Plastic Shield - Purpose/Replacement

[resler]

Recently, we purchased our new CX-7. The vehicle had been sitting for a couple of weeks outside on the lot with close proximity to a field. After about 300 miles, I noticed that the insulation on the plastic shield below engine compartment was half gone. Apparently, upon closer inspection, this was the result of a small field mouse. As I believed the problem to be one encountered at the dealership, I informed them and they agreed to provide me a new engine shield at dealer cost . . . $187.00. Now the big question, what is the purpose of the insulation and how in the world does a plastic shield cost $187.00. Unfortunately, the cost is not covered by warranty. Any thoughts?

 

[Z_Monzter]

Recently, we purchased our new CX-7. The vehicle had been sitting for a couple of weeks outside on the lot with close proximity to a field. After about 300 miles, I noticed that the insulation on the plastic shield below engine compartment was half gone. Apparently, upon closer inspection, this was the result of a small field mouse. As I believed the problem to be one encountered at the dealership, I informed them and they agreed to provide me a new engine shield at dealer cost . . . $187.00. Now the big question, what is the purpose of the insulation and how in the world does a plastic shield cost $187.00. Unfortunately, the cost is not covered by warranty. Any thoughts?

That is straight BS that I would not take if I was you. They need to replace it for free. If not you should call Mazda directly and file a complaint.

 

[02589]

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[resler]

Actually, I just noticed it in looking in the engine compartment, half of the insulation was turned back (white in color), the other half was intact (black in color). This led me to drop it down and take a look, that's when I noticed half was missing. I used some duct tape to keep the black covering over the plastic just so it wouldn't peel off. Unfortunately, they won't replace it for free, I was a bit shocked at $187 for plastic, come on, there can't be more than 10 or 20 bucks, if that, in cost. And, they thought it was a concession as regular price was $250.

 

[nopstnz]

Since this piece was missing 9not matter what did the damage) the dealer SHOULD pay for it. MNAO is just itching to find dealers who do not help customers appropiately. I would call the Customer Assistance Center 800-222-5500 and complain.

.02

 

[resler]

Just to put the finishing touch on the story . . . I contacted Mazda Customer Assistance, explained the problem, they immediately contacted the dealer service department, and, agreed to send me a $100 coupon which could be utilized for any parts/services. Very customer focused, and, I'll only be out about $87. So, all in all, good ending, I'm satisfied, and, I feel they really took care of the issue quickly.

 

[cruzdreamer]

To me it seems Mazda tries it's best to satisfy the customer. I just got a free extended powertrain warranty on my RX 8.....they must feel bad about the engine quirks....at least they are doing something. They are testing all the engines and if it does not pass we get new engines and if it does they are doing an ecu flash, spark plugs,battery, starter as possible fixes. My car has had some issues but they have always been there to work it out and never left me high and dry. I am pleased!! The Wankel just needs some tweaking and Mazda will have it down right.....now it has real life testing under it's belt for several years now.

 

[02589]

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[TheMAN]

it sounds to me that the car was parked there BEFORE you bought the car... now who's fault is that?

THEY should be paying it out of THEIR pockets... no warranty on this s***, mazda will just charge the dealer back

anyway, that plastic under the engine is essential to maintaining proper aerodynamics of the car while on the highway (thereby also keeping fuel economy in check)... also it helps direct air flow properly so that the cooling system works as intended

 

[resler]

Thanks for the feedback, and, yes, I still won't be exactly "thrilled" to spend $87 bucks, but, it's still better than $187, so yes I suppose they met me halfway, certainly better than what I would likely get with any other auto manufacturer. One last question . . . I understand the purpose of the heat shield but what does the insulation actually do, is it necessary, or should I just live without the half of the insulation currently missing and spend the $100 check on floor mats or whatever. Any thoughts?

 

[TheMAN]

instead of beating yourself over this issue, you *really* need to call the BBB if they do NOT pay for that shield... this is bulls***

 

[02589]

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[G-Papi]

You paid for a complete car, why not get the complete car you're paying for? Calling the BBB, or the AG just might get their attention.

BTW ~ you didn't say, have you done your survey yet?

 

[resler]

Yep, did the survey, noted the issue, haven't yet heard back regarding the survey so I called Customer Assistance directly. Actually, it is a middle ground approach, I mean they could have done nothing but they instead handled it professionally. The dealer as well has been great, I haven't had any experience other than this with the Service Dept but the entire Sales transaction was handled very well. So, I can't really see elevating the matter any further, I mean, heck, there may be other issues in the future, and, maintaining good relationships with the dealer is important. And, kudos to Customer Assistance, they did meet me halfway, certainly better than nothing, and, as in all issues, you don't always get everything you want, typically, you do meet halfway. Regardless, thanks to everyone for your comments, this is a great website.