ABS breakdown dangers
 

We bought a 2+ year-old Mazda 3 last year for around 15000 (before taxes and fees) and didn't get the electronics warranty thinking that as it was a certified pre-owned car that was just certified the month before we bought it, we wouldn't need it as we will not be in Vancouver past 5 years. Within 6+ months, the car electronics system (the ABS module) suffered a total breakdown requiring more than $1500 in repairs to replace a part that is supposed to lasts a lifetime. Because all the electronic information pass through this module, breakdown means none of the electronics working - doors unable to close, auxiliary power remaining on after the engine is switched off, and all the warning lights coming and staying on.

Mazda Canada was basically of no help and said that car electronics are like light bulbs, no guarantee of when it would breakdown and we were just unlucky. Apparently the pre-owned certification check includes the ABS but they only check to see if it's still running and making any weird noises. If not, they check it off as being in passable condition.

The Destination Mazda service manager Oswald was kind enough to offer us 20% off the repair costs, hence I upgraded my rating from 1 to 2 stars. To me, if i pay for quality checks in a relatively new car, I should expect less breakdowns - I was sorely disappointed.

Keep in mind, no car, however new, regardless of brand, is immune from breakdowns. Fact of life.

What warranty does Mazda Canada give on new cars? Surely they must give three years?

Bunch of tight arses if they don't.