2014 Mazda 3

**bogart.2006** · July 3rd, 2022 02:35 PM

Originally Posted by jojopad

In addition to JohnM's, here are some of the issues I've experienced so far with my Mazda BN 2.0L Skyactiv model with iStop. I still own this car which will turn 5 years this end of year. The BN model was released last 2017 as a facelifted version the BM model (2014) and possibly with some improvements in the engine/suspension, etc.

So far I haven't experienced any major issues yet like broken engine support, belt/tensioner, suspension parts. Perhaps some of those issues that JohnM listed may happen after 5 years (hopefully not yet).

0. The iStop feature with the expensive EFB battery replacement is the most annoying one. This EFB for the Mazda Skyactiv 2.0L model is required for the iStop start/stop engine. Special battery is needed to avoid damaging the start/stop system and eLoop capacitor which can cost around ₱120T at casa. Some 2.0 owners have claimed that using an ordinary Amaron battery will do fine. Personally I would go for the EFB for peace of mind.

1. Brake pedal noise https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XvCZ0hssg48

3. There's an occasional thud/clank noise coming from the front/rear suspension area when going through speed bumps and bump roads. There's a previous post on this thread about this, All New 2017 Mazda 3

4. No Android Auto / Apple Carplay support. There's a retrofit update for those who want it. Some shops like Mikstore offer parts and services for doing this upgrade for those who prefer a cheaper option from casa. Personally I don't have a compelling need for this upgrade.

5. Visor can't be extended horizontally. Quite obtrusive when swinging it to the door side. See https://youtu.be/7ZG3r17k9SU?t=2m35s on how the Mazda 3 failed the visor test.

6. Scratch-prone piano black plastic finish at the door panel and transmission lever area.

7. Lack of driver side door panel button lights, difficult to see buttons
8. Engine is quite loud for a petrol type. Probably due to lack of noise insulation from the engine compartment. Sound/Noise proofing kind of inferior when compared with Honda/Ford sedans.

thank you for the reply... kay JohnM din.

is it true that the 2018 models up, wala ng iStop?

**travajante** · July 3rd, 2022 04:28 PM

Originally Posted by bogart.2006

thank you for the reply... kay JohnM din.

is it true that the 2018 models up, wala ng iStop?

The 2018+ CX3(batch2), 1.5 3s & the CX9 came w/o iStop.

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**yapoy86** · July 3rd, 2022 06:09 PM

Originally Posted by jojopad

Keeping the compressor running longer to maintain the desired cabin temp is not recommended. It's going to lead to premature wear and tear in the compressor's bearings and other mechanical parts. Some can still be repaired by a competent aircon specialist but often it may require a brand new or surplus replacement.

That's why I always set the aircon temp at a "Goldilocks" range (usually between 26-27, 24-25 as the lowest setting if needed). It can help prolong the aircon system. The same best practice is applicable to home aircon system.

Unfortunately, setting your aircon temp to your goldilocks range will not prolong your compressor life.. your setting is for your cabin temp..

The AC system have independent control from your cabin temp..

Try observing your compressor by looking at the engine bay.. setting the cabin temp at 18 or 26 will not matter as the compressor will cycle on/off depending on the temp of the cooling coil..

If you set it say 25, the HVAC will just mix cold and hot air for the supposed 25 deg.. the compressor will continue to run to maintain the cooling coil temp.

For home AC system like inverters, it will help since setting at 25 deg, the system can shift from high speed to low compressor speed early

**jojopad** · July 3rd, 2022 06:33 PM

Originally Posted by yapoy86

Unfortunately, setting your aircon temp to your goldilocks range will not prolong your compressor life.. your setting is for your cabin temp..

The AC system have independent control from your cabin temp..

Try observing your compressor by looking at the engine bay.. setting the cabin temp at 18 or 26 will not matter as the compressor will cycle on/off depending on the temp of the cooling coil..

If you set it say 25, the HVAC will just mix cold and hot air for the supposed 25 deg.. the compressor will continue to run to maintain the cooling coil temp.

For home AC system like inverters, it will help since setting at 25 deg, the system can shift from high speed to low compressor speed early

Originally Posted by yapoy86

Unfortunately, setting your aircon temp to your goldilocks range will not prolong your compressor life.. your setting is for your cabin temp..

The AC system have independent control from your cabin temp..

Try observing your compressor by looking at the engine bay.. setting the cabin temp at 18 or 26 will not matter as the compressor will cycle on/off depending on the temp of the cooling coil..

If you set it say 25, the HVAC will just mix cold and hot air for the supposed 25 deg.. the compressor will continue to run to maintain the cooling coil temp.

For home AC system like inverters, it will help since setting at 25 deg, the system can shift from high speed to low compressor speed early

Interesting, that seems contrary to the car aircon specialist's explaination.

If I set the cabin temperature below 24, I can observe that the compressor runs longer compared with a cabin temp setting betweem 25 to 27. So far we had cars with fewer aircon system problem with this goldilocks aircon setting. Folks I know who like to set their aircon cabin temp really low keep on complaining why their aircon system needs servicing.

**jojopad** · July 5th, 2022 04:45 PM

What's the safe approach for removing these clear plastic protective covers found at the rear door panel area?

I'm thinking of placing a towel soaked with hot water to help loosen up the plastic and then carefully peel it off.

**travajante** · July 5th, 2022 08:12 PM

Originally Posted by jojopad

What's the safe approach for removing these clear plastic protective covers found at the rear door panel area?

I'm thinking of placing a towel soaked with hot water to help loosen up the plastic and then carefully peel it off.

Decals on FACTORY PAINT, I've had very good experience w/ the eraser wheel. Note the 'all caps'. Do not use this on resprays.
https://youtu.be/yAa_mf-Gpbs
https://shopee.ph/product/349531863/...5-1657019539.9
And, don't get the smooth wheel, it'll get too hot for the paint to handle. Do light pressure only.

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**jojopad** · July 6th, 2022 12:02 PM

That looks scary to use! I'm thinking of just using goo gone to remove those sticky adhesives

**travajante** · July 6th, 2022 12:16 PM

Originally Posted by jojopad

That looks scary to use! I'm thinking of just using goo gone to remove those sticky adhesives

No, it's really not....only on factory paint. Disastrous for resprayed panels. Don't ask how I know.

Using WD40, GooGone, heat will work but w/ lotsa elbow grease.

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**yapoy86** · July 21st, 2022 02:50 PM

Question sirs..

Does the cx-5 and mazda 3 2.0 engine the same? Was looking for some parts like tensioner and they look the same..

**travajante** · July 21st, 2022 09:21 PM

Originally Posted by yapoy86

Question sirs..

Does the cx-5 and mazda 3 2.0 engine the same? Was looking for some parts like tensioner and they look the same..

Yup, & not just the CX5 but practically all SkyactivGs. New PNs have superseded older ones. I think the latest is PE03-15-980C. Don't settle for cheap replacements.

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