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Mazda 323

419 messages,  Last post on Nov 22, 2009 at 12:45 PM

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What is this discussion about? Mazda 323, Hatchback

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#38 of 419 Mazda 323--Do I need a new clutch? by johnbigboote May 01, 2002 (10:17 am)
I own a 1990 323 Hatchback 5-speed with about 210,000 miles. I've been the only owner. For about a year, when I step hard on the gas in fourth and fifth gear, the engine races but the car doesn't accelerate. Am I correct that this means the clutch is slipping? If so, I have several follow-up questions:   A) Is this dangerous (i.e. am I risking my own or others' safety by not fixing it immediately) or merely annoying? B) What will eventually need to be replaced or repaired? C) How much will this type of repair cost (I live in Missouri, FWIW), and what's your experience with having it done at a dealer vs. at a private shop or transmission-only repair shop?   I've seen some helpful posts on this forum and would like to thank those who've helped keep it going. Good job, everyone. Replies to this message: plittle (Mar 07, 2005 6:26 pm) mjmuir (Nov 25, 2005 7:12 pm)
#39 of 419 clutch by lngtonge18 May 01, 2002 (12:14 pm)
Yes, it sounds like your clutch is slipping. At 210k, I would say your clutch has about had it. For the most part, the slipping is an annoyance, but it can get dangerous if you pull out in front of someone and need to get going quickly. Eventually, the slipping will get so bad, you might not be able to get the car moving and then you are left stranded (worst case scenario). You will need to replace the clutch disk, pressure plate, throwout release bearing, and possibly the flywheel (only if the clutch has damaged the flywheel). While you are in there, you might as well have the rear main crankshaft oil seal replaced, as I'm sure it's leaking from there or going to very soon. Total repair costs should range between $400-600. I would have a private shop that you trust do it rather then the dealer. They will be cheaper and probably know what they are doing more. Hope this helps you some.
#40 of 419 johnbigboote by 5spd Jul 10, 2002 (2:24 pm)
Wow. 210 k miles on your 323. Very impressive. It is even more impressive that your clutch just started showing signs of giving out. You must have been a good driver. Mind if I ask whether those are mainly highway miles ?   If is quite amazing how durable these small mazdas are. Too bad this kind of quality are not shown in the 626 or MX6.
#41 of 419 They're GLC (good little cars). by mazdafun Aug 20, 2002 (7:34 am)
Anyway, anyone have to clean out the ventilation system? I think I've got mold or something in mine. How difficult was it? If you had a garage do it, how much did they charge?
#42 of 419 Johnbigboote...you are a party spoiler ;-) by nachiketajoshi Oct 09, 2002 (12:04 pm)
210K on a 323 - cool! I have 130K on my 323(No a/c, has a manual drive, baught for $1000 in 1997 at 95K miles) and thought enough is enough (though the car is alright except clutch probably slips a bit). Anyway, I went out and baught a mercedes thinking I earned it for driving this "shopping cart with engine" for 5 years! But you guys reporting 200K plus on this little trouper are spoiling my party
#43 of 419 the little crappy cars that don't stop going by nmayotte Dec 14, 2002 (1:21 pm)
Yea I have a 1991 323. I bought it from my dad last yea at 180k, he bought it new. Now its at 211k, I swear these cars just keep going. I have noticed the clutch slipping, same as with Johnbigboote. Other than that its running good considering the abuse, having 4 kids learn to drive a stick on it can't help too much. I'm not really expecting it to last much more after this winter. I've been putting off replacing the timing belt for 10k or so, I'm hoping it will hold together a few more months.
#44 of 419 Other repair items..... by mx5 Dec 19, 2002 (6:44 pm)
We bought our daughter a '94 323 2 years ago. Had 107,000 kms., now has 152,000. Mostly normal maintenance (brakes, exhaust, plugs etc.) but also had to replace the distributor (~$400). Strut replacement wasn't cheap but really tightened the handling. We just put snow tires mounted on Miata rims on the car. Looks great.
#45 of 419 94-98 Mazda 323F by gnuboarder2002 Mar 17, 2003 (11:23 am)
I'm just posting this out there to see if anyone has any information about the next generation of 323(94-98 323F), this car does not get imported to the USA. i saw it in Bermuda when i went on vacation there but could never seem to find any info about this car. i know one thing though this car has much more style then the old 323 ever could have. its also a Four door. if anyone has anything, let me know....thanks -AKD
#46 of 419 94 Hatchback by lawman1967 Aug 20, 2003 (9:20 pm)
I miss my 94 323 Hatchback. Despite the automatic, it was the best car I've ever had. Not the nicest, but certainly the best.
#47 of 419 Add A/C to a non-A/C 1990? by columbiaben Sep 06, 2003 (7:06 am)
I'm considering buying a 1990 323 hatchback without air conditioning. How difficult and expensive would it be to add to this car. Should I try to find a factory unit at a wrecking yard, or take the car to an aftermarket air conditioning shop?

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