1988 Mazda 929 from North America - Comments

It was gas and go from the first day I bought the car which gave me no trouble for the first 15 years.

Replaced Radiator 2007,Rear shocks 2005, Replaced Water pump 2007 and 1998,Rebuilt Transmission 2006,Replaced Alternator 2005, Replaced Steering Rack 2005, Replaced Timing belt, head gaskets and Lifters 1998, rotors 2000. normal tune up and brake replacement. Most windows slowed down in 2004 but rear window stopped working 2006

First Muffler 1998 rest every three years.

Heater core leak, broken driver door handle and antenna lifting rod cost to much to replace or could not be found by Mazda or part shops.

Best car I have owned yet. Would keep and rebuild if I could find parts. Not good for cold locations. Locks in rear doors freeze open starting 1994. was never left stranded. Ran 3 days once after alternator died. Computer stopped fan motors or shut down options, but kept the car running and lights on. Gave me indications all three days to take in for repair that were ignored. Same for water pump and radiator. I always received a warning time before failure. Ac still runs very well with no service needed. No rust. Even where under coat is showing from a paint scratch in 1992. Good power and nice ride. working digital dash which includes the AC rotating vent.

Note for post. Starting mileage 1300 miles driven by Mazda dealer manager. A single line of gold pin strip with matching mag wheels and dark window tint were added at dealer. This set the car apart from other 929s because it accented the dark blue paint and made a some what ordinary looking car very distinctive and easy to find in parking lots.

I believe the non dealer replacements of timing belt, gaskets, mufflers, shocks and lifters shortened the cars working life.

A chain muffler shop installed a brake caliper incorrectly, which had to be replaced at the next pad replacement. Cost was $200.00 from non local junk yard because none could be found locally, by Mazda or part shops in this part of Canada.

For the money no other European or Asian car could match the power, comfort and size. Acura had wind noise inside. Audi, BMW , Benz too small or too expensive. All American cars tested not reliable enough or dull looking. Maxima was next best choice for me but dealer tried hard sell.