Hi guys,

The synchros are going so i'm having my transmission replaced under warranty. I figured, while the transmission is dropped I'd like the mazdaspeed light weight fly wheel put in. I told my dealer this, Gallo Mazda, and the service manager said mazda won't let him do modifications to vehicles. I think I also heard the excuse that they aren't a speed dealership so they can't install the speed part.

I called up a speed dealership and they said there's no such "speed" designation anymore and anyone can do the work. Is it true that some dealerships can't do even mazda official modifications like this?

The service appointment is next Tuesday, 7/10/2012. The mechanic and service coordinator are willing but the manager is being stubborn. Any idea on how to deal with the stubborn manager?

 

It's bullshit but it's the dealers call. I would talk to someone above him, I am sure his superiors wouldn't want him turning away money in this market. It is a Mazda part. But dealers are stupid and most service advisers don't know ****.

My buddy was once told his MS Intake would void the warranty until he reminded them that he bought it from them new

 

There's no reason that they "can't" do it. But just like any other shop, it's their prerogative on whether or not they want to. You can try to have a logical conversation with the service manager (be sure to include the mechanic), or maybe the dealership manager. But if they won't provide the service you want, find another dealer.

 

It's a genuine Mazda product, they should and could install it without voiding the warranty.

 

He is saying Mazda won't let him. So my best bet might be to get Mazda USA to either call them and tell them they CAN or to fax them something that confirms they can. Although, I don't know that Mazda USA is going to want to get involved.

It's a difficult decision to go elsewhere because I've dealt with the master mechanic before at this place and he's good and is likely to make the right call on the transmission work. Another fly in the ointment is that a young desk guy is managing my RO and he's got an attitude and doesn't want to hear more about the flywheel. I think the service manager may be reasoned with but I have to go through this hot shot.

 

Cuz he s a *****, that's why.

enuff' said.

 

i don't know how it works currently, but it is true that a couple of years ago you had to be a mazdaspeed dealer to order mazdaspeed parts.

in the brochure the flywheel is coded as green, for warranty. this says
"MAZDASPEED “Green” Performance Accessories must be specifically approved by Mazda for their particular application.
These parts are warranted for the first 12 months /12,000 miles from the date of purchase, excluding labor."

i think that means that you need to put the Rx8 flywheel on an Rx8. notice only the part is warrantied.

there is a blue, which says something about having to be installed by a mazdaspeed dealership, and orange which carries no warranty at all.

hope that helps!
mike

 

i dont know about the rest of you but I would never have a mechanic do work on my car that he was "forced" to do. If the dealership won't do it the first time you ask, find another dealership.

 

Good point, however the OP did specify that the mechanic had no issue with the work...