Looking to buy 95 mx6 need some help

joshy_squash81 · 4-30-12, 8:09

I'm in high school and am looking to buy a 1995 Mazda mx6 for my first car, its the 2.0 5 speed. The car is in great condition but has 212k miles on it. I can buy it for $1200, the only thing it will need to pass inspection in October is new brake lines. What are some things I should watch out for when buying this car? Any other advice would be appreciated as well thanks.

**TwoPedalWarrior** · 4-30-12, 9:43

This first link below should help you if you want be thorough. Ask to see the maintenance history, receipts etc. Has it at oil changes every 5k etc.

How to check a used car - a used car buyer's checklist by Samarins.com

How to inspect a car body when buying a used car - illustrated guide
How to check the car engine when buying a used car
How to check used car history records by the VIN number

The first link is a good solid list.

mob · 4-30-12, 10:11

Pismoless, very good detailed info. I have also saved for future reference.
Thank you.

joshy_squash81 · 4-30-12, 13:06

Thanks, is there anything specific to the mx6 I should watch out for?

MosGuy · 5-1-12, 0:53

A couple things to check on the 6 are:

- The valve cover gaskets. On the V6 they eventually start weeping & will start putting oil in the spark plug wells. Though I can't say about the 4 Cyl, it may not be quite as prone. But still worth looking for oil and weeping.

- The trunk has a common issue of leaking slightly. Which I just found myself on my '96. With mine it's localized to the spare wheel well. Over the weekend I pulled the cover for the first time. Found condensation & the carpet underneath was semi wet. There is a detailed write-up on how to cure the problem by sealing various holes & bolts. Typically water gets in through the tail light holes. Definitely worth check the trunk and checking the carpet especially where the spare sits. Above that mine was dry, which is why I didn't notice sooner.

Those are the two common items I've seen with the 6. That's not to deter you, It is a great car, sporty & fun to drive (and I come from a miata background!). The 2.0 has the benefit of getting slightly better gas mileage as well

.

Good luck.

Yellow Jacket · 5-1-12, 17:46

I personally wouldn't buy it as it's the 2.0 and it has 212k. It's also I think on the high side for what it is. If you can get it down to 1000 at the most then you should think about having a crack. Also, the fact that more needs to be done just for it to pass inspection is a no go for me as well.

joshy_squash81 · 5-2-12, 8:01

I decided to pass on it, I took it for a drive and there was a slight wobble when driving above 30 mph. The check engine light came on 3 minutes into the ride and when I got back the guy was like "thats never happened before" the inside smelled like smoke and the carpet on the roof was ripped off. The oil looked iike a coffee color and the clear coat was peeling pretty bad. I did talk him down to 900 but I decided to pass.

MosGuy · 5-2-12, 9:03

It sounds like you made the right decision. In that condition, I would have maybe offered $500. As it would need a lot of work. There are certainly good deals to be had. In comparison: I picked up my '96 for $2,400 US with 92,875 miles on it. Interior very clean, everything works, paint excellent for the age and no rust. With a safety & since it had winter tires on the stock rims. The dealer through in a set of summers from a Protege.

It's never fun getting someone else's beater and problems. Better examples and deals are certainly out there. If you're not in a rush for a 6 it pays to stay patient and wait. You'll find the right one eventually

**TwoPedalWarrior** · 5-2-12, 9:37

Joshy! Glad you checked it out.

You leave near WA? go buy this http://www.mx6.com/forums/fs-cars/24...ml#post2391574 ((WA) 93 MX-6 LS Black w/ tasteful mods)

Yellow Jacket · 5-4-12, 4:31

If you really want a 6 then get an LS (V6 version) with a 5 speed manual. The best combo available. Strong, lively and somewhat fuel efficient engine and a very good manual gearbox. The automatics are sketchy at best.

**TwoPedalWarrior** · 5-4-12, 9:43

Hey.... don't bash my auto

**mx6mazdaspeed69** · 5-4-12, 9:54

Quote:

Originally Posted by pismoless

Hey.... don't bash by auto

I knew you'd comment as soon as you seen the auto diss. lol

**TwoPedalWarrior** · 5-4-12, 10:24

So true. I know I have one of the better driving auto's out there. Don't get me wrong, I'd love to put a 5 Speed in, but I will drive it till the auto tranny goes.

**mx6mazdaspeed69** · 5-4-12, 11:42

Quote:

Originally Posted by pismoless

So true. I know I have one of the better driving auto's out there. Don't get me wrong, I'd love to put a 5 Speed in, but I will drive it till the auto tranny goes.

Yes sir, you might have the best condition automatic 6 in all of north america from what i have gathered.. Being the low km's and the original owner (Grandma) car factor~!

Yellow Jacket · 5-4-12, 18:16

Quote:

Originally Posted by pismoless

Hey.... don't bash my auto

Not bashing it, oh valiant two pedal warrior. However, the automatic transmission for the MX-6 is clearly inferior to the manual counterparts. I will be honest. I hate autos and I was offered a trade for an auto LS with about 40000 less miles and I had to pay 1500 with my car. I told him to go f*** himself.