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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.
mazdaMazdaMazda3SP25Clear all

Top2009 Mazda Mazda3 SP25

  • 151256 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

All Famous Mazda 3 Hatch SP25 Auto Low Kms 151 Ks Sat Nav Leather seats Cruise control Pedal shifts Alloys Fog lamps And much more RWC provided Clear title Vehicle at 485 Warrigal rd Moorabbin LMCT 11465

$12,990 Drive Away^
Moorabbin, VIC

Dealer used
06/05/2024

Top2016 Mazda 3 BM5238 SP25 SKYACTIV-Drive White 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 72621 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

JUST LISTED is this well maintained SP25 Auto with extremly low klms, comes complete with a service history and log books. If you are looking for a Safe Reliable sedan that won't let you down, call us Today to arrange an Inspection and Book a Test Drive. Don't forget to ask us about our Extended Warranty Plans 1 3 and 5 Years available. Deal with the local blokes. Mr Wheels is a Family-owned Dealership & has been operating in Cairns for more than 33 years.

$20,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Cairns, QLD

Dealer used
20 hours ago

Top2010 Mazda 3 BL10L1 MY10 SP25 Activematic Grey 5 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 158572 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

***PASSED ACT ROADWORTHY*** This superb motor vehicle is located behind McDonalds and Metro Service Station in Canberra and is available right now for immediate purchase with a passed ACT or NSW roadworthy certificate. We are a family owned and operated motor dealer established in 1992 specialising in matching people with cars to suit any budget and lifestyle. - Trade Ins Welcome - Finance Options Available - Express Warranty Available - Transport Australia Wide Available - Family Owned And O

$12,670 Excl. Gov. Charges
Phillip, ACT

Dealer used
18 hours ago

Top2016 Mazda 3 BN5236 SP25 SKYACTIV-MT Silver 6 Speed Manual Sedan

  • 111256 km
  • Sedan
  • Manual
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

** FULL MAZDA SERVICE HISTORY** ** KUROI PACK ** WIDNOW TINT ** FEATURES YOU WILL LOVE: - REVERSE CAMERA - BLUETOOTH COONECTIVITY - CRUISE CONTROL - SATELLITE NAVIGATION Plus Much More.. This vehicle will not disappoint and is a MUST see. Conveniently located only 30km from the CBD we are very easy to get to. If you can't come to us we will come to you where possible. You can even choose to do all of your business via the phone or email. We have been a long-standing Family owned dealer

$17,888 Drive Away^
Capalaba, QLD

Dealer used
05/05/2024

Top2017 Mazda 3 BN5238 SP25 SKYACTIV-Drive White 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 37111 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

2017 MAZDA 3 SP25 SPORTS SEDAN^^* EXTREMELY LOW MILEAGE^* FULL SERVICE HISTORY^* LEATHER TRIM^* POWERFUL YET ECONOMICAL 2.5LT ENGINE^* REVERSE CAMERA & SENSORS^* SATELLITE NAVIGATION^* TRADE-INS WELCOME^* GREAT FINANCE OPTIONS AVAILABLE^^Contact our experienced team NOW to secure this SPECIAL INTERNET ONLY price!^^All our pre-owned vehicles come with a 3-year Extended Warranty*, National Roadside Assist** & a 100 Point Safety Inspection. (*Please ask for a full copy of our terms and conditions

$24,864 Excl. Gov. Charges
Morley, WA

Dealer used
17 hours ago

Top2009 MAZDA 3 SP25 Auto

  • 227102 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

- SP25 - SATELLITE NAVIGATION - FACTORY ELECTRIC SUNROOF - FULL LEATHER TRIM - LARGER 2.5 LITRE EFI 4 CYLINDER - 5 SPEED AUTO - Bluetooth - Multi function steering wheel - Trip computer - Cruise control - Dual front airbags - Side impact airbags - ABS - Tiptronic gear paddle shifts - 17 inch factory alloy wheels - Exceptionally good tyres - Registered until 31/05/2024 - Climate control air conditioning - Power steering - Remote central locking - Power windows - Outstanding condition throughou

$7,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Goolwa, SA

Dealer used
06/05/2024

2009 MAZDA MAZDA3 SP25 5 SP AUTOMATIC 5D HATCHBACK

  • 140000 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

2009 MAZDA 3 SP25 AUTO 2L PETROL ODO: 140K, 6 months rego and RWC. New tires and battery. Serviced recently. Have full service history. Two keys. I’ve had this car since 2019. Sell since received my new car. Car was on WOVI in 2018 due to slight hail damage. Repaired using PDR paintless dent removal. Only have one dent on the bonnet at the moment. Text me pls if you are interested to arrange an inspection.

$8,990
Brisbane City, QLD

6 hours ago

2016 Mazda 3 BM5438 SP25 SKYACTIV-Drive White 6 Speed Sports Automatic Hatchback

  • 148790 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

Fully serviced upto date & has full log book history ! This car is in very good condition It has gone through our workshop and has passed our mechanical inspection. We welcome trade ins Finance available WHAT WE OFFER: ? 1 YEAR WARRANTY FOR ALL VEHICLES!! ? ?Finance with low low rates ? ? Trade ins welcome ? ? Pre-purchase inspection with your mechanic of choice! ??? ? SAFETY CERTIFICATE! RWC! ? ? PROFESSIONAL DETAILING ON VEHICLE BEFORE PURCHASING ? ?EXTENDED WARRANTY AVAILABLE UPTO

$16,998 Excl. Gov. Charges
Coorparoo, QLD

Dealer used
7 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
11 hours ago

2016 Mazda 3 BN5238 SP25 SKYACTIV-Drive Black 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 68219 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

With its precise steering, responsive handling, and agile suspension, the Mazda 3 SP25 delivers an engaging and dynamic driving experience. Whether you're navigating tight corners or cruising on the open highway, this sedan offers exceptional stability and control, allowing you to enjoy every moment behind the wheel. With its refined chassis and balanced weight distribution, the Mazda 3 SP25 offers a smooth and comfortable ride, even on rough or uneven road surfaces. At the heart of the Mazda

$22,880 Excl. Gov. Charges
Pinkenba, QLD

Dealer used
12 hours ago

2012 Mazda 3 BL10L2 SP25 Silver 6 Speed Manual Sedan

  • 100193 km
  • Sedan
  • Manual
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

**VALLEY CAR'S*** *2012 MAZDA 3 IS IN IMMACULATE CONDITION INSIDE/OUT, GREAT AFFORDABLE FAMILY CAR/EVERYDAY CAR, DRIVES EXCELLENT, VERY TIDY ALL AROUND, COMES WITH RADIO/CD PLAYER, AIR CONDITIONING, POWER STEERING, AIR BAGS DRIVERS/PASSENGER, CRUISER CONTROL, BLUETOOTH AUDIO ,POWER WINDOWS FRONT & BACK and much more... 6 MONTH REGO, 12 MONTH FREE WARRANTY. **FINANCE AVAILABLE** !!OVER 50 CAR'S IN STOCK!! !!GREAT BARGAIN!!**DON'T MISS OUT** TRADE INS ARE WELCOME AND ALL TEST DRIVES

$8,999 Drive Away^
Kurri Kurri, NSW

Dealer used
12 hours ago

2014 Mazda 3 BL Series 2 MY13 SP25 White 6 Speed Manual Hatchback

  • 231354 km
  • Hatchback
  • Manual
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

This vehicle is in great condition for its age, has Full-Service History and is sure to impress. At this advertised price it is astonishingly affordable. Be sure to act quick to take advantage of this amazing offer before someone else does. Comes with a Free - 1 year dealer warranty, a current RWC is supplied and all on road costs are included driveaway, no more to pay! Why buy your car from us Because it?s the intelligent choice! Established in 1988, our Dealership has been offering uniq

$11,499 Excl. Gov. Charges
Braybrook, VIC

Dealer used
12 hours ago

2009 Mazda 3 BL10L1 SP25 Black 6 Speed Manual Hatchback

  • 177413 km
  • Hatchback
  • Manual
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

2009 Mazda 3 BL10L1 SP25 Black 6 Speed Manual Hatchback

$9,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Springwood, QLD

Dealer used
14 hours ago

2015 BM MAZDA 3 SP25 GT SKYACTIV-Drive 6 SP AUTOMATIC 4D SEDAN

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

2015 BM Mazda 3 SKYACTIV-Drive Top of Range SP25 GT Auto Sedan Must Be SOLD Registered until 30/06/2024 In Excellent Condition. The car has been well looked after with full service history White 180,XXX km 6-speed Sports Auto Push Button Start Reverse Camera Blind Spot Monitoring Lane Department Warning SatNav Comes with: Premium 6 Speakers Bose sound system Adaptive Cruise control 18 inch Alloy rims Power mirrors Power windows Bluetooth stereo Dual zone climate control Leather St

$15,500Negotiable
Willetton, WA

14 hours ago

2017 Mazda 3 BN5238 SP25 SKYACTIV-Drive White 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 37111 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

2017 MAZDA 3 SP25 SPORTS SEDAN^^* EXTREMELY LOW MILEAGE^* FULL SERVICE HISTORY^* LEATHER TRIM^* POWERFUL YET ECONOMICAL 2.5LT ENGINE^* REVERSE CAMERA & SENSORS^* SATELLITE NAVIGATION^* TRADE-INS WELCOME^* GREAT FINANCE OPTIONS AVAILABLE^^Contact our experienced team NOW to secure this SPECIAL INTERNET ONLY price!^^All our pre-owned vehicles come with a 3-year Extended Warranty*, National Roadside Assist** & a 100 Point Safety Inspection. (*Please ask for a full copy of our terms and conditions

$24,864 Excl. Gov. Charges
Morley, WA

Dealer used
17 hours ago

2010 Mazda 3 BL10L1 MY10 SP25 Activematic Grey 5 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 158572 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

***PASSED ACT ROADWORTHY*** This superb motor vehicle is located behind McDonalds and Metro Service Station in Canberra and is available right now for immediate purchase with a passed ACT or NSW roadworthy certificate. We are a family owned and operated motor dealer established in 1992 specialising in matching people with cars to suit any budget and lifestyle. - Trade Ins Welcome - Finance Options Available - Express Warranty Available - Transport Australia Wide Available - Family Owned And O

$12,670 Excl. Gov. Charges
Phillip, ACT

Dealer used
18 hours ago

2009 Mazda 3 BL SP25 Blue 5 Speed Automatic Sedan

  • 217842 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

This vehicle is in great condition for its age, has Full-Service History and is sure to impress. At this advertised price it is astonishingly affordable. Be sure to act quick to take advantage of this amazing offer before someone else does. Comes with a Free - 1 year dealer warranty, a current RWC is supplied and all on road costs are included driveaway, no more to pay! Why buy your car from us Because it’s the intelligent choice! Established in 1988, our Dealership has been offering uniq

$10,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Braybrook, VIC

Dealer used
19 hours ago

2014 Mazda 3 BM5438 SP25 SKYACTIV-Drive Silver 6 Speed Sports Automatic Hatchback

  • 173833 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

New arrival! Currently undergoing our extensive 100 point safety checks. Enquire now and we'll keep you updated. Photos to follow. Call now to arrange your pre-purchase finance approval. Trade-ins welcome. Viewing by appointment to ensure vehicle is available.BEST CAR PRICE GUARANTEE ---- Excellent Service History ---- 6 Speed Sports Automatic 2.5 Litre 4 Cylinder Petrol with 138kW of Power & 250Nm of Torque plus amazing presence and performance to match this 5 Door Hatch looks stunning and co

$15,808 Drive Away^
Brooklyn, VIC

Dealer used
19 hours ago

2016 Mazda 3 BM5238 SP25 SKYACTIV-Drive White 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 72621 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

JUST LISTED is this well maintained SP25 Auto with extremly low klms, comes complete with a service history and log books. If you are looking for a Safe Reliable sedan that won't let you down, call us Today to arrange an Inspection and Book a Test Drive. Don't forget to ask us about our Extended Warranty Plans 1 3 and 5 Years available. Deal with the local blokes. Mr Wheels is a Family-owned Dealership & has been operating in Cairns for more than 33 years.

$20,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Cairns, QLD

Dealer used
20 hours ago

2016 MAZDA MAZDA3 SP25 6 SP AUTOMATIC 4D SEDAN

  • 152394 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

Selling Mazda 3 SP25 2016, one owner only. Selling due to upgrade never had any issues with the car. Very reliable car. 6 months registration. No Major accidents, only has a couple minor scratches as can been seen in the photos. Always serviced on time. Serious buyers only. If you are interested happy for you to come and inspect the car before buying.

$16,500Negotiable
Schofields, NSW

21 hours ago

2010 Mazda 3 BL10L1 SP25 Activematic Blue 5 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 166254 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

*** READY FOR DELIVERY TODAY *** *** 2010 SP25 *** *** SEDAN *** *** ALLOY WHEELS *** *** AUTOMATIC *** *** ONLY 166254 KLM *** *** WILL NOT LAST *** *** We can assist with Transport interstate *** *** ALL TRADES WELCOME *** Our highly experienced finance team can arrange a no obligation Tailored Quotation! We are a well-renowned, highly respected company in the Australian automotive industry with a great reputation spanning over 15 years. We operate a pre-own

$11,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Croydon, NSW

Dealer used
21 hours ago

2015 Mazda 3 BM5436 SP25 SKYACTIV-MT White 6 Speed Manual Hatchback

  • 136289 km
  • Hatchback
  • Manual
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

One for the manual driver. This 2012 Mazda 3 SP25 Hatch is drived by a 2.5 litre engine together with a 6 speed manual transmission. With features including alloy rims, parking sensors, bluetooth handsfree connectivity, cruise control, satellite navigation, reverse camera. For an easy and hassle-free purchase experience, contact us today. We'll help you find a quality pre-owned vehicle to suit your lifestyle and budget. We also welcome trade-ins and offer competitive finance and warranty option

$15,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Ocean Vista, TAS

Dealer used
Yesterday

Mazda3 SP25 AUTO “FREE 3 YEAR WARRANTY”

  • 271000 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

ALL FEMALE SALES TEAM FREE 3 YEAR WARRANTY 2009 Mazda3 Sedan with Automatic transmission in the top of the range SP25 model. This Mazda3 presents and drives well and is ideal for someone looking for a well priced small car. Please do not hesitate to contact us to arrange a hassle free inspection and test drive. Car Central 125 Radium Street, Welshpool Phone: D/L: MD25845 Corolla, Yaris, Lancer, i30

$8,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Welshpool, WA

Dealer used
Yesterday

2009 Mazda 3 BL10L1 SP25 Black 6 Speed Manual Sedan

  • 129500 km
  • Sedan
  • Manual
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

Looking for a sleek and reliable sedan that will turn heads on the road? Look no further than this stunning 2009 Mazda 3 SP25 in black. With a powerful 2.5i engine and a manual 6-speed transmission, this Mazda is sure to provide a thrilling driving experience. Equipped with a range of features including Bluetooth connectivity, GPS navigation, cruise control, and a 6-disc in-dash CD stacker, this Mazda 3 SP25 has everything you need for a comfortable and convenient drive. The leather gear knob

$8,888 Excl. Gov. Charges
Ringwood, VIC

Dealer used
Yesterday

2009 Mazda 3 BL10L1 SP25 Activematic Black 5 Speed Sports Automatic Hatchback

  • 104198 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

Looking for a sleek and stylish hatchback that delivers on performance and comfort? Look no further than this 2009 Mazda 3 BL10L1 SP25 in BLACK. With a powerful 2.5i engine and a range of features including climate control air conditioning, Bluetooth connectivity, GPS navigation, and leather steering wheel, this Mazda ticks all the boxes. Stay connected on the go with the AUX input socket and 6 speaker stereo system, while the cruise control and traction control ensure a smooth and safe ride.

$14,880 Excl. Gov. Charges
Ringwood, VIC

Dealer used
Yesterday

2014 Mazda Mazda3 Sp25 6 Sp Manual 5d Hatchback

  • 95000 km
  • Hatchback
  • Manual
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

2014 Mazda 3 SP25 6 Speed Manual 5 Door Hatchback, Call me please O414819497 or O401981350 for Test Drive or More Details Offers to trade your car in are available. " ZOOM ZOOM ", Sporty Hatchback, Sat Nav, Cruise Control, Bluetooth, Comes with 6 Months Rego Current RWC, Finance Available to TAP, D/L 4323713.

$12,999
Parramatta Park, QLD

06/05/2024

2009 Mazda 3 BL10L1 SP25 Activematic Grey 5 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 213840 km
  • Sedan
  • 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. •

$9,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
06/05/2024

2009 MAZDA Mazda3 SP25 Hatch 151Ks

  • 151256 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

All Famous Mazda 3 Hatch SP25 Auto Low Kms 151 Ks Sat Nav Leather seats Cruise control Pedal shifts Alloys Fog lamps And much more RWC provided Clear title Vehicle at 485 Warrigal rd Moorabbin LMCT 11465 $12,950 Driveaway

$12,950 Drive Away^
Moorabbin, VIC

Dealer used
06/05/2024

2016 Mazda 3 BM5438 SP25 SKYACTIV-Drive Blue 6 Speed Sports Automatic Hatchback

  • 172053 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

** WE ARE LOCATED ON THE GOLD COAST ** ** YES THIS CAR IS AVAILABLE AND READY FOR IMMEDIATE PURCHASE ** ** YES TO FINANCE, TRADE INS AND EXTENDED WARRANTIES ** ** PRICE INCLUDES 12 MONTHS ROADSIDE ASSIST AND DEALER WARRANTY ** ABOUT THIS CAR; > 2016 AUTOMATIC MAZDA SP25 SPORTS HATCHBACK > QLD REGISTERED TO 02/08/2024 > SAFETY CERTIFIED (RWC) > GUARANTEED CLEAR TITLE > LOG BOOKS WITH SERVICE RECEIPTS > OVERALL CONDITION 8.5/10 FEATURES; Sports Automatic Transmission,

$14,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Molendinar, QLD

Dealer used
06/05/2024

2015 Mazda 3 BM5438 SP25 SKYACTIV-Drive White 6 Speed Sports Automatic Hatchback

  • 147438 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

THIS WEEK SPECIAL, PURCHASE THIS VEHICLE COMES WITH FULL TANK OF FUEL AND NEXT FULL SERVICE BY ON US. AND 12 MONTHS WARRANTY PLAN C PREMIUM AS WELL.Looking for a sleek and reliable hatchback that will leave a lasting impression? Look no further than the 2015 Mazda 3 BM5438 SP25 Hatchback! This Mazda 3 is the epitome of style and performance, featuring a stunning WHITE exterior that is sure to turn heads wherever you go. With its 18" Alloy Wheels and body-colored bumpers, door handles, and exte

$17,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
06/05/2024

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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.