Mazda Problems

It might be annoying, but that appears to be the answer. The trouble is there's no suggestion that you can do anything about it. Try talking to Mazda again and asking for a solution to the problem. Also talk to Apple, to see what they might suggest.

The CarsGuide crew, among others, have highlighted road noise as a rare negative on a classy car that's also been a long-term favourite with Australian buyers.

Just because a new car is better than the old model does not make it right, as I've discovered from a flood of Mazda3 owner complaints.

In Mazda's defence the SP25 GT does have sports suspension which will transmit more noise, but we're hearing more complaints and hope that Mazda has addressed the noise issue when the Mazda3 is updated later this month.

The 2005 Mazda Tribute had either a 2.3-litre four-cylinder engine or a 3.0-litre V6, both of which had timing chains. They don't normally require changing. The only reason you might change the chain was if it was worn and/or noisy. If it's a 2.3-litre four-cylinder engine it's likely to cost around $2000, if it's a V6 it's going to be closer to $3500.

While I imagine that it's possible to modify the electronics to do what you want, I doubt it's as simple as you seem to think. To do it now on a 2012 isn't something I imagine Mazda would be interested in. Perhaps you could take it to an auto electrician and see if they could do it for you.

Before you make an expensive car switch, try changing to a quieter tyre. You don't say which model Mazda3 you have, but some sportier versions have aggressive tread for grip and they can generate quite a lot of noise including drumming from the rear. Otherwise, I've just driven the all-new Honda Civic and it's very quiet and comfy.

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.

There have been reports of transfer case failure in the CX-9, due to poor lubrication as a result of the oil deteriorating over time. In the USA Mazda increased the warranty to cover the cost of repairs to the transfer case for vehicles produced between 2009 and 2013. The company said it was a result of driving under high load, like towing, or on low-grip surfaces, which caused increased oil temperature. The warranty coverage was increased to nine years. The deal you have been offered isn't a bad one, for $500 you're getting a new transmission, but if you want to take it further you'll need to negotiate with Mazda directly.