Hey folks. I'm hoping to look at a 2004 6 wagon with 87k on it tomorrow but have no knowledge whatsoever of Mazda vehicles. I've owned Subarus for the past 8 years...

Other than checking the vital fluids and giving the car a generous test drive and once-over:

-What specifically should I look at?
-Is this model/year prone to any specific problems?
-How do Mazdas fair in the war against rust? I've owned 2 high-mileage (225k+) Subarus that ran tip-top but succumbed to rust, particularly in the sub-frame.
-Any other info anyone could provide will be helpful.

Thanks for taking the time to reply...

 

They tend to rust on the leading edge of the rear wheel arches, especially in snowy climates. I love my 04 wagon anyway.

 

I owned an 04 SportWagon and I can confirm the rust in the rear fender wells -- although not bad -- just surface rust. I would look at the catalytic converters as well. Does it smell like rotten eggs when you start it up?