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Mazda MPV: Problems & Solutions

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Comments

  • cmunizcmuniz Member Posts: 604
    I also had a problem with the fuel door sticking. I used WD40 on it and now it works ok. Will probably have to do it regurarly. I think that the safety switch to prevent the passenger sliding door from opening while fueling makes it harder to swing open when you pull the lever inside the car, therefore keeping it lubricated will help.
  • javadocjavadoc Member Posts: 1,167
    cmuniz is right about keeping the fuel door working properly. I've been using WD-40 also, and it keeps the mechanism working smoothly all year long.

    --javadoc
  • bksmartbksmart Member Posts: 2
    First of all, TIA for any information that will help me in dealing with the Mazda service people.
    First question: Sometimes our MPV will not start when you turn over the ignition. Actually, the car will turn over and make the sounds that it should, but it never gets going enough and dies. After 2 -3 tries it will eventually start. It doesn't do this all the time, but I know that this is not how it should be performing. What could this be?

    Second question: Regarding the "popping" sound that so many reference....is this indeed the tie-rods? A few months ago the dealership replaced my breakpads, but it hasn't made a difference.

    Third question: Where do you get your auto parts and what service do you do yourself? We're coming up on 23,000 miles and I really don't want to pay the dealership $350 to do some of the things that I or dh could do.

    Thanks again
  • javadocjavadoc Member Posts: 1,167
    #1: We've had a similar issue from time to time w/our van, and the dealer service folks never figured it out. It happens very rarely for us. I'd describe this like, you start the van, and three seconds later it's dead. Restart the van, and it maybe will do it again. Third time seems to be the charm for us. This all happens before we can move the van out of Park. Interestingly, we had the exact same issue with our '97 Contour with this engine (it had a 5-speed Manual tho). We chock it up to minor annoyance.

    #2: I'll dodge since we haven't had this happening with MochaVan...I suspect our climate is too cold, since folks seem to notice this popping when the going gets hot. Many others are much more qualified to comment on this issue. :-)

    #3: I haven't had to buy any parts per-se for our van, except oil filters, which I get at the dealer. I just purchased a K&N air filter, bought online. For parts, I'd try some more reputable parts stores (online even) for plugs and such. I don't think you'd need brake parts yet, or shocks. What else is serviced at this mileage point...rotate tires, check/change fluids, etc I think. You could do most all this yourselves if you're at all inclined. If you're looking for accessories, I'd suggest ducking into the Mazda MPV Club: Aftermarket & Accessories forum for info on that regard. There are lots of ideas in there!
    cheers,

    --Javadoc
  • drrocketdrrocket Member Posts: 67
    And how long did you have to wait to get it (--I'm assuming it isn't a normally stocked item)?

    Thanks in advance.
  • javadocjavadoc Member Posts: 1,167
    I purchased my K&N filter (P/n 33-2177) from macromotive.com. It was $43.62 plus $21.10 s/h. I think I'm gettting soaked on s/h cuz I live in AK. It's supposed to arrive 6/5 I think, we'll see. Also, if you're concerned about this vendor, I'm not the first person buying the filter from them.

    If you want a link, let me know.

    --javadoc
  • whisper1whisper1 Member Posts: 50
    I do notice that it requires a few more turn overs to start, even in an immediate restart. There are times that I released the key too soon and of course it failed to start. My 93 protege and traded 87 Z24 starts with no turn overs at all on a warm engine, not the MPV (there are rare occasions that it restarted fairly quick). This characteristic may be intentional.

    Also while it is cranking, there are 2 distinct sounds, presumably the higher frequency one from the starting motor/gears and the lower frequency one from the engine cyclinders.

    Comments?
  • brmudabrmuda Member Posts: 50
    I'm a bit puzzled.

    Why are you paying such HIGH prices for oil filters (P/n 33-2177 from macromotive.com for $43.62 plus $21.10 s/h)? Maybe I misunderstood and the price you mentioned was for a multi-pack of them.

    My dealer charges $29 for oil change w/filter.

    Don't take offense. I'm just wondering why some folks opt to do this themselves. Just curious.
  • gagpgagp Member Posts: 32
    I too, have this problem on both sides. Had the plate installed. Will try to have it replaced...

    Silver (and scratched) Driver
  • alexv1nalexv1n Member Posts: 248
    That's because K&N #33-2177 is an AIR filter, not OIL filter :-)
  • javadocjavadoc Member Posts: 1,167
    Yes, K&N p/n 33-2177 is an air filter, not the oil filter, which is also offered for the MPV. My "tailights" would feel sore if I paid that much for a disposable oil filter .

    Brumda, no offense taken...no worries my friend.

    --javadoc
  • tedescortedescor Member Posts: 3
    I too, have this problem on both sides. Had the plate installed by Mazda. Will bring it in within next couple of weeks to add some more adhesive tape (or whatever) to help prevent the step plate from scratching the hatch any further. Mazda will also touch up the slight scratches.
    For those affected, please keep me informed of updates and I will do the same.
  • drrocketdrrocket Member Posts: 67
    But let me ask you this, if you actually live in Alaska, how is it your country flag caption reads Cayman Islands? Is it an instance of mind over matter?
  • javadocjavadoc Member Posts: 1,167
    Oh, you found me out!!!! I took that flag because I'd love to retire there. But, sigh, I'm stuck here, tortured with living on the edge of scenic wilderness, breath-taking mountain ranges and untamed wildlife (oh, the animals to), till I make it rich, or at least make it so I don't have to work.

    I think the price of the filter is okay. The cone filter for my Volvo was $65 plus s/h. You never replace these filters, but we all knew that already. I do think I was soaked on the s/h charges. Vendors like to stick it to ya living up here. :-)

    Anyways...the filter arrived today and I'm installing it tonight. I'll do a "How-To" just for grins.

    --javadoc
  • jarvis_3jarvis_3 Member Posts: 1
    I am considering purchasing a MPV, so I've been talking to MPV owners on the street. One person when asked about his MPV said he wishes it had more power, especially when he runs the air conditioner. Has anyone noticed a signifigant drop in power when using their AC and also, would the new 2002 3.0L remedy this problem?
  • rbladerrblader Member Posts: 28
    I haven't noticed any significant drop in power after turning on the AC. The bottom line on this perceived "power issue" is Yes the MPV has less power than it's competitors. But IMHO, whatever power it has is more than adequate for everyday driving. It'll keep up with traffic. It'll cruise at 75 to 80 mph comfortably and quietly without straining. It'll climb hills and keep up with the majority of the traffic. I definitely won't use my MPV ES to drag race. That's what sportcars are for. If you're coming from a big displacement V6 or V8 or a sportscar, you'll be somewhat dissappointed with the lack of low end (1000 to 2000rpm) torque. But if you're coming from a typical 4 banger compact car, perceived acceleration from a standstill is pretty comparable. The engine revs smoother than a typical 4 banger. It makes a sporty purr at higher rpm. I think it's mainly due to the chain driven camshaft as opposed to the typical aramid fiber belt. The engine is made by Ford but was designed with help and influence from Ford partner Yamaha. The future 3.0L version will definitely significantly increase power. But I don't think that you'd be able to get them with the same discount as the current 2.5L because MPVs will be more popular with the elimination of the perceived power deficiency and the addition of power sliding doors. I got my MPV ES with leather seats, wood grain dash, front and side impact airbags, roof rack, huge power sliding moonroof, fog lights, four seasons package(with rear heat and AC vents and controls, heavy duty battery, trans. oil and engine oil cooler, heavy duty radiator, heavy duty front and rear window washer, heated side mirrors), in-dash 6CD changer AM/FM 180-watt stereo with 8 speakers and 1 subwoofer, keyless entry/alarm/immobilizer, floor and cargo mats, cargo net, mud/splash guard and rear bumper step plate, for only $24,800 plus tax and lic. I don't mind the lack of power sliding doors. The doors are so easy of open and close. Our 5-year old can do it without any problems. And I can't even remember the last time that I came out of the grocery store with bags in both hands-I always take the grocery cart out to the parking lot with me so my hands are always free. The rear cargo well with the third row seats up is amazing. The middle row seats are relatively light and easy to remove if necessary. The right side middle row seat slides left and right easily even when occupied to form either bench or captains chairs. The stereo sounds awesome. The power moonroof is huge-I believe the largest available for a minivan.
  • javadocjavadoc Member Posts: 1,167
    I'll echo rbladers great remarks. I think you're going to hear much the same responses about power, "It's fine, really." I've noticed no difference with the a/c on or off as far as umph is concerned with the van. Modern a/c systems are much more efficient than the systems of yore, that used to sap power like crazy.

    The 3.0 engine will indeed raise the price of the MPV, but nobody really knows how much yet (maybe 10-15%?). Right now as offered, the MPV is a peach of a van and a steal, and if it starts to be priced with the larger Ody or even the more expensive Sienna (per msrp), then I it might be getting too expensive for its britches...just as the previous version of the MPV did at the end.

    I'd be asking myself if 30 hp is worth a couple grand extra in sticker price. If it is, then I'd wait for the bigger motor, if not, snatch a 2001 up and enjoy life with an MPV. Myself, I'd be using the extra I saved over the 3.0 MPV and getting an RSES for the van, or buying the wife that painting she really wants. ;-)

    cheers,

    --Javadoc
  • rbladerrblader Member Posts: 28
    Best stopping distance in it's class.
    Best handling in it's class.
    Good front impact crash rating.
    Excellent side impact crash rating.
    Assembly quality-only minivan available that's assembled in Japan.
    Mazda is basically an American company because it's mostly owned and controlled by Ford (just like Volvo, Jaguar, Aston Martin and Land Rover).
  • maltbmaltb Member Posts: 3,572
    Mazda is 33.4% owned by Ford, but in Japan that gives them controlling interest. I would argue that it still remains a Japanese company under the Ford microscope.

    :)
  • rbladerrblader Member Posts: 28
    That was what I meant by "mostly owned by Ford"- Ford has the largest share(not necessarily majority) and the controlling interest. The rest of Mazda is really owned by individual share holders, mutual funds, etc (be it Japanese nationals or foreign investors.) But Ford has the biggest slice of the pie though not necessarily more than half of the pie. The top executive of Mazda is an American national. But your argument is valid in the sense that most of Mazda's employees are still Japanese because most of it's operations are still located in Japan. :)
    These days, it's really arguable what a certain make or model's "nationality" is. One could argue that the Chrysler PT Cruiser and Volkswagen Bug are Mexican cars or that the Honda Odyssey and GM F-Bodies are Canadian cars or the Mercedes ML series SUVs, Honda Accords, and Toyota Camrys are American cars.... or that Saab, Lotus and Lambhorghinis are American cars and Nissans are French cars. :)
  • javadocjavadoc Member Posts: 1,167
    This just illustrates that we live in a truly global economy. Now if only the boys (and girls) in Dearborn could learn a thing or two from the good folks in Hiroshima. ;-)

    --javadoc
  • rbladerrblader Member Posts: 28
    Aye! Although I think that it's slowly happening. Just check out the Mustang Cobra - independent rear suspension, multivalve DOHC engine - unthinkable just a few years ago. Or the new Explorer-independent rear suspension. Or the GM (not Ford) midsize SUVs(Envoy, TrailBlazer)-multivalve DOHC inline6 engines. Chevy Borrego (concept car being considered for production)- based on the Subaru Impreza WRX- flat four, DOHC, multivalve, turbo-charged, intercooled.
    I betcha the next Windstar will be like a larger version of the MPV.
    Focus SVT, Zetec 2.0 DOHC four with 170hp!! Give it a couple of years, maybe Ford will be adding a VVT valve train and it'll be making over 200hp@8000rpm ala S2000 or Integra GSR.
    Now if they can only keep on improving the assembly/manufacture quality as well...
  • rbladerrblader Member Posts: 28
    Has anybody in this board experienced the dreaded water pump failure? I've been lurking in Contour boards and apparently there's been a number of premature failures of the waterpump in early ('96 to '99) 2.5L Duratecs because some of the components in the pump mechanism is made of plastic. A lot of the failures were apparently experienced by engines that have been revved at more than 6000rpm a lot.
    2nd question. Has anybody tried adding Redline Water Wetter to the coolant system of their MPVs? Any negative side effects? I use it in my highly modified Talon AWD Turbo and it helps a lot in keeping temperatures down during hot days or extended high boost/rpm driving especially with my large front mount intercooler blocking the radiator.
    3rd question. I'm a new MPV owner. In your opinion, what's the best oil filter for the MPV. Is it "safer" to stay with Motorcraft? Or can I use premium/aftermarket filters with worrying about "imcompatibilities?" I'm definitely using Mobil 1 10w-30. Comments? What's the best mileage to do the first oil change? I don't want to do it prematurely without waiting for the rings to settle. But I don't want to do it too late either. Has anybody been able to successfully remove the factory installed oil filter by hand? I've heard stories that it's installed by the 900-pound gorilla in the factory.
  • maltbmaltb Member Posts: 3,572
    Just of what I have seen here, you may be better off with the M/C filter. I think the idea is to make sure that it's a stout filter that can take some extra pressure.

    :)
  • alexv1nalexv1n Member Posts: 248
    Well, first of all, I must say that you may hardly need it in the first place. I drove my 10 month old MPV every day and the temp gaugage shows the same reading be it +30°C or -20°C outside. It ALWAYS shows the same temperature after about 2 minutes the engine is started. I start to worry in case it is broken :-)

    No, seriously, a couple of my friends were very surprised how stable engine temperature is on the MPV. And I guess someone here has completed long journey through a desert (?) and commented that MPV never overheated while the same route in DC Caravan several years ago was a horrible experience...
  • stevecanuckstevecanuck Member Posts: 33
    I spent the past few weeks driving a Mazda Tribute while my second car is in the shop (my 2000 MPV is running fine)

    The Tribute is a touch lighter than the MPV but has the 3L V6. The change in driving is significant. When you push the Tribute you get a more "normal" slow ramp up in RPMs, rather than the drop-down in gear that the MPV gives you.

    My guess is that the 3L engine will give the MPV a much better reception with everyday drivers. While we know our MPVs can take the traffic, a lot of folks over here in North America aren't comfortable with an engine that revs above 3000 RPM. Sad but true.
  • tboner1965tboner1965 Member Posts: 647
    Well,

    If you've been at contour.org you've seen the concern about filter flow rates.

    The K&N oil filter has a higher stated flow rate, (greater than the 12gpm that the 2.5L's oil pump will pump) but doesn't do quite the same job at filtering the oil.

    However, with some of the oil starvation issues experienced in extreme cornering, I'm thinking an ample supply of slightly dirty oil is superior to a near zero supply of pristine oil.

    I've switched to the K&N (2010 I think)

    Cheers,

    TB
  • billmckinleybillmckinley Member Posts: 167
    I DID notice a change when warm weather came around and I drove with the AC on regularly. At first I put it down to a power drag, but it wasn't. Under any circumstances, the MPV likes a special touch on the gas for smooth accelaration. I had learned "the touch" in a week or so of driving during February, when I got the van. I found out that with the AC on, it needs a slightly different touch to avoid sudden, jerky downshifts under stress. But it only took me about a week to learn the new touch. And now that I have, the acceleration is every bit as smooth and quick as it was without the AC. At first I probably had more trouble adjusting to the AC than any other driver on the forum [most just don't sense any difference], but now that I have, I almost prefer the smoothness of the car with Ac to it without. And I'm the worst-case scenario, I think. [I put it all down to bad hand-eye co-ordination. I'm a lousy golfer, too :)].

    Don't worry about it; if I can conquer it--and even come to love it--anyone can.

    RJ
  • dianaa1dianaa1 Member Posts: 3
    We had our shoddy Yokohoma tires replaced at 33,600 Km (about 20,000) miles on our 14 month old van. We had to have extensive alignment work done as well. The only sign of alignment problems was the premature wear on the tires.

    Mazda was not going to help us originally with any of the cost. I spoke to many people, both at Mazda dealerships, at the Automobile Protection Agency and at the Canadian New Vehicle Warranty Agency about the premature wear on the tires. I made an appointment to talk to the Mazda Canada District Representative at the dealership where we bought the car, which is the first step to getting mediation with Mazda.

    Before I could meet with the District Rep, Mazda Canada came through with a cheque for the entire amount. We are now happy customers again. We like our new Pirelli Cinturato all-season tires. My only concern is that we have 92T rated tires since we decided to stay with the 205/65/R15 size that Gyro Mazda in Toronto recommended. Gyro Mazda says the upgraded speed rating means we bought stronger sidewalls and all around better tires.

    The Yokohama tech support guy suggested we upgrade to 215/65/R15 in order to get a stronger tire. This might impact our speedometer so we decided to keep to the original tire size. We'll keep people posted about this decision. My thanks to Jeff Thompson of Downtown Mazda in Toronto, who spoke to Mazda Canada on my behalf, and of course to Mazda Canada, for taking responsibility for the tire and alignment problems.
  • cooldude123cooldude123 Member Posts: 2
    I just wanted to let everyone know that I love my van! It scoots around like no other van can. It is an LX touring package. So far I have just had one problem. When I put my van into reverse, there was an odd clicking noise. I took it in to the shop ind it was something to do with the breaks.
  • cooldude123cooldude123 Member Posts: 2
    Hi! I just recentally purched a 2000 used mazda MPV LX touring package. When I got home, I wanted to try out the six disk CD player. I pushed and held the LOAD button but it didnt do anythig. I took it back to the dealership and they replaced it.
  • blacklxblacklx Member Posts: 60
    That must be a common problem, we had to do the same thing. It works great now, the repeat button comes in handy for my 2 yo and her desire to hear the same song over and over.
  • hugshugs Member Posts: 1
    Hi all, I'm considering purchasing an MPV LX with a ton of options. I've been reading the board, but I haven't seen many complaints. Anyone have any words of wisdom for me before I make my final decision?
    Hugs
  • javadocjavadoc Member Posts: 1,167
    If I were the price-minded buyer and thinking of when to buy my 2001 MPV, I'd gamble and wait till year end when the 2002s come out with their bigger engines (rumors abound as to when exactly this will happen tho). These would be higher priced, and an orphaned, yet well equipped, 2001 might be had for a song. It's a gamble though, but folks have bought their 2000 models as left overs last year when the 2001s were needing room, and at great savings. I'm just guessing, but there'll probably be incentives flying around to sell 2001s when the 3.0L MPVs hit your local dealer.

    Just my 2cents,

    --java
  • billmckinleybillmckinley Member Posts: 167
    If you have a congenial dealer, ask for an extended test drive--a minimum of several hours in all conditions, or overnight or for the weekend. (This may not be an impossible task; dealers can be very friendly when they think they have a hot prospect for one of these undersold vans). The longer test drive will acclimate you to the endearing peculiarities of the engine/transmission and will allow you to test its superb handling without a salesman gasping in dismay as you put it through its paces. I honestly think such an extended test will solidify your decision.

    RJ
  • kevinbamfordkevinbamford Member Posts: 1
    I had heard of an earlier problem which involved the popping of the sub woofer located right over the drivers side rear tire. I remember hearing that electrical impulses could cause the sub woofer to create a popping noise that sounded as if you had hit or run over something... Anyone else remember this noise issue?
  • maryholmesmaryholmes Member Posts: 15
    Don't assume you can't get a great deal on a 2001 MPV without waiting until the 2002 models come out. I bought mine for 1% over invoice and received a $1500 rebate off of that price. I've heard this rebate is good until early July, but I've never seen it talked about on Edmunds or the Mazda site. If I hadn't heard of it from a fellow Mazda owner, I would never have known to ask about it.

    I've had mine for 6 weeks and I've put 3000 miles on it already. It does accelerate a little slower from a standstill than I'm use to, but it sure makes up for it at high speed. It will pop from 65mph to 85mph if you need to pass with no problems. It really does make you feel like you are in one of those Mazda " Zoom Zoom" commercials. I love driving mine! (As you can probably see by my mileage.)
  • mazdadmazdad Member Posts: 1
    I've had my '00 MPV ES for 10 months now - 6,500 mostly city miles. Poor MPG of 14 or so - but I have a hideous stop-and-go commute in downtown DC every morning. Highway is more like 18-19. (I have all the extras that add weight.)

    We're extremely happy with the MPV - I really wanted an Ody but have now decided that MPV's narrower girth and slightly shorter length is better for city life. Plus the leather seats are very fine and moonroof is most excellent.

    BUT.

    I've had two significant problems. The continuing unsolved problem is a sulphur-like smell eminating from outside the van whenever I've gone about 10 blocks, stop-and-go. It knocks over pedestrians and departing passengers (and yours truly when the window is down). It lasts throughout the 50-min commute. Sometimes it doesn't happen at all.

    From my experience in the 70s, this is a rotten-eggs catalytic converter smell, no doubt about it. But I haven't owned a car since 1980 (I live 1/2 block from a subway) and it could well be some other malfunctioning system on the car.

    First dealer deodorized the a/c vents. Sorry - I said it was only smellable with the windows open. Second dealer said it wasn't unsual for the smell to last until 10,000 miles. Which sounded - and still sounds - like BS to me. Anyone else have this problem?

    Second prob: vibration at 80+. There were many posts on this in the 100s range on this board - but haven't seen many since. It happened consistently on the first three trips I made on the open road (I can only manage about 60 on the streets around the White House).

    First dealer said - oh we can't check it out because we can't go 80 - but they rotated and balanced tires for good measure. No change. Second dealer balanced again and it seems better --but not perfect -- at 80-85. No side-to-side travel in steering wheel as some have reported and no leaning. Just vibration. Hope it's been fixed now. (I have 16-inch Dunlops on alloy rims. I think.)

    Other problems include noisy blower fan in a/c (didn't happen with heater), rattle in visor for moonroof (dealer says they don't know how to fix that), sticky lever in Park on occasion (move the steering wheel a bit and it's fine), and dirt on the floor mats. (Aha - you're still reading!)

    For a "first-time" car buyer at age 45 - I think I got a pretty good deal, even if it's a bit smelly at times.
  • billmckinleybillmckinley Member Posts: 167
    Welcome to a very exclsive club--so far, the only members seem to be you and me: The "If you can't beat 'em at a stoplight, gas 'em to death" Club. I have a four-month old LX [3k mi] with exactly the same problem. Dogs sniff my tailpipe; birds fall out of the sky; strong men weep; women faint. Some days, the smell is enough to call out the HazMat teams. Other days, nothing. I've taken mine to one dealer who gave it a test drive [all of three-tenths of a mile] and somehow managed to miss smelling anything. Other than the smell, nothing seems to be wrong, so like you, I'm living with it. Most of the time I can't smell it anyway, so it doesn't bother me all that much. Though I must admit, I AM getting tired of strange looks from other drivers [I think they think it's me, rather than the car. Some part of me is touched by their simple faith in what would truly be superhuman powers. Hmmn--there may be a comicbook idea in there somewhere].

    So you're not alone--though if your smell doesn't go away, you will be before long.

    ;)

    RJ
  • pjd58pjd58 Member Posts: 366
    I agree waiting for the 02's introduction bargains will be found on the 01. As you stated, it's a gamble though. My Wife was more concerned with the color, trim level and options on our 01 MPV. I told her if we waited till Fall for a 01, the chance of getting her "ideal MPV" will be slim. We purcased our 01 MPV in April and paid $2700 less MSRP, a good deal , not great. We got the exact van we wanted, at a good price. Different strokes for different folks, I guess. A few hundred bucks more is worth getting exactly what you want, IMO. Especially when you are spending $23,000.
  • pjd58pjd58 Member Posts: 366
    "the Prez" still has personal problems? Did you try changing you fuel preference? I reside in Ohio and know we have similar choices of gas stations. I filled up with BP and our van had a strange smell. I believe BP has additives in their fuel and it might be causing the problem. We switch to Speedway, and no noxious fumes from our MPV. If the smell continues, I would call Mazda NA and insist you want a new CC.
  • brmudabrmuda Member Posts: 50
    Sorry, I can't help with the smell as I've never had that problem. If it's a sulphur smell, it's related to catalytic converter. Tell Mazda. you'd like the converter replaced. An emissions test (I live in IL and the state requires it every few yrs on every vehicle) would confirm if it's bad.

    If your dealer won't cooperate, call Mazda region office & explain your dilemmas. I have found their Midwest Region to be very accommodating in working with both dealer & customer to get probs fixed.

    I had front end vibes shortly after purchase. I suspected it was tire balancing - it was. Dealer re-balanced all 4 tires and vibrations were gone.

    Good luck!
  • billmckinleybillmckinley Member Posts: 167
    I haven't made a conscious effort to change The Prez's diet; I tend to fill it wherever I am when I notice the tank at a quarter. That's usually on my way home from school, so I'm as apt as not to fill it at the same station. Or not. Which might explain the intermittent nature of the smell. I'll give switching a try--I owe it to humanity.
    :)

    Thanks--
    RJ
  • gunga64gunga64 Member Posts: 271
    MPV DX

    power package
    Rear AC
    and Desitnation

    19,995+ tax,tags

    Does this sound good to you guys?

    Also what should I look for while I test drive it, I know some of you had problems with certain months they were built on can you guys clue me in on anything I should look for as in noise lean, or things that happen at higher speeds?

    Also this might be a dumb question, but have any of you removed the 2nd set of seats to get
    better gas mileage?

    THanks for any input
  • spin_doctorspin_doctor Member Posts: 10
    Hey there! I've been lurking on this board for about a year, and thought I should share my experiences.

    We bought a grace green '00 with power package and tan interior early last September--we paid too much for it, but got 0% financing on the balance after our trade-in. We went with the MPV because of its versatility and price.

    What problems have we had? Until last week, absolutely none. We didn't suffer (knock on wood) any of the problems I've seen posted here (vibrations, pulling, or smells). What we did get was a god-awful grinding and scraping noise coming from the front drivers-side wheel whenever we drove (forward OR reverse).

    When I say bad, it was LOUD! Pedestrians stopped and stared, and I thought it was the suspension falling apart. It also happened very quickly (it went from a slight sound to a cacaphony inside of two days).

    Here's the good part: Mazda roadside assistance towed the van from our house the next morning. The dealer got it half an hour later. I called later that day, and the van was ready!

    The culprit? Inadequately greased tire rods on the front end. They pulled it apart, repacked it, and put it back together. Just to be sure, they also replaced a set of shims on the front brakes that 'might' have been making slight clicking sounds, and performed an oil change (we were due) at the same time!

    Verdict? So far so good. Picked up the van yesterday, put 100kms on it, and it is running fine.

    My next step will be to trade in my '99 Civic SE for a grace green Miata!
  • spin_doctorspin_doctor Member Posts: 10
    typo--tie rods

    btw--apparently I was mistaken, this problem has appeared on this board before. . .sorry.
  • billmckinleybillmckinley Member Posts: 167
    I presume you're looking at a 2001, in which case, there's no month that's any better or worse than any other; most of the minor bugs were worked out before the 01's were built.

    Remaining things to be aware of: Some of the vans are improperly balanced and/or over-inflated by the factory. Be aware of a pull, especially to the left, at any speed. Some vans have it, some don't. Then too, the car is fairly sensitive to high-crowned roads, Mine, for instance, has a minor but noticeable pull to the right on a road with a high crown, while on flatter roads, it'll track without any drift almost indefinitely. I would avoid closing on a car with a strong pull in either direction until the dealership has fixed the problem to your complete satisfaction

    Because of overinflation and/or poor balancing/alignment, some vans have a shake-shimmy over 60. Again, don't close until the problem has been fixed.

    Be aware that the engine is a low-torque one and that the transmission tends to react badly to lead-footed driving. On a test drive, you'll get your best performance with firm but not harsh pressure on the pedal. The van simply wil NOT be goosed. That said, it has all the pickup you need to move off the line without the slightest embarrassment, even with a full load. The few times I've needed to merge onto a highway, it's done so with no trouble at all--just don't be intimidated by the sound of the engine as it winds out. It sounds as though you're tearing the guts out of it, but if you check, you'll see that you're nowhere near redline; it's just got a real tigergrowl revving up.

    The MPV IS the slowest of the vans off the line, but it's not so slow as to cause a problem or be a worry. Those of us who own one are completely comfortable with its low-speed acceleration.

    As for removing the second seats, they only weigh 37 pounds each; I doubt taking them out would have any appreciable effect on MPG. Maybe a 2% improvement, based on the total weight of the vehicle. That might translate into 3/10 MPG. Hardly seems worth it.

    Others will pick up anything I've forgotten, but I think I covered most of what to look for.

    Good luck

    RJ
  • msgjvhmsgjvh Member Posts: 196
    I got the Check engine light today. First assumption is the fuel filler cap. I checked it and it did seam a bit loose. After proper counseling the wife and daughter profess that they understand the process of hearing clicks when closing the cap. The light would not go off. I being impatient disconnected the battery for about 15 minutes and now the light is off. Hopefully, it will stay off!

    Also on the drivers door there what appears to be a limiting support that is inbetween the hinges. The nut has come loose in the last 24 hours and makes the door creak. Had to tighten it up. Looks like next weekend I will spend an hour or so with the socket set walking around the van.

    Not too bad for 30k miles.

    MSGJVH

    P.S. I am still unsure if the K&N air filter has increased the HP to a noticeable amount. Might be my imagination but the engine sounds like it wants to go faster. Wait a minute I think that was my lead foot talking.
  • gunga64gunga64 Member Posts: 271
    I'm probally going to get either a MPV or HIghlander not sure yet, by the way my brother has as 2000 LX MPV he had the problem with a pull to one side that a lot of you guys seem to have. I can help you find a solution there.

    Basically he has a lx with 16 inch tires, he followed his girlfriend to see what was happening outside of the car. Basically he saw that the left rear wheel was bouncing up and down like crazy as she drove along. The dealer replaced all 4 tires and the problem was fixed. The tire was out of round.

    I wish to hell these dealers would offer Michelin tires they are the best tires. I would love to and already told the dealers to take those stinky tires off and put on michelins, but neither the mazda or toyota dealer will comply. They basically say you will pay a fortune for us to put on good tires. I'm actually hoping to find a problem with the tires that come on my MPV that way I can tell them what tire I want on it. Maybe that way I get rid of the Toyo Or Goodyear or whatever junk they put on these things.

    One other note the salesman we are dealing with said something about you really need to have larger tires or rims on the MPV it dramatically helps the van. But as he was saying this over and over in front of his boss, he shut up quick, basically I think because he realized that the DX we were looking at had 15inch tires. Maybe he was referring to the Alloy rims instead of steel I don't know. It probally was the alloy.
  • brmudabrmuda Member Posts: 50
    My wife recently informed me that rear wiper of '00 ES was "flapping around" when she closed rear hatchdoor. The metric hex nut (located under black hinged cover) was pretty loose. After a brief tightening, problem resolved. I think I'll check the front wipers now just to be sure they're tight.

    As a side note.... Just saw a "friend of a friend's" '01 LX. I immediately noticed the improved polised alloy wheels they're putting on the '01's. They look much nicer than the crappier painted type wheels on my '00 that are more difficult to clean than polished versions (my '98 Accord has polished ones that clean up very easy).
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