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Comments
Sepang Green
Premium Pkg - 16" wheels/Pwr drivers seat, etc.
Sport AT
ABS/Trac control
I did not get any wings or ground efx. I might get a wing and the sport grille sometime down
the road.
From what I've read here in the forums, I seem to be the only one who has a 6 in Sepang Green... the dealer said it was so popular a color they were hard to come by.
6s
Sepang green w/ beige leather
manual trans
no sport package
moonroof
I replaced the stock shifter with a Momo Sphere Aluminum, which matches really well with the center console. I hope to get a set of the 17" wheels and upgrade the stereo somewhat, but otherwise the car will remain as it is.
This was the first Sepang green my dealer had seen, so they must still be pretty rare.
CL
- Sport (leather)
- Comfort
- Moonroof
- Bose
- Side airbags
I haven't seen a green one (s or i) on the road yet, and have seen maybe 3 or 4 total over the past few months. Gotta love that
Congratulations, all - have fun! I know I am - I'll cross into 4-digits on my drive home in 10 minutes
First oil-change tips, anyone? Can't remember if its already been discussed.
I was wondering about
- When to get the first change - with the initial wear, I understand an early-ish change is a good idea. Perhaps 2K miles? Or earlier?
- How and when to make the switch to synthetic tranny and engine oil. Stick with dino for a couple of changes, do a couple of blend changes or just dump in equivalent synth in both (engine and tranny) right away? I don't live in a bad weather area - so I think Mobil or Castrol Syntech products (instead of RedLine or something more exotic) would do the trick.
Any opinions? References?
I'm still definitely in the Honeymoon phase with my car. Haven't had a speeding ticket in 12 years, but this car could well get me in trouble. The sound and acceleration from 4000rpm up are intoxicating!
CL
Forgot my car also has the Comfort Package -- the mid-day sun is doing an excellent job heating my seats these days...
The odometer on my Onyx Black 6i is going to hit 10k this weekend - without a problem worth mentioning. It's been 5 months of heaven.
I'm also starting to see more and more 6's on the road, and each time I catch myself staring, regardless of the fact that I have one of my own. They're just great looking cars! (No sign of my honeymoon phase ending any time soon.) And though the Mazda6 is becoming less "exclusive," I'm glad Mazda Motor is being rewarded for not holding back (too much) and designing and building such a great car!
Drives niiiiiiice!!!
I'm glad to finally be a member of the Mazda 6 Owners Club after waiting so long to become an M6 owner.
Well, I'm off to do some driving and get better acquainted with my new car. So far, it's been great!!
Can you tell I'm a happy and excited new owner? :-)
Have a great weekend!!
I'm planning to get an AT 6i with Premium package, ABS, cassette player, wheel locks, cargo net and mats. The dealer offers me $19095 before any rebates, and I get 1500 cash back, 1250 loyalty and 500 grad discounts. So it seems like this first quote is below invoice. Is there something fishy going on here?
I read somewhere here (I forgot which board) that dealers are being offered thousands in incentives to sell the 6's. Is this true? If so, should I negotiate more?
Any help on this will be appreciated. I am planning to buy either today or tomorrow.
The factory 5W-20 is a Motorcraft oil used by Ford, and is a blend, IIRC> I replaced it with 0W20 Mobil 1 Synthetic and like to think it quitened the roughness of my (4 cylinder) engine somewhat. A few other brands (syn and non-synthetic) carry 5W-20 and 0W-20. There are/have been extensive debates about the merits of a 20 Weigh oil, and many have switched to 5W-30 for summer use. Read an oil discussion forum like
www.bobistheoilguy.com
for more details, and make your own decision
And don't multi-post, please - especially not in the PROBLEMS forum. It brings up the post count unnecessarily
Sorry about the multi-posting. I just wanted to make sure that I would get a response from someone who knows. Thank you very much for your advice.
I am too a proud new daddy. My baby is Speed Yellow with the works, but no spoiler. Just this morning, I saw a silver 6i at the light.
What a sweet ride! Zum zum!
vudini
I also own a 2003 Ford Explorer XLT, my 3rd Explorer, really like them, very realiable, at least in my experience. I consider myself a car enhusiast. Its nice to belong to this forum. Take care you all.
Tuesday nights - 6-7pm PT/9-10pm ET.
I'm new to the Mazda family, and thus new to these boards. I've been lurking here for some time, learning about your experiences before I made my purchase, and first off, thank you for all your information. I'm happy to announce that on Friday, I picked up my 2004 Mazda6. Silver, with the sport package. It had 15 miles on it. 5 of which I put on when I did the test drive. I'm so happy with the car! It's such an improvement from the 95 Corolla I had. Anyway, I'm looking forward to ordering the sport grill and installing it after the new year, as well as changing out some of the headlights.
Zoom-Zoom!
I'd like to get the pros and cons of the vehicle.
WildMaple, there are already active Mazda 6 Owners' Clubs in many parts of the country. If you hunt around the web, you should find some, and ask to visit one of heir meets, and ask actual owners about it.
There are also a lot of for/against, comparison and pro/con discussions sprinkled around the Edmunds discussions websites. You'll find them
That said, I know no one that owns it and doesn't enjoy it - the driving experience is top notch in its class. Some people have concerns about certain issues (which you will get wind of in other areas of this discussion), while still (many MORE) other (like me) are enjoying the ownership expereience immenseley!
Liven up your evening and join your fellow enthusiasts every Tuesday from 6-7pm PT/9-10pm ET for our Mazda Mania Chat!
This coming week's chat on Feb 10 is also going to include a set of trivia questions about the 2004 Mazda models, gleaned from the pages of Edmunds.com! So study up and join us on Tuesday evening!!
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I had always wanted a Honda Accord but they were always just a bit out of my price range. So I thought, now is the time. But, because of my researcher background, before purchasing a car I needed to compare all the mid-sized cars. I was very disappointed with the handling of what I thought would be the two most likely candidates; the Accord EX and the Camry SE. After a few days of disappointing test drives and numerous internet searches, I decided to check out the Mazda6. Oh, happy day! As soon as I sat behind the wheel of a Mazda6 i AT, I felt right at home. (This reminded me of the old Mazda advertising campaign, “It just feels right.”) The car’s controls were amazingly intuitive and the handling was simply outstanding, although the performance level was less than I had hoped for. Back home to do more research on pricing.
I found that the ‘new’ 2003 models that were still available had a rebate available. Enough said; I started searching Mazda dealers’ inventories for 2003 Mazda 6’s. Since I hadn’t particularly cared for the i’s performance with AT, I figured that I should look for an “i” with a manual transmission or an “s.” I found several shown in inventory, but when I called the dealerships, I found that most had already been sold. Finally, I found a black on black “i” with MT, sports package with spoiler, comfort package, Bose audio package with side airbags at Heritage Mazda of Bel Air (about 45 miles from my home). Off I went only to be disappointed because they had sold the car shortly after I had called. The buyer was still in the process of taking delivery when I arrived.
The salesman that I had spoken to was no where to be found; I learned he was the trying to find a 2004 from their inventory that matched the 2003 that I had called about. The sales manager took me into his office and we began discussing what I was looking for. I told him I wanted a 2003 because of the $2,500 rebate, but he explained that if I wanted the “sports package,” the rebate was only $1,500. He then told me that he could match that with the current dealer incentive from Mazda on a 2004. There was never any high pressure, they just answered my questions and provided information. The entire sales staff was so friendly, I felt like I was being treated like family. (This feeling was a far cry from almost all of the other dealerships that I had visited during my quest.)
With a new 2004 in the picture, I started to rethink what options I really wanted. I began test driving all the 6 models; 6i MT, 6s AT, 6s MT. With each model tested, my smile kept getting bigger; same great handling and better performance as I moved through the line-up. While driving the 6s MT, all of a sudden it came to me, “Zoom-Zoom!” I knew I had to have an “s.” Then, I had more decisions, like leather or cloth. As it turned out, the dealership only had the manual transmission “s” in two colors with all the options I wanted (see below); Steel Gray and Sepang Green. They also had a demo “s” in Pebble Ash (my favorite color) with AT with beige leather that only had 1,300 miles on it. The gray one had the leather and the green one had the cloth; both in black. After much agonizing (for about 10 minutes), I chose the Steel Gray. (My required options--sports package with spoiler, Bose audio package, power moonroof, side airbags and side air curtains, and wheel locks.) Since taking delivery, I have purchased and installed the moonroof air deflector, the door edge guards, the cargo mat and cargo net. I have thought about the auto-dimming mirror but figured that it would be too difficult for a self install.
This is by far the most fun to drive vehicle I have every owned. I actually look forward to going to work in the morning because I get to drive my 6. When I get to work, I look forward to leaving work even more than I did before because I get to drive my 6 again! So far, in about 3 weeks, I have put about 700 miles on the car and am averaging just over 22 mpg. Based on EPA estimates, I guess that is what I should expect with very mixed city/suburban/highway driving. I am hoping that after the break-in period that the fuel mileage will go up a bit. When I change the oil, I plan to use a synthetic (maybe Mobil 1’s 0W-20) which should also help boost gas mileage a bit.
Needless to say, I enjoy the handling and performance. Like most who have posted, I've noticed similar hiccups like less than expected gas mileage, squeeky brakes and a few minor rattles. One investment that I've made in the past 3 vehicles my family has owned is a K&N air filter. They have a million mile warranty and improved the performance in my Saturn. I clean it about once a year and they do not effect the car's warranty. I'm hoping maybe for another mile or two per gallon, we'll see.
I've noticed discussion about oil, is this the reason for the high oil change price? At any rate, I appreciate this forum and all those who participate. Your insights are valuable.
Cheers
Mazda Mania
Liven up your evening and join your fellow enthusiasts every Tuesday from 6-7pm PT/9-10pm ET for our Mazda Mania Chat!
We'll be testing your knowledge with some automotive trivia questions as well, so be prepared! Hope to see YOU there on Tuesday!
Mazda Mania Chat Room
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Pickups & News & Views Message Boards
Liven up your evening and join your fellow enthusiasts every Tuesday from 6-7pm PT/9-10pm ET for our Mazda Mania Chat!
We'll be testing your knowledge with some automotive trivia questions as well, so be prepared! Hope to see YOU there on Tuesday!
Mazda Mania Chat Room
PF Flyer
Host
Pickups & News & Views Message Boards
Anyhow, for a variety of reasons I started looking for a new car. Worked out my budget, what I could afford per month, and decided I was willing to do a loan of 6 years if necessary to put me in a car I want. I used Edmunds' financing calculator to determine how much car I can afford based on their TMV and what APR I figured I could get based on my credit. I was pleasantly surprised that I wouldn't have to settle for an econobox (in spite of the fact that some are rather nice these days).
So then I sat down with Edmunds' 2004 New Cars book and started reading the reviews. I narrowed my choice down to about 10 cars ranging from econobox up to midsize sedan, and even the Dodge Intrepid which I've always loved the look of. Then I started rating the cars in various categories, and listed my top 5. It included three Toyotas and two Mazdas. The top car on the list was a Toyota Celica, but after reading the Long Term test here, and realizing that for me the car just wouldn't work out, I went to the next car on the list.
That car was a Mazda 6. The other cars were a Toyota Camry Solara, Mazda 3, and Toyota Camry. So I began test driving... Almost immediately the Mazda 6 lapped the field as far as I was concerned, although the Mazda 3 made a strong case due to slightly better fuel economy, value for the money and an interior I liked the look of better. Somehow though, the Mazda 6 just felt like a better overall package for me.
I began 'building' cars on Edmunds and the Mazda.com site. Initially I was looking for a sport package, but decided that I liked the clean look of the base sedan. I never really considered the Manual Transmission since all the cars at nearby lots had an Automatic. I really wanted the Moonroof, but the combination of options necessary to get it (Sport package, Security Package, 17" alloy wheels, Bose Audio system) made it drop from the list quickly. The car I basically 'decided' on was an AT with ABS and Power Seats. The only problem? I was dead set on getting a Lapis Blue, and my pre-approved loan was due to end at the end of the month. Plus I wanted to take advantage of the $1500 rebate.
So I called around and found a car that really wasn't close to my 'latest build'. A Manual Transmission Lapis Blue with sport package (the spoiler version) plus a couple of extras that were never really on my list: sport grille, aluminum fuel door, autodim compass mirror. The big draw though was the price. It was through an internet manager who didn't haggle, but quoted their policy of $100 over invoice. I told the dealer I wanted to test drive it, and went out to do so. The first shock on seeing the car was how rich and bright the blue looks. The pictures on the mazda.com site when you choose the color don't come close to doing it justics. It took me a moment, and then I realized I loved the look.
The sport package still didn't thrill me, partially because I work at a place where 'sporty' cars are rather uncommon, and even a spoiler is unusual. This car will definitely stand out. However, it's definitely not as gaudy as some other cars, and as I walked around it, I realized it would grow on me quickly. Besides, a manual transmission is more practical than an automatic, and I could always use that excuse.
However, I haven't driven a manual in awhile (3 years) and wanted to make sure I liked the feel as much as I did the automatic version. I never stalled it, and by the end of the short trip I'd stopped whacking my companion's (friend who had to drive me up since I transferred plates but didn't trade in the old car) head on the headrest with the downshifts.
Got back inside and said, "Let's do it." Not only did I save $1500 off MSRP for the car, I saved $600 off Edmunds' TMV and they got me a better loan offer than the one I was able to get on my own (dropping a good $2000 off the interest over the life of the loan).
And then came the fun part... the drive home. See, this dealership was 100 miles from where I live and the drive only reaffirmed that I'd made the right choice. Love the car both how it feels and how it looks. Now I'll hope it's as reliable as the long term test here indicates...
vudini
My only real 'complaint' isn't about the car specifically, but the audio system. I grew used to one touch switching between equalizer packagaes on a CD player I bought for my old car, so modifying the base, mid, and treble separately feels a bit of a pain.
Anyhow, the car runs beautifully, gets lots of comments at work (positive ones) and even my dad liked the look in a picture I sent him.
I can't wait to hit 600 miles so I can start pushing it a bit more. There're some nice, twisty roads in the area. Already I've found myself going 10 MPH faster than I have in my old car on some of these roads, without realizing it, and the car is still rock solid.
The impression I always get walking out to the car is that it looks massive somehow. Compared to my old Dodge Spirit, it's not hugely bigger (a few inches in all directions) but it just feels much more substantial. Anyhow, thanks again for the welcome.
6s - steel gray - 5 speed manual - loaded
and most importantly, the sport package W/O the spoiler. Thats right folks, I said no spoiler.
In any case - congratulations to all the new owners here - you're going to love owning the car! Mine turned 13K last week, and I'm still always excited about driving it
Red 6s-AT with beige leather. I actually tried to go without the spoiler, but there were only three available in the 6-state area, one was a demo, the other two had deposits on them (or so the other dealers said).
Liven up your evening and join your fellow enthusiasts every Tuesday from 6-7pm PT/9-10pm ET for our Mazda Mania Chat!
The chat room opens 15 minutes before the scheduled chat time, so come early and get a good seat! Hope to see YOU there on Tuesday!
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I posted this on the "main" Mazda6 board, then realized that it would have made more sense to post it here. It's been months since I've visited Edmunds. At that time, my username was Silvercrown. With this new format, I couldn't figure out how to log on with that name and it no longer fit me, so I reinvented my profile name (it's actually based on my car's "name").
I have had my beautiful, blue 6s Sport since last July and I have around 8500 trouble-free miles on it. It still shines like diamonds when it's clean, and I still find myself staring at it in the parking lot. I do love my car.
As for gas mileage, it could be better. I do a mixture of city and highway driving, mostly city, and I average aroun 21-22 mpg. I have a heavy right foot and I love to zoom, when I can, so I'm sure that accounts for my lower mileage. However, I averaged about 26 mpg in my old V6 Camry, using the same driving style, so the 6 is a thirstier machine in general.
If I could change one thing, besides improving the mileage, it would be a smaller turning circle. I am still getting used to it and certain parking maneuvers and turns are a pain. In spite of that small detail, I love my car and I enjoy driving it every day.
I did have one small misfortune happen earlier this month. I had to replace one of my tires. The roads here in Michigan are terrible, and even though I am very careful to avoid potholes and other bumps, I managed to get a bubble in my sidewall. First time this has ever happened to me and I've lived here all my life. I never had low profile, sport tires like these, so I guess that's the difference.
Luckily for me, Michelin agreed to pay for 45% of the replacement cost, since my car was so new. Customer goodwill, I guess. It was still very expensive to replace, these tires ain't cheap. And they're not readily available. I went to Belle Tire (I had to go to one of Michelin's authorized distributors for the evaluation of whether or not the tire was defective) and they had to go to their warehouse for that particular tire. So I was there for a long time, but grateful to save some $$$ in the end. Has anyone else had a tire problem like this due to bad roads or whatever?
However, I'm not looking forward to the time when all of my tires will have to be replaced. That's going to cost a small fortune. A friend of mine mentioned Tirerack.com and told me that they would deliver to any location I wanted, so if I wanted a certain auto shop to install my tires, they would send them there and it would save me a lot of money. What do you guys think? Any other suggestions? I'm thinking ahead here. :-)