This has been my baby since I drove it off the lot from day 1. Throughout the 120 or so thousand miles that I have driven this car, its been for the most part very reliable.
At 110,000 there was something wrong with the starter and had to be replaced for $400.
At 40,000 the factory CD player blinks and has been blinking since. My 2.0L engine takes premium and HATES regular gas. Being japanese made, I purchased this car to get as many miles out of it as possible. I have been on trips over 500 miles without any problems.
At 60,000 needed to replace the tires as they were balding. Also needed a vehicle alignment as car pulled HARD to the right. This has been done a few times at 80k and 115k.
Now at 120,000 its getting a bit sluggish for starting, but still has great pick up and gas mileage. Also I wanted to mention that the inside cabin is very noisy going anything above 65MPH.
Fun to drive and still reliable after 5 years.
Mazda's from Japan are GREAT vehicles!
I have a 2000 LX automatic 1.6L and it's also a gem! You should check to see if there's any air leaks on the hoses, ie: Air Intake Hose, or the small hose connecting to the PCV valve. I would change the PCV valve also, all those mentioned are cheap replacements for anywhere from $5-$40, or less! But you'll feel a huge difference in performance and increase gas mileage.
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