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Mazda MPV

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Comments

  • mazda_guymazda_guy Member Posts: 183
    Javadoc, don't push it... this summer I am driving to Canada and I may take a detour to Alaska. Then you better stock on this Salmon you are promising here in writing :-)))

    Cheers

    MB
  • julieintennjulieintenn Member Posts: 3
    After following this super site for a year, I finally brought home my 2002 LX - Sunlight Silver. What an awesome van!
    For those of you purchasing soon here's what I paid: $22,989 ( 2% over invoice ) for LX w/ security pkg., rear a/c, roof rack, step plate, floor mats, and cargo net. Bought it just a few days after rate went up from 4.9 to 5.9. I "politely" complained to sales manager, so he
    gave me $350 more for my trade in. I was very pleased to get $1950 for a 93 DCaravan w/ 136K miles. Other dealers had offered $1,000 - $1500. Covington Pike Mazda in Memphis - very easy to deal with.
    Things I love about this van:
    Reliability/Quality - according to what I've read on this site
    Real windows in the middle
    The deep cargo well
    Stereo controls on the steering wheel
    Handling - it is SO fun to drive! I feel like a 16 yr old who has just gotten her license (finding an excuse to run errands!)
    Minor quirks I can live with:
    Location of the parking brake - why can't it be
    by my left foot? Takes up alot of space where it is.
    Low glovebox - but it does hold a lot.
    Seatbelts in 3rd seat location aren't height adjustable. Of all the places, they should be here as this is where kids ride and the belt
    scrapes my 8 yr old's neck.
    Disappearing hood - it just takes getting used to after driving the old Caravan and seeing the
    hood ornament to use as a guide when parking.
    Leather seats (YUCK) should be an option on the ES. Almost bought an ES as it had most of my options as std. features, but I hate leather seats. Hot in summer and cold in winter. Did you know the manual advises not to use seat covers if you have side airbags?
    Sorry for the long post, but enjoy sharing. Hope to continue to be a regular reader and poster. Happy driving! ZZZOOM! Julie
  • mazda_guymazda_guy Member Posts: 183
    Alex, but in Canada you have also DX model, which Edmunds does not mention. That is next error :-0

    MB
  • maltbmaltb Member Posts: 3,572
    Glad to hear you like your new ride! Post often.
  • javadocjavadoc Member Posts: 1,167
    I'm green w/envy of all these new 2002 owners! Congrats again!

    Mazda_Guy, Don't you worry, if you ring the chimes at casa del javadoc, we'll have a party. Time it right and we might be able to break away from TH long enough to slay some fish. You've seen that Toyota Tacoma commercial, right?
  • bsvollerbsvoller Member Posts: 528
    I'm probably the only guy in the world who thinks this way, but I actually *like* the parking brake placement in the MPV, in fact it's a major plus factor for me, (believe it or not ripley... :) )

    The reason being that I don't see it as a "parking" brake, it's an *emergency* brake. And if your brakes fail, God forbid, you'll be glad the brake lever is located where you can actually control it, instead of off to the side half buried under the dash where you have to take your eyes off the road to hit, and then with your left foot, your knee up in the air, and the release is separately located somewhere above it, also half buried under the dash... you get the idea...

    Afterall, you're reaching for it because something bad is about to happen, and presumably, you're a bit distracted, right ?

    I had a case where we ran over a piece of metal in the road, which flew up and cut the brake line at the wheel. I was sure glad I could grab the e-brake and maintain control.

    Not everyone's take on the matter, I know, but hey, what can I say... :)

    In the extreme case, there's an emergency avoidance maneuver, where you grab a fistful of e-brake and induce a brief spin to do a 180 (like in a head-on situation, where you want the other guy to hit your backend, as opposed to your front). Not to be attempted lightly, and yes, practice first in an empty lot at slow speeds, but you get the idea. The e-brake allows you to deliberately lock up just the back wheels to bring 'er around in a hurry...

    Just my 2 cents...
  • pieracpierac Member Posts: 43
    Glad to hear you got a good deal in Memphis. I'm moving my family back just as soon as my house sells. No family here in Phoenix.
    I was wondering what kind of deals I could expect. Thanks for the info.

    bsvoller: Hope your not headed my way with that e-brake in your hand :-)
  • pjd58pjd58 Member Posts: 366
    Welcome! Sounds like you got a good deal. Good luck with your new MPV. Many happy and safe miles.

    Back to gardening..... mowing, edging, mulching etc. Java, when do you start mowing? July?:)

    Pjd58
  • javadocjavadoc Member Posts: 1,167
    not till this...


    image

    ...melts I dare say. Hopefully a month (please, just a month!). Sorry, no time to PS in an MPV stuck in the snow like I wanted. Pic dated 4-15-02. :)

    /j

  • steverstever Guest Posts: 52,454
    ... is there a Rover buried in there too?

    Steve
    Host
    SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
  • javadocjavadoc Member Posts: 1,167
    Yes, next to the shed. lol
  • beachnutbeachnut Member Posts: 291
    Hope you enjoy your new MPV as we have! Stick around for a while, and like malt said, post often.

    Speaking of shoulder belts rubbing necks, we have the same problem with our 8 y.o., even sitting outboard with the adjustment all the way down. Has anyone ever seen a type of contraption that hooks to the lap belt & shoulder belt, pulling the shoulder belt down and away from the neck? It kinda forms a triangle where the two belts meet at the buckle. One of our friends had this thing about five years ago, but I have never been able to find one. Maybe they weren't safe and aren't made anymore?

    Bsvoller, on days like you see above in java's picture of winter wonderland, I used to do some pretty amazing stuff with the e-brake in the high school parking lot! Of course, this was Indiana, not FL. I'd post a pic (if I had one)of the sunset tonight on the water, but I'm afraid our Alaskan friend might not appreciate it 8-)

    SC
  • steverstever Guest Posts: 52,454
    I used to live in Javadoc's neck of the woods (ergo the ribbing) and I "parallel parked" all the time w/ my e-brake there :-)

    Beachnut, I too saw one of those gizmos a few years ago, but not lately. Time to google I guess.

    Steve
    Host
    SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
  • otishotish Member Posts: 59
    No the experts don't recommend those things (although you can still buy them in some stores). For the exact reason that two of you have talked about (rubbing the neck) is why booster seats are being pushed for older kids too. They have some low-back models that just boost the kids up a little so the seat belt fits better. That seat belt on the neck can injure your child in a crash unfortunately.

    My almost 10 year old fits much better in the captains chairs than the back bench so I try to keep her there most of the time. There is car seat discussion board over at Parentsplace.com that can give you more info on those belt positioners you were asking about.
  • evaddaveevaddave Member Posts: 156
    To the people with K&N filters: Do you think that the filter makes a big difference in mileage? I see the numbers in the 25 mpg range and I wonder how you guys do it. We drive the MPV mostly in city conditions, getting 16-18 mpg average. But even when we do long-distance trips, I rarely see the mileage go over 20.

    If installing the filter can give that much of a boost in mpg, it'll practically pay for itself in a few tankfuls of gas!
  • evaddaveevaddave Member Posts: 156
    We had one of those seat belt devices--ironically it was called a Safe-Fit.
  • javadocjavadoc Member Posts: 1,167
    I don't think the K&N made mor than 1mpg, if that much of a difference. Some people have seen good improvement. I like having the extra filtration and a washable filter if it doesn't give more power.

    /j
  • prlamzprlamz Member Posts: 78
    I did my first oil change today, at 2500 miles. I clearly remembered reading somewhere around here that the filter was conveniently located. Well it is, somewhat, but mine, a MotorCraft, was as good as welded to the engine. In the last 20 years I have done many an oil change, but this had to be one of the worse. I ended up driving a screwdriver through the filter; even after 1/8 of a turn I had to use a tool to finish. I am glad it's over.

    Count me as one who also like the handbrake where it is, but then again, I would by far prefer a manual transmission.
  • pjd58pjd58 Member Posts: 366
    You're so right, the oil filter is a pain to remove the very first change. Mazda must use the Cleveland Brown's(engine made in Ohio)offensive line to install their filters:) Just hand tighten the new filter and give it a 1/4 turn with a filter wrench. You should have no problem next oil change. I changed my oil at 2500 also, and every 5000 thereafter.

    Java: 86 degrees in Ohio yesterday! Be nice and maybe I'll point the weather machine NW in your direction:>)

    Pjd58
  • bob57bob57 Member Posts: 302
    Gee, Java, that must have been a big pillow fight - those are feathers - right? (as Bob ponders if cutting the grass for the last 1-1/2 months is really an advantage...)

    Julie: You can buy those seatbelt covers that are very soft. They just wrap around and stay together with velcro and slide where you want them. (~ $7.00 a pair). Of course on mine they say Honda...(couldn't find any other red ones).

    E-brake: (Isn't it really a parking brake?) I like it even tho it takes up some room between the seats. In our Sienna (foot style brake) I'm always accidently popping the hood open when I think I'm releasing it (getting out of car, closing the hood, ignoring the laughter from wife and kids...)
  • oldstyleoldstyle Member Posts: 41
    Dealer said to wait 6 months due to clear coat.
    Does this sound right?
  • glenn_njglenn_nj Member Posts: 1
    Hello,
    I drive a 2000 MPV. There are times when I hear a cracking noise in the lower front-end when backing up and turning, or sometimes when coming to a stop when travelling down a hill. The sound doesn't happen always--usually when first starting out. I used to hear a similar sound in previous cars when I had a cracked ball joint.

    I've mentioned this to the dealer twice, who checked it out, found nothing wrong, and said the sound is common in MPVs. Has anyone else experienced this?

    Thanks,
    Glenn
  • nwngnwng Member Posts: 663
    I use one for my 4 year old, I bought it at our local mega babystore and I think walmart carries it as well. It was like a T-shpaed device where you control the seat belt's distance between shoulder and lap. I also used one of those padded seat belt covers (mine is red and says "HONDA" on it). In this way, the seat belt will not rub against the neck of your kid. Make sure you got one that says "MAZDA"
  • javadocjavadoc Member Posts: 1,167
    Y'all know I'm not a safety fanatic, but there are two schools of thought on the child shoulder belt relocation, and other similar devices. Personally, I use one that we got at Toys-R-Us for our 6y.o. Honestly, I think a 7y.o. in a booster seat is, well, overkill, but...

    ...Devil's advocate says that the kids should be in booster till a certain age/weight (some say 80lbs), at which time they should be tall enough that the belts hit them correctly. Also, they shouldn't be using the vehicle's belts until they've outgrown the 4 or 5-point harness provided on the booster seat. I guess it's all what you want though, since I've seen great arguments for either viewpoint on some child safety seat message boards. Here's a neat alternative from a leader in child seat designs.

    /j
  • pjd58pjd58 Member Posts: 366
    You don't have to wait to wax your new MPV. Your van was produced at least 2 months ago, and no curing needed. The sooner you wax your new ride, the better it will be protected from the elements.

    Pjd58
  • pjd58pjd58 Member Posts: 366
    Our State has the 4 year old and 40lb rule. I agree, kids need to be in a booster seat till about 7 years old, maybe even older, depending on their height(What's with the rule I before E except after C...HEIGHT?). How did we ever survive as children? No bike helmets, no car seats, etc. Heck, at 7 years old I would ride my bike on 10 mile trips with my friends. I won't allow my 9 year old off my court. Times have surely changed.

    Pjd58
  • evaddaveevaddave Member Posts: 156
    Glenn,
    Ours makes a similar noise. It happens worst when the weather is warm and the van is warmed up. I just posted about this in the Problems forum. There is a TSB that describes the problem and the solution--the trouble I've had is getting the dealer to believe it.

    Maltb or somebody here has the TSB number. I'd even bet they have it memorized. :)

    -Dave
  • julieintennjulieintenn Member Posts: 3
    Just noticed we're on the top 10 hot topics list!
    Thanks for the advice on seatbelt adjusters for my kids. I am currently using a device similar to a locking clip, but it has 3 slots and pulls the shoulder strap down somewhat. Works OK I guess. Hope it's safe. I could not imagine having my active 8 yr. old boy sitting in a booster seat!
    I need some advice: My van had pinstripes which I got the dealer to remove. I noticed it
    left some sticky residue, which didn't come off after it's first wash. I gently used some bug/tar
    remover on the spots and it helped. However, it looks like some scratches were created because of this. Was this a big "no-no?" I honestly know nothing about keeping a nice finish on a vehicle , but I'm determined to give this one lots of TLC. Should I wax these spots now? Any favorite brands of wax?
    Pjd58 - I noticed in an earlier post you mentioned Zymol treatments. Could you please explain what that is?
    Thanks! Julie
  • javadocjavadoc Member Posts: 1,167
    As for wax, Klasse, that's what I like to use for waxing. Zymol is great too, I've used it and had no complaints. It smells good too (no really). Could it double as cologne? Well, maybe ;-)

    For your scratches, and I'm no expert, but you've probably only scuffed the clearcoat so it's not serious. One option: you can go to any good auto store, like Pep Boys and buy a "Clay Bar" that can clean up the paint something fierce (follow instructions... water is your friend). I use them a couple of times a year on my cars and they stay glassy smooth. If the 'bar doesn't work, you can use some mild paint cleaner/scratch remover by someone like Mothers. Or, and this is getting serious, you can go to an auto-body supply place, and buy some sanding stone that's like 1200 grit (like paper smooth), and wet-sand it smooth. A sanding stone is just that, a flat stone made for sanding. Good luck, have fun!

    /j
  • oldstyleoldstyle Member Posts: 41
    Julie: try Meguires (sp?) cleaner/wax. This stuff is awesome. If this stuff does not do the trick, then i would use the clay bar mentioned above.
  • pjd58pjd58 Member Posts: 366
    Java did a great job answering your concerns. Zymol costs about $10 and you can find anywhere car wax is sold. Very easy to use and smells like suntan lotion. It provides a very deep shine, the only draw back is it only lasts for 2 to 3 months(canuba). There are some mild abrasives in Zymol, you may want to try this first before a clay bar. As Java stated, Klasse is a great product, although I'm not into multistep waxing.


    Link where you can purchase Klasse:
    http://store4.yimg.com/I/classic-motoring_1684_135087

  • oldstyleoldstyle Member Posts: 41
    Can a Class III receiver hitch be installed on the 02 MPV. The Mazda accessories book only lists a Class II. We need a Class III for our 4-bike rack.

    Thanks
  • mazda_guymazda_guy Member Posts: 183
    Julie, javadoc and oldstyle said all you need the only thing I would add that YOU MUST WASH your car first and if you use any scratch remover such as Meguires Swirl Remover you need to apply wax after that ASAP. I like Meguires Swirl Remover because it is very mild and it will not do any more damage.

    MB
  • danandkatdanandkat Member Posts: 67
    We bought an 'Evenflo Right Fit' booster seat for our 4 y.o. last year which appears to be essentially the same thing as Javadoc mentions in his post. Evenflo product was rated a Best Buy by Consumer Reports, but our little guy just seemed to be too loose in it. If he fell asleep he'd tip pretty far over, or if he was wiggling around he would get into positions where he didn't seem adequately protected.

    We then stumbled onto the Fisher-Price Futura 20/60 Car Seat with five point harness (not the version with the shield or bar that comes down in front of the kid) and that has worked great for us. It is a car seat, rated for kids weighing from 20 to 60 pounds (whereas most car seats only rate up to 40 pounds) and it has worked out very well for us. Our son is comfortable in the seat, and he is secure from a safety standpoint. I think it will protect him much better than a traditional booster seat will until he reaches 60 pounds.

    It attaches to the car easily and VERY securely using the car safety belt (I don't know if they have come out with one that uses LATCH technology yet--I suppose by now they have). You could use a top tether with this seat if you wished, but I don't think you would gain much by doing so. The seatbelt attachment holds the seat such that the top of the seat does not move more than an inch or so even when giving it a good strong pull.

    danandkat
  • dbs2001dbs2001 Member Posts: 46
    I use Zaino. It's easy to put on & lasts 6 months. (I'm basically lazy & don't like to work too hard!) The initial cost is higher, but you use so little that the cost per application works out to about $4.

    All waxes mentioned are good & we all have our opinions. My suggestion is to read some of the posts in the wax & the Zaino forums.

    Dennis
  • javadocjavadoc Member Posts: 1,167
    lol, was timing for the Zaino response. Dennis is totally right, Zaino is a stellar product. So many choices eh? Mazda_guy, there should be a law that if you buy a black vehicle, you buy Meguires Swirl Remover. That stuff has some magical properties, I'm sure of it.

    /j
  • maltbmaltb Member Posts: 3,572
    Try http://www.sportsrack.com/

    They have Class II 4-bike racks. If not you may be able to get an adapter to go from 1 1/4" to 2".


    I have never seen a Class III hitch for the 2000my+ MPV due to its towing limitations.

  • marylizusmarylizus Member Posts: 24
    Hi everyone, I read a number of earlier posts on roof racks, but it didn't sound like anyone had the factory installed roof rack (in fact, posters seemed to advise against it). Well, we have a new 2002 and it has the factory installed roof rack (what's done is done!) We need a new bike carrier and we want to carry 3 bikes. Looking at Yakima and Thule, but the dealers I've talked to can't seem to tell me what will fit on the 2002, only the 2001. Will it be the same? Has anyone purchased a system to fit with the factory installed roof rack??

    Thanks!
    P.S. We've had our 2002 LX for about 7 weeks and we just love it! We've especially enjoyed rolling down the rear windows in this 80 degree plus April weather we're having here in Ohio.
  • bsvollerbsvoller Member Posts: 528
    Draw-Tite makes class III hitches for the 2000+ MPV, to fit vehicles both with and without the GFX package (2 different models). This is a frame hitch that is rated for weight distributing hitch systems (required for trailers over 2000#), if you're thinking about towing as well.

    I would *not* recommend an 1.25" to 2" adapter, because you'll move the weight too far back from the bumper. I believe the rule of thumb is every 6" of extension from the hitch receiver reduces the tongue load limit by 30%. With a 200 # limit (no weight distribution possible here), you'll exceed the tongue load limits quickly with 4 bikes plus the rack.

    That said, we have a great 4 bike carrier we bought through REI, made by Access. Check it out at www.softride.com. They have a patented tilt out mechanism that keeps the bikes level when you extend the bike rack out to gain access to your rear hatch, and it fits an 1.25" receiver. We use it on our Forester.

    hth
  • danandkatdanandkat Member Posts: 67
    Marylizus--I would suggest contacting Yakima and Thule directly and ask them for advice. Yakima can be reached at 1-888-925-0703, and Thule can be contacted at


    http://thule-comments.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/thule_comments.cfg/php/enduser/home.php


    Interestingly, Yakima doesn't have a provision for e-mail contact, and Thule's website provided no phone number.


    Anyhow, I have contacted Yakima in the past and found them to be very friendly, helpful and knowledgeable--a nice combination to come across! I would hope that Thule would be the same.


    Hope you are able to find what you need and glad to hear you are enjoying your MPV. Four straight days now with temps above 80 degrees in SE Wisconsin. But lows near freezing forecast for the weekend. Like they say, if you don't like the weather around here, wait five minutes!---danandkat

  • oldstyleoldstyle Member Posts: 41
    bsvoller: when you have all 4 bikes on your 1.25" rack do they move/sway alot while driving? A bike shop talked me into getting the 2" for that reason but that may have been because it was more $$$ than the 1.25".

    Thanks to all for the great info., now, do I get the 1.25" or 2" hitch :-(
  • javadocjavadoc Member Posts: 1,167
    Wow... that's why I have a Yak-rack, it's rock solid up there. It holds both bikes and the kids' trailer, with room for the SpaceCase if I need it. Important to me is that they're up out of the way in case someone decides to use my rear bumper to stop with. However, it's not so easy getting the gear up on top of the van. Don't notice them up there hardly while traveling, either.

    A place someone could go on their racking quest is REI. The folks there have always been really helpful and don't make me feel any dumber than I already am. They also may let you go test out your equipment on the van for a bit.

    /j
  • bsvollerbsvoller Member Posts: 528
    We've only had 3 bikes on so far, but no sway at all. FWIW, I don't think side to side sway is a function of the receiver size. You have so little leverage on that 4" extension from the receiver, it isn't going to move even with a heavy load. I'm pretty sure that 90% of sway occurs as twisting in the vertical support. They make the 4 bike in both 1.25" and 2", so I would pick the receiver size based on your other potential uses for the hitch, personally.

    I mentioned that Softride has this patented design for keeping the bikes level when you swing them out to gain access to your rear hatch. This mechanism uses 2 vertical bars spaced about 4" apart in line with the receiver, so you gain mechanical leverage against side to side sway. A single post will twist more.

    I use Yakima for everything else, and really like their stuff. Thule is a great name too. But this design strikes me as superior, and the price was competitive. I use a Yakima locking cable, so that the key matches all of our other rack stuff (Rocketbox, ski carriers, etc).

    By the way, in my original post, I had the maker and the model switched. We have the Access LT 1.25" bike rack, made by SoftRide.

    hth
  • badgermommabadgermomma Member Posts: 23
    I was recently certified as a car seat tech. So....
    Those cheapy positioners that fold over the seat belt to help position it are terrible. They are not safe, they are not tested, they do not meet federal safety regulations. They get around this by saying that they are for 50 pounds and up and there is no regulation for over 50 pounds so it is lawyer double talk. If you child needs one of these then they need a booster. Please don't use these, they are not safe, they actually end up pulling the lap belt higher up on the abdomen and over more vital organs, I don't know why they are allowed to be manufactured and sold here, but they are and it is so misleading.

    Guideline for not needing a booster are back to back, seat to seat, knees bend over the end of the seat, should belt hits mid chest and in the middle of the shoulder, and the child can stay that way for the duration of the trip.

    No back boosters like Java linked to are great for the MPV, they need head support which the MPV has and must be used with lap and shoulder belt. There are may styles some are cushier than others, shop around. High back boosters are also acceptable and give you the option of using in another car that doesn't have head support. They also add some support for sleeping.

    If we all put our kids in boosters, it will be the norm and they will all be safer.

    Jane
  • dulnevdulnev Member Posts: 652
    We are now proud owners of a Sage Green 2002 MPV ES purchased at S-plan price (see later message on this) yesterday. We got 6-CD changer, 4-Seasons package, roof rack, fog lights, etc. The autodimming mirror with compass and outside temp was NOT yet available. I was promissed it as an add on at cost, as soon as they get it in, but I'm not sure it's possible to install it after the fact.

    My impressions:

    This minivan is awesome! It will be my wife's primary car, but I got to drive it all day today and I'd like to report my findings:

    1. This minivan has great handling and power. I drive 2000 Acura TL and, while I'm not saying it handles the same, it's certainly quite close. Both the power and handling are superior to 2002 Honda Accord V6 that I got to drive for the last month.

    2. The controls' ergonimics are great for the most part, but there are couple minor quirks. For example:
    * the steering-wheel audio controls do NOT allow you to move from one radio preset to another, like is common in most other cars.

    * As was pointed out before, the shift lever blocks some of the controls on the dash and

    * there is no door lock switch on the passanger side;

    3. My manual shows that there is supposed to be a storage bin next to cupholders in the 3rd row on the driver's side of the van. My MPV doesn't have it! What's going on?

    4. The seats are too narrow for my wide butt, but my wife is perfectly comfortable.

    5. Fog lights add excellent illumination to the sides. It is extremelly helpful when making turns at night.

    6. Wheel locks are now standard on ES. That's pretty cool.

    7. Wind noise is very high at speeds over 65mph. However, I'm comparing to Acura TL, so it may not be a valid comparison. I did notice very high noise in the Acura MDX at the same speeds as well, so it may just be a function of the vehicle size, mirrors size and presence of a roof rack.

    8. Radio reception is TERRIBLE compared to the other 3 vehicles that I have driven in the area: 2000 TL, 2002 Accord and 1999 Subaru Outback. Outback had the worst reception of the three and it was the only one that did not have an integrated antenna glued on the back window. I'm thinking these stick antenna, like the one on the MPV are bad in general.

    9. Sound quality from the SuperSound system when playing CDs is very good, but I expected better based on the comments on this board.

    10. Sage Green is an AWESOME color, everyone comments on it.

    11. Storage is lacking as far as I'm concerned. I did take out the front ashtray to make a great cell phone compartment, but I could use more storage space.

    By the way, S-plan pricing is no longer available on the MPV. See my next message on this.
  • dulnevdulnev Member Posts: 652
    As of very recently, MPV is among the vehicles that are not eligible for S-plan pricing (according to fordpartner.com FAQ). That's very surprising since one can get MPV's for near invoice anyway. Local dealership advertises all Mazda's at $1 over invoice.

    Anyway, I found out this news yesterday, when buying the MPV. The dealer tried to charge me a $220 documentation fee and I had to insist that it was prohibited by Ford. We ended up looking at the fordpartner.com Web site and the sales manager noticed this little bit of unfortunate news about MPV and S-plan. To make the long story short, the dealership was extremely nice and not only still allowed me to buy the car at S-plan, but removed the $220 fee as well. By the way, this dealership - Brown's Fairfax Mazda - has excellent reputation in this area.
  • steverstever Guest Posts: 52,454
    Thanks for the booster seat info, badgermomma. Much appreciated.

    And congrats on the new ride, dulnev.

    Steve
    Host
    SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
  • oldstyleoldstyle Member Posts: 41
    Yep, as dulnev broke the news above, s-plan web site says MPVs are excluded. I hope this will not come into play with the MPV we ordered 2 weeks ago under S-plan. The ride will be in this week or next. I have to go to the dealer Mon. to sign papers and place a small deposit, so I will post if this subject comes up. BTW, my dealer (NE Ohio) said she is selling all the MPVs she can get her hands on at sticker. She has been very honest and stright forward with me so I have no resaon to doubt her.
  • mazda_guymazda_guy Member Posts: 183
    Dulnev, Congratulations on your new car. I can relate to your review because I own the same Mazda (even color the same :-)) and Acura TL as well.

    1. This minivan has great handling and power. I drive 2000 Acura TL and, while I'm not saying it handles the same, it's certainly quite close. Both the power and handling are superior to 2002 Honda Accord V6 that I got to drive for the last month.

    That is good and bad. While you cannot move from preset to preset station you can scan all the stations. I found that while traveling outside my town it is better to have scan than preset function. If you have preset function then most of the time you cannot access any stations while you travelig away from home.

    * there is no door lock switch on the passanger side;

    Passenger can lock the door manually or you can use remote.

    3. My manual shows that there is supposed to be a storage bin next to cupholders in the 3rd row on the driver's side of the van. My MPV doesn't have it! What's going on?

    I think there are motors for power sliding doors in the place of storage bin.

    4. The seats are too narrow for my wide butt, but my wife is perfectly comfortable.

    This is very subjective. Seats are wider than in TL and my seat can fit two of me lol

    7. Wind noise is very high at speeds over 65mph. However, I'm comparing to Acura TL, so it may not be a valid comparison. I did notice very high noise in the Acura MDX at the same speeds as well, so it may just be a function of the vehicle size, mirrors size and presence of a roof rack.

    I can't confirm that. I have driven MPV (I have roof rack) at 85 mph and wind noise seems not excessive at all. Maybe a little more noticeable than in TL. The most noise comes from the road depending on the surface material used for the road construction but again that affects all the cars. While driving at high speeds I didn't have to increase radio volume. I found out, however, that wind noise level goes dramatically up with outside high crosswinds.

    8. Radio reception is TERRIBLE compared to the other 3 vehicles that I have driven in the area: 2000 TL, 2002 Accord and 1999 Subaru Outback. Outback had the worst reception of the three and it was the only one that did not have an integrated antenna glued on the back window. I'm thinking these stick antenna, like the one on the MPV are bad in general.

    I don't see any difference with the radio reception. Again I live in an urban area. TL's radio is as good as MPV's

    9. Sound quality from the SuperSound system when playing CDs is very good, but I expected better based on the comments on this board.

    Sound quality is very subjective. For me is great. I had great system in Passat, TL, and in MPV is great as well.

    10. Sage Green is an AWESOME color, everyone comments on it.

    I Agree 100% -:)

    By the way, S-plan pricing is no longer available on the MPV. See my next message on this.

    Which Ford Motor Company vehicles are eligible?
    Virtually all Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, Mazda, Volvo, and Land Rover vehicles are eligible. In addition, cash allowances are available for 2002 model year Jaguar vehicles.
    Ford Super Duty F450-F750, Thunderbird, Aston Martin and Mazda MPV vehicles are not included in this program. This list is subject to change.
    MB
  • billmckinleybillmckinley Member Posts: 167
    Glad you got your Sage Green and happy you think it's "awesome." You--more likely your wife--are gonna be totally wild about it if it's anything like most of ours.
    Great car, ain't it?

    Happy Miles!

    RJ
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