My empty light comes on pretty early too: I just put 14 gallons in and the light had been on awhile. But that doesn't have a thing to do with mileage, which you of course need to figure by dividing the miles driven/number of gallons. With just over 1200 miles on our 2000 LX, we've been getting right around 19.5-20 with a number of short trips around town and an occasional 35-mile drive to the nearest city for "real shopping," etc. I'm not likely to drive much beyond the empty light coming on, but in general I've found that the capacities manufacturers put in the owner's manual, etc., are right on. Mazda may want to put a cushion in given the "family" nature of the car, etc. BTW, my gauge still shows about an 1/8 of a tank, or even more (3/16) when the light comes on.
I usually never get to see when the light comes on in our MPV... I get the "Honey, take the van to get the movies (Cold Stone, TCBY)...it needs fuel". I've noticed at those times that the van has between 1/8 and 1/4 tank of fuel, and it usually swallows up 14 or so gallons of dyno-juice (and a couple of MochaBlasts). The manufacturer is correct that the tank holds 18 gallons, since our van has "mysteriously" run out of petrol recently. Somehow, that's my fault, lol.
On our other car, the fuel gauge's sender unit (in the fuel tank) is hooked to (basically) a reostat, that sends varying voltage readings to the gauge depending on the level in the tank. The fill light comes on when the voltage from the sender reaches a set level, which can vary by temperatures(fuel does expand/contract), or whether you're on a hill too. I would imagine that the fuel sender in the MPV works much in the same fashion. I agree that it may come on prematurely, just like drdrevans said due to the family-oriented nature of the vehicle and nobody wants to be stranded with a load of junior soccer players in the van. ;-)
Help, the technicians can't locate a fuel like odor that happens on start-up when the engine is hot. It's longstanding, 5 months! they've taken it in twice to drive for awhile but can't detect any smell at all. Apparently Fuel sensors in early 2000's were replaced but mine was not in that production. Anyone else have a similar problem?
The cabin filter is located behind the glove box. The door comes off easily and the filter is horizontal behind a narrow snap open door. My dealer said he had to special order the filter for $31 and he had never had to order one yet. If you look at the filter it must cost Mazda $3. I suggest you go to Home Depot, or the equivalent, and buy some air conditioner cut to fit filter material and forget Mazda's outrageous price.
I already had put the tires back down to 40, which is a little higher than the 36 on the door sticker. I'll go tomorrow and get them down to 36. I also thought 50 was crazy, but that's what the tires say on them! The tires are already ruined from the 5000 miles of driving around out of alignment before I finally found a dealer to listen to me, so I'm not worried about a few days with too much air.
I'll look at the filter first and see what I can come up with. Thanks for the tip. I think we have some of that air conditioner stuff in the garage already! Most of the parts/accessories seem way overpriced. I still haven't broken down and bought a step plate- I'm using touch up paint to fix the nicks instead. Also, I use a small rug as a cargo mat!
about the 'bouncing tire'. When was your van manufactured? It may be out of alignment and/or have worn tires from being out of alignment in the beginning. Several of us with vans manufactured in mid 1999 had problems with vibrating and pulling to the left. You said it's the rear tire, so maybe it was finally aligned and the bad tires were moved to the back (this is the case with my van). Mines got 20k miles now, and I'm still not sure if it's all the way fixed. I won't know until we replace the tires. I've had no luck getting Mazda to replace them.
The entertainment system is an incentive and my dealer took of the full $1,372 invoice price. I made sure of it and even had him put it in writing. I did not want them telling me it was free and then only take out the $1K incentive. Went with this because of the children and they love it. Had a problem though, the tuner was not snapped into the AM/FM Modulator when we got the van so the sound didn't work through the speakers. After expressing my dissatisfaction and waiting a day to get the vehicle my dealer not only fixed the problem but also gave us 2 wireless child headphones and they work great. They love it. Can not wait until our first long trip. We may not even here those dreaded words, "Are we there yet" or "How much longer"
I've had my '01 Sand Mica for two weeks now, and I'm still impressed with it. Actually, I'm more impressed with it.
Pros: 1. Power is more than adequate. It handles the steep Pittsburgh hills with ease, even with passengers. Some extra downshifting on the very steepest hills is the only sign that I'm not still driving a Cherokee. Before buying it, I had more or less resigned myself, based largely on a few negative comments, to puttering along like Grandma Frickert in her Baker Electric. Not the case. Pickup at stoplights is more than adequate, even for someone used to the Jeep's quick acceleration. Getting to speed is deceptively quick; before I know it I'm at cruising speed. Perhaps the throaty growl of the engine under load misleads me into thinking the engine is laboring when it's simply going through its paces.
2. Handling is excellent. I can't believe that this is a van. Its roadholding and maneuverability are superb. It tracks like a cat and corners like a cheetah.
3. Highway manners are refined. I haven't done a lot of Interstate driving yet, but the little I've done has impressed me. The van has no trouble getting to highway speeds and once there cruises effortlessly. There were several times I wondered why everybody else was on what seemed to be a Sunday drive and looked down to find myself cruising along at 75! And once I got the tire pressure lowered to specs, the minor vibration I experienced on the highway virtuallly disappeared.
4. Seating is very comfortable. I've tried the driver's seat in almost every configuration possible, and I have yet to find one I wasn't completely comfortable in. My ten-mile morning commute is a pleasure. I'm actually reluctant to get out of the car when I get to work (I'd blame my work for that, but I'm equally reluctant to get out when I get home in the afternoon).
5. The dashboard layout is nifty; everthing you need is right there for you, large and well marked. And lowering the steering wheel got rid of the "hidden radio" problem.
Serendipity Bonus. Sand Mica is precisely the color of the road dirt here in Pittsburgh. My car is currently filthy, but you would have to be less than a foot away to notice it.
Cons:
1. Gas mileage is mediocre so far. Based on two partial [half-tank] fillups, my surburban mileage is somewhere between 15 and 16. That's not disastrous and may well get somewhat better as the car breaks in, but it's not something to shout about, either.
2. I haven't gotten comfortable with the washer-wiper control. And I'm not sure I ever will. Putting the rear controls on the same stalk as the front controls with totally unintuitive control motions was not an award-winning design. And why doesn't the rear wiper come on when I engage the washer?
3. Power window controls are actually counter intuitive, especially if you've spent the last 15 years with power windows in other cars. They work backwards from the motion most other cars use.
4. There is a bit more lean and sway on sharp, twisty roads than I'm used to. It may be because of the relatively high in-car seating position [or the fact that I'm taking those twisty roads a bit too fast, something the handling encourages me to do], but it's going to take some adjustment to get used to.
5. I find that the thick window posts both on the front and side cause some blind spots that I'm not used to. I'm going to have to be careful to double and triple check my right before crossing traffic.
And that's it. Comparing the pros and the cons, I can see why I'm more impressed with the van than I was the day I got it.
Folks; We would appreciate your input here. The car: Black 00 LX Touring pckge Moonroof Rear AC 6CD changer roof rack foglights
The MSRP =27050 Invoice = 24530 Rebate on this package is 2250 Dealer is offering 24500 + 0.0%/48 financing
For my wife and taking the 0.0%/48 financing is very important. One other thing the car has 1000 miles. The dealer assured it is not a DEMO, he said he drove it himself from North Carolina to Atlanta for some convention.
So what your saying is the dealer is taking $2250 profit? I think you can get an lx at a better price according to the earlier post. Particularly with 1k miles on it. Others have reached the 21k to 22k range. Some lucky ones even got to 20k. You should continue to look around and begin to wear the dealer down. Give them a week. I bet you'll get a better offer.
I have been really nervous only once when it comes to wondering if I would make it to the station. I had been driving on empty for too long. When I finally got to the station it took 16.5 gallons to fill it up. I got out the owners manual and saw I still had 2 gallons left! So there is a safety cushion built in if they are all made uniformly. I wouldn't trust it out in the middle of the desert, though. Later, all.
To give you some perspective, we just got a sand mica 2000 LX with similar packages: touring, moonroof, 6cd changer, 4 seasons, rear AC (no roofrack or fog lights) for $5,000 off of sticker, which came to 21,950. Or, we could have taken a $2500 discount and taken the financing. The best other deal we could find on a 2000 LX was for just over 22K for an LX only security, four seasons and rear air--a $1750 discount. We had to drive across the state to get to the dealer with the 5K discount on all 2000s (quirck mazda in Quincy MA)--it wasn't an incentive, it was dealer cash (whatever that means?).
Bottom line--I think you should be able to do better but some smaller dealers seem content to hold onto the 2000s for some reasons. You could probably do almost as well on a 2001?
Good luck, and whatever you do, get an MPV! I waited and waited looking for the right deal and now I'm so happy that shopping is over--even if I had paid an extra thousand, I'm sure I'd still be happy!
after reading this board for almost 3 months I finally took the plunge in getting a sand mica 2000 ES with 3in 1 audio and fog lights.MSRP is $26,950 and invoice is $24,820.I got it for under invoice $23,400 and the best part is I still got the 0% financing for 48 months.So far we are happy with the van and planning to add the rear spoiler.Does mazda offer a sand mica spoiler for the mpv and how hard is it to install?
I noticed another emerald mica MPV the other day with the rear spoiler, and started getting interested in it. Do you know the list price on it, and if it's anything more than a decoration? Wondering if it does a job of keeping grime from the rear windscreen. It also looks a cinch to install.
Thanks to wpener, and msgjvh. I have been following wpener's and others' journey towards their MPV, glad it all reached happy endings.
For the car am looking at, I will be effectively crossing the Virginia state line to get to the dealer. The fundamental point here is about gaining part or all of the rebate (on this car it is $2250) and at the same time taking the 0.0%/48 financing.
I do agree with both of you that I can probably sweat it out with the dealer for some time, but the fact that the dealer is not a large scale one is not favorable to this startegy.
Here's a call to all in the site, an we(my wife, 2 yr old and I) appreciate your help in advance:
Do you know of any 00LX (with at least touring, rear AC) without is still ok, or 00 ES, colors of preference are sand MICA, rainforest green, emerald green Mica, black Mica, or white"
I do not mind crossing multiple state lines from Southeastern Virginia (all the way to Boston is fine), if the deal is worth it. We are buying this one for keeps so it is worth the extra 'mile' to get one we are happy with.
Took first long trip this weekend despite owning van for about a year. Average 21 mpg. over course of 500 miles. Was going around 65-70 most of the way.
Also had first malfunction. 3 times on the drive to my destination, engine immobilizer light (the little key in the bottom right of the instrument cluster) went on. The effect is to sort of kill the engine -- it started to rev -- but then the light quickly went off and normal operation resumed. It happened once on the return trip. Has anyone experienced this before? It's a little unsettling. I also posted this on the problems board. At first, I had no clue what was happening since I usually watch where I am going and dont stare at the panel. Only on the second occurrence did I see the red light (the first time I thought I saw red but wasn't sure).
I too have noticed a fuel smell on hot startup - also took it to the dealer who couldn't detect anything.
After thinking about it (and smelling) it almost seems to be a slightly burning smell. Almost like something didn't cure properly in the heating ducts, which is all the more coincidental since I only noticed the smell when it got colder and I had to turn on the heat.
If it's any consolation - the smell has dissipated somewhat and I'm hoping it will go away altogether.
Finally, Through Quirk Mazda, Quinsy Massachusetts, I secured $5000 below MSRP(including destination charges) on a package similar though not identical to your's opener: 00LX (silver) Touring Rear A/I Moon roof 6 DC changer 4 seasons LEV emissions ( I am planning ahead for a move to California)
MSRP = 26950 INVOICE = 24616 MSRP - 5000 = 21950 +2250 (rebate in return for 0.0 financing) = USD24200.00 It is not a DEMO, and has next to no miles (to my wife's joy).
Since I will register the vehicle in VA, I pay my taxes in Virginia. Fees: $ 99 document fees That's it.
I plan to go tomorrow to finalize the Deal, and drive the car back to Virginia. Therein lies my urgent request, especially to opener:
Any thing to bear in mind while taking possession from this' dealer?
How was your experience, and how are they supposed to prepare the vehicle for my taking possesion (check fluids, etc..) ? (I must confess first time new car buyer here..)
Is there any other fee I have not been told about? I repeatedly asked the sales person (an his manager) they only pointed out the Doc fees ($99.00).
I didn't check my van much when I got it last August. Just signed papers, got keys and drove home. I did look for possible steering wheel shaking and/or pulling to either side. Fortunately no problem so far... I'm in Canada, so I can't tell any US specifics, but I don't think the car would be worse over there :-)
But obviously it wouldn't hurt to check oil level, engine coolant, power steering and brake fuid levels... Just in case... You should be OK... Welcome to the big (and growing) family of happy MPV owners...
If Mazda does bring over the MPV AWD and add a larger engine, sure, I'll go for a test drive :-) But, I don't need another vehicle any time soon. My ML's just barely 1 year old!
javadoc, yes, my understanding is that the new MPV's system has the Tribute/Escape's Rotary Blade Coupling AWD system. I myself am not really in snow country, however, I live on a mountain and hence most streets can have grades of 15% or more. FWD + Traction Control + winter tires is not adequate if the street is not plowed. My neighbour's '00 MPV made it up about 10 metres up the street, and then got stuck. That's the reason why both of the other MPVs in the neighbourhood are AWD models.
My AWD Chrysler van has made it up that same slope for years with no problems. It was recently fitted with new tires (BFG Control T/A M65) and those are simply excellent in dry/wet/snow/ice for all-seasons. I chose them based on Consumer Reports recommendation; they're not top rated (2nd place), but they were best overall.
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There is a check list that is put out by Mazda which all dealers are supposed to go over with you when you take possesion of your vehicle. This list is fairly extensive, and the sales person must go over each item on the list. They will show you how to work everything, including the proper way to flip the rear seat, take out the center row seats, flip the third seat backwards (including how to use the safety bracket), etc. If they don't produce this list, ask to see one. I really just wanted to get out of there and drive my new van, but now I am glad that I was patient and took the time to find out about everything.
Check the levels of the coolant, oil, windshield fluid, etc. This is not on the customer's check list. Also, make sure the tire pressure is at the proper inflation level, which is 32, I believe. Find out where your wheel lock key is (if applicable). They tend to put them in different places, and you don't need to be hunting for it in the middle of a dark road. They will show you where your jack is, and how to get to your spare. I can't think of much else.
Good luck with your purchase, and welcome to our happy "family".
P.S. Almost forgot. The dealers highly value the dealer survey Mazda will send you a couple of weeks after the purchase. You will be able to use this as an easy way to set up some future oil changes or something. They will kill for a blank survey sheet.
I have read a couple of posts here about an AWD MPV that is available in Japan. I am with you, if they offered the 3.0L Duratec V6 w/ the RBC AWD system from the Tribute, it would be an easy sell for me. I read somewhere that Mazda may offer it in the states but only if there is enough interest . . . where do I go to sign up? I would love to have an MPV with those options . . . plus one or two more;
They need to offer the MPV with a three seat 2nd row. A 60/40 flip forward design like in the MDX would work nicely (that way you can access the third row). That way you can fold down the 3rd row, pack gear for 5 people, and still take 5 people with you on a trip. I need that since I now have 3 children. The MPV suits my needs in every way except being able to take 5 people and lot of gear on an extended road trip. (The Odyssey is the same way.) The 3.0L V6 and AWD would just be icing on the cake.
I would also like to see Mazda put remote openers on the rear quarter panel windows. The technology is simple (every other van manufacturer offers them). The ability to roll down the sliding door windows is great but I would like to see the quarter panel windows on power openers as well. Just my $.02
OK, the car you are buying has exactly the same options as the one we got, and the same price. (I may have forgot to mention emissions which is required in MA, and rear air). A few tips about the dealership and references to our experience buying the same van in a different color.
1. We were given the choice of $5,000, or $2500 (not $2250) with 48 months 0% financing, so you may have a little wiggle room.
2. Our salesperson did screw us around on our trade in. We had agreed on a price by phone but he didn't want to deliver on it when we arrived after driving cross state (he eventually did after I had a little hissy fit). If you are trading in, insist that you get clear on the price before you even test drive the van.
3. Even though we had agreed on a price on the phone, they were very busy (it was presidents day) and we had to wait a long time. Pretty poor service actually, but we were a captive audience. Took the kids to the McDonalds play space 1 block away while they prepared the paperwork.
4. They didn't have our tank filled though some promotional thing said new cars would come with a full tank. Also wiper fluid was low. We just wanted to get out of there already but if it is important to you you can ask about these things.
Since you are driving to MA, I will mention that the dealership (Belise Mazda?) in W. Springfield had an ES for a good price (it was white) that they seemed anxious to get rid of, but the deal wasn't so great to me because I don't care about leather seats. Also, no moon roof--I forget exactly what options it had, but more limited.
Finally, I'm glad you were able to find them and that they still had a van. Good luck!
Wendy
P.S. FYI the salesman I spoke with on the phone and dealt with in person, Fred, was the one who screwed us around on the tradein. Also, they should have agreed to hold the van for you until you get there as that is what they did for us.
I just called Mazda and they told me that the 2002 MPV model (available August/September 2001) will have what reviewers always wanted: a choice for a more powerful 200HP engine (probably the 3.0L 24-valve Ford Duratec) and POWER sliding doors! This knowledge will probably result in even better discounts for the current model with the 2.5L 160HP version. Especially the closer we'll get to August.
Thanks for the part no. just called some mazdaparts online stores to confirm the part no. and do have it in sand mica.So I ordered one for $152(invoice price) with free shipping already.Will able to recieve it within 2 weeks.
"He brought you "Confessions Of a Car Salesman" to give you the inside story of his undercover work as a car salesman. For this chat, Chandler Phillips goes one-on-one with "The Cardinal", Dependable Dodge's own Marc Antonucci . Don't miss this battle of truths as these two give it to you straight."
If you haven't read Edmunds.com's confessions of a car salesman, I highly recommend you do so. I found it very entertaining, and yet enlightening as to what may go on in auto dealerships.
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Great! Unfortunately, I won't be though, due to prior commitments. I may pop in at some point to see how many people are in there though. Do join us in this week's Fridays Freeways 5-6pm Pacific if you have the chance. I'll post the link to that chat on Friday.
BTW, poor Rolf...Maybe it's time for Dieter, the C320 4-matic sedan/wagon (available late fall of 2002) ;-) Well, at least both vehicles in Casa de Javadoc have Duratecs now, eh? That is, unless that Taurus has the rather gutless Vulcan under the hood!
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I'll try to attend today's chat if I'm not buried in a project.
Ja, the Taurus rental has a 3.0 Duratech, and don't think I haven't had the (fleeting) thought of how hard a swap would be, heh heh heh. FWIW, it is returning great mileage, dispite being driven like a rental car is driven. ;-)
Post #981 about put me over the edge. I just purchased a 2001 MPV and my only concern was an "underpowered" engine. Please tell me Mazda isn't intorducing a 3.0L in 2002. After much deliveration and reading of posts re: the 2.5L is fine, I took the plunge. It may not be too late for me to stop the deal....Tell me more about the 3.0L
Philbeau, if you obtained a good deal on a 2001 (a few thousand off), then be happy with that. If you think the prices on the 2002 with the bigger engine and power doors (assuming the reports are correct) will be comparable to the 2001's, then you are delusional. They won't be, particularly if the MPV becomes a hot item. Right now the MPV is not a hot item but that is not because its owners don't think they are great.
On the other hand, if you think the bigger engine is so critical then try to back out, pay more later and be happy. Personally, I can't imagine using power doors but maybe that's because I don't have them. I wouldn't want to wait and for safety reasons I imagine they'd be slow.
Wow. Just looking for confirmation of the report for 2002. The issue has to do with the larger engine...all the other crap is just that (to me anyway). I realize i'd probably have to pay $1K+ for the engine "option" but, would be willing to do it if it were true. Sort of a moot point...my 2001 MPV is in tomorrow. Thanks for the info and for chiming in.
Hey, what mazda auto parts online store did you find. I have been wanting a roof rack and fog lights and rear step plate but didn't want to pay the price the dealerships want after purchase. Thanks.
Hello Everyone. Yes, I'm a new MPV owner; well my wife is. We spent considerable time comparing and driving the DC T&C and the MPV. I also spent quite a bit of time checking the message boards. The MPV won! We got a 2001 ES, Sunlight Silver Metallic with Gray leatherand virtually every option - Cargo Mat, Cargo Net, RSES, Fog Lights, Step Plate, Roof Rack, 6 disc Changer, Moon Roof, and 4 Season Package(no GFX). We paid $26,329; based on what I have been reading, as well as Edmund's TMV price, this seems to be a fair price. I'm looking forward to putting some miles on this baby. Joe Sette
Well good luck with your purchase. I hope I didn't come off as a jerk. I have been in this board since July/August 1999 and have heard all about this lack of power and when the bigger engine is coming. If the car works for you, do you really care what others say? Sure, the bigger engine will probably help sales but their lack of sales is to your advantage now. While far from entirely analogous, this whole discussion reminds me of the personal computer. There will always be something bigger and better coming along -- so just get what you need.
We are a family of 3, with the baby almost 1 year old. We want the flexibility to haul both people and stuff, so we quickly nixed the SUV thing, and after attending the local autoshow, quickly narrowed our choices to the MPV and the Odyssey. Sound familiar?
We like the MPV, but are concerned about the size:
During one of our test drives, we put the stroller in behind the 3rd row. It fit, but there wouldn't have been enough room for the groceries we bought on the way home from the test, unless you put the 3rd seat down (then there's plenty of space). This situation led to an unusual question - for a family of four or less, when you really don't need the 3rd row during normal, every day operation with a mini-van, do you leave the 3rd seat up or down?
Dad says that since you're probably going to need the space more than the 3rd row, you leave the seat down and use the space.
Mom says that it's dumb to have the 3rd seat down most of the time, since you would then have any cargo sliding all over the place back there. Plus it looks strange (although given Dad's looks ... but we won't go there).
We too are a family of 4. 2 adults, 6 year old and 1 year old in car seat. We always have a stroller in the well (a fold up) and except for one long trip, we always leave the rear seat up. We never have a problem with groceries. First, that well holds a lot. Second, even with the rear seat up, you can still put things behind it.
We have 2 kids and generally have the rear seat down. It really is easy to change it back and forth but I find that once I put it down to haul something big I don't put it back up until someone needs to sit there. When we go on trips we obviously put the seat down to use the extra space.
Can anyone help me evaluate what I should pay for a completely loaded DX with GFX package and chrome wheels? Should this include 48 month 0% financing?
Comments
On our other car, the fuel gauge's sender unit (in the fuel tank) is hooked to (basically) a reostat, that sends varying voltage readings to the gauge depending on the level in the tank. The fill light comes on when the voltage from the sender reaches a set level, which can vary by temperatures(fuel does expand/contract), or whether you're on a hill too. I would imagine that the fuel sender in the MPV works much in the same fashion. I agree that it may come on prematurely, just like drdrevans said due to the family-oriented nature of the vehicle and nobody wants to be stranded with a load of junior soccer players in the van. ;-)
--java
is hot. It's longstanding, 5 months! they've taken it in twice to drive for awhile but can't
detect any smell at all. Apparently Fuel sensors in early 2000's were replaced but
mine was not in that production. Anyone else have a similar problem?
I'll look at the filter first and see what I can come up with. Thanks for the tip. I think we have some of that air conditioner stuff in the garage already! Most of the parts/accessories seem way overpriced. I still haven't broken down and bought a step plate- I'm using touch up paint to fix the nicks instead. Also, I use a small rug as a cargo mat!
Pros:
1. Power is more than adequate. It handles the steep Pittsburgh hills with ease, even with passengers. Some extra downshifting on the very steepest hills is the only sign that I'm not still driving a Cherokee. Before buying it, I had more or less resigned myself, based largely on a few negative comments, to puttering along like Grandma Frickert in her Baker Electric. Not the case. Pickup at stoplights is more than adequate, even for someone used to the Jeep's quick acceleration. Getting to speed is deceptively quick; before I know it I'm at cruising speed. Perhaps the throaty growl of the engine under load misleads me into thinking the engine is laboring when it's simply going through its paces.
2. Handling is excellent. I can't believe that this is a van. Its roadholding and maneuverability are superb. It tracks like a cat and corners like a cheetah.
3. Highway manners are refined. I haven't done a lot of Interstate driving yet, but the little I've done has impressed me. The van has no trouble getting to highway speeds and once there cruises effortlessly. There were several times I wondered why everybody else was on what seemed to be a Sunday drive and looked down to find myself cruising along at 75! And once I got the tire pressure lowered to specs, the minor vibration I experienced on the highway virtuallly disappeared.
4. Seating is very comfortable. I've tried the driver's seat in almost every configuration possible, and I have yet to find one I wasn't completely comfortable in. My ten-mile morning commute is a pleasure. I'm actually reluctant to get out of the car when I get to work (I'd blame my work for that, but I'm equally reluctant to get out when I get home in the afternoon).
5. The dashboard layout is nifty; everthing you need is right there for you, large and well marked. And lowering the steering wheel got rid of the "hidden radio" problem.
Serendipity Bonus. Sand Mica is precisely the color of the road dirt here in Pittsburgh. My car is currently filthy, but you would have to be less than a foot away to notice it.
Cons:
1. Gas mileage is mediocre so far. Based on two partial [half-tank] fillups, my surburban mileage is somewhere between 15 and 16. That's not disastrous and may well get somewhat better as the car breaks in, but it's not something to shout about, either.
2. I haven't gotten comfortable with the washer-wiper control. And I'm not sure I ever will. Putting the rear controls on the same stalk as the front controls with totally unintuitive control motions was not an award-winning design. And why doesn't the rear wiper come on when I engage the washer?
3. Power window controls are actually counter intuitive, especially if you've spent the last 15 years with power windows in other cars. They work backwards from the motion most other cars use.
4. There is a bit more lean and sway on sharp, twisty roads than I'm used to. It may be because of the relatively high in-car seating position [or the fact that I'm taking those twisty roads a bit too fast, something the handling encourages me to do], but it's going to take some adjustment to get used to.
5. I find that the thick window posts both on the front and side cause some blind spots that I'm not used to. I'm going to have to be careful to double and triple check my right before crossing traffic.
And that's it. Comparing the pros and the cons, I can see why I'm more impressed with the van than I was the day I got it.
We would appreciate your input here. The car:
Black 00 LX
Touring pckge
Moonroof
Rear AC
6CD changer
roof rack
foglights
The MSRP =27050
Invoice = 24530
Rebate on this package is 2250
Dealer is offering 24500 + 0.0%/48 financing
For my wife and taking the 0.0%/48 financing is very important.
One other thing the car has 1000 miles. The dealer assured it is not a DEMO, he said he drove it himself from North Carolina to Atlanta for some convention.
Appreciate your Advice.
Your thoughts
89.95 billing & client services
1.00 dollar Temporary tag.
Of course Taxes are separate.
Thanks again
B~
Bottom line--I think you should be able to do better but some smaller dealers seem content to hold onto the 2000s for some reasons. You could probably do almost as well on a 2001?
Good luck, and whatever you do, get an MPV! I waited and waited looking for the right deal and now I'm so happy that shopping is over--even if I had paid an extra thousand, I'm sure I'd still be happy!
--java
"Constructed for rugged durability, it helps keep the window free of dust and snow."
I have been following wpener's and others' journey towards their MPV, glad it all reached happy endings.
For the car am looking at, I will be effectively crossing the Virginia state line to get to the dealer. The fundamental point here is about gaining part or all of the rebate (on this car it is $2250) and at the same time taking the 0.0%/48 financing.
I do agree with both of you that I can probably sweat it out with the dealer for some time, but the fact that the dealer is not a large scale one is not favorable to this startegy.
Here's a call to all in the site, an we(my wife, 2 yr old and I) appreciate your help in advance:
Do you know of any 00LX (with at least touring, rear AC) without is still ok, or 00 ES, colors of preference are sand MICA, rainforest green, emerald green Mica, black Mica, or white"
I do not mind crossing multiple state lines from Southeastern Virginia (all the way to Boston is fine), if the deal is worth it. We are buying this one for keeps so it is worth the extra 'mile' to get one we are happy with.
Thanks again.
Ashraf
Also had first malfunction. 3 times on the drive to my destination, engine immobilizer light (the little key in the bottom right of the instrument cluster) went on. The effect is to sort of kill the engine -- it started to rev -- but then the light quickly went off and normal operation resumed. It happened once on the return trip. Has anyone experienced this before? It's a little unsettling. I also posted this on the problems board. At first, I had no clue what was happening since I usually watch where I am going and dont stare at the panel. Only on the second occurrence did I see the red light (the first time I thought I saw red but wasn't sure).
After thinking about it (and smelling) it almost seems to be a slightly burning smell. Almost like something didn't cure properly in the heating ducts, which is all the more coincidental since I only noticed the smell when it got colder and I had to turn on the heat.
If it's any consolation - the smell has dissipated somewhat and I'm hoping it will go away altogether.
Through Quirk Mazda, Quinsy Massachusetts, I secured $5000 below MSRP(including destination charges) on a package similar though not identical to your's opener:
00LX (silver)
Touring
Rear A/I
Moon roof
6 DC changer
4 seasons
LEV emissions ( I am planning ahead for a move to California)
MSRP = 26950
INVOICE = 24616
MSRP - 5000 = 21950 +2250 (rebate in return for 0.0 financing) = USD24200.00
It is not a DEMO, and has next to no miles (to my wife's joy).
Since I will register the vehicle in VA, I pay my taxes in Virginia.
Fees:
$ 99 document fees
That's it.
I plan to go tomorrow to finalize the Deal, and drive the car back to Virginia. Therein lies my urgent request, especially to opener:
Any thing to bear in mind while taking possession from this' dealer?
How was your experience, and how are they supposed to prepare the vehicle for my taking possesion (check fluids, etc..) ? (I must confess first time new car buyer here..)
Is there any other fee I have not been told about? I repeatedly asked the sales person (an his manager) they only pointed out the Doc fees ($99.00).
All of your input is sincerely appreciated.....
A new member to be in the MPV family.
Thanks all, for your help, and input.
Ashraf
But obviously it wouldn't hurt to check oil level, engine coolant, power steering and brake fuid levels... Just in case... You should be OK... Welcome to the big (and growing) family of happy MPV owners...
If Mazda does bring over the MPV AWD and add a larger engine, sure, I'll go for a test drive :-) But, I don't need another vehicle any time soon. My ML's just barely 1 year old!
javadoc, yes, my understanding is that the new MPV's system has the Tribute/Escape's Rotary Blade Coupling AWD system. I myself am not really in snow country, however, I live on a mountain and hence most streets can have grades of 15% or more. FWD + Traction Control + winter tires is not adequate if the street is not plowed. My neighbour's '00 MPV made it up about 10 metres up the street, and then got stuck. That's the reason why both of the other MPVs in the neighbourhood are AWD models.
My AWD Chrysler van has made it up that same slope for years with no problems. It was recently fitted with new tires (BFG Control T/A M65) and those are simply excellent in dry/wet/snow/ice for all-seasons. I chose them based on Consumer Reports recommendation; they're not top rated (2nd place), but they were best overall.
Drew
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Check the levels of the coolant, oil, windshield fluid, etc. This is not on the customer's check list. Also, make sure the tire pressure is at the proper inflation level, which is 32, I believe. Find out where your wheel lock key is (if applicable). They tend to put them in different places, and you don't need to be hunting for it in the middle of a dark road. They will show you where your jack is, and how to get to your spare. I can't think of much else.
Good luck with your purchase, and welcome to our happy "family".
P.S. Almost forgot. The dealers highly value the dealer survey Mazda will send you a couple of weeks after the purchase. You will be able to use this as an easy way to set up some future oil changes or something. They will kill for a blank survey sheet.
They need to offer the MPV with a three seat 2nd row. A 60/40 flip forward design like in the MDX would work nicely (that way you can access the third row). That way you can fold down the 3rd row, pack gear for 5 people, and still take 5 people with you on a trip. I need that since I now have 3 children. The MPV suits my needs in every way except being able to take 5 people and lot of gear on an extended road trip. (The Odyssey is the same way.) The 3.0L V6 and AWD would just be icing on the cake.
I would also like to see Mazda put remote openers on the rear quarter panel windows. The technology is simple (every other van manufacturer offers them). The ability to roll down the sliding door windows is great but I would like to see the quarter panel windows on power openers as well. Just my $.02
OK, the car you are buying has exactly the same options as the one we got, and the same price. (I may have forgot to mention emissions which is required in MA, and rear air). A few tips about the dealership and references to our experience buying the same van in a different color.
1. We were given the choice of $5,000, or $2500 (not $2250) with 48 months 0% financing, so you may have a little wiggle room.
2. Our salesperson did screw us around on our trade in. We had agreed on a price by phone but he didn't want to deliver on it when we arrived after driving cross state (he eventually did after I had a little hissy fit). If you are trading in, insist that you get clear on the price before you even test drive the van.
3. Even though we had agreed on a price on the phone, they were very busy (it was presidents day) and we had to wait a long time. Pretty poor service actually, but we were a captive audience. Took the kids to the McDonalds play space 1 block away while they prepared the paperwork.
4. They didn't have our tank filled though some promotional thing said new cars would come with a full tank. Also wiper fluid was low. We just wanted to get out of there already but if it is important to you you can ask about these things.
Since you are driving to MA, I will mention that the dealership (Belise Mazda?) in W. Springfield had an ES for a good price (it was white) that they seemed anxious to get rid of, but the deal wasn't so great to me because I don't care about leather seats. Also, no moon roof--I forget exactly what options it had, but more limited.
Finally, I'm glad you were able to find them and that they still had a van. Good luck!
Wendy
P.S. FYI the salesman I spoke with on the phone and dealt with in person, Fred, was the one who screwed us around on the tradein. Also, they should have agreed to hold the van for you until you get there as that is what they did for us.
Drew
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Vans, SUVs, and Aftermarket and Accessories message boards
If you haven't read Edmunds.com's confessions of a car salesman, I highly recommend you do so. I found it very entertaining, and yet enlightening as to what may go on in auto dealerships.
Drew
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Vans, SUVs, and Aftermarket and Accessories message boards
--java
BTW, poor Rolf...Maybe it's time for Dieter, the C320 4-matic sedan/wagon (available late fall of 2002) ;-) Well, at least both vehicles in Casa de Javadoc have Duratecs now, eh? That is, unless that Taurus has the rather gutless Vulcan under the hood!
Drew
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Vans, SUVs, and Aftermarket and Accessories message boards
Drew
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Vans, SUVs, and Aftermarket and Accessories message boards
Ja, the Taurus rental has a 3.0 Duratech, and don't think I haven't had the (fleeting) thought of how hard a swap would be, heh heh heh. FWIW, it is returning great mileage, dispite being driven like a rental car is driven. ;-)
--javadoc
On the other hand, if you think the bigger engine is so critical then try to back out, pay more later and be happy. Personally, I can't imagine using power doors but maybe that's because I don't have them. I wouldn't want to wait and for safety reasons I imagine they'd be slow.
Thanks for the info and for chiming in.
--java
Joe Sette
We like the MPV, but are concerned about the size:
During one of our test drives, we put the stroller in behind the 3rd row. It fit, but there wouldn't have been enough room for the groceries we bought on the way home from the test, unless you put the 3rd seat down (then there's plenty of space). This situation led to an unusual question - for a family of four or less, when you really don't need the 3rd row during normal, every day operation with a mini-van, do you leave the 3rd seat up or down?
Dad says that since you're probably going to need the space more than the 3rd row, you leave the seat down and use the space.
Mom says that it's dumb to have the 3rd seat down most of the time, since you would then have any cargo sliding all over the place back there. Plus it looks strange (although given Dad's looks ... but we won't go there).