Two problems related to manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe have been reported for the 2004 Mazda MAZDA3. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2004 Mazda MAZDA3 based on all problems reported for the 2004 MAZDA3.
The contact owns a 2004 Mazda3. She stated that the vehicle could be driven as an automatic or a manual. While driving 20 mph in manual mode she attempted to shift gears, to no avail. She had to take her foot off of the gas pedal in order for the gears to release and afterwards the gears started to shift on their own. She was able to exit the freeway when the vehicle lost all power, but continued to accelerate. She was unable to stop the vehicle or make a turn. The vehicle began moving from one lane to another and accelerated through a red light to avoid a collision. The vehicle stopped accelerating within in a few minutes. The vehicle was towed to a local mechanic who diagnosed the failure as the intake manifold. The intake manifold melted, damaged the sensor and the catalytic converter. The mechanic replaced the catalytic converter, sensors, and the gaskets; however, she had to add oil to the engine because the engine light illuminated constantly. She took the vehicle back to the mechanic who stated that the engine also needed to be replaced. She contacted the manufacturer and filed a report; however , the manufacturer stated that they would not assist with the repairs. The engine was not replaced. The failure mileage was 25,000 and the current mileage was 75,000.
The contact owns a 2004 Mazda 3. Since 2007, the contact heard a ticking noise in the engine. The noise intensified and the dealer stated that the intake manifold was the cause of the failure. The repair would cost $1,036. The contact attempted to call the manufacturer as well. The VIN was unknown. The failure mileage was 82,200.