Mazda 3 2.2 D Sport 185ps 13 plate- opinions?
Discussion
I recently bought myself a '10 plate of these and love it. I meticulously researched it and will share all I can. 
Visibly, there is not much to look for except maybe worn tyres, particularly at the front from the high torque which might be a bargaining chip if your lucky.
Check the oil level and make sure it isn't at the X mark as this is a telltale sign of the DPF regens not being allowed to complete and dumping the fuel back into the sump, if it's high, it is probably in need of a good run and/or oil change.(Make sure it's low SAPS C1 grade!) Check the oil tank cap for grime or dirty looking deposits - another sign for an oil change.
Being a '13, you might get lucky and be able to see it's first MOT history online, always a great source of knowledge on how it's been treated.
Phone Mazda and ask if the car has had its timing chain checked as there were a few unofficial recalls of them becoming stretched. This was apparently only with early models though but best to be sure.
As for running the car it is known for frequent active regens which are very easily recognised when you know what to look for.
The current MPG figures will plumit
Your idle speed is well over 750RPM
Your exhaust suddenly sounds like a Subaru (no joking...) And lasts 10 minutes depending on driving. If you notice any of these, don't stop and take it for a brisk high RPM run on a fast road.
The car has a typical diesel startup sound but once on the move, is a nicely refined hum with a quite hypnotic turbo worble. It's mid range torque is very impressive.
MPG figures on this car are as always, a little optimistic. I have been purposely giving the car a good workout to clean out the engine from the previous owners low mileage and have gotten about 40-45 MPG.
I had my car serviced soon after getting it and the garage had recently acquired a BG engine cleaner system which they were very proud of and for the tune of £180~, cleaned out the EGR valve, DPF and everything between with a mixture of forced air induction/oil and fuel additives and so far, seems to make it feel a little smoother but truth be told I only did it to help prevent future issues.
If you want to change the OEM battery like I did, you will quickly learn that every battery finder site will tell you a different answer so will save you the hassle and say that a Bosch 335 WILL fit, you just need to cut the plastic wrap around cover of the holder and move the cables coming from the fuse box for it to sit on.
Hopefully some of these tips will help you
Visibly, there is not much to look for except maybe worn tyres, particularly at the front from the high torque which might be a bargaining chip if your lucky.
Check the oil level and make sure it isn't at the X mark as this is a telltale sign of the DPF regens not being allowed to complete and dumping the fuel back into the sump, if it's high, it is probably in need of a good run and/or oil change.(Make sure it's low SAPS C1 grade!) Check the oil tank cap for grime or dirty looking deposits - another sign for an oil change.
Being a '13, you might get lucky and be able to see it's first MOT history online, always a great source of knowledge on how it's been treated.
Phone Mazda and ask if the car has had its timing chain checked as there were a few unofficial recalls of them becoming stretched. This was apparently only with early models though but best to be sure.
As for running the car it is known for frequent active regens which are very easily recognised when you know what to look for.
The current MPG figures will plumit
Your idle speed is well over 750RPM
Your exhaust suddenly sounds like a Subaru (no joking...) And lasts 10 minutes depending on driving. If you notice any of these, don't stop and take it for a brisk high RPM run on a fast road.
The car has a typical diesel startup sound but once on the move, is a nicely refined hum with a quite hypnotic turbo worble. It's mid range torque is very impressive.
MPG figures on this car are as always, a little optimistic. I have been purposely giving the car a good workout to clean out the engine from the previous owners low mileage and have gotten about 40-45 MPG.
I had my car serviced soon after getting it and the garage had recently acquired a BG engine cleaner system which they were very proud of and for the tune of £180~, cleaned out the EGR valve, DPF and everything between with a mixture of forced air induction/oil and fuel additives and so far, seems to make it feel a little smoother but truth be told I only did it to help prevent future issues.
If you want to change the OEM battery like I did, you will quickly learn that every battery finder site will tell you a different answer so will save you the hassle and say that a Bosch 335 WILL fit, you just need to cut the plastic wrap around cover of the holder and move the cables coming from the fuse box for it to sit on.
Hopefully some of these tips will help you
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