LittleZ360

When I shut off my car at full operating temp, it doesnt want to start until it has cooled back down. I can get it to start after maybe 10 seconds of cranking, but rather than doing that I've just been waiting for it to cool or I just leave it running.
When it's cold, it fires right up on a dime, better than my dads new caddy.
This problem never came up until about 2 weeks ago, now that we're a bit into the winter.
Aside from hot starts, the car runs like a top.
Okay. I'm aware this is most likely a compression issue and I've done some solid searching throught the threads. But I'm still feelin a little woozy about this whole deal. Funds have been stretched thin these days. I'm looking for some input from people who know what i'm going through.
I have an 04, 6spd, with only 38k miles on it. I've always kept a close eye on the oil, I always let it warm up before driving, never shut off cold, I drive it pretty hard from time to time to avoid carbon build-up. Spark plugs, wires, and coils have all been replaced less than 6 months ago maybe 4kmiles ago. I recently put in a new battery after the second time my car didn't want to start. No change.
Now I spoke briefly with a tech at my local mazda dealer where I bought the car. My car warranty is up, but as we all know, the engine's warranty was extended to 8yrs/100k miles.
The tech says this... If the engine fails a compression test, they'll be happy to replace the engine. However first I must get a decarbonization done since this will bring up the compression without carbon interfering. Whether I pass or fail the compression test, the $185 decarb is not covered by mazda because they say it's a maintenance process. Then the compression test would be about $120, which would be covered by mazda if it fails compression and I will be in line for a new engine. If i pass compression, it's on me...
I just don't want to go there and end up paying $405 for them to shove chemicals into my fuel for the decarb, getting a compression test, and driving away still with the problem...
Any advice? What are the chances you think I'll fail a comp. test? Anything I can do to make sure I don't get robbed?
I'm certainly okay with getting a new(reman) engine, and I only have one more year to take advantage of the warranty.
Anything would be appreciated. Thank you.

nycgps

iTrader: (1)

decarb is a maintenance process ? tell them to get the f out.

why don't u do a decarb urself, it cost like 30 bux, 2-3 hours of ur time. then u can go back and tell them oh I decarb it already.

LittleZ360

They said it would be considered fuel system maintenance which would be servicing parts that wouldn't be replaced with the engine should it come to that.
I know, it's still bs considering it's being done at the company's request and customers expense, to get a compression test in the comany's favor again at the customer's expense... Makes me want to take a hammer to one of the CEO's Furai

nycgps

iTrader: (1)

no

u should just do the decarb urself. then go in and tell them straight up do a compression test. if they ask u to do(and pay) for decarb, said that its already done.

RX8Soldier

iTrader: (24)

keep the receipt of your purchase as well, just in case

LittleZ360

Yeah, I hear ya.
I'll call them in the morning and tell them I'm going to decarb, and bring it in for the compression test.
Do you know of somebody who got a new engine due to failed compression without requiring a decarb at the dealer?
That may help give leverage should they give me a hard time on the phone.

LittleZ360

I'll give it a shot. And thanks for reading, sorry it's hard to read, I'll double space next time I post a long one.

9kBeep

they shouldnt give you a hasle if you just walk in and simply ask for the compression test. just tell them the decarb is done and you want the compression numbers because your engine is having a hard time starting. just curious, what dealer are you going to? i live in libertyville so if i ever have a problem, and need some work done then i will go wherever you go if they end up taking care of you without making it into a whole issue

LittleZ360

Anderson-Crystal lake