Mazda BT-50 Problems

Just above the exhaust manifold.

There have been reports of problems with the BT-50 auto, rough shifting etc., which could be enough to put you off buying one.

Your engine will not fail if you use the correct specification of oil, even if it's not synthetic, but Mazda spokesman Tony Mee has the company line: "The specification does not indicate that the oil must be a 'synthetic' product, however . . . the Mazda recommended engine oil for BT-50 is a high quality 'synthetic' product that supports long-term engine durability and performance. The service schedule has been developed to ensure the long term durability and performance of the vehicle including all systems".

You need to know the all-up weight of the trailer with the three horses all your gear aboard. The horses alone weight 1500 kg, and the float is going to be 1500 to 2000 kg, so you need a vehicle capable of towing 3500 kg. There are a number on the market rated to tow that load, vehicles like the Holden Colorado, Mazda BT-50, Ford Ranger, Land Rover Discovery etc. You also need to be mindful of the Gross Combination Mass of the vehicle when you're going to tow at or near its maximum rating to ensure you don't exceed it.

Mazda spokeswoman Karla Leach has good news: "After reviewing the customer's case, we have refunded the cost of the driveshaft."

That's great news but no surprise on the Mazda front.

Mazda’s advice is probably on the money. Worn injectors are a common cause of a rattle on cold starts on common-rail diesel engines like you describe.

We haven't had any reports of this problem before. Take it to a dealer or a four-wheel drive specialist to sort out for you.

It's a diesel, so it's not pinging. I suspect it's the injectors rattling. Have a diesel mechanic check them for you.