Thinking about purchasing a 2008...

[DooMer_MP3]

Hey all. I used to post here a ton, but lately not so much. I currently still have my 2001 Mazda MP3. I'm looking at getting a new (used) car and until recently had the mindset "never a Mazda again". But lately I've been liking the Mazdaspeed 3, and the prices on 2007/2008 models.

In short, the MP3, when working perfectly was a great car. However, it was a maintenance nightmare. Swaybar bushing clunks, all kinds of suspension issues, rattles, bottom door sill and rear fender well rust (a common problem on MP3/P5). Basically after 5-6 years it became a pain in the ass.

So, how are these Mazdaspeed 3s in terms of quality and fit/finish? Are there suspension issues? Turbo/hesitation issues like the Mazdaspeed Protege had? Is the fit and finish pretty decent? Or is it a rattle box inside after a few years?

I'd just like to hear the good things, and most importantly any bad things!

Many Thanks!

 

[marashka]

I had an MSP before and overall find fit and finish quality on my 08 Speed better. With MSP i remember numerous dealer trips to fix rear bushings clunk and few other quality issues. The only problem i have with my speed 3 is a faulty thermostat that revealed itself within the first 3 month of my ownership. For almost 3 years since not a single issue. Key in keeping this car running reliably is proper maintenance and if you are into that - very thoughtful modification. I keep this car mostly stock aside from an intake, rear engine mount, and everything that is involved in gear shifting (bushings, lever, weight). Anything aside from that is cosmetic or something that would not affect cars overall reliability, such as HIDs, audio upgrades stc.
There were few interior rattles as expected on any car that is not hand made but those were easily fixed with the help of some research through this forum.
I heard my front suspension clunk on this car several times in the first year i drove it while going over bums with wheels turned only, but haven't heard it since so not concerned with that at all. No turbo hesitation or jerking to report. As a matter of fact i found this car to have less lag than most other turbo cars i drove.
I owned through my 13 year driving tenure around 15 cars ranging from supercharged miata to chevrolet caprice, getting bored with every car rather quickly and wanting to get rid of it. This car i have owned for jut over 3 years not and it still puts a smile on my face every time i get in. For the money you just can not get anything better IMO.

 

[iamslav3]

Based on the experience i've had so far owning an 08 MS3, now at 45,000 miles, i haven't had any serious issues. The speed 3 is a well built hatch, and you will notice once you drive one. There were some turbo issues with the 07 speed3's but it was fixed in the 08', 09' models. My suspension is still in good shape, and i have had Roadmagnet Springs for most of the mileage so far. I might need new shocks in the future, but that is expected down the road if you have springs on an MS3. No turbo issues but sometimes in cold weather the windshield will make noises and the passenger seat sometimes squeaks when someone is sitting in it and we are going over a bumpy road. If i were you i would get a 09 MS3
Anyway, this is a well built car for the price, you will get a lot of use out of the hatch and it's a very fun car to drive/mod-you will be happy (yes)

 

[SC_Mazda3]

I work at a mazda dealership and all I've seen is if you start messing with the boost you will have issues but other than that I've seen no issues

 

[Jon MS3]

if you considering a grand touring version, look to the 2008.5 and up. upgraded interior and some others. Look here and like said before, there are a couple rattles that are easily remedied, but other than that i have seen no issues (knock on wood) aside the crappy bose system. bought it new and put on 25k miles so far. good luck with the search and decision

 

[SKiZ0TT]

if you considering a grand touring version, look to the 2008.5 and up. upgraded interior and some others. Look here and like said before, there are a couple rattles that are easily remedied, but other than that i have seen no issues (knock on wood) aside the crappy bose system. bought it new and put on 25k miles so far. good luck with the search and decision

+1 for the 08.5, paino black and the alcantara seats are very nice! Much better than the grey..

 

[spdjnke]

mine is up for sale now....08.5 CWP.

 

[Jon MS3]

There you go! keeping it in the family