Hi everyone, I tried posting this in the suspension/brakes section but it didn't allow me.
I bought this Mazda 3 (2005) 2.3L in 2009-10 with high mileage - the guy drove between New Brunswick and Quebec alot, so it's mostly highway miles. Since day one the right side strut was defective (bang off potholes etc), and the car handled poorly.
Now I am facing broken coils (in the back), have changed out one rear shock, and now am told the front lower control arms are 'dangerous'. With the struts leaking, coils broken, lower control arms needing replacing, I am faced with a costly repair. I have a mechanic who is very fair, and I wouldn't attempt these things myself - not yet. Now my uncle passed away and his son is selling his 2002 Honda with 168,000 Km , less than mine, but I like my car, despite the rust problem and poor A/C performance, compare to this 'grandpa' car of his. But I don't want to inherit new problems. He wants $1500 for his dad's Honda. Incidentally I drove it and it sounds like the muffler or resonator is about to go, the check engine light is on (or the engine icon), it handle very well (solid) compared to my bouncing and way to low Mazda 3. It's an automatic too, and have been driving shift all my life. But two garages I have mentioned this both agree the Honda is a better car - whatever 'better' means. I doubt it has the comfort and ride of a properly working Mazda 3 - sexier, and nicer car all around.
I am presently not working steady so economics and repair costs are going to be the deciding factor.
I paid $3500 for my 3 in and I see them going for 1.500 $ with less mileage and in supposed better shape than mine.
So in a nutshell I am asking;
Spend the $1000 and fix my Mazda (new suspension) ,brakes, paint job
or Go for this Honda and take my chances with other costly repairs.
Sentimental reasons aside.
I have to move on this quick, before he lists it. ($2000), because I am family he is asking $1500 'as is'.
Btw I was at a cafe on SAturday and the owner bought a 98 Civic of his buddy for $200 and hasn't put a nickel in it - yet !!
Some people have all the luck!
Thanks.
I bought this Mazda 3 (2005) 2.3L in 2009-10 with high mileage - the guy drove between New Brunswick and Quebec alot, so it's mostly highway miles. Since day one the right side strut was defective (bang off potholes etc), and the car handled poorly.
Now I am facing broken coils (in the back), have changed out one rear shock, and now am told the front lower control arms are 'dangerous'. With the struts leaking, coils broken, lower control arms needing replacing, I am faced with a costly repair. I have a mechanic who is very fair, and I wouldn't attempt these things myself - not yet. Now my uncle passed away and his son is selling his 2002 Honda with 168,000 Km , less than mine, but I like my car, despite the rust problem and poor A/C performance, compare to this 'grandpa' car of his. But I don't want to inherit new problems. He wants $1500 for his dad's Honda. Incidentally I drove it and it sounds like the muffler or resonator is about to go, the check engine light is on (or the engine icon), it handle very well (solid) compared to my bouncing and way to low Mazda 3. It's an automatic too, and have been driving shift all my life. But two garages I have mentioned this both agree the Honda is a better car - whatever 'better' means. I doubt it has the comfort and ride of a properly working Mazda 3 - sexier, and nicer car all around.
I am presently not working steady so economics and repair costs are going to be the deciding factor.
I paid $3500 for my 3 in and I see them going for 1.500 $ with less mileage and in supposed better shape than mine.
So in a nutshell I am asking;
Spend the $1000 and fix my Mazda (new suspension) ,brakes, paint job
or Go for this Honda and take my chances with other costly repairs.
Sentimental reasons aside.
I have to move on this quick, before he lists it. ($2000), because I am family he is asking $1500 'as is'.
Btw I was at a cafe on SAturday and the owner bought a 98 Civic of his buddy for $200 and hasn't put a nickel in it - yet !!
Some people have all the luck!
Thanks.