Looking For Advice/Input

[dj4monie]

I currently have a 2003 Dodge Neon SRT-4 Stage 3R. It has been involved in an accident and needs repairs which have started. Without getting into my issues with insurance companies and the like, the main problem is I work as a courier full time and at a auto parts store part time. I need my car for the courier work. I originally pressed my SRT-4 into service with the idea of buying something stylish and affordable to take over near future.

After looking around and considering my credit, it looks like I'm limited to used car. So I'm looking at and seriously considering a P5 5 speed.

I would like to know what things I should look out for in a Mazda with high mileage.

My general problem based on experience with my own car (Neons in general) and Mazdas is replacement parts can be a challenge to get at affordable prices, it seems your paying a premium for parts from one of the smaller OEM's in Japan.

But I'll accept that because the P5 fills needs I wanted filled by a used car for courier work, long distance driving (SRT-4 doesn't have cruise control), sporty, fun to drive and stylish, which the P5 is.

Thanks

[alexelie]

p5 is a good car, some rattles here and there, some rusts around the wheel well, not powerful at all. 5 speed is fun. car handling is nice.

[dj4monie]

p5 is a good car, some rattles here and there, some rusts around the wheel well, not powerful at all. 5 speed is fun. car handling is nice.

Ummm -

1) about 130hp vs 380+hp/400+tq, yes I would say its MUCH slower than my SRT-4, that's not a concern.

2) Rattles in all cars after constant bouncing over potholes, railroad rails/ties, etc is normal, again not a concern and expected.

3) 5 speed is key, plenty of automatics out there, not interested. Handling is an extra and more than welcomed.

Otherwise thanks for the input, rust isn't an issue, unless you live by a ocean and I do (Malibu is about 25 miles from here).

[raserx]

Motor mounts are usually shot on a high mileage car but are an easy fix . Timing belt needs to be done around 100K. I came from a 2005 Mustang GT and still have fun with this car.

[dj4monie]

Okay I picked up the car today!

Its Vivid Yellow, not the first choice in colors but I can live with it.

It has all the options but Automatic transmission (its 5 speed). It drives well, shifts smooth, no movement from the engine, so the mounts seem to be okay, most of the issues are visual or minor, here's the list -

1) Cruise Control -

Works fine, but the RPM's at 64-65mph is around 2900-3000rpm and that seems high. I have a turbocharged car as well and it doesn't turn 3000rpm until about 72mph.

Could it be the vacuum actuator is pulling on the throttle too hard? If so can it be adjusted?

2) Rear Door Actuator broken

3) Jack for the Spare Missing

4) Roof Rack Cross Bars Missing (some of the parts are in the hatch)

5) Floor Mats Missing

6) Fog Lights Missing (see below)

7) Accident Damage? -

I didn't see the CarFax report, frankly I'm not concerned, but it looks like the lower grille was damaged and not replaced, fog lights are missing because the switch is still in the dash, looks like the front bumper was damaged (doesn't line up correctly and there's a puncture hole in the fascia.

The bumper looks like it was shot with a rattle can of paint and faded bad. I knew all this coming in and I'm sure that's why it was $2000 less than other cars with similar options/mileage.

To continue, the rear bumper is faded and the clear coat is peeling off the rear spoiler.

8) Factory Owners Manual is missing

All in all its in very good condition otherwise, even if it sounds like alot is wrong, its mostly normal.

The plan -

Well still working it out, I just got home with it about 2.5 hours ago..lol

a) Return it to showroom condition, anything I didn't mention is in good to excellent condition.

b) Slam i! Looks like coilovers are the choice. I stop gap might be Eibach Pro Kit since they are kind on the stock struts.

c) 17" or 18" wheels

d) Light Engine Mods (CAI, Super AFC from SRT-4, has "Fart" Can already)

e) New ICE complete with CarPC (currently stock)


Just thought I would share...

[dj4monie]

Bump for any information on the stuff I need to return it back to Showroom Condition.

Mazda Only Yards???

[cbrcrx]

I don't see the problem with the cruise control. Sounds about right. I bought new oem floor mats on ebay for $40. Check in the Protege5 Marketplace for the rest.