I have been lurking on these forms for several years now. I have gained a lot of valuable info on the rx8 here In the process of looking at mazda 3's I came across a 05 sport with performance package with 23k miles. The asking prices on it is 15k. I have checked the service history on it, all regular maintanance has been done, recalls are up to date, and it has never been flodded. Is there anything else I should check on it?

 

Do a test drive. Make brakes tires and the ask them for a free radiator flush.

 

Radiator flush, check; will do. As for the test drive I have been able to keep the car for a couple days...

 

One thing I forgot to mention, I have driven several 8's ranging from new to an 04 with a dying engine. I have a pretty good idea of how they should drive, but there is one thing that I am not sure about on this one. When the car is idling, if I open the passenger side rear door I notice that I get quite a bit of rattling out of it. Is this normal, in your experience; I will have to find another one and see if it does the same thing. The hinges don't appear to be loose or anything...I don't know...

 

there seem to be lots of rattles in the 8 depending on the year etc. I think if you search 'rattle hunt' or something like that you will find a thread that will be helpful. By the way, buy it, you'll be glad you did!

 

I am still thinking on it, I am under 25 so my insurance isn't going to be the best...I am also deciding if I should get an extended warranty. I feel the car is dependable and has few miles over a long period of time. But I don't know *exactly* how the previous owner drove it.

 

Bump for Mr. JSmith.

That sounds like not a bad deal compared to many we hear about. I really am not the knowledgeable one on finances so I'll leave that to the sharks who I hope will bite on this topic. I always question if the dealer is honest and reputable because if they are, and the car really has been maintained, recalls done, and they've got all the records, that's really good. An extended warranty sounds like a smart thing to do but some here might think it's a waste of money. I got one for mine.

And if you've been keeping the car for testing you must be freaking out! Dying to own it, right? Here's hopin she works out for you.