CarComplaints.com Notes: Except for a minor issue with cracked motor mounts, the 2008 MAZDA3 is a fantastic vehicle with a great reputation.
If you need to replace the motor mounts, first ask your dealer if they'll cover it -- the motor mounts were dealt with in a TSB & were recalled for some model years. Otherwise buy aftermarket motor mounts -- owners report this solves the problem. If you use the same OEM parts, they may just crack again.
Severe problem laying in wait is that the lower ball joint does not have a grease fitting, unlike the other points in the suspension. The rubber corrodes causing the socket to dry out, and the ball will pop out of the socket causing the driver to lose control because the wheel basically comes off the car. You’ll also have to replace the CV shaft since that will snap when the tire no longer can support the cars weight. This is a very dangerous scenario that happened to me.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
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Severe problem laying in wait is that the lower ball joint does not have a grease fitting, unlike the other points in the suspension. The rubber corrodes causing the socket to dry out, and the ball will pop out of the socket causing the driver to lose control because the wheel basically comes off the car. You’ll also have to replace the CV shaft since that will snap when the tire no longer can support the cars weight. This is a very dangerous scenario that happened to me.
- Lar B., Dayton, OH, US