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So should I let 'my' dealership know I am getting a second opinion do you think? Suspicious of me I know, but I don't want them to prime anyone in advance.
Am going to have to go a long way as the nearest 3 are all part of the same!!!!
Really appreciate your advice btw. :)

Another professional opinion by someone who is equally familiar with the idiosyncracies of these cars may be the only way to get an unbiased technical opinion. While I'm not making this suggestion to catch anyone out, for the opinion to be completely unbiased, the second dealer should not be made aware of the previous diagnosis. Therefore if you think the two dealers in the same group may talk amongst themselves, perhaps it's better that you don't let on that you are going for the second opinion.

Thank you.
You put that so much better than I did! I'll let you know how I get on.

You will note, I have deleted the long post containing email exchange between yourself and the dealer/Mazda NZ. I have saved a copy so can discuss the matter with you if you contact us at aatech@aa.co.nz or call us on 0800 500 333 (option 2) to discuss this matter.