Mazda Problems

Mazda released a second-generation CX-5 in 2017 so the next model isn't expected for at least five years.

They are of a similar age, so there shouldn’t be much between them in terms of accumulated mileage. The SP25 is better equipped and sportier model, but I would still go for the Maxx being newer and a little cheaper.

Yes, no and maybe! Mazda has sold a heap of their compact SUV in Australia and they have generally been pretty good reliability-wise, though there has been an increasing number of manual transmission failures reported at between 50,000km and 75,000km. Disturbingly, these are reported to only be fixed by replacing the entire manual gearbox. There have also been questions raised over oil consumption in the Skyactiv petrol motors, and the longevity of steering racks.

You should be able to get an example of the current crop of large seven-seat SUVs for under $40k, and we recommend the Kia Sorento, Mazda CX-9, Toyota Kluger and Hyundai Santa Fe, in that order. 

You'll also be able to get a new mid-size SUV for well under that price, with Mitsubishi offering the base Outlander with seven seats for $29,990 drive away at the moment. 

You can also get the Honda  CR-V VTi-L for just under $40k and the Nissan X-Trail. Our pick would be the Honda, but bear in mind it lacks a lot of active safety equipment fitted standard to the other brands.

You should be running a 5W-40 oil.

Longer than an instant, less than an eternity. With proper care, including servicing, Mazda's popular Mazda3 model should last for several hundred thousand kilometres. Parts will wear out in that time, however, so don't think you won't have to get your mechanic to look after your car.

Without being able to see the paint problem it is difficult to be conclusive, but on the basis of what you have told us it is more likely to be the paint quality than bird droppings.

Your best course of action is to consult a paint specialist and have them make an independent assessment that you can submit to Mazda.

Use a trim removal tool to pop the trim cover behind the door handle so you can remove the screw there. Remove the Phillips head screw from the armrest. Starting at the bottom of the door panel, gently (but firmly) pull the door trim from the bottom and pop it out of its clips, working up. Lift the door panel up as you remove it, and then unclip the wiring from behind.

It is rated to tow 750 kg if the trailer doesn’t have any brakes, or 1600 kg if it does have brakes. The Passat diesel will also tow 750 kg with an unbraked trailer, but 1500 kg when the trailer has brakes. There are no major concerns with either of them.