A Guide to Ignition Coils for the 2015-2024 Mazda 3
Keep your Skyactiv engine running smoothly by understanding ignition coil failure and how to choose the right replacement.
- A failing ignition coil will cause misfires (P0300-P0304), rough running, and a check engine light.
- Replacement is an easy, 30-minute DIY job with a single 8mm bolt per coil.
- It is strongly recommended to replace all four coils and the spark plugs at the same time.
- Stick with OEM-equivalent brands like NGK or Delphi; cheap aftermarket coils are known to fail quickly.
Is Your Mazda 3 Stuttering or Losing Power? It Could Be an Ignition Coil.
A failing ignition coil is a common issue on many modern cars, including the Mazda 3. When a coil starts to go bad, it can't deliver the strong spark your engine needs. This often leads to noticeable problems like a shaky idle, hesitation when you accelerate, and a lit check engine light. Fortunately, replacing them is a straightforward job you can often do yourself.
Known Issues & TSBs
Mazda issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB), number 01-014/16, for some 2014-2016 Mazda 3 models. This TSB addresses potential premature failure of ignition coils made by a specific supplier (YUMEBISHI) before March 28, 2016. The issue could cause a rough idle, lack of power, and misfire codes (P0300-P0304). While not a recall, it's a known issue. If you have an earlier model in this year range and suspect a coil failure, it's worth checking if your original coils were part of this batch. No widespread recalls for ignition coils have been issued by the NHTSA for the 2015-2024 Mazda 3.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Coil
When shopping for a replacement, you'll find many brands. They generally fall into three tiers. For a critical part like an ignition coil, owner experiences suggest that sticking to higher-quality brands is worth it to avoid repeat failures. Many cheap, unbranded coils sold on sites like Amazon have been reported to fail quickly or cause running issues right out of the box.
Brand Quality Tiers
- Premium / OEM-Equivalent: These are the best choice for reliability and performance. NGK is widely considered the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for Mazda, making their coils a direct replacement for the factory part. Delphi is another top-tier brand known for making OE-quality components.
- Quality Aftermarket: These brands offer a good balance of price and quality. Standard Ignition (SMP) and Walker Products are reputable names in the aftermarket that produce reliable parts.
- Budget-Friendly: Brands like DriveWire, Spectra, and various store brands (e.g., Duralast) offer a lower-cost alternative. While the price is tempting, be aware that quality can be inconsistent. These may be a short-term solution, but for long-term peace of mind, a premium brand is recommended.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Mazda-branded) | $151 - $215 |
| New Aftermarket (Premium) | $90 - $197 |
| New Aftermarket (Budget) | $40 - $89 |
| Shop Labor | $50 - $74 |
Pro Tip: Installation
Replacing the ignition coils on a 2015-2024 Mazda 3 is a very simple DIY job. The coils are located directly on top of the engine under the plastic cover. Each coil is held in by a single 8mm bolt and an electrical connector. The entire process for all four coils can take less than 30 minutes, making this an easy way to save on labor costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I replace all four ignition coils at once?
It's highly recommended. Ignition coils are wear-and-tear items that have been exposed to the same heat and electrical cycles. If one has failed due to age and mileage, the others are likely not far behind. Replacing all four at the same time saves you from having to do the same job again in a few months and ensures consistent performance across all cylinders.
Do I need to replace my spark plugs at the same time?
Yes, it's best practice. You have to remove the ignition coils to get to the spark plugs anyway. A worn or failing spark plug can put extra strain on a new ignition coil, causing it to fail prematurely. If your spark plugs are near the end of their service life (typically 75,000-100,000 miles for iridium plugs), replace them with your new coils.
Are the ignition coils the same for all 2015-2024 Mazda 3 engines?
For the most part, yes. The 2.0L and 2.5L non-turbo Skyactiv engines used across the 2015-2024 model years generally use the same ignition coil, with part numbers like PE20-18-100A or PE20-18-100B. However, it is always critical to enter your vehicle's specific year and engine information to confirm the exact fitment before ordering.
What happens if I ignore a bad ignition coil?
Ignoring a bad coil will lead to a constant engine misfire. This not only results in poor performance and fuel economy but can also cause serious damage. Unburned fuel from the misfiring cylinder can get into the exhaust and destroy the expensive catalytic converter. A flashing check engine light is a serious warning that this type of damage is imminent.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: PE20-18-100A PE20-18-100B PYFS-18-100
Coil-on-Plug (COP) design, 4 required for engine.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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