Oil Color

[cx-7heaven]

Is it just me, or does everybodys oil turn black within a thousand miles? Mine has been doing that since I got the car. Now, I have smoking turbo, and Mazda wont warranty it, saying that the oil is black and "chunky" even though I run staright synthetic in it. I've changed it evry 5k just like the manual said to. Does somebody have a contact in Mazda who is a decision maker?

Thanks

[erhayes]

I presume you have evidence that the oil was changed. You kept dated receipts, either from an oil change place or oil & filter receipts when you did it. Mazda must prove that the turbo smoking was caused by "bad oil." If you have receipts call the local Mazda rep for your area and be prepared to offer up your records. My oil turns dark in a few thousand miles yet my UOAs are good. Black is relative and I usually wipe the dip-stick on a piece of white paper. I find what looks black is usually not when wiped on a white background. keep us informed. Ed

[marciano]

have there been alot of issues with this turbo problem? I see alot of posts on this problem.

[cx-7heaven]

I have turned in all the reciepts for my oil changes... every 5k/4-5 mos. They already have the records and are still denying it due to "collapsed filter/ black oil". When a turbo seal goes, it screws up the oil, everybody knows that. And the filter isnt collapsed, its twisted. BTW I only use puraltor pure 1 and valvoline synthetic oil. I have already spoken with the tech line rep and they still insist that I'm wrong. I have called the local news station.. we'll see where that goes, also gonna talk to the service mgr tomorrow.

[offset_98]

For that reason...is why only with my Mazda, I always take it to the dealer for service. Even oil changes. I learned my lesson when I was a Mazda customer service rep many many many years ago. That seemed to be how people how new turbos/engines/transmissions - is if they went to the dealer for maintenence. Go figure.

[erhayes]

Gads. Sorry to hear Mazdas stand on this. A slight twist in the filter cartridge is common and by Purolators comments, it does NOT compromise oil filtering. I think you may, no, must take this to a higher level and possibly even, to an attorney. I hope you still have retained or have copies of your receipts.

[BOOSTR]

Whatever you do cx-7heaven is do not give up. Its not surprising that the dealer and/or Mazda is trying to deny your warranty claim. Unfortunately, denial is a common business practice(not limited to auto) these days. Most people accept it and go away or believe that you must have either the selling dealer or another Mazda dealer change your oil. No where in your sales contract or warranty booklet does it state that is the case.

If if you wind up having to pay out of pocket cost initially do not let it go. Keep your oil and filter for evidence purposes. Obtain a UOA from Blackstone. Fight them legally and you can do it in smalls claims court w/o a lawyer. There is nothing that a lawyer can do for you that you cannot do for yourself. You just have to be prepared to fight and not give up. The burden of proof is on them. A simply no or denied is not sufficient to breach your warranty. Its that simple.

[offset_98]

Most people accept it and go away or believe that you must have either the selling dealer or another Mazda dealer change your oil. No where in your sales contract or warranty booklet does it state that is the case.

Correct. But take it from someone who used to take those phone calls...it sure as shit helps.