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chiefswon

Good morning,

I am looking at purchasing a 2004-2008 Mazda 3, NZ new, in the 80000-110000km range.

I was wondering if you could answer a few questions. Any assistance would be appreciated.

Do they have a cambelt or are they chain driven?

I see them advertised as automatic and Tiptronic. Could you advise what the difference is please? I’m guessing they are not CVT transmissions? Are there any issues to be aware of? And if it was to have a major problem what is the maximum I could expect to pay to repair it?

What size engines did they come with? I see Axela’s come with 1.5L engines but I have never seen NZ new models advertised with this size. My preference would be a 2.0L

Are they easy to get parts for in general?

I see some advertised with air con and some with climate control what is the difference?

Any other general info/advice you could give me would be appreciated. i.e. any common faults to look for when checking for this model of car

Many thanks

Gary

Anon

Hi Gary,
These Mazdas are a very popular and reliable option at the moment. I don't have any hesitation in recommending them. The 2 ltr has a timing chain instead of a belt, transmission is conventional 4 or 5 speed. Tiptronic means you can shift gears as you need using a plus or minus lever or button. Or just leave it in drive as per usual.
Engine size for NZ is 2.0, 2.3, and turbo 2.3 by the looks of it.
Climate control is an extra function that automatically adjusts the A/C to keep the car inside temp at optimum levels.
I would make sure you get the car inspected before purchase, AA pre purchase is best.