Car repairs

[Anonymous]

So I'm a first-time car owner, and it seems like my car has had more than its share of problems. Bought a Mazda 6 in 2013 and have had to get wheel bearings replaced, gasket and seals replaced, and a brake light replaced (that one was easier than the others). Fortunately, it's all been covered by the manufacturers warranty, but with that running out soon it makes me worried about the cost of car ownership. Is this a normal? How often are cars supposed to break? And how much should I be budgeting for future car repairs?

[Anonymous]

No, that isn't normal.

I would start putting away $200 a paycheck (if you can swing it) and that will add up significantly before you know it. Tires are not cheap, for example.

[Anonymous]

Sounds like your car is a bit of a lemon... Start befriending a tech at the dealer (they can do work on the side) or finding a reliable independent shop - you do not want to take your car for service at the dealership past warranty. Are you still paying for the car? For how much longer (I assume longer than your soon expiring warranty)? I think if the vehicle requires substantial repair cost (say, 4-6 months worth of a comparable new car monthly payment), it's time to dump it?

[Anonymous]

I don't think I did any major repairs on my car (2005 subaru) the first few years. Repairs are killing me now though. I think I've spent 5k in the last 2 years.

[Anonymous]

If you can't do your own repairs get an extended warranty asap.

[Anonymous]

that's weird. I would be horrified at that many repairs so early on; then again, I only buy Hondas. I wouldn't buy a Mazda.

Find a good independent mechanic. The dealerships charge way too much.

[Anonymous]

Thanks for everyone's comments.

Bummed that our car seems to be a dud. We still have a little over two years to pay off at 300 a month. My family has had good luck with Mazdas owning three that lasted for years with no problems.

Can anyone recommend a extended car warranty company?

[Anonymous]

Start making a huge stink with the dealer now about how many problems you have had, and ask them to extend your warranty. This car is a lemon and you should hold them accountable for it.

[Anonymous]

Good idea! Thanks.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Start making a huge stink with the dealer now about how many problems you have had, and ask them to extend your warranty. This car is a lemon and you should hold them accountable for it.

Waste of energy, they won't do it. Get a Toyota.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Thanks for everyone's comments.

Bummed that our car seems to be a dud. We still have a little over two years to pay off at 300 a month. My family has had good luck with Mazdas owning three that lasted for years with no problems.

Can anyone recommend a extended car warranty company?

Here is one list. It's definitely cheaper to get them aftermarket than to sign up for them at a car dealer at time of purchase.

http://www.consumeraffairs.com/auto_warranty/

You may be able to get one from your regular car or home insurance company, too. I'm pretty sure I've been offered them by State Farm.

[Anonymous]

OP where are you located and what dealership do you have your car serviced at? I know a mechanic who works for Mazda in Arlington.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Start making a huge stink with the dealer now about how many problems you have had, and ask them to extend your warranty. This car is a lemon and you should hold them accountable for it.

Waste of energy, they won't do it. Get a Toyota.

No, don't. My 4runner's wheel bearings went up in two years as well.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:OP where are you located and what dealership do you have your car serviced at? I know a mechanic who works for Mazda in Arlington.

Does anyone know where the mechanics from the now closed Rosenthal Mazda in Arlington went? They were the only team I trusted with my car.

[Anonymous]

I would also contact Mazda directly and file a complaint even if the warranty covered the work. That way you at least have started a paper trail for the next big thing that goes wrong. I had head gasket issues with a Subaru and had to pay for it out of pocket. I contacted Subaru and they worked with the dealer to get me a discount.