have different schedules to go by. For example, you should change your engine oil every 3,000-5,000 miles (depending on the type of engine oil). However, tire rotation and fuel filters are recommended every 7,500 miles!
What battery does Mazda 3 use?
The Mazda 3 battery is typically a Group 35 battery. This battery is categorized by groups which will determine the proper size and voltage for your Mazda. Therefore, it is important to get the same battery that came with it from the factory.
How long should a battery last in a Mazda 3?
You should expect your Mazda 3 battery to last three to five years. The average lifespan of the battery will vary depending on the weather climate it is in and how often the vehicle is driven. If you are worried about your car battery's health, then have it checked by an automotive store or mechanic.
Where is the Mazda 3 Starter Located?
Typically, the Mazda 3 starter will be located under the intake manifold with various cables. Therefore, you may have to do some digging on your part to find it. However, unless you are mechanical sound, it is better to have a mechanic do the work.
How Much is an Alternator for a Mazda?
The price for a Mazda alternator varies depending on the year and model. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $30 to over $250 for an alternator. To get a more exact estimate, then you will need the VIN of your Mazda to have an auto mechanic look up the part and labor costs.
Final Thoughts
Like any car, sooner or later, you will have issues that need to be addressed. The Mazda 3 is no different in this circumstance, and you may run into a situation where it won't start. If this happens, start with the basics and check the battery first.
From there, go down the list to troubleshoot the issue. If you feel overwhelmed, then contact a trusted certified mechanic for help.
For more maintenance guides, check out these articles:
Dashboard Lights Flickering Car Won’t Start – What Could Be Wrong?
2007 Mazda 3 won’t start, cranks but won’t start. It will start in neutral, what dies this mean?