Fuel tank baffle issue?

Tiny
BHAMDOC1973
  • MEMBER
  • 2011 MAZDA 3
  • 2.0L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 143,000 MILES
Seems like a common problem where the baffle inside the tank becomes detached and starts to make noises while stopping. If I remove the baffle are there any issues that could be associated with that? These tanks are so expensive to replace.
Wednesday, September 10th, 2025 AT 6:41 AM

11 Replies

Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 54,137 POSTS
Yes, you can't take the baffle out, the fuel pump will starve in certain situations and make the engine stumble or stall. Usually there are push nuts that secure the baffle, can break or just fall off. You should be able to reach inside and replace them.
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Wednesday, September 10th, 2025 AT 11:33 AM
Tiny
BHAMDOC1973
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You can replace the push nuts?
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Wednesday, September 10th, 2025 AT 11:44 AM
Tiny
KEN L
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Yes, this is what holds the baffle inplace.
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Wednesday, September 10th, 2025 AT 12:55 PM
Tiny
BHAMDOC1973
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Do you have a part number for those tabs? I thought the baffle would be welded. So many people complain about this online. Many people replaced the whole tank too.
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Wednesday, September 10th, 2025 AT 2:36 PM
Tiny
KEN L
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You might need to replace the tank. I would remove he fuel pump for inspection, you can get the push nut at any hardware store.
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Wednesday, September 10th, 2025 AT 5:40 PM
Tiny
BHAMDOC1973
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There is no way to remove the pump on this one without removing the tank, no access under the seat.
Video (Click to make bigger)
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Wednesday, September 10th, 2025 AT 5:42 PM
Tiny
KEN L
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Correct, you must remove the tank.
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Wednesday, September 10th, 2025 AT 5:43 PM
Tiny
BHAMDOC1973
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  • 2,010 POSTS
How am I supposed to empty the tank if I can't get to the pump from under the seat?
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Thursday, September 11th, 2025 AT 7:55 AM
Tiny
KEN L
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  • 54,137 POSTS
Use a syphon hose, please check out this video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q5MH2gnyFH0&pp=0gcJCckJAYcqIYzv

Please go over this guide and get back to us.
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Thursday, September 11th, 2025 AT 9:44 AM
Tiny
BHAMDOC1973
  • MEMBER
  • 2,010 POSTS
Unfortunately. These are placed in without tabs, don't see any broken pieces but the baffle is loose, I removed it but I can't see any tabs on it or inside the tank.
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Sunday, September 14th, 2025 AT 3:28 PM
Tiny
KEN L
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Bummer, new tank it is.
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Sunday, September 14th, 2025 AT 8:20 PM

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