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racyj23

Hi there
I'm looking (like many others it would appear) for a Station Wagon that is reliable and efficient. From what I've found on this site, a Madza 6 wagon ticks a lot of boxes, which suits me as I currently have a Madza 3 and love it.
I've found a 2006 NZ New Mazda 6 Wagon with 157000k's on it and they are asking $13999 - is this reasonable? There is a 2007 Atenza with 65000k's for $12500 - do I go for lower k's or NZ new?
As far as I know there is no service history for either, although I will check for the NZ New.
Thoughts and advice gratefully received :)

Anon

The Mazda 6/Atenza is a good choice of wagon and has a good reputation. You should consider the lower mileage Atenza. The asking price seems rather good for the year and mileage. The only problem with Japan imports is that they do not normally have a service history but you can have it serviced when you purchase it and get a AA Pre-Purchase inspection carried out to ensure you are not buying a lemon. Try avoiding vehicles that have mileage above 150,000km if the budget allows for it.

racyj23

Thanks - both look like good vehicles, but I wasn't sure which aspect to prioritise, so thank you!
Will definitely get a pre-purchase inspection. Will let you know how I get on. Great service you have on here - I've learnt a lot in the past few weeks!

racyj23

So - I brought the Atenza conditional on pre purchase inspection - dealer has been great to deal with and very genuine. Turns out there is a major transmission fault - which the dealer was unaware of. The options available to us now are (which have been discussed with dealer):
a) return the vehicle for a full refund
b) fix the vehicle with the cost distributed between ourselves and the dealer
Are we better to wash our hands of it now, or have a car with a new transmission?
What would you advise in this situation?
Thanks

Anon

The dealer has done the right thing by giving you the option. If the transmission repair (overhaul) is carried out by a reputable gearbox specialist then this will be a good option as it should almost be like a new auto 'box when it's done. But if the dealer is planning on fitting a second hand unit or skimping on the repair then you should rather take the refund. I would imagine that the dealer will make alternative transport arrangements for you while the vehicle is being repaired.

It's a shame that you have had this happen as the Mazda 6/Atenza has a good reputation.