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Hello, my 2008 MZ5 has audible suspension squeaking with any movement, forward/backward or up/down (bumps). The squeaks sound like rubber, so my gut says suspension bushings. The other threads on bushings are about squeaking in cold weather, and since mine only squeaks in warm temps (over 72 F)...

Twintrbo, the MS3 bar does improve handling by making the car more neutral and lessening body lean. Anti-roll bars have nothing to do with fore-aft weight distribution, the only factor there are the springs. Rear-weight bias with soft rear springs causes the springs to compress with the always...

To the original poster, while I do think the OE Toyos are junk, I agree with you that my Mazda5 is the worst fwd car I have had for winter. The problem, as you state, is more in initial starting on any slippery surface, especially when turning (like making a turn onto a new street) or on an...

Appearance preference is the only answer. That set-up will add a lot of unsprung weight (decreasing acceleration) and the increase in tire in the back will increase understeer. But, that's the cool thing about cars, we can do what we want to make them our own.

I have an all leather shift knob from a Mitsubishi EVO. It looks the one in your link but it does not seem to be significantly heavier than stock, but much better in feel and richens up the cabin.

Stock sizes are: F-21mm, R-20mm I found this by using the search function. Lots of great info to be found on this site.

Summit is only showing the FSD for the Mazda3. Are they ordering the 5 version for you? Also, what PRO account are you referring to?

Just trying to help, but the water displacement qualities negate any lasting lubricating qualities of the very light and very small percentage of mineral oil in the product. I worked for a lock manufacturer and I cannot count the number of people who ruined their locks by spraying WD-40 into...

Just an FYI - WD-40 is NOT a lubricant. The WD stands for water displacement. WD-40 will initially free things up to move better, but it will remove the lubricant (grease or oil) that is needed. Please do not use WD-40 as a lubricant, you can do some damage when you do not intend to.

Thanks for adding the real world perspective. Well written. As a former PRO Rally racer, SCCA road racer and sometime Solo II competitor living in a place with less than perfect roads, I agree with keeping ride height stock, and keeping with 17" wheels. I have a MS3 rear anti-roll bar to install...

FWIW, I have never traded a car. I always sell mine privately, each one has sold to the first person looking. The key is knowing the local value, keeping service records and making it presentable for potential buyers. With the internet, it is easier than ever to sell privately. I have had...

Right, even though the '09 is new, its a year old car and should/could be purchased for below invoice. Its been sitting on the lot for a while and the dealer wants to sell '10s, not year old '09s as new.

Here are some links. These are Mazda dealers who have figured out that some businesses do business online. Personally, a dealer that wants $635 to install half of what you can get on your own and install at home for about $300, is not a dealer I would give my business to...

I totally agree. On a smaller FWD, a bigger rear bar does a really nice job of reducing the built in understeer and bringing the car towards neutral. I have had many VWs and one Honda with all with a larger rear bar added. Its a great way to improve the handling with no affect on the ride of...

Thanks for the reply. I was planning on getting a wheelskins leather cover, but maybe I should check for a complete wheel.

Reach underneath, grab the sway bar and check for play. If the bushings are shot and the bar is moving, it could be making a clunking sound. Or bring it to an independent mechanic or tire shop for a second opinion and quote. The dealer techs are probably less experienced and skilled and dealers...

laredotexas, did you install a leather cover on your steering wheel? If so, which one did you get? I agree, nice wheels.

Agree about the lack of side moldings. I think it needs that as a character line to break up the big side panel. Most importantly, are they still offering a manual transmission in the 5 for 2010?

You can get them new from dealers with online parts stores. Here are some I found: http://www.mazdastuff.com/product.cfm?ProductID=2722 http://www.trademotion.com/partlocator/index.cfm?action=MorePartInfo&PartID=538815&siteid=214264&catalogid=5733...

Don't assume just because someone has a low number of posts on this website that they have a small knowledge base. The number of posts has nothing to do with the amount of research someone has done or the experience they have with fwd Mazdas or other cars which may be applicable here. Look at...