Steering and transmission issues?

[maderd]

Hey there,
New to the forum since I just bought a used 2013 mazda 3 gs-sky with 92000km. This forum seems awesome, and am looking forward to being a part of it.

I do have some issues with the 3 though.

1. It just passed safety this month. But when in park, so not moving, there is a pretty good clunk when I turn the steering wheel rapidly left or right. I also noticed the power steering fluid is close to min, which is odd.
Any quick thoughts on that? I'm assuming if it passes inspection, the suspension is OK? Is this the steering rack??

2. I have a manual and some issues are definitely coming to light which didn't show up on my 3 test drives.
Sometimes it isn't going into 3rd, or 5th and 6th on occasion. I have read there is a TSB for the 3rd gear, but what about the 5th and 6th?

3. Also, very occasionally, I'll get a surge of acceleration downshifting into 3rd out upshifting into 3rd and 4th. This is an issue discussed on mazda 3 forums. It's pretty shocking when it happens the car accelerates on its own.
Does anyone know of a fix for this, maybe a re flash out something?

Thanks everyone

[maderd]

bump? ANyone?

[morganc]

In terms of steering clunk, I have the same issue on my 2010. I replaced the inner and outer tie rods and every suspension bit up front. It's a combination of a little play in the steering column u-joints and the pinion gear on the rack. If it bugs you enough, replace the rack but I don't think I'd immediately worry.

[maderd]

In terms of steering clunk, I have the same issue on my 2010. I replaced the inner and outer tie rods and every suspension bit up front. It's a combination of a little play in the steering column u-joints and the pinion gear on the rack. If it bugs you enough, replace the rack but I don't think I'd immediately worry.

Mazda checked it out and said I need a new steering rack. Luckily this is covered under the MAP that came with the car!!

[WayneP]

My 2010 3 steering has been cutting in and out for a couple of months now. Have not been able to nail down why. Mechanic says the pump is going, $2,500 for a new one installed.
Through research, it may be that my battery is losing power, car starts fine, is that a true possibility? Can anyone offer some help, I am not dropping $2,500 for a pump.
Thanks in advance.