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.

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.

Unless you are buying a manual I would rule the Cruze out, the automatic is trouble in that model and not worth the risk. If you do but a Cruze I would choose the 1.8-litre engine. Others to think of are the Hyundai i30, Mazda 3, or Mitsubishi Lancer.

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.

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.

Virtually all of today’s automatic transmissions are ‘sealed for life’. That is, they are filled with fluid at the factory and never need checking or topping up with fluid. But the fluid does get hot and can be contaminated over time, so it’s a good idea to have the fluid changed regularly. Some auto transmission mechanics will say it should be done every 20,000 km or so, or every year, others will say something different. It is more important if a car has been used for towing, because the fluid comes under greater stress in that situation. But in your case, I would suggest you leave well enough alone and not worry about it.

There are locksmiths who can supply keys for the CX-5. You can find them online.