Faults:

Brake hoses needed replacing 180000.

Transmission fluid leak (minor)

Seats were dirt black from previous owner. Remedy was to remove entire seats from car, then remove covers and wash them in washing machine. They are like new now. 2 hour job.

Handling is average. Wear on outside of front tires. Remedy - rotate front rear tires.

Air conditioner mysteriously switches off occasionally.

General Comments:

My familia has been amazingly trouble free. It is easy to drive.

For the high mileage on the clock it is reliable and economical.

Good for a first car.

Faults:

The battery has had to be replaced.

The drivers side door window had to be repaired.

The doors needed to be aligned.

General Comments:

I bought this car from a relative without seeing it for £400 I cannot believe it is so good. I have took my Calibra of the road and am using the Mazda all the time. It is one of the smoothest cars I have ever driven. There is not a spot of rust on this vehicle and it has only covered 3000 miles a year for the last eight years. My mates have given me a bit of stick, but there is only one word for this car quality.

Faults:

All 4 brake pads needed changing @60000.

Windows are starting to stick a bit.

Sunroof leaks!

General Comments:

This is a real monster of a car. 140hp as standard is very fast and responsive.

Loads of gadgets e.g. e/s/r 4e/w p/s.

Huge boot takes loads of stuff.

Lights are a real head turner, but take a while to flash!

Seats are great and driving position is superb.

Faults:

In the past 3 years and 9 months I have replaced the normal maintenance items like tires and exhaust parts. The timing belt, which should have been changed at 60,000 miles, let go at 204,000 miles. This was the only time the car let me down, and I don't even consider it bad, since it only cost about $100 including the towing fee. The transmission leaked since I got it, and it would occasionally pop out of fifth gear. As time went on, it would grind into 5th, then to the point of me having to double clutch it, and finally fifth gear ceased to exist. I had a used transmission and new clutch installed. I don't consider this bad either, as it was my own fault, not having the leak fixed, and not doing a good job keeping the oil level up. The heater isn't great, but might be attributable to needing a good flush.

General Comments:

I bought it in the spring of 2000 for $600. I have beaten it half to death in the past (nearly) 4 years. It never fails to start, even in 20 below weather, sitting outside in the wind. I am taking it off the road next month because the state inspection is running out, and it needs 2 tires, a complete exhaust, struts, one wheel bearing, and it is rusted on the sub-frame near the rear trailing arms, and is now dangerous to drive. I wish I could go back in time and buy this car brand new, as it is without a doubt the best car I have ever owned, and will be sorely missed.