MS3 Reliability/Build Quality Questions (yes i searched!)

[Cab0oze]

Hey guys, before I get flamed, yes I did search. Didn't see any good answers to these qs.
Also, I know theres a QC mazda club, but I never get much response from them because they don't all want to take the time to read an english post lol

I'm literally weeks away from choosing a speed3 to buy to replace my 04GT sedan which keeps rusting on me (been to the dealership to be fixed 3x under warranty, and it doesn't look like its going to fix itself anytime soon).... So I have a few questions.

1) I keep hearing bad things about speeds driveability in the winter. This is going to be my first manual car, I'm just curious how bad it really is? I imagine its people that just like complaining, but this is going to be my DD, so I need it to start in the morning lol (something my 04mz3 struggles to do below -10)

2) Is getting an 07 going to cause me a lot more reliability headaches over an 08.5+? All the changes Ive seen mentioned are really cosmetic, does anyone know if its better reliability wise?

3) RUST - anyone seen rust starting on their speeds, or did mazda finally fix this? I know all the 04s-06s and maybe even 07s are definitely rusting like crazy, even when rustproofed. I do not want to drop an extra $12k on this upgrade if i'm just going to be having the same problem in 1-2 years.

I had one or two other questions, but I forget what they were.

Thanks guys :)

[SomeGuy]

I have a 2010...so I can't comment on rust. Although my previous 06 GS was flawless when I sold it to get the MS3. As for winter though, so long as you have winter tires you'll be fine. I never had issues with cold weather (starting, etc) except for the fact that fuel economy goes to shit when it's cold (and it is REALLY bad) and the suspension gets even more hard and as such even more of the typical mazda rattles. As for how it behaves on slippery roads...it's IMO better than my old 3. The limited slip diff keeps traction down a lot better (no one wheel burn outs) and in general it's quite a stable car. It does ride a bit lower than a regular 3 but even in decently deep snow, I had no issues with getting stuck even while plowing a bit at the front.

I think your biggest concern with DDing a MS3 is fuel economy and gas prices...if you're ok with paying twice what you're paying now to go the same distance, than go for it.

[MPS]

if you leave the car stock your fine
the moment you start doing mods thats when shit hits the fan

[SKYMP3]

I fixed my rust under warranty, headache? To one dealer, yes, big time. To another one, they solved my problem.
I have a 07 and that rust haven't come back "yet"

[swales]

^^Not 100% true many stock MS3's have smokin turbos and bad fuel pumps (esp 07-08's)

Now to the op questions, the car starts and drives in winter no problem but the suspension is crazy noisy until it warms up.

If you can I would get a 08.5 or 09 as they did make some mechanical upgrades too (turbo)

[Cab0oze]

I have a 2010...so I can't comment on rust. Although my previous 06 GS was flawless when I sold it to get the MS3. As for winter though, so long as you have winter tires you'll be fine. I never had issues with cold weather (starting, etc) except for the fact that fuel economy goes to shit when it's cold (and it is REALLY bad) and the suspension gets even more hard and as such even more of the typical mazda rattles. As for how it behaves on slippery roads...it's IMO better than my old 3. The limited slip diff keeps traction down a lot better (no one wheel burn outs) and in general it's quite a stable car. It does ride a bit lower than a regular 3 but even in decently deep snow, I had no issues with getting stuck even while plowing a bit at the front.

I think your biggest concern with DDing a MS3 is fuel economy and gas prices...if you're ok with paying twice what you're paying now to go the same distance, than go for it.
Yeah, i was a bit concerned about the whole gas price thing, especially with gas averaging 1.38 here in QC now (regular), but honestly I'm not so concerned about how much I will be paying, but how impossible it will be to re-sell the car sometime in the future if gas becomes so expensive nobody can afford to drive something that takes a lot of premium gas lol. So... I'm still not sure I'm making a good choice, but the speed is the only car I 100% love inside and out, with the exception of the 1st gen sedans... which I have now, and if I'm buying a new car as an 'upgrade', well going from an 04->09 GT sedan would cost me about the same as getting a speed, but the only difference would be that I would get heated seats. Turbo please! haha

if you leave the car stock your fine
the moment you start doing mods thats when shit hits the fan
Extent of my mods will be: rims, intake, front lip, boost gauge and vinyls... only issue would then be what the previous owner thought would be a good idea...

I fixed my rust under warranty, headache? To one dealer, yes, big time. To another one, they solved my problem.
I have a 07 and that rust haven't come back "yet"Rust on a 2007 speed3? Shiiit. Where? Thats bad news, I was really hoping that mazda fixed the problem...

[MPS]

my 2008.5 thats never been winter or rain driven has rust =(

[Cab0oze]

^^Not 100% true many stock MS3's have smokin turbos and bad fuel pumps (esp 07-08's)

Now to the op questions, the car starts and drives in winter no problem but the suspension is crazy noisy until it warms up.

If you can I would get a 08.5 or 09 as they did make some mechanical upgrades too (turbo)Ok so thanks for the replies so far guys, extremely helpful!!
Ok, so I guess that seals the deal pretty much as far as choice of years, I had a nice 2007 I was looking at (all the visual mods I was planning on pretty much, plus rustproofed every year), but I really don't want to buy into another car with issues. Only thing is I really don't like the piano black interior, going to miss the styling on my 04 =/

[Cab0oze]

my 2008.5 thats never been winter or rain driven has rust =(

you guys are replying too fast lol
Where the hell is it rusting? You're starting to scare me...

[SKYMP3]

Yeah, i was a bit concerned about the whole gas price thing, especially with gas averaging 1.38 here in QC now (regular), but honestly I'm not so concerned about how much I will be paying, but how impossible it will be to re-sell the car sometime in the future if gas becomes so expensive nobody can afford to drive something that takes a lot of premium gas lol. So... I'm still not sure I'm making a good choice, but the speed is the only car I 100% love inside and out, with the exception of the 1st gen sedans... which I have now, and if I'm buying a new car as an 'upgrade', well going from an 04->09 GT sedan would cost me about the same as getting a speed, but the only difference would be that I would get heated seats. Turbo please! haha

Extent of my mods will be: rims, intake, front lip, boost gauge and vinyls... only issue would then be what the previous owner thought would be a good idea...
Rust on a 2007 speed3? Shiiit. Where? Thats bad news, I was really hoping that mazda fixed the problem...

At the hatch, just under the rear wiper arm.
Fixed.

[MPS]

behind the passenger mirror



you guys are replying too fast lol
Where the hell is it rusting? You're starting to scare me...

[Cab0oze]

Thats interesting, good to know. If you search mazdaspeed3 rust on google it comes up with nothing. Search mazda3 rust and theres thousands of pages lol. You guys should really start up a thread about it or something and document where its happening and after how long, and post pics...

[Mazda3X2]

My 2008.5 is going strong.

Decent in the winter with a good set of winter tires. Good winter tires are a must.

I have noticed that gas mileage is getting worse after the Hypertech. Maybe it's the tune, maybe is because the tune makes me want to put my foot into it more often.

No rust as of now....knock on wood. 35,000 kms, rust proofed every year and driven year round. (East Coast for the last 2 winters)

The things that drive me nuts with this car are the clunky shifter and noisy suspension. Warmer, wet days are bad for mine. I get clunking and thumping up front and out back. I could lose my mind.

Good luck with the purchase.

[Cab0oze]

Everyone seems to have the clunking suspension... there any DIY fixes for it, like is it just a matter of keeping everything greased?
Making myself at home here now haha, just added my sig, thats my baby, probably going to be sold soon though :(

[Cab0oze]

I cant edit my posts yet so sorry for the double post, but I just got yelled at for saying that its my baby... correction- it is my second baby.
Note to self, dont post on car forums when girls are around haha

[Scottobot]

I think there's a disproportionate amount of paranoia about the '07 Speed3's. Mine's fine. And with good winter tires it's very very good in the snow.

[horto]

1) I keep hearing bad things about speeds driveability in the winter. This is going to be my first manual car, I'm just curious how bad it really is? I imagine its people that just like complaining, but this is going to be my DD, so I need it to start in the morning lol (something my 04mz3 struggles to do below -10)


No issues with mine starting on really cold days. The suspension squeak is nothing but an annoyance IMHO. 1-2 shift in the cold was kinda grindy, but a rear motor mount and switching to synthetic tranny fluid fixed that for me. Double clutching also works.



2) Is getting an 07 going to cause me a lot more reliability headaches over an 08.5+? All the changes Ive seen mentioned are really cosmetic, does anyone know if its better reliability wise?


I bought my 07 used in August of um... 2009. Thinking back on it, I kinda wish I got the 08.5. I normally try to avoid the first generation of anything, but it was a good deal and I saved quite a bit of money over an 08.5 (and I needed a car fast because I blew the transmission on my Mustang). The 08.5's also have an mp3 cd changer from the factory, whereas the 07's do not. It's not a big deal really, but is a very strong preference for me.



3) RUST - anyone seen rust starting on their speeds, or did mazda finally fix this? I know all the 04s-06s and maybe even 07s are definitely rusting like crazy, even when rustproofed. I do not want to drop an extra $12k on this upgrade if i'm just going to be having the same problem in 1-2 years.

120,000kms and no rust here. Original owner rustproofed it as did I when I got it. Wash it quite religiously.

That all being said, it's 2011... If I were in your shoes, I'd be trying to find an elusive low km 2009 MS3 (gen 1). Failing that, an 08.5. Skip the 07's. Try to find a low km car that hasn't been modded. (Easier said than done I'm sure).

There have been a few members on here selling their rides, I know of at least two that were really well taken care of that would have been worth buying.

If you want to look into buying new, there might be financing deals floating around -- Jeff the Biz or Jason at QEW Mazda are the guys to talk to.

EDIT: The clunky suspension (endlinks) drive me nuts. And I've replaced both rear shocks in the last year. They are known to blow out fast. Other than that, the car has been super reliable and is a hoot to drive. Especially with a few little mods ;)

[Cab0oze]

No issues with mine starting on really cold days. The suspension squeak is nothing but an annoyance IMHO. 1-2 shift in the cold was kinda grindy, but a rear motor mount and switching to synthetic tranny fluid fixed that for me. Double clutching also works.



I bought my 07 used in August of um... 2009. Thinking back on it, I kinda wish I got the 08.5. I normally try to avoid the first generation of anything, but it was a good deal and I saved quite a bit of money over an 08.5 (and I needed a car fast because I blew the transmission on my Mustang). The 08.5's also have an mp3 cd deck from the factory, whereas the 07's do not. It's not a big deal really, but is a very big preference for me.


120,000kms and no rust here. Original owner rustproofed it as did I when I got it. Wash it quite religiously.

That all being said, it's 2011... If I were in your shoes, I'd be trying to find an elusive low km 2009 MS3. Failing that, an 08.5. Skip the 07's. Try to find a low km car that hasn't been modded. (Easier said than done I'm sure).

There have been a few members on here selling their rides, I know of at least two that were really well taken care of that would have been worth buying.

If you want to look into buying new, there might be financing deals floating around -- Jeff the Biz or Jason at QEW Mazda are the guys to talk to.

EDIT: The clunky suspension (endlinks) drive me nuts. And I've replaced both rear shocks in the last year. They are known to blow out fast. Other than that, the car has been super reliable and is a hoot to drive. Especially with a few little mods ;)Wow, thanks for all the feedback! All the 2009s for sale here in QC at least are pearl white and I really had my heart set on arrest me red. Plus the paint is cheaper if I ever need to get things repainted.
I also don't want to buy new, because I'm not a fan of the 2010 grins. I saw a few people (i.e. Mleblond i think) selling their speeds, I wish I had known I was buying earlier...

[mazidane]

I think there's a disproportionate amount of paranoia about the '07 Speed3's. Mine's fine. And with good winter tires it's very very good in the snow.

+1 only thing I will say is the hard1-2 shift and clunky suspension (over uneven pavement, not as noticeable on the highway) when its gets proper cold outside.


No issues with mine starting on really cold days. The suspension squeak is nothing but an annoyance IMHO. 1-2 shift in the cold was kinda grindy, but a rear motor mount and switching to synthetic tranny fluid fixed that for me. Double clutching also works.

+1 same here.




I bought my 07 used in August of um... 2009. Thinking back on it, I kinda wish I got the 08.5. I normally try to avoid the first generation of anything, but it was a good deal and I saved quite a bit of money over an 08.5 (and I needed a car fast because I blew the transmission on my Mustang). The 08.5's also have an mp3 cd changer from the factory, whereas the 07's do not. It's not a big deal really, but is a very strong preference for me. The 2007's may be the first gen Speed3 but you could say some of the parts e.g. engine had already been in production (although ours produce less hp/torque) and in use with the Speed6's. I have to admit I don't know if Speed6s face similar issues to what early first gen Speed3s do?



Wash it quite religiously. +1 especially in winter to get salt stains off.

[justblaze]

I think were also forgetting that the 2007 Mazdaspeed3 took the #1 rating from Consumer Report over the GTI. I believe that it got the highest rating of any car that year if I remember correctly. I used to have that issue, but have seemed to have misplaced it. Check out their site. Had an '07 now on to a '10, haven't had any problems.:D

[justblaze]

I think were also forgetting that the 2007 Mazdaspeed3 took the #1 rating from Consumer Report over the GTI. I believe that it got the highest rating of any car that year if I remember correctly. I used to have that issue, but have seemed to have misplaced it. Check out their site. Had an '07 now on to a '10, haven't had any problems.:D

Except the 1-2 crappy shift.

[Elusivellama]

The presence (or lack) of preventative rust treatment such as Krown also makes a big difference whether a car develops rust or not. It's not 100% guaranteed protection, but it's better than untreated metal exposed to salt and the elements.

[horto]

I think there's a disproportionate amount of paranoia about the '07 Speed3's. Mine's fine. And with good winter tires it's very very good in the snow.

you know, i kind of agree... maybe i'm just lucky but my car is blessed with normal AFRs, long term / short term fuel trims, fuel pressure, and no zoom zoom boom.

maybe zoomzoomboy is right - "horsepower has this tendency to break things. If you're not breaking anything you're not going fast enough."

then again... maybe i just jinxed myself.

[Kris"Speed3"CWP]

Lucky you in Montreal, I have gen 2 with nokian hakapalita's and they are awesome!! Just wish I could of got the hakapalita's 5's with stud but they are illegal in Ontario. Good luck getting the ms3 you want!

[gotak]

The 2010 speed 3 is the first manual car I drive daily. Previously had a couple weeks occasionally driving a mini S. It's not bad in snow with winter tires. Yes you have to be light and AWD cars are going to zoom away from you from a red light. But stopping and turning should be fine. Although, not too sure about the turning part due to my particular (falken EPZ) winter tires being pretty shit on turn in when on snow. On ice everything's hooky dory. Including the time I pull into my GF's driveway at dry road speeds, got out and promptly fall down due to ice. Just drive carefully and you'll be ok. As this is your first manual car you'll drive pretty carefully until you get used to shifting anyhow. And yeah that 1-2 shift is pretty annoying. The gear box really isn't as good for such a car as it should be and you have to take you time when shifting.

As for the first generation. Any reasons why you aren't considering the new generation? It's stupid fast around corners (note, get cargo nets to stop things from flying around the trunk) and has a lot of features. My friend has the first generation and he's pretty jealous that his car cames with nothing vs my car.

[Cab0oze]

Gotak, reason I was going with the first Gen, is for 3 reasons:
1) I found the 2nd gen was a lot more difficult to see over the hood
2) I hate the grin
3) Its about $10k more!

Really glad I posted here, you guys are way more helpful than those @ mazda3quebec, and a lot more relevant feedback than mazda3forums since most of the people there live down south and know nothing about real cold weather lol
I'm heading over to the dealership tomorrow to check out the speed3 I plan on getting, I really hope that I find out it has a few bonuses like hood protection and rust protection...
Whenever I get it and get comfortable with the stick, I'm going to head down to TO and pay some friends, and Nextmod a visit haha :D

If anyone else has any thoughts on the subject, feel free to throw it out there

[Unoriginalusername]

don't forget about the blown shocks. Outside of the chance of a blown engine, smoking turbo, lose motor mount (which should have been recalled already), the shocks and maybe some occasional rust the first gen ms3 is a great car. If it hasn't been molested by the first owner and you don't go crazy with mods you will be fine. not everyone experienced these problems.

[horto]

If it's used, ask the SERVICE MANAGER if the previous owner had the MAP extended warranty on the vehicle. You can transfer it over to yourself for a $50 fee and inherit the remainder of the warranty. Then you don't have to buy your own extended warranty for $X thousand dollars. (Mind you, the sales guy and financing guy will probably try and sell you one anyway, which is why I say ask the service manager. Or grab the VIN and call up a friendly Toronto mazda dealer service dept to ask).

Good luck.




I'm heading over to the dealership tomorrow to check out the speed3 I plan on getting, I really hope that I find out it has a few bonuses like hood protection and rust protection...
Whenever I get it and get comfortable with the stick, I'm going to head down to TO and pay some friends, and Nextmod a visit haha :D

If anyone else has any thoughts on the subject, feel free to throw it out there

[gotak]

Gotak, reason I was going with the first Gen, is for 3 reasons:
1) I found the 2nd gen was a lot more difficult to see over the hood
2) I hate the grin
3) Its about $10k more!


Really glad I posted here, you guys are way more helpful than those @ mazda3quebec, and a lot more relevant feedback than mazda3forums since most of the people there live down south and know nothing about real cold weather lol
I'm heading over to the dealership tomorrow to check out the speed3 I plan on getting, I really hope that I find out it has a few bonuses like hood protection and rust protection...
Whenever I get it and get comfortable with the stick, I'm going to head down to TO and pay some friends, and Nextmod a visit haha :D

If anyone else has any thoughts on the subject, feel free to throw it out there

Rust protection in the form of the oil spray you get every year is a better choice. The waxy stuff that dealers do as a apply once service sometimes works and sometimes don't.

The grin lol. I think you get used to it. Plus it's the inside that one sees the most of one's car. When I look at the exterior I am only checking for people dinging me at parking lots etc.

The 10k more is the big deal I guess. But you do get more kit.

[Cab0oze]

Yeah, I was planning on getting it sprayed.

SOO I went to the dealership today - the car is in PERFECT condition. Perfect. Its priced at $19k for 40,000km, but I found a mispriced one at a subaru dealership that was the same except pearl white for $18k. I tried to use that as leverage to get a lower price, and the guy actually let me walk out of the dealership with zero argument - said other people were coming to look at it this weekend that were ok with paying full price. Dunno what to make of that =/ Really dont want to let it slip away because its 5 thousand cheaper than similar speeds at other dealerships in QC. I also don't want to have to settle for a white speed haha

[Tokay444]

Tell him I got mine for 16000

[Sean80]

Just do it! I bought an '07 last year and it's been awesome. It's fine to drive in the winter and it's a good DD. The biggest thing you will notice is the amount you will spend on gas. So if you drive a lot that is something to think about. Do your homework and make sure you drive and maintain the car properly and you will be fine. A lot of the blown engines and what not are most likely a result of heavy modding combined with abusive driving.

[mleblond]

I like when you get people saying, "make sure it's not molested" or "don't mod it" or "don't drive it hard". If you don't drive it hard then why buy it in the first place? You're buying a turbo car that was publicized as a fast driving car. What do you think the previous owner did? You think he drove it to 3500rpm and shifted?

I sold mine for 14k, dealer would of gave me 12k for an 07 with 110km. you would be stupid to paid 19k for a gen 1 IMHO

try this, call up a dealer, give them the specs of the car and ask what they would give you for it? Or better yet check this site: http://www.vmrcanada.com/ they would give a max 17k retail value and you're willing to pay 19k? Odds are they got it off an auction for cheap and making a good margin on YOU.

My advice get a 08.5 or 09, and be ready to deal with whatever problems you end up getting. And don't be set on one car, if it sells I am sure you'll find another one!

[Cab0oze]

I like when you get people saying, "make sure it's not molested" or "don't mod it" or "don't drive it hard". If you don't drive it hard then why buy it in the first place? You're buying a turbo car that was publicized as a fast driving car. What do you think the previous owner did? You think he drove it to 3500rpm and shifted?

I sold mine for 14k, dealer would of gave me 12k for an 07 with 110km. you would be stupid to paid 19k for a gen 1 IMHO

try this, call up a dealer, give them the specs of the car and ask what they would give you for it? Or better yet check this site: http://www.vmrcanada.com/ they would give a max 17k retail value and you're willing to pay 19k? Odds are they got it off an auction for cheap and making a good margin on YOU.

My advice get a 08.5 or 09, and be ready to deal with whatever problems you end up getting. And don't be set on one car, if it sells I am sure you'll find another one!Thanks man, good advice. Problem is that I AM set on getting red, and there are only 2 decent 08.5+ red speed3s for sale in all of quebec haha. Well that makes me feel better about waiting, they're supposed to call me back tuesday and let me know if they're willing to deal, and I'll see what I can do from there :)

[horto]

find one in the GTA and i'll drive it out to you... but you pay fuel and beer for a weekend partying in montreal :)



Thanks man, good advice. Problem is that I AM set on getting red, and there are only 2 decent 08.5+ red speed3s for sale in all of quebec haha. Well that makes me feel better about waiting, they're supposed to call me back tuesday and let me know if they're willing to deal, and I'll see what I can do from there :)

[Blkoutspd3]

Mine has 0 rust, no clunking or anything. Mines at 62,000 kms. It never been winter driven though....owner before me babied it.

[Zoom Zoom Boy]

I like when you get people saying, "make sure it's not molested" or "don't mod it" or "don't drive it hard". If you don't drive it hard then why buy it in the first place? You're buying a turbo car that was publicized as a fast driving car. What do you think the previous owner did? You think he drove it to 3500rpm and shifted?

I sold mine for 14k, dealer would of gave me 12k for an 07 with 110km. you would be stupid to paid 19k for a gen 1 IMHO

try this, call up a dealer, give them the specs of the car and ask what they would give you for it? Or better yet check this site: http://www.vmrcanada.com/ they would give a max 17k retail value and you're willing to pay 19k? Odds are they got it off an auction for cheap and making a good margin on YOU.

My advice get a 08.5 or 09, and be ready to deal with whatever problems you end up getting. And don't be set on one car, if it sells I am sure you'll find another one!

+1. Amen. Hallelujah and all that crap...

[Zoom Zoom Boy]

find one in the GTA and i'll drive it out to you... but you pay fuel and beer for a weekend partying in montreal :)

Club Des Super Sex TM3 roadtrip?

1. Horto
2. Zoom Zoom Boy
3.
4.
5.
6.

[horto]

w00t!!! and shawarma!!

[Blkoutspd3]

Club Des Super Sex TM3 roadtrip?

1. Horto
2. Zoom Zoom Boy
3. Blkoutspd3
4.
5.
6.
Ill gladly do it....havnt drank in a while. I could use a broo haha.

[Scottobot]

If you don't drive it hard then why buy it in the first place? ... What do you think the previous owner did? You think he drove it to 3500rpm and shifted?


I shift at 3k rpm day to day. I only really open it up on special occasions. Those special occasions are why I bought the car. :)

Just sayin', babied Speed3's are out there.

[Tokay444]

Club Des Super Sex TM3 roadtrip?
1. Horto
2. Zoom Zoom Boy
3. Tokay444
4.
5.
6.

[Cab0oze]

Club Des Super Sex TM3 roadtrip?
1. Horto
2. Zoom Zoom Boy
3. Tokay444
4.
5.
6.Yeaaah guys, thatd be awesome :D I'd love to hang out with some mazda guys who actually speak english!!!
On a sidenote, there are WAY better strip clubs than super sex, all of the ones in downtown montreal are tourist traps IMO

Horto- problem with getting one in the GTA is that I cant check it ahead of time :P

[Tokay444]

You've got enough guys in the know that would be able to help you find a perfect example.

[Cab0oze]

I just looked on autotrader/craigslist for all of ontario and came up empty handed =/
If someone knows of a good one <55,000km <$20,000, 2008.5+ in white or red, post away

[Cab0oze]

gah i hate this no edit bs. I meant to say kijiji, not craigslist. Craigslist sucks

[mazidane]

If someone knows of a good one <55,000km <$20,000, 2008.5+ in white or red, post away

Thats some tough criteria, closest one I've seen to what you want is this but you may have already seen it:

http://www.autotrader.ca/a/Mazda/Mazdaspeed3/MISSISSAUGA/Ontario/19_3579220_/

Here is a 2009 in what seems to be Metro Gray:

http://toronto.kijiji.ca/c-cars-vehicles-cars-trucks-2009-Mazda-Mazda3-MAZDASPEED3-Hatchback-W0QQAdIdZ266337058

Just below $21000 but apparently only about 29K on the car includes winter rims and tires.

I'm thinking you might have to be a bit more flexible with your criteria :)

[Cab0oze]

Thats some tough criteria, closest one I've seen to what you want is this but you may have already seen it:

http://www.autotrader.ca/a/Mazda/Mazdaspeed3/MISSISSAUGA/Ontario/19_3579220_/

Here is a 2009 in what seems to be Metro Gray:

http://toronto.kijiji.ca/c-cars-vehicles-cars-trucks-2009-Mazda-Mazda3-MAZDASPEED3-Hatchback-W0QQAdIdZ266337058

Just below $21000 but apparently only about 29K on the car includes winter rims and tires.

I'm thinking you might have to be a bit more flexible with your criteria :)Thanks for looking :)
The first one is is only a 2008, so its a bit overpriced. If I was going to get a 2007-2008, I would buy this one since it is in perfect condition, was well maintained, is in qc and looks great:
http://i319.photobucket.com/albums/mm464/patbarrette/Mazdasped3_FS/SDC10230.jpg

The second one sounds good, but there's no pictures, which always makes me not trust the car ad.

re: my criteria, I'm just saying that because when I bought my mz3 I got an older one with more km and i regretted it. I baby my cars, and without knowing how well the first owner took care of it (probably not at all), I would rather it have very low KMs, and be as new as possible (so if no rustproofing was done, its not too late!)

[Cab0oze]

Sorry for double posting, but these are the two I'm shooting for:
First one is my negotiating method, second one is the one I want:
[ Negotiating method (http://www.subarubrossard.com/used/Mazda/2008-Mazda-Mazda3-2793360f0a0a006400ce623fe020c4af.htm) ] (mislabeled speed at a subie dealership)

[ The one I want (http://www.mazdafairview.com/en/used/2008-mazda-3-speed/3777542/) ]

[Sean80]

I like when you get people saying, "make sure it's not molested" or "don't mod it" or "don't drive it hard". If you don't drive it hard then why buy it in the first place? You're buying a turbo car that was publicized as a fast driving car. What do you think the previous owner did? You think he drove it to 3500rpm and shifted?

I sold mine for 14k, dealer would of gave me 12k for an 07 with 110km. you would be stupid to paid 19k for a gen 1 IMHO

try this, call up a dealer, give them the specs of the car and ask what they would give you for it? Or better yet check this site: http://www.vmrcanada.com/ they would give a max 17k retail value and you're willing to pay 19k? Odds are they got it off an auction for cheap and making a good margin on YOU.

My advice get a 08.5 or 09, and be ready to deal with whatever problems you end up getting. And don't be set on one car, if it sells I am sure you'll find another one!

There is a big difference between driving hard and abusing your car. I normally do shift around 3000-3500rpm and only open it up from time to time. I get about 300kms for $55.00 in gas driving like that, I can only imagine how bad it would be boosting it all the time lol.

[gotak]

There is a big difference between driving hard and abusing your car. I normally do shift around 3000-3500rpm and only open it up from time to time. I get about 300kms for $55.00 in gas driving like that, I can only imagine how bad it would be boosting it all the time lol.

That's actually pretty bad gas mileage. I get about 500km for 55 bucks or so and my shifts are around 3k rpm. But I guess gen 1 didn't have boost gauges?

[Zoom Zoom Boy]

Even in regular boost, 375km-450km is the general average concensus for Gen 1 MS3 mileage on a full tank before the fuel low light comes on.

[Unoriginalusername]

Even in regular boost, 375km-450km is the general average concensus for Gen 1 MS3 mileage on a full tank before the fuel low light comes on.

I used to get 550-600 but i didn't drive it hard on a regular basis and i had mods which helped

[mleblond]

hahaha may as well install a turbo delete kit. Or trade it in for a Mazda 3 as you don't boost with 3k shifts...

Yeak 400km ish on full tank of premium gas is the average.

550-600km is hard to do and must be truly boring to drive...

[Tokay444]

I got 400 on a full tank from oakville to London and back with the cruise set at 140. Bone stock. Lol.

[Elusivellama]

You ever get your car all nice and warmed up, your shifter arm limbered and ready to go, then take an on-ramp to your favourite highway and get stuck behind a champagne corolla going 50?

FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU UUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU

[gotak]

hahaha may as well install a turbo delete kit. Or trade it in for a Mazda 3 as you don't boost with 3k shifts...

Yeak 400km ish on full tank of premium gas is the average.

550-600km is hard to do and must be truly boring to drive...

According to the gen 2 boost gauge you do get a decent amount of boost between 2.5k and 3k. The boost is on a lot more than people might suspect if you don't watch the gauge. Just that maybe not as felt as when you hit the higher RPMs.

[gotak]

You ever get your car all nice and warmed up, your shifter arm limbered and ready to go, then take an on-ramp to your favourite highway and get stuck behind a champagne corolla going 50?

FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU UUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU

Hardly happens. The trick is not to be an ******* and tail gate the corolla. You go slower than him on the curvy part of the ramp. Keep your RPM up past 3k and let space built for when the ramp straightens. Then boot it and merge quickly and you are pass said corolla.

[mleblond]

According to the gen 2 boost gauge you do get a decent amount of boost between 2.5k and 3k. The boost is on a lot more than people might suspect if you don't watch the gauge. Just that maybe not as felt as when you hit the higher RPMs.

you're telling me you get more than 10psi at 3krpm?

[gotak]

you're telling me you get more than 10psi at 3krpm?

I think it's over 5psi if you floor it at 3krpm. I can check later.

[Scottobot]

You ever get your car all nice and warmed up, your shifter arm limbered and ready to go, then take an on-ramp to your favourite highway and get stuck behind a champagne corolla going 50?

FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU UUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU

All the damn time, although for me it's usually a mini-van.

[Elusivellama]

Hardly happens. The trick is not to be an ******* and tail gate the corolla. You go slower than him on the curvy part of the ramp. Keep your RPM up past 3k and let space built for when the ramp straightens. Then boot it and merge quickly and you are pass said corolla.

Do you know the "FFFFFFFFFFFFUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU" meme? That's my point... not so much the hows and tricks/tips of booting it around the slowasses.

[Tokay444]

Hardly happens. The trick is not to be an ******* and tail gate the corolla. You go slower than him on the curvy part of the ramp. Keep your RPM up past 3k and let space built for when the ramp straightens. Then boot it and merge quickly and you are pass said corolla.

i like turning fast.
anyone can floor it in a straight line.

[Cab0oze]

Topic: MS3 Reliability
Post:

i like turning fast.
anyone can floor it in a straight line.

HAHAHA man this got so offtopic! Not that im complaining, this is great info. I'm clearly going to have to move closer to work, this 55km commute is not going to work out for me with that kinda gas mileage :P

[horto]

yeah right with a speed3 you'll do it in half the time ;)


HAHAHA man this got so offtopic! Not that im complaining, this is great info. I'm clearly going to have to move closer to work, this 55km commute is not going to work out for me with that kinda gas mileage :P

[Sean80]

My mileage is so bad because that 300km is about 3 weeks of putting around town on a cold motor to and from work, and running the defrost the whole time. If I'm on the highway I'll get 450-500kms in the summer.

[gotak]

i like turning fast.
anyone can floor it in a straight line.

What's the point of turning fast to get stuck behind a slow driver in the right lane of the highway and potentially in more danger because of people in the next on ramp wanting to merge? I can turn fast at other times like off ramps or on the curvy road my office's on (love seeing drivers of semi-sporty cars punch the gas to catch up with me post curves).


As for gas mileage for Can0oze. If you are doing 55km you are on the highway right? Providing it's not stop and go traveling at "unofficial speed limit" that's typical of the highway of heros I get 8 to 9 L/100 which is around 600 km per tank. So you should get much better than what some members are getting.

[Cab0oze]

What's the point of turning fast to get stuck behind a slow driver in the right lane of the highway and potentially in more danger because of people in the next on ramp wanting to merge? I can turn fast at other times like off ramps or on the curvy road my office's on (love seeing drivers of semi-sporty cars punch the gas to catch up with me post curves).


As for gas mileage for Can0oze. If you are doing 55km you are on the highway right? Providing it's not stop and go traveling at "unofficial speed limit" that's typical of the highway of heros I get 8 to 9 L/100 which is around 600 km per tank. So you should get much better than what some members are getting.

Good to hear.
Any recommended mods to improve fuel efficiency?

[Tokay444]

What's the point of turning fast to get stuck behind a slow driver in the right lane of the highway and potentially in more danger because of people in the next on ramp wanting to merge? I can turn fast at other times like off ramps or on the curvy road my office's on (love seeing drivers of semi-sporty cars punch the gas to catch up with me post curves).


As for gas mileage for Can0oze. If you are doing 55km you are on the highway right? Providing it's not stop and go traveling at "unofficial speed limit" that's typical of the highway of heros I get 8 to 9 L/100 which is around 600 km per tank. So you should get much better than what some members are getting.
Tl;dr
But I will tell you, 600kms a tank is NOT gonna happen.

[Nova 3 GT]

Hey Cab0oze, nice to see you here! ;) Follow your heart and get a red MS3. A MS3 is meant to be in red. :P

[Tokay444]

I may need to reneg my last post. I just switched from ultra94 to shell v-power, and my kilometreage has almost doubled. My best tank was a trip to London and back, which was 400kms and one full tank of 94. I filled up with v-power today and went driving. I'm at 382kms and two notches below half. I can't even believe it myself.

[TriniFyah7]

Even in regular boost, 375km-450km is the general average concensus for Gen 1 MS3 mileage on a full tank before the fuel low light comes on.

+1 that sounds about right

[gotak]

I may need to reneg my last post. I just switched from ultra94 to shell v-power, and my kilometreage has almost doubled. My best tank was a trip to London and back, which was 400kms and one full tank of 94. I filled up with v-power today and went driving. I'm at 382kms and two notches below half. I can't even believe it myself.

I went 388 km from my fiancee's place to buffalo and back, drove around in buffalo, plus my 15 k city drive from my house to my fiancee's and I still had a quater tank left with roughly 150 km left according to the trip computer. So if you drive it in a certain way this car can get quite good mileage. Useful considering fuel prices lately. They key seems to be to avoid the jack rabbit starts. Sure it's fun to feel the acceleration but if all it does is get you to the next red light faster, you are wasting some fuel for fun. I drive more sedately when in city traffic.

As for 94 vs v-power. That can happen I suppose. I believe 94 is achieved using a lot of ethanol which has a lower energy density than gasoline so per tank you just have less energy to move your car around. The v-power fuel is the only ethanol free fuel you can get in the city I think. Suppose to give you extra couple percent of energy density over regular 91 at other places. However, it's more likely you were just driving more fuel efficiently this time around.

[Tokay444]

That's just it. I wasn't driving any more efficiently than my highway trip to London and back. In fact I was driving less efficiently. I didn't use the cruise once, and my average speed on the computer was 130 km/h.

[gotak]

That's just it. I wasn't driving any more efficiently than my highway trip to London and back. In fact I was driving less efficiently. I didn't use the cruise once, and my average speed on the computer was 130 km/h.

I guess that's one thing to remember, avoid the 94 stuff.

[Tokay444]

Yeah man. I'm shocked and amazed at how much better it is.

[swales]

The v-power fuel is the only ethanol free fuel you can get in the city I think.

Not true anymore, there's ethanol in every bit of fuel sold in Ontario now.

[Cab0oze]

Hey Cab0oze, nice to see you here! ;) Follow your heart and get a red MS3. A MS3 is meant to be in red. :P

Hey man, nice to see you too!
I found a private sale on a 2008.5 Red MS3 with the extendend warranty for 20,000... Going to see if I can negotiate it at all. If I can, I may have found a winner :D

[Scottobot]

I guess that's one thing to remember, avoid the 94 stuff.

Not necessarily true. My car loved Ultra 94 and it was all I used until Sunoco closed up shop. I tried Shell based on what I've read on the forums but my car was noticeably less responsive. I switched to Petro Canada 91 and my car is much happier again. I guess the moral of the story is you should try a few tanks of several brands to see what suits you best.

[Tokay444]

Not true anymore, there's ethanol in every bit of fuel sold in Ontario now.

The v-power pump say no ethanol right on it.

[Zoom Zoom Boy]

Not necessarily true. My car loved Ultra 94 and it was all I used until Sunoco closed up shop. I tried Shell based on what I've read on the forums but my car was noticeably less responsive. I switched to Petro Canada 91 and my car is much happier again. I guess the moral of the story is you should try a few tanks of several brands to see what suits you best.

You know that a lot of the Petro Canada's still carry the former Sunoco Ultra 94 gas, right? Any of the former Sunoco stations that are now rebranded Petro Canada's should still have the 94.

I also agree. My car runs like shit on Shell V-power 91 and I don't hit the same boost targets running it. I only use the 94 Octane with ethanol unless I have to use the V-power. I could care less about fuel economy as I didn't buy this car to save money on gas.

[Scottobot]

You know that a lot of the Petro Canada's still carry the former Sunoco Ultra 94 gas, right? Any of the former Sunoco stations that are now rebranded Petro Canada's should still have the 94.

Yeah thanks I did know that, but I live in Brampton and most of the Sunoco's here converted to Husky. Also I'd rather just stick with the more widely-available 91, knowing I can always get it rather than roll the dice as to whether the next/nearest Petro-Canada would have Ultra 94 and having to flip/flop between 91 and 94 in my travels.. I'm fairly obsessive when it comes to consistency I guess. :)

[Zoom Zoom Boy]

Yeah thanks I did know that, but I live in Brampton and most of the Sunoco's here converted to Husky. Also I'd rather just stick with the more widely-available 91, knowing I can always get it rather than roll the dice as to whether the next/nearest Petro-Canada would have Ultra 94 and having to flip/flop between 91 and 94 in my travels.. I'm fairly obsessive when it comes to consistency I guess. :)

Lol. No worries. Just wasn't sure if you knew you could still get the 94. I'm lucky. Of the 3 Sunoco's that were converted here in Newmarket, only one became a Husky.

[Fobio]

there must be an app to locate 94...if not, can someone pls make one? Where is turok? dude actually regstered MS3.ca...

[Tokay444]

My trip computer is actually in the ballpark since the switch too. Also my average consumption on the computer matches my math.

[swales]

The v-power pump say no ethanol right on it.

That's the old signs (any new Shell pumps don't have that signage anymore), it's actually law in ON now to have ethanol in all gas.

[carbon3]

Where in Montreal are you? I was at Mazda on St-Johns in the West Island today, they have a red Mazdaspeed3 there with 40 000km, 2008.5 I think.

[Cab0oze]

Where in Montreal are you? I was at Mazda on St-Johns in the West Island today, they have a red Mazdaspeed3 there with 40 000km, 2008.5 I think.

I'm in ville st. laurent right now. Yeah, I was at fairview mazda... thats the one I'm looking at getting! (unless I can get a better deal on the exact same car thru a private sale, but the guys very stubborn about his price haha)

[horto]

what's the price?

[Cab0oze]

what's the price?

[ linky (http://montrealracing.com/forums/showthread.php?721259-Mazdaspeed3-2008.5-dernier-prix-*19900-*) ] I PMed him and he said for now the lowest hed go is 18,700, and since its a private sale its about 1200$ less in taxes

[Elusivellama]

That's the old signs (any new Shell pumps don't have that signage anymore), it's actually law in ON now to have ethanol in all gas.

Can you show us where this law is stated? Last I heard, it was ontario law to have an average of 5% ethanol across all grades offered at the pump. Bronze is 10%, Silver is 5%.. that makes 15%, which covers for Gold.

[fywdyl]

Can you show us where this law is stated? Last I heard, it was ontario law to have an average of 5% ethanol across all grades offered at the pump. Bronze is 10%, Silver is 5%.. that makes 15%, which covers for Gold.

I don't think averages work that way.... in your case, I'm assuming you're saying gold has 0%. So average would be (10 + 5 + 0)/3 = 7.5

Doesn't work out to 15% average....

[Elusivellama]

?

(10 + 5 + 0)/3 = (15)/3 = 5

5% average across all grades... so... it's like Bronze's 10% is covering for the 5% that would have gone into Gold. I also checked the MSDS sheets on the shell canada website, and none of the premium or shell V-power sheets say anything other than gasoline/benzene in the ingredient list.

[Tokay444]

Yeah, this station is brand new and states zero ethanol on the v-power.

[horto]

[ linky (http://montrealracing.com/forums/showthread.php?721259-Mazdaspeed3-2008.5-dernier-prix-*19900-*) ] I PMed him and he said for now the lowest hed go is 18,700, and since its a private sale its about 1200$ less in taxes


I just looked on autotrader/craigslist for all of ontario and came up empty handed =/
If someone knows of a good one <55,000km <$20,000, 2008.5+ in white or red, post away

Sounds like it meets your requirements. Comes with the MAP to boot. What's holding you back?

[fywdyl]

OOPS!!! I divided by 2... :blush

[Cab0oze]

Sounds like it meets your requirements. Comes with the MAP to boot. What's holding you back?

The guy didn't sherlock it, rustproof it, etc... comes with absolutely no extras. I'm still strongly considering it though. Since its the same as the dealership one i'm looking at, i'm going to see which one i can get for cheaper :)