Mazda: My RX8, mazda service, bill of health

Question
Hi Bud...I'm so happy theres a Mazda expert on this site- my question is about my '04 RX8. I live in Orlando, FL.

I bought my car in Oct 04. I have had to take it in several times for reflashes and oil changes, on and on. Each time they gave my car a clean bill of health (ie, the Full Circle inspection) and I felt good driving off, knowing that someone had just checked everything out.

In August, I got a nail in my tire and since I was told by the dealership they did not have the proper equipment to remove the tire from the rim, I took my car to Tire Kingdom. There the employee helping me pointed out that my tires were extremely worn and almost bald. He explained that driving on the tires the way they were was very dangerous. I had received all green-lights on my tires not a week before when I had an oil change done. Needless to say, I was upset, and I called my Mazda service dept. They told me to bring my car in so they could take a look, but I thought it to be stupid and I took it in a few days later and bought 4 new tires. (Mazda agreed the tires were bald)

I am extremely upset with this. I DO NOT believe my Full Circle inspections anymore. I know that the 04 RX8 is a car that we're all still learning about every day. I felt a certain security thinking that someone was combing over my car each time, making sure things were working as they should.

I would really like to have someone go over my car, and actually make sure that my fans, belts, hoses, etc. are all in good working order. I have noticed noises from my car that I would like to ask the service dept. about and have them actually look into it.

Do you have any advice on how to get this done effectively? I'm a female and always feel mechanics are trying to pull a fast one. I don't want to get fed a line of excuses- I just want to make sure my car is up-to-date on reflashes and all parts are safe.

I'm just unsure of how to effectively do this. Should I ask to speak to my mechanic? This is my first Mazda, and my first rotary engine. I plan on keeping my car for many years and want to make sure its healthy now so it will be healthy in 10 years.

Thank you for your time and suggestions.

Sharon

Answer
Hi Sharon and thanks for the question.  I fully understand how you feel about your vehicle.  I am not sure if tires are covered under the Full Circle coverage as they are not warranted by Mazda, but by the tire manufacturer.  I would think your local dealer would check them as a courtesy.  My suggestion would be to get in touch with customer relations of Mazda America.  They are very concerned that Mazda customers(owners) are treated well and carefully.  The address should be in the front of your operating manual.  If they are not able to help you, or if you have any problems please let me know and I will try to assist you further.  Mazda is a great car and a great company so be confident in both.  You may print this and include it if you wish.  Best of luck, Bud Ford, Melbourne Beach, Florida