I brought a new Mazda 3 in 2009. The vehicle has always been serviced on time and by the main dealer. At the third anniversary service the dealerships advised me that there was a noise coming from the gearbox. When questioned they could not be any more specific only saying that they needed the car in the garage for at least a week to remove the gearbox and investigate further and the cost would likely run into thousands. Is a con-incidence that the warranty expired at it 3 years old!! Mazda UK have offered to pay 75% of the cost but could not give me any idea how long or even an estimate on the cost.

I have been to a transmission specialist locally who was able to diagnose the issue within 2 mins (shot bearing) and also advised that he would be doing the work as Mazda send all the gearboxes to him. Also provided an estimate of £500-600, considerably less than Mazda and would only need the car for a day.

The car has done less than 25000 miles, should the gearbox really be faulty in that time? How long is a gearbox expected to last?

Mazda CS have ignored all my letters and generally been very unhelpful when contacted via phone.

Has anyone else experienced the arrogance and lack of help that is Mazda Motors UK?