Mazda Problems

I agree that it is not an acceptable situation, and believe she has good ground on which to claim a full refund. The car as delivered was clearly not fit for purpose, which is proven by the extended time that Mazda has taken in so unsuccessfully attempting to fix it. I would call in the ACCC.

The two cars you’ve selected are equally sound and reliable, and there are no issues to be concerned about when buying a used example. Either one would do what you want. The best course is to test drive each and decide which one you like best.

I wouldn't recommend the Polo, it requires the more expensive Premium unleaded, it's got the dual-clutch auto, which can be troublesome, and it will be more expensive to service. The Mazda 2 or the Toyota Yaris are better choices.

 There have been other reports of BT-50s and Rangers shutting down, but they can usually be restarted. The problem with that is that the problem doesn't exist when the car is taken to a mechanic to find the cause, but because yours wouldn't restart the mechanic might be able to identify the cause.

As you say, the choice is bewildering. All the models you have been looking would be suitable; you could also look at the Nissan X-Trail. I would go for either the Mazda CX-5 or the Kia Sportage, but that's not to say the others aren't worth considering. Why don't you go shopping and check each of them out to see how they fit your needs.

Diesels deliver their efficiency benefits best when on the open road, but it would still be more convenient for Uber use because they'd need to be refuelled less often than the petrol. The only thing I'd be concerned about re inner-city use would be the diesel particulate filter. If you only drive around the city, this probably wouldn't give the DPF the chance to cycle itself every now and again, which can lead to very costly repairs. If you do head out onto the motorway occasionally, this wouldn't be an issue. The new i30 is an excellent small hatch though, and I wouldn't hesitate recommending it.

I am not aware of a wind noise problem related to the fitting of weather shields. Were they Mazda weather shields, or were they aftermarket items? If your Mazda dealer supplied them, go back and tell them of your concern and ask them to fix it.

On average a 2012 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring would cost around $25,000, which makes yours a little expensive. But against the odometer reading is well below the average, which compensates for the higher asking price. If you have any doubts about the car have an RACV inspection done.

In order I would go for the i30, the Mazda 3, and the Golf, certainly if you value reliability highly, as you claim.