Hello,
So I saw this cute little 06 Blue Mazda 3 sedan for sale, but the ad says it has transmission issues, not wanting to go into drive,
difficulty shifting to 3rd gear. So 1st question is, what (if any) Ford vehicle is this the sister vehicle to?
I have a 99 Ford Escort which is way too small for me, inherited from father, but sips gas, and doesn't seem to need much.
I use it for running errands around town, no long trips. I don't want a car that is just as cramped as the Escort.
Next is the transmission. How many speeds is this transmission?
Coming from the Mercedes world, I have a C230 with a 5 speed (722.6 in MB nomenclature) . Many problems can be fixed with a simple fluid change, since Mercedes used to claim this transmission was "sealed for life". Total BS. I thought it was dead at 120K but a full flush and it was good as new again, now at 260K and still going strong (not without a lot of help, mostly DIY).
Now, the next generation 7 speed (722.9) has the transmission computer AND the conductor plate coded to the ECU
and if you attempt to replace these components, it will not function. Well, they won't sell you these components anyway.
(ZF actually is the manfacturer, these transmissions are used by many brands, including Chrysler/Dodge Jeep, Porsche)
You have to go to a dealer OR someone who the has the special equipment to do the coding who is certified by MB.
So what that means is $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$. More than the car is worth! Freakin' ridiculous. We have an ML350 sitting in the driveway that won't start or get out park since the computer says it won't go INTO park. So all 4 wheels are locked, it won't start and fixing it, well personally I think it's ready for the glue factory, but the wife just won't let go of it. She needs to think about another vehicle. It was great fun getting it towed here. NOT!
So with this Mazda transmission, how are these issues resolved? Anything the DIY'er can fix, ie fluid change, selenoids, conductor plate, Transmission computer? Or is it like the Mercedes where they won't sell you the parts for "security" reasons? (Yeah their financial security!) Does Mazda code the transmission to the ECU etc and only work can be done by the Gods of Mazda, or can mere mortals make these repairs without too much trouble? And also what's the story with the engine? It is reliable past 150K?Any fatal flaws?
My Escort is on borrowed time, since that engine it is known for sucking the #4 valve seat eventually. Just up to 120K now.
Is it 1 or 2 cam engine? Power? Interior room? I'm 6'2" and quite uh...chunky. I could probably pick this car up for a song.
Is it worth bothering with?