Originally Posted by
12tre
Well, after all that - we have a winner!
The car has been to the MAZDA dealer for the last 3 services (on distance rather than time as I drive high klms). All 3 I specifically identified the problem noise. Prior to the 3rd service I said it had to be engine mount, so I asked them to order one in as I was sure it would have to be replaced. The did the service and said there was nothing wrong with the engine mount I made them order.
I asked if they checked all the other engine, gearbox and transfer case mounts, to which I was told "They would have checked them all". So I left, expecting to be up for a gearbox and/or transfer case rebuild sooner rather than later.
1 month later I had the car in for 4 new tyres, and after fitting and balance, one of the fitters took the car for a lap around the block.
On his return, he lifted the bonnet and within 10 seconds said "Hey Boss, the engine mount on this is f**ked". Without removing any plastic or any tools other than a torch, he showed me the damaged & leaking mount under the battery.
Anyhoo, I told him about my wonderful experience with Mazda, and he spoke to a mate in Mazda to check if it could be claimed on warranty (unfortunately not - twas the other one that's been done a few times).
Turns out the tyre mob have a workshop as well.
I dropped the car in one morning, they inspected and also found the gearbox mount to be in 2 pieces (explains a lot). Ordered both parts (2 different dealers as no Brisbane dealer had both parts), fitted and finished by 4PM the same day. Legend!
It's like a new car. Gear shift was a bit stiff and rubbery initially, but it has worn in nicely now, and it now puts all the power to the ground without fuss, knock, whine, or other concerning noise.
Summary - that MAZDA dealer is NEVER seeing my car again, and NEVER selling me a car again.
The car will spend the rest of its days being serviced by the workshop attached to the tyre shop.
Although I am very tempted to name and shame the dealer, I will bite my tongue for the moment.
If however you are after tyres at a great price, with great service and a workshop that knows what they are doing, let me know.