Timing belt broke at 149,500. Water pump seized and caused premature belt failure. Transmission self destructed, actually broke the case and rendered it un-rebuildable, at 145,000.
I have to replace the plugs about every 12,000km.
Front springs require replacement now (185,000k).
Car delivers excellent fuel economy even when driven hard.
Poor heater core, does not deliver much heat, I considered replacing the core, but due to a poor design, the entire dash must be removed and the air conditioning discharged/recharged to accomplish the heater core replacement!
Most recent woes, the number one cylinder dropped its valve seat, requires a replacement of the head as the seats are pressed into the aluminum block. It should be noted, I average 400 kilometres per day, the vehicle is used as a delivery vehicle.
A great car for someone who would use it as a daily commuter/grocery getter.
I can't believe that Ford/Mazda would make something with such a crappy design that makes it nearly impossible to change a heater core. In the future, also, I would not advise anything aluminum in an engine, as you'll regret it quite a bit later.
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