Not so. S-plan price is a (not too simple)calculation off of the price of the vehicle and does not vary by region. The S-plan price is on the actual dealer invoice and they are required to show you their invoice when they prepare the docs.
maltb, if it does not vary by region as you can see from the posts in this newsgroup then how can you explain different prices? Some people paid $10 below invoice some paid $100 and more below invoice under S-plan. I saw the invoice of the MPV I was buying and S-plan price was printed on dealer's invoice as it should be.
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I just bought MPV 2002 ES 2 weeks back , have 500 miles on it. Windnoise in the VAN is too much even at 60mph speed ( obviously with all windows closed), I do not have a sunroof, but have a roof rack. Is anybody experiencing the same ?
Wind noise level on my 2000 LX is OK. I can't tell that the wind itself causes any problem. I'd say at high speeds road noise is much greater contributor. We have one stretch of highway with really smooth surface for several kilometers (I don't know what they put on it, like a "glossy" asphalt :-). So, when I drive over that part, there's very little noise overall but when I hit normal pavement, it comes back again... I distinctively hear wind noise only when there is a strong cross wind.
mazda_guy: you don't have to be that defensive (offensive?).
The S-plan is NOT available on MPV anymore. However, I bet 99% of dealers don't know about it yet.
The S-plan could not be $500 under invoice on a "fully loaded" MPV ES, you've miscalculated something. I've seen S-plan invoices on three MPV ES vehicles with different sets of options. The largest discount off invoice was $62. My discount off an ES with 4-seasons, 6CD changer, fog lights, roof rack and bumper step plate for $20. The relationship was: the fewer options you get, the better the discount. But the discount is almost non-existent anyway.
Mazda changed the structure of the S-plan in late Feb.to give the dealer more incentive to offer the S-plan...so instead of 200-300 behind invoice its now around 50 less than invoice....the new invoices are hitting the dealerships now.
This is a shot in the dark, but is it possible to remove the crossbars from the roofrack? If so, that might cut the roofrack windnoise substantially. If removal is not an option, then perhaps sliding the crossbars as far back as they can go might help--even if they are still making noise they wouldn't be right on top of the first row (put 'em over the Uecker row!). danandkat
Per instructions found here, I did locate the cabin filter behind the glove box. It took quite a tug to pop loose the left hinge of the glove box. I was hoping it would slide off easily once I opened the glove box far enough (similar to what the tailgate on my F150 does). I pushed in on the sides of the glovebox to open it past the tabs, but then the back of the glovebox interfered with the dash opening so it only opened another inch or two.
Anyway, I verified that there is a location for the filter and it is installed in my van. I am surprised replacement procedure is not discussed in the manual and my local dealer was not aware of it. Hopefully Mazda will remedy that.
Does anyone know whether color-coded plugs are available to cover the ugly holes in the front bumper where the license plate screws would go? Shouldn't I have gotten them when I bought the car?
I went to the dealer today. The recall involves putting two stickers on the driver door and the column next to it, as well as two other stickers in the owner's manual. I don't understand why they didn't mail them to us.
Hi, I am about to buy a 2002 MPV LX. What options are really worth it. My biggest concern is safety. I know I do not need the sunroof, cd changer, or power doors. But how about the other options? Also, anyone have recent experience with dealers around the Wash.D.C, Baltimore area. So far we have visited Fitzgerald Mazda. Does anyone know if their prices are good. They say they are $100 over invoice and that there is no bargaining. It has 11 years since I got a new car, so I really do not know if this is the norm now for new car buying. I would appreciate any advice you can give. We plan on buying within 2 weeks.
goldsu1, if you live where you have hot days you will need rear AC. I wouldn't buy a minivan without it.
Since you are concerned with safety you may consider ABS and Traction Control. ABS is standard on LX but Traction Control you can get with security package which will also give you front side air bags.
Hmm. I asked this question on the MPV vs. Ody thread and still didn't get any real insight. I found the wind noise in the test drive to be pretty extreme, starting at about 50+ mph.
The salesman said that the roof rack crossbars could be removed, and that it would reduce the noise. I wasn't able to actually *do* that on the test drive, of course.
Anyone with an '02 a) notice the wind noise and b) find a solution? If so, I'd like to hear it.
We'll be making our final decision on Ody or MPV this weekend, most likely...today I go for an Ody test drive. I'm interested to see if I can hear myself think at highway speed, and whether or not it feels like I'm driving the SS Fatty Boombalatty.
I do love the way the MPV handled, but can't seem to find any dealer stock that doesn't include the roof rack, and don't want to special order one with all the hijinks and shenanigans THAT would add to the deal making process.
Buy the car that you are testing not any other one. That way if you are satisfied during the test drive you will be happy later. If the salesman says that the wind noise is because of the roof rack take a test drive in a van without it and see for yourself if that makes any difference. I have MPV 2002 ES bought in February with roof rack and I am very happy with the quiet ride. I drive occasionally my wife's 2001 Acura TL and frankly Acura is not that much quieter. I guess this is personal thing though. Remember one thing that during windy days especially with crosswinds you will have significant wind noise no matter what.
Also when you compare two different cars like ODY and MPV and you take them for a test drive make sure you are driving during the same day and on the same surface (street or highway). The material of which the road surface it made makes great difference on a noise level. I found out that most of the noise comes not from the wind but from the road and poor sound insluation in a given car.
I've been 'dropping' MPV brochures around the house and in Mochavan all week ...now the d.w. says things like, "If we picked up a new van in Portland..." or "Do you think my mom would like our van?" Not long now and she'll be hooked on a 2002. Except she's thinking leather (ES) and I'm thinking I don't need that size of payment.
I have already posted some observations of the 1st 5 days with my new van on the problems board so you might want to hop over there and check it out. I can tell you that I have LX w/security,luxury, roof rack, rear air, and cassette, and got what we feel was an awesome deal in Knoxville, TN. I absolutely love the van. The roof rack is to be installed Monday, but I don't find the wind noise to be any less without it than I had in my 2000 MPV LX. We are able to hear the CD and converse easily when on highway at high speeds. Funny how each dealer is different. Mine had mostly vans without racks-mine had to be ordered, but I don't like the way the van looks without it. I may actually use it someday! Anyway, i just don't think you can go wrong with the MPV in any form. I don't think they are selling well down here.There are lots of 2001 still being advertised, and I think that is why we got such a good price on ours.
I can't comment on the traction control-it hasn't come into play here yet-no rain, but I am glad to have gotten it and the side air bags. It wasn't an option we were looking at-it just happened to be on the van that had the other features we wanted.
I know the pain. Leather or not leather, dual air or maybe not, 6CD changer or skip it. I started with LX but I wanted badly sunroof. So when I added sunroof it came with the package. Once I got the package I was close to the price of ES which has everything on it and it happened the dealer had it ready to go just the way I wanted it and that is how I ended up with ES. I am glad to say I am very happy with it now.
Speaking of leather, I have never cared for it but my wife always wanted. A little more than year ago we bought Acura TL that comes with leather. Once I started driving Acura I was sold on leather only because of one thing. This thing is that when I drive and I have cloth seats and the weather is dry, I am always getting electrocuted while getting out of the car. I HATE IT. This will never happen when you have leather.
You're right about the static electricity angle. I really like the seats in the T5. The thing that killz me on the MPVs leather is the lack of heated seats. IMHO, the 4Seasons package should've included that tidbit, since the van's all set up for it anyway (for other markets).
I know exactly what I want for the 2002, but I guess we're divided on to leather or not to leather. It'll be the d.w's as is the current MPV we've got, so you know who'll win. We're looking at Security/Lux/moonroof/4seasons. Having a changer on the new van isn't a big deal since I can just put the one from my 2000 in it. I definitely do not want the roof rack, since we already have all the gear for the Yak, and recently got the Q-clips for the MPV.
Who was saying the Volvo seats should be spread across the FoMoCo family? I was thinking about that while on a long drive Thursday... man they're nice.
I know what you mean. I was incredulous to find out that ES with 4-seasons did not included heated seats. It was not, however, huge enough deal to make me opt for a different van. One thing I think will make it a bit more tolerable: MPV's leather is very soft and textured. It has a warmer feel so I don't think it would be just as bad in cold weather as my Acura TL's leather seats.
You misunderstood. My TL does have the heated seats, but the leather feels extremely cold before the heat kicks in. This is because the TL leather is of the smooth and cool kind, unlike the warmer and textured MPV leather. The MPV without heated seats should be bearable.
Strange problem with our 2000 MPV (which we love). For some time now, we get a shuddering/hesitation, namely when you're cruising along at fairly high speed, then slow down (usual coasting) through a lower speed zone, then we get the shudder/hesitation when we step back on the gas to accelerate. Several repair attempts have failed to properly diagnose and repair the problem.
Mazda technician said it's "torquing" when it's trying to shift after the coasting. He's going to track down other 2000s to drive and see if they do the same thing before we go the "lemon" route. Anyone have a similar problem/know what the hell I'm talking about
I wondered if many MPV owners looked at Sienna before buying MPV, and how they thought the two compared. There's a very short MPV vs Sienna disucssion topic; seems to me the Toyota and MPV are more comparable than MPV vs Ody, which has many more posts. I'll keep lurking on all discussions to see what folks think!
Well, when I test drove both vans, I thought they were very similar dimensionally. I found it difficult to see out the back, as the C and D pillars seemed to conspire to defy me a view. The Sienna seemed more powerful, but the versatility of the MPV was what I really liked. Also, I liked the character of the MPV's interior better, as well as the price tag.
I have chosen MPV for the following reasons. First, I had in the past two Toyotas. Both lemons. Second, my experience with Toyta's dealerships (sales and service) was distasteful. Sleazy sales people with equivocal sales tactics. Third, I hate the way Toyota sells their cars. You have the price then 1000 itmes as options.
On the other hand, buying MPV was my best car buying experience yet. I am impressed with vans handling, performance, versatility and the price. I love the car and I am impressed with aesthetic interior and quality finish comparable to European cars.
Audia8q and anyone else in the know: I'm in the process of pricing the components of a DVD system. I plan on doing the install myself. But if Mazda has one out, maybe I can either buy it or find the manufacturer that makes and and retro fit it.
Two main questions: 1) where to put the monitor in a van with a sunroof? The sunroof is so big, that I don't want to put the monitor after it because the passengers will be looking straight up. (at this point, I intend to put a monitor in each of the front seat headrests for the middle row.)
2) where do they mount the DVD player? I have the 6 disc changer, can the DVD and multi CD'er be combined? (as of right now, I'm looking at mounting the DVD'er under the driver's seat and using remote eye for the remote control (many DVD'ers come with this)).
Can someone give me some info on their MPV? 1. Real world mileage 2. Net price
I test drove a Quest. I was disappointed at the workmanship (it was a a stripped down GXE). Am looking at either a Dodge Caravan (Sport) or MPV (LX). I think the interior of the MPV is the best in the market - ergonomics, design etc... but does it have a trip computer? Hopefully, I'll drive an MPV next week. There is no dealer in my area. Thanks.
Hello all! Looks like i'll be taking the leap into buying my first minivan next week. I have been blown away by how helpful and friendly this MPV board is. Could anyone out there tell me what a fair price is for a MPV ES 02. I'm in the Dallas area and am wondering what type of current incentives/rebates there are. Also, is it just me or is a Sage ES tough to find. Thanks so much.
Check the True Market Value for starters (should be a link to incentives when you drill down to your numbers, too). Steve Host SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
Edmunds TMV is a load of hogwash. It's $1,000 more than one should be paying for the MPV. They average over all types of consumers, including those loosers that don't do any research and let the dealers screw them. Obviously, if you're reading this board, you're already doing better than the average consumer. You should be able to do a LOT better than TMV.
You can't put the overhead video system now that you got the moonroof. I've specifically requested an ES without the moonroof since I wanted to install an overhead video. I bought a 6.8" Panasonic DVD system for $999 (including installation). They'd be installing it next week.
The only route open to you is to have 5-7 inch screens put into the headrest(s) of the front seat(s). These systems are typically a bit more expensive, but there are plenty of choices.
They cannot put the DVD in your dash, there is no room for that in the MPV. One possible place is under the passenger seat, in place of the slide-out storage drawer.
heated seats: in true maltbarley fashion I'd say "us Florida folks don't want to subsidize your heated seats" I really do wish they'd offer it, just as a seperate option tho
leather seats: a lot of folk down here are under the crazy idea that it's way too hot for leather seats and that cloth is better ...not! I've had both, and imho leather handles the sweaty backside issue much better than cloth!
Toyota Sienna: Just Plain UGLY !! (sorry for the anecdotal content!)
Java: Get out of your heated Volvo seats and get back to studying! How are you ever going to rule the world chatting on-line about your MPV? (j/k!)
asa0526: I you mean is there a trip odometer, yes - two of them. If you actually mean a trip computer that tells you stuff like actual and overall mpg, trip distance and time, then afaik, no. I had that once on a Caddie and really liked it.
Dulnev, I think that you can in fact, somehow, have the overhead screen w/a moonroof. The reason I say this is I'm almost positive some folks have said that they have both (VCP version though). I'd be very interested to make sure which is true though. I really like the headrest mounted screens too, although they cost a bit more, they're very cool.
Beachnut... I'll play devil's advocate on the heated seats, since we northerners already have to subsidize sun-belters rear a/c, since it's a "you must have rear a/c with this/that package" when you spec out a van. :-) I'll scratch your back...
Oh, someone asked if the 2002 has a gear selection for '4.' Well, the selections are 'Park/neck (j/k),' R(ace), N(ot moving), D(rive already!), 3,2. That's all, oh and the O/D on/off button.
We narrowed down our minivan choices to the MPV and the Sienna. Decided to go for the Sienna b/c of the resale value and my husband likes Toyotas. But Toyota didn't want to deal, and the more I thought about the MPV...well, it was the van I really wanted. I like the looks ALOT better, and the slightly smaller size and the visibility is better, the fold down 3rd seat, the roll down windows....and we paid alot less for the MPV. My husband kept egging me on to get the van I REALLY wanted, so thanks to him, we bought the MPV. And I'm very glad we did! I think it's a great van for those of us who said we'd NEVER drive a minivan.
Comments
MB
Options. That or smoke and mirrors. Dealers do not have the luxury of making up the invoice price nor the S-plan price.
/j
/j
credit: m-b's link
Since you posted I deleted my post
MB
It's just one of those goofy internet things.
MB
mazda_guy: you don't have to be that defensive (offensive?).
Or maybe I am getting deaf and I don't hear noises anymore.
MB
/java
The S-plan could not be $500 under invoice on a "fully loaded" MPV ES, you've miscalculated something. I've seen S-plan invoices on three MPV ES vehicles with different sets of options. The largest discount off invoice was $62. My discount off an ES with 4-seasons, 6CD changer, fog lights, roof rack and bumper step plate for $20. The relationship was: the fewer options you get, the better the discount. But the discount is almost non-existent anyway.
MB
Rich
Anyway, I verified that there is a location for the filter and it is installed in my van. I am surprised replacement procedure is not discussed in the manual and my local dealer was not aware of it. Hopefully Mazda will remedy that.
Since you are concerned with safety you may consider ABS and Traction Control. ABS is standard on LX but Traction Control you can get with security package which will also give you front side air bags.
MB
The salesman said that the roof rack crossbars could be removed, and that it would reduce the noise. I wasn't able to actually *do* that on the test drive, of course.
Anyone with an '02 a) notice the wind noise and b) find a solution? If so, I'd like to hear it.
We'll be making our final decision on Ody or MPV this weekend, most likely...today I go for an Ody test drive. I'm interested to see if I can hear myself think at highway speed, and whether or not it feels like I'm driving the SS Fatty Boombalatty.
I do love the way the MPV handled, but can't seem to find any dealer stock that doesn't include the roof rack, and don't want to special order one with all the hijinks and shenanigans THAT would add to the deal making process.
Oh to have such problems, huh? ;-)
MB
I have MPV 2002 ES bought in February with roof rack and I am very happy with the quiet ride. I drive occasionally my wife's 2001 Acura TL and frankly Acura is not that much quieter. I guess this is personal thing though. Remember one thing that during windy days especially with crosswinds you will have significant wind noise no matter what.
Also when you compare two different cars like ODY and MPV and you take them for a test drive make sure you are driving during the same day and on the same surface (street or highway). The material of which the road surface it made makes great difference on a noise level. I found out that most of the noise comes not from the wind but from the road and poor sound insluation in a given car.
MB
I've been 'dropping' MPV brochures around the house and in Mochavan all week ...now the d.w. says things like, "If we picked up a new van in Portland..." or "Do you think my mom would like our van?" Not long now and she'll be hooked on a 2002. Except she's thinking leather (ES) and I'm thinking I don't need that size of payment.
/j- no klez-virus on my network
I can't comment on the traction control-it hasn't come into play here yet-no rain, but I am glad to have gotten it and the side air bags. It wasn't an option we were looking at-it just happened to be on the van that had the other features we wanted.
Speaking of leather, I have never cared for it but my wife always wanted. A little more than year ago we bought Acura TL that comes with leather. Once I started driving Acura I was sold on leather only because of one thing. This thing is that when I drive and I have cloth seats and the weather is dry, I am always getting electrocuted while getting out of the car. I HATE IT. This will never happen when you have leather.
MB
I know exactly what I want for the 2002, but I guess we're divided on to leather or not to leather. It'll be the d.w's as is the current MPV we've got, so you know who'll win. We're looking at Security/Lux/moonroof/4seasons. Having a changer on the new van isn't a big deal since I can just put the one from my 2000 in it. I definitely do not want the roof rack, since we already have all the gear for the Yak, and recently got the Q-clips for the MPV.
Who was saying the Volvo seats should be spread across the FoMoCo family? I was thinking about that while on a long drive Thursday... man they're nice.
/j
I know what you mean. I was incredulous to find out that ES with 4-seasons did not included heated seats. It was not, however, huge enough deal to make me opt for a different van. One thing I think will make it a bit more tolerable: MPV's leather is very soft and textured. It has a warmer feel so I don't think it would be just as bad in cold weather as my Acura TL's leather seats.
MB
I was the one suggesting that all FoMoCo's just use the Volvo seats & be done with it!
FWIW... our leather wan't too cold this winter (although this MN winder Jan & Feb wasn't that cold) but I did let the van warm up a little beforehand.
Mat
Mazda technician said it's "torquing" when it's trying to shift after the coasting. He's going to track down other 2000s to drive and see if they do the same thing before we go the "lemon" route. Anyone have a similar problem/know what the hell I'm talking about
Thanks
Pete
Hope that helps you out.
/java
On the other hand, buying MPV was my best car buying experience yet. I am impressed with vans handling, performance, versatility and the price. I love the car and I am impressed with aesthetic interior and quality finish comparable to European cars.
MB
1. Third row of seats is not of the "magic" variety as on the MPV and Ody.
2. Price. It's at least $1,500 more than similarly configured MPV ES.
3. 15" wheels, for God's sake!
I'm in the process of pricing the components of a DVD system. I plan on doing the install myself. But if Mazda has one out, maybe I can either buy it or find the manufacturer that makes and and retro fit it.
Two main questions:
1) where to put the monitor in a van with a sunroof? The sunroof is so big, that I don't want to put the monitor after it because the passengers will be looking straight up.
(at this point, I intend to put a monitor in each of the front seat headrests for the middle row.)
2) where do they mount the DVD player? I have the 6 disc changer, can the DVD and multi CD'er be combined?
(as of right now, I'm looking at mounting the DVD'er under the driver's seat and using remote eye for the remote control (many DVD'ers come with this)).
HELP!
Thanks.
adam
1. Real world mileage
2. Net price
I test drove a Quest. I was disappointed at the workmanship (it was a a stripped down GXE). Am looking at either a Dodge Caravan (Sport) or MPV (LX). I think the interior of the MPV is the best in the market - ergonomics, design etc... but does it have a trip computer?
Hopefully, I'll drive an MPV next week. There is no dealer in my area.
Thanks.
Steve
Host
SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
Sage Green ES is plentiful around here, but they are typically loaded with CD changer, 4-seasons, roof rack, fog lights, etc.
Good price for MPV is $1 to $500 over invoice, depending on the area. Around here it's $1-$100 over invoice.
Good luck.
The only route open to you is to have 5-7 inch screens put into the headrest(s) of the front seat(s). These systems are typically a bit more expensive, but there are plenty of choices.
They cannot put the DVD in your dash, there is no room for that in the MPV. One possible place is under the passenger seat, in place of the slide-out storage drawer.
heated seats: in true maltbarley fashion I'd say "us Florida folks don't want to subsidize your heated seats" I really do wish they'd offer it, just as a seperate option tho
leather seats: a lot of folk down here are under the crazy idea that it's way too hot for leather seats and that cloth is better ...not! I've had both, and imho leather handles the sweaty backside issue much better than cloth!
Toyota Sienna: Just Plain UGLY !! (sorry for the anecdotal content!)
Java: Get out of your heated Volvo seats and get back to studying! How are you ever going to rule the world chatting on-line about your MPV? (j/k!)
asa0526: I you mean is there a trip odometer, yes - two of them. If you actually mean a trip computer that tells you stuff like actual and overall mpg, trip distance and time, then afaik, no. I had that once on a Caddie and really liked it.
I'm sure I left something out .....
SC
Beachnut... I'll play devil's advocate on the heated seats, since we northerners already have to subsidize sun-belters rear a/c, since it's a "you must have rear a/c with this/that package" when you spec out a van. :-) I'll scratch your back...
Oh, someone asked if the 2002 has a gear selection for '4.' Well, the selections are 'Park/neck (j/k),' R(ace), N(ot moving), D(rive already!), 3,2. That's all, oh and the O/D on/off button.
/j