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Mazda 3 Used Car Review

The Mazda 3 is a Japanese small car that has for a long time been one of Australia's most popular vehicles. It is considered one of the most fun cars to drive in its class, with great steering and handling. There have been several generations since the model replaced the 323 in 2004. It continues to be offered in both sedan and hatchback body styles. A 2.2-litre turbo diesel model was introduced in 2014 but axed two years later owing to slow sales, leaving a choice between two smooth and efficient petrol engines in 2.0-litre and 2.5-litre form, with a standard manual gearbox or optional automatic. The first- and second-generation Mazda 3 range featured a performance variant called the MPS.

Pros

Cons

  • Mazda 3 places emphasis on driving enjoyment.
  • Good build quality.
  • Broad model range and prices.
  • Roomy cabin. Hatch body style particularly practical.
  • Road noise has been a constant issue for Mazda 3 generations.
  • Lower trim grades can be missing convenient features.
This is general information and should not be relied on as purchasing advice.
MazdaMazda3Clear all

Top2007 Mazda 3 BK10F2 Neo Blue 4 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 155679 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2007 Mazda 3 BK10F2 Neo Blue 4 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

$9,990 Drive Away^
Kedron, QLD

Dealer used
11/05/2024

Top2023 Mazda 3 BP2H7A G20 SKYACTIV-Drive Touring Beige 6 Speed Sports Automatic Hatchback

  • 3308 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

SUPER LOW KM TOURING WITH BLACK LEATHER, BALANCE OF 5YR NEW CAR WARRANTY AND RSA, EASY ONSITE FINANCE INC NO DEPOSIT OPTIONS AND SAME DAY APPROVALS, ALL TRADE INS WELCOME

$34,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Palmyra, WA

Dealer used
8 hours ago

Top2023 Mazda 3 BP2H7A G20 SKYACTIV-Drive Pure Black 6 Speed Sports Automatic Hatchback

  • 1702 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

START YOUR BUYING ADVENTURE WITH CONFIDENCE THROUGH BAYSIDES PREMIER MAZDA DEALER!!! This 2023 Mazda 3 PURE AUTO G20 Hatchback - LOCATED ONLY 7 MINUTES FROM SOUTHLAND SHOPS - Automatic Hatchback - Balance of 5 Year Warranty - Bluetooth and Cruise control - Finish in BLACK WITH ONLY 1700 KMS - Apple carplay and android auto - Passed Dealership Inspection. - Drive Away This MAZDA 3 PURE AUTO is the perfect Car for everyone, This particular MAZDA 3 PURE will sell, Don't miss out, Enquire Today!

$33,990 Drive Away^
Brighton, VIC

Dealer used
11/05/2024

Top2016 Mazda 3 BM5278 Touring SKYACTIV-Drive Red 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 120342 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

** FULL SERVICE HISTORY ** 2 x KEYS ** PACKED WITH FEATURES ** Step into this beautifully maintained 2016 Mazda 3 Touring sedan and you'll immediately notice a sense of style and quality. The 2.0 litre engine and 6 speed Skyactiv auto transmission provides a smooth and effortless driving experience, making it an excellent choice for both city commuting and weekend getaways. The interior is well appointed with luxurious leather seats, adding to your comfort on every trip. This Mazda 3 is also p

$20,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Wangara, WA

Dealer used
11/05/2024

Top2015 Mazda 3 BM5438 SP25 SKYACTIV-Drive GT Red 6 Speed Sports Automatic Hatchback

  • 53824 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

Stylish hatch with the powerful 2.5 litre engine, six speed Tiptronic auto including paddle shift, SatNav, luxurious sports styled leather seating, cruise and traction control, front side airbags, head up display, push button start, two keys, heated front seating, Bluetooth, alloy wheels plus reverse camera and sensors. Very low 54,000kms with full service history. Lovely car We are a friendly and efficient company, trading with integrity and determined to give our customers the very bes

$24,977 Excl. Gov. Charges
Victoria Park, WA

Dealer used
8 hours ago

Top2021 Mazda 3 BP2HLA G25 SKYACTIV-Drive Astina White 6 Speed Sports Automatic Hatchback

  • 26000 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

Beautifully presented wagon with the powerful yet economical 2.5 litre engine, six speed T-bar Tiptronic auto with paddle shift, cruise with traction and front side air bags, lane departure warning, forward collision mitigation, blind spot monitoring, head up display, SatNav, Bluetooth smartphone connectivity, selectable drive modes, luxurious red leather trim with heated memory seats, Bose sound system, keyless entry with push button start, alloy wheels, reverse 360 degree camera, sensors plus

$39,977 Excl. Gov. Charges
Victoria Park, WA

Dealer used
8 hours ago

2015 Mazda 3 BM5238 SP25 SKYACTIV-Drive GT Red 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 80753 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

***MAZDA 3***SMALL SEDAN***PETROL***FUEL EFFICENT***GOOD-CONDITION*** Are you looking for a well-maintained sedan? Our Mazda 3 is the perfect blend of comfort, fuel efficiency and versatility to have as your daily driver. With reasonable kms for its age, this car has been extremely well maintained only having 1 owners. Features Include: - Apple car play - Heated/leather seats - Electric seats - 2.5L engine - Bose sound system - Bluetooth - Full-service history with Mazda - 2 keys SECURE TH

$19,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Bunbury, WA

Dealer used
28 minutes ago

2024 Mazda 3 BP2H7A G20 SKYACTIV-Drive Evolve Snowflake White Pearl 6 Speed Sports Automatic

  • 0 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Unbeatable Deals on Mazda Vehicles at South West Sydneys Premier Dealership! Looking for a reliable and stylish vehicle? Look no further! Our Mazda dealership in South West Sydney, part of Australias largest automotive group, offers an extensive range of Mazda models with great finance options and the highest trade-in values around. Price Beat Promise - We will beat any genuine Mazda Dealer Quote on your next car. Why Choose Mazda? 5 Year Unlimited Kilometre Warranty 5 Year Premium Road S

$36,116 Drive Away^
Liverpool, NSW

Dealer new
28 minutes ago

2005 Mazda 3 MAXX SPORT

  • 197959 km
  • Hatchback
  • Manual
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Yes, this vehicle is available. Please call zero four one nine three six two zero eight seven. We are located 15 mins from the eastlink tunnels, in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne. Please look at pic 2 for our number. Just arrived and drives great. Mazda 3 Maxx Sport 5 door hatch, very economical 2.0ltr 5 speed manual with the safety of driver, passenger and side airbags, ABS brakes, power steering, air conditioning, cruise control, electric windows, cd player, remote central locking and facto

$5,490 Drive Away^
Lilydale, VIC

Dealer used
28 minutes ago

2014 Mazda 3 BM5428 XD SKYACTIV-Drive Astina Silver 6 Speed Sports Automatic Hatchback

  • 113506 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.2L

2014 Mazda 3 BM Series XD Astina Hatchback, the perfect combination of style, performance, and efficiency. This 2014 model is a diesel-powered vehicle with a manual transmission, making it the ideal choice for those who enjoy the control and engagement of a manual gearbox. Under the hood, you'll find a powerful yet fuel-efficient 4-cylinder engine, delivering an impressive driving experience. With its SKYACTIV-MT technology, this Mazda 3 offers smooth gear transitions and optimal fuel economy

$19,950 Excl. Gov. Charges
Campbelltown, NSW

Dealer used
28 minutes ago

2024 Mazda 3 BP2HLA G25 SKYACTIV-Drive GT Soul Red Crystal 6 Speed Sports Automatic Hatchback

  • 0 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

Unbeatable Deals on Mazda Vehicles at South West Sydneys Premier Dealership! Looking for a reliable and stylish vehicle? Look no further! Our Mazda dealership in South West Sydney, part of Australias largest automotive group, offers an extensive range of Mazda models with great finance options and the highest trade-in values around. Price Beat Promise - We will beat any genuine Mazda Dealer Quote on your next car. Why Choose Mazda? 5 Year Unlimited Kilometre Warranty 5 Year Premium Road S

$40,630 Drive Away^
Liverpool, NSW

Dealer new
28 minutes ago

2014 Mazda 3 TOURING AUTOMATIC SEDAN

  • 92942 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2014 Mazda 3 TOURING AUTOMATIC SEDAN PERFECT CAR AND DRIVES ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL It is Priced to Sell Quickly at $18999 Traveled only 92942 Kms. Comes With Black Leather Satellite Navigation Reversing Camera Bluetooth Connectivity Keyless Go and Start Log Books Service History Set of Keys and 6Months Registration from the Sale Date THE CAR IS AVAILABLE IF YOU SEE THIS AD. PLEASE DONT SEND GENERIC MESSAGES. NO OFFERS BEFORE INSPECTING! VERY GOOD CONDITION, BOTH INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR Now

$18,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Long Jetty, NSW

Dealer used
38 minutes ago

2018 Mazda 3 BN5478 Neo SKYACTIV-Drive Sport Silver 6 Speed Sports Automatic Hatchback

  • 84863 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

This immaculate 2018 Mazda 3 Neo Sport, presented in Sonic Silver Metallic, over split Black Interior is the perfect hatch to take on your commute! This vehicle qualifies for: - 3 or 5 year Warranty - Competitive finance and novated leasing packages - Same day finance T.A.P - Trade-Ins Welcome In addition to its excellent combined fuel consumption of 5.8L/100KM and a 5-Star ANCAP safety rating this Mazda is also equipped with the following features: - 6 Speaker Stereo with Bluetooth - Hand

$21,450.01 Excl. Gov. Charges
Dandenong South, VIC

Dealer used
48 minutes ago

2019 MAZDA MAZDA3 G20 TOURING 6 SP AUTOMATIC 4D SEDAN

  • 113000 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

For Sale: 2019 Mazda 3 G20 Touring Sedan Registered until start of August ✅ Mileage: 112,685 km - High KM's are primarily due to long distance highway travel between Gold Coast & Newcastle (actual condition of the car is better than what the KM's would indicate) ✅ Condition: Near perfect | Warranty: 5 months remaining ✅ First Owner: Purchased brand new from Mazda dealership ✅ Service History: Exclusively serviced at Mazda, full history available ✅ Interior: Full leather, official Mazda fl

$22,500Negotiable
Robina, QLD

2 hours ago

2011 MAZDA MAZDA3 BL 10 UPGRADE 5 SP AUTOMATIC 4D SEDAN, 5 seats

  • 148369 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Mazda 3 sedan Automatic is for sale… This is a very nice and reliable vehicle No mechanical issues at all.. Ac and heater is working very well Got parking sensors 148369 kms on odometer last service done on 20/3/2024 Rego till 30/6/2024 location Thornlie Selling due to upgrade and price is negotiable No time waster or low ballers please

$10,000Negotiable
Thornlie, WA

2 hours ago

2019 Mazda Mazda3 G20 TOURING

  • 204504 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

RELIABLE 2.0 LITRE ENGINE, SMOOTH 6 SPEED AUTO, LUXURY LEATHER INTERIOR, BLUETOOTH, CRUISE CONTROL, ALLOY WHEELS, REVERSING CAMERA AND MUCH MORE... This vehicle is located at Sky Motors, 347 Main North Road, Enfield, SA 5085. Please be aware that the vehicle price is fixed and non-negotiable. Our vehicles are priced competitively. Please do not enquire if you are not willing to pay the asking price. We are one of the biggest and best, quality second hand vehicle used car dealerships in Adela

$17,490 Excl. Gov. Charges
Enfield, SA

Dealer used
2 hours ago

2009 MAZDA MAZDA3 MAXX SPORT 5 SP AUTOMATIC 4D SEDAN

  • 176000 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2009 Mazda 3 great for a first car. Car is in great condition. Rego is in June and has had regular car services every 6 months. It has cruise control, front & rear power windows, air conditioning, 16" alloy wheels, front cup holders and a rear spoiler. Pick up from Reservoir 3073 Bluetooth doesn't work The dashboard has a sticky film caused by sun damage Front wheels have some gutter rash Look at photos for 2 scratches.

$7,999
Reservoir, VIC

2 hours ago

2019 Mazda 3 BP2SLA G25 SKYACTIV-Drive Evolve Red 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 19821 km
  • Other
  • Auto
  • 4

MAY MARATHON STOCK CLEARANCE. APPLIES TO ALL VEHICLE SOLD AND DELIVERED BY 31/05/2024. 2019 Mazda 3 G25 Evolve Automatic Sedan. Red. Only 19700 Klms, One Owner with Log Books. A credit to the previous owners. Dual Zone Climate Control Air Conditioning, Apple Car Play, Android Auto, Bluetooth Connectivity, Remote Central locking, Keyless Entry/Start, Sat Nav, Electric Drivers Seat, Rear Park Sensors, Alloy Wheels, Active Cruise Control, Blindspot Monitoring, Lane Keep Assist, Reverse Camera, Mul

$28,995 Drive Away^
Windsor, QLD

Dealer used
2 hours ago

2018 Mazda 3 BN5438 SP25 SKYACTIV-Drive Astina Red 6 Speed Sports Automatic Hatchback

  • 35788 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

?? Elevate Your Drive with the 2018 Mazda 3 SP25 Astina Hatchback! ?? Unleash the perfect combination of style, performance, and innovation with the 2018 Mazda 3 SP25 Astina Hatchback. Designed to captivate your senses and elevate your driving experience, this remarkable vehicle is sure to turn heads wherever you go. Dynamic Performance: Experience the thrill of the open road with the Mazda 3's SKYACTIV-Drive 6-speed transmission and potent 2.5L engine. Delivering seamless power and responsiv

$28,888 Drive Away^
Pakenham, VIC

Dealer used
2 hours ago

2016 Mazda 3 BN5478 Touring SKYACTIV-Drive Machine Grey 6 Speed Sports Automatic Hatchback

  • 87272 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Maroochydore One Owner Leather Finish Service History SUNSHINE COASTS BEST DEALER GROUP! * QUALITY VEHICLES PRICED TO SELL & EXCELLENT VALUE! YOU’LL NEED TO GET IN QUICK OR YOU MAY JUST MISS OUT * CALL US ON THIS CAR AND ASK HOW TO PUT A HOLD ON IT FOR A TEST DRIVE * ALL OUR VEHICLES QUALIFY FOR AN EXTENDED MECHANICAL PROTECTION PLAN FOR YOUR PEACE OF MIND * ALL OUR VEHICLES COME WITH A 50 POINT QUALITY & SAFETY ASSURANCE CHECK LIST REPORT * EVERY VEHICLE COMES WITH RWC, CLEAR

$19,888 Drive Away^
Buderim, QLD

Dealer used
2 hours ago

2021 MAZDA MAZDA3 G25 ASTINA 6 SP AUTOMATIC 5D HATCHBACK

  • 57800 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

Mazda 3 Astina 2021 $32,000 57,800km Automatic. Machine Grey in colour. Bought in April 2021 by the current owner from Mawson Lakes Mazda. It has been regularly serviced and comes with the paperwork. This is the top of the range Astina which has a long list of features. It has two keys, power windows, air conditioning, Bose sound system, sunroof, blind spot warning and lane departure warning. It also has Bluetooth, push button start, keyless entry, heated leather seats and autonomous emerge

$32,000
Reynella East, SA

3 hours ago

2014 Mazda 3 BM5278 Neo SKYACTIV-Drive Blue 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 70085 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2014 Mazda 3 auto with only 70,000klms! Full Mazda service history & well maintained. Standard with push button start, bluetooth, cruise control & much more. We have business managers on site to discuss finance options to suit your needs. Extended warranty packages available for purchase. Call today to arrange a test drive.

$17,790 Drive Away^
Nundah, QLD

Dealer used
3 hours ago

2014 Mazda 3 BM5278 Neo SKYACTIV-Drive White 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 147496 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Looking for a reliable and efficient sedan that doesn't compromise on style? Look no further than this sleek 2014 Mazda 3 Neo in a stunning white color. With a range of features including Bluetooth, cruise control, and a spacious interior, this Mazda 3 is perfect for daily commutes or weekend adventures. Equipped with ABS, airbags, and traction control, safety is a top priority in this Mazda 3. The adjustable steering wheel, power windows, and keyless start make for a comfortable driving exper

$14,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
3 hours ago

2024 Mazda 3 BP2H7A G20 SKYACTIV-Drive Evolve Platinum Quartz 6 Speed Sports Automatic Hatchback

  • 7 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Unbeatable Deals on Mazda Vehicles at South West Sydneys Premier Dealership! Looking for a reliable and stylish vehicle? Look no further! Our Mazda dealership in South West Sydney, part of Australias largest automotive group, offers an extensive range of Mazda models with great finance options and the highest trade-in values around. Price Beat Promise - We will beat any genuine Mazda Dealer Quote on your next car. Why Choose Mazda? 5 Year Unlimited Kilometre Warranty 5 Year Premium Road S

$35,990 Drive Away^
Liverpool, NSW

Dealer new
3 hours ago

2010 Mazda 3 BL10F1 Neo Red 6 Speed Manual Sedan

  • 175030 km
  • Sedan
  • Manual
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

We have over 300 good quality cars at unbeatable prices, Auto or Manual, SUV or Wagon, Coupe or Convertible, Sunroof , Hatch or Sedan, Petrol or Turbo Diesel, 4x4 or 4x2 All cars are workshop tested, and optional parts and labour warranties are available .• *Pension Finance Available (Single Parent Payments, Parenting Payment, Disability Pension) • *Fee Free, No Interest Loan for Vehicles That Can Be Paid Off with Simple Fortnightly for ppl on Government payments. • *Dealer Charges Apply. •

$5,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
3 hours ago

2017 Mazda 3 BN5438 SP25 SKYACTIV-Drive White 6 Speed Sports Automatic Hatchback

  • 65179 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

We have over 300 good quality cars at unbeatable prices, Auto or Manual, SUV or Wagon, Coupe or Convertible, Sunroof , Hatch or Sedan, Petrol or Turbo Diesel, 4x4 or 4x2 All cars are workshop tested, and optional parts and labour warranties are available .• *Pension Finance Available (Single Parent Payments, Parenting Payment, Disability Pension) • *Fee Free, No Interest Loan for Vehicles That Can Be Paid Off with Simple Fortnightly for ppl on Government payments. • *Dealer Charges Apply. •

$19,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
3 hours ago

2008 Mazda 3 Auto

  • 279315 km
  • Other
  • Auto
  • 4

*** FINANCE FROM $45 PER WEEK *** * JUST PASSED THE WA PITS SO MECHANICALLY A1 * SMOOTH AUTO * AIR CON * ALLOYS AND SPOILER Behold the captivating allure of the 2008 Mazda 3 Auto Sedan - a timeless embodiment of style, comfort, and performance. This beautiful machine, showcasing an elegant exterior in a classic black hue, is more than just a car; it's a testament to Mazda's unwavering commitment to superior engineering and design. Driven by a powerful 4-cylinder engine, this vehicle deli

$7,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Wangara, WA

Dealer used
3 hours ago

2018 Mazda 3 BN5278 Maxx SKYACTIV-Drive Sport Blue 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 56325 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

10 Reasons to Call us today! • Customer Satisfaction is our No1 Priority • Competitive Flexible Finance • Award winning Customer Service • 100pt Safety check on all stock • We want your trade, Obligation Free onsite valuation • State of the Art workshop with fully trained Technicians • Located just 10mins from the CBD • We deal Nationwide • Too Busy to get to us? We will come to your Home/Office • Platinum Awarded Dealership

$22,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Morley, WA

Dealer used
3 hours ago

2019 Mazda 3 BP2HLA G25 SKYACTIV-Drive Astina Red 6 Speed Sports Automatic Hatchback

  • 49056 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

Upmarket hatch with powerful 2.5 litre engine,six speed Tiptronic auto including paddle shift, SatNav, luxurious sports style seating, electric sunroof, adaptive cruise control, traction control, front side airbags, blind spot monitoring, forward collision mitigation, lane keep assist, headup display, push button start, Bluetooth, blackout alloy rims, front and rear sensors and reverse camera. 49,000kms with full service history. Beautiful.

$29,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Welshpool, WA

Dealer used
3 hours ago

2012 Mazda 3 BL10F2 Neo Activematic Blue 5 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 207209 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

With service history and good looking 2012 Mazda 3 Neo in blue - 2.0l petrol engine - Automatic transmission - Sedan - Alloy wheels - Bluetooth - Cruise control - Multi function steering wheel - Air conditioning - Power windows and mirrors - Power steering - Trade ins welcome - Finance options available - Great range of warranties available MD28651 We offer easy and affordable finance options to suit any customer. Located at JL Motors Pty Ltd, 554 Albany Hwy, Victoria Park Call us today for

$11,970 Excl. Gov. Charges
Victoria Park, WA

Dealer used
3 hours ago

Overview of the Mazda Mazda3

Overview of the Mazda Mazda3

The Mazda 3 is a Japanese small car that has for a long time been one of Australia's most popular vehicles. It is considered one of the most fun cars to drive in its class, with great steering and handling. There have been several generations since the model replaced the 323 in 2004.

It continues to be offered in both sedan and hatchback body styles. A 2.2-litre turbo diesel model was introduced in 2014 but axed two years later owing to slow sales, leaving a choice between two smooth and efficient petrol engines in 2.0-litre and 2.5-litre form, with a standard manual gearbox or optional automatic. The first- and second-generation Mazda 3 range featured a performance variant called the MPS.

MAZDA 3 GENERATIONS

2004-2009: 1st generation

2009-2013: 2nd generation

2013-present: 3rd generation

RUNNING COSTS

Fuel Consumption

2.2L Diesel (now discontinued): 5.0 to 5.2 litres per 100km

2.0L Petrol: 5.7 to 5.9 litres per 100km (91 unleaded)

2.5L Petrol: 6.0 to 6.5 litres per 100km (91 unleaded)

= Highly economical.

= Good economy.

= Average fuel use.

= Heavy consumption.

Servicing

SIMILAR MODELS TO MAZDA 3

How Does The Mazda 3 Perform After 5 Years?

A turbo-diesel version of the 3 that has never left the city is the biggest potential problem-child, with the resulting blocked diesel-particulate (soot) filter needing a trip to the dealership to be cleaned out.

In some cases, the on-board computer pumped more fuel into the engine to try to use engine heat to clear the filter. But sometimes that fuel made its way into the engine oil, diluting it. So watch for a rising level on the dipstick over time.

Some independent workshops ignored the particulate filter that could then fail altogether, requiring costly replacement to keep the car legal and roadworthy.

Some 3s suffered from poorly rust-proofed hatchback struts that could fail, spraying fluid everywhere and dropping the hatch on your head. Or fingers.