Hi there,

I am looking at purchasing a 2005 Mazda Atenza 2.3L wagon however, it recently had an engine overhaul (honed cylinder blocks/ new big end bearings and piston rings etc.) due to I believe excess oil consumption. Would this repair mean I should steer away from the car due to potentially similar needed repairs in the future? Or would the full engine overhaul be a favourable thing?

Unsure of the Mazda car brand and its issues, so any help would be appreciated!

 

Here in the U.S. I could recommend avoiding any car with the 2.3; that engine has a terrible reputation for reliability; I have heard anecdotally the engine is less problematic elsewhere in the world.

 

The US must not of used Japanese built engines.

The 2.3 engines from Japan are virtually bulletproof. Poor service history is the biggest issue with any Mazda engine using excessive oil.

 

That's the point, even owners with meticulous service records have experienced complete engine failure before 150,000 kms.