Mazda Problems

You have to believe that Mazda has beefed up the mechanical components that take the extra load of systems like the stop-start system, so there's no reason to believe they will wear out or fail faster than they would on a car without the system. That said, I wouldn't use it if it were fitted to my car, the fuel savings are so small it's hardly worth the trouble.

It could be the diesel particulate filter alerting you that it's doing its thing. DPFs regularly go through a regeneration process, and most do it while you're driving along without any real impact on the performance of the car.

You need to have an independent body repair person evaluate your car with the objective of determining the reason it's rusting. Graeme Cuthbert is one specialist who assists owners in resolving issues like yours. He can be contacted on 0422 444 335.

A lot of the new generation of common-rail diesels rattle cold, no matter the brand. They all use the same fuel-injectors, which appear to be the cause of the problem, and there doesn't appear there's much that can be done about it.

The feature is only really effective in heavy stop-start traffic where you can save fuel by not idling the engine while you're stopped. If the traffic isn't stopping and starting regularly the system doesn't have much impact on the economy. I would expect carmakers to beef up the starting system to ensure the more frequent use of components like starter motors doesn't lead to their premature demise. I would also expect them to have thoroughly durability tested cars with the feature to ensure there are no hidden issues of the sort you raise. On the cars and trucks I have driven with the feature I have always been concerned about the restarting when you need to move off, and you would want any delay to be minimal. The "gung-ho racing driver" behind you has the responsibility to avoid running into you, but I understand your concern.