CARFIX

Mazda 929 MA,M (1979–1986)

The Mazda 929, also known as the Luce in some markets, was a popular choice in New Zealand as a comfortable and well-equipped executive car during the 1980s. If you own a 929/Luce Base, or are considering purchasing one, this wiki provides valuable information regarding maintenance, potential issues, and general ownership considerations.

Parts for the Mazda 929 MA,M

Known issues

Common Issues & Potential Problems

Several potential problems are known to occur in the Mazda 929/Luce Base, particularly as the vehicle ages. Owners should keep an eye out for these issues, especially around the 150,000-250,000 km mark:
• Rust: A significant issue is rust, especially in the sills and wheel arches. Routine inspection and treatment can help prevent its spread.
• Automatic Transmission: Early models sometimes experience automatic transmission issues. If you notice slipping or rough shifting, investigate promptly.
• Fuel Pump: Fuel pump failure is another potential problem area. Be aware of symptoms like difficulty starting or stalling.

Overall, owners can perform moderate DIY maintenance and repairs.

WOF tips

WOF (Warrant of Fitness) Considerations

When taking your Mazda 929/Luce Base for a Warrant of Fitness (WOF) inspection in New Zealand, be mindful of the following points:
• Corrosion: Pay close attention to corrosion around the rear arches and sills, as this is a common area for rust.
• Rear Suspension: Ensure the rear suspension bushes are in good condition, as worn bushes can lead to WOF failure.

About the Mazda 929 MA,M

Maintenance & Common Services

Regular maintenance is key to keeping your Mazda 929/Luce Base running smoothly. Some common services and components you might encounter include:
• Engine: Consider replacing the engine oil pan gasket to prevent leaks. Ensure proper timing by inspecting and potentially replacing the timing chain guide and timing belt (camshaft). Replacing the oil seal crank shaft rear (rear main bearing) can address oil leaks from the rear of the engine. Valve stem seal replacement might be needed to address excessive oil consumption.
• Cooling: The thermo fan switch helps control the engine's cooling fan. Power steering fluid should be checked and changed according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
• Transmission: The automatic transmission filter should be replaced during routine transmission servicing. Owners converting from manual to automatic or looking for performance gains may want to research an advanced clutch system (if compatible).
• Braking: Regularly inspect and replace brake pads (front) as needed for optimal braking performance.
• Steering & Suspension: Check the tie rod end and tie rod for wear and tear. Pay attention to the sway bar coupling mount to ensure stable handling.

Questions owners ask

What are the common rust spots I should check on my MAZDA 929;LUCE 1979–1986 for a WOF in New Zealand?
For your MAZDA 929;LUCE 1979–1986, pay close attention to corrosion around the rear arches and sills. These are common areas for rust and can lead to a WOF failure.
My MAZDA 929;LUCE 1979–1986 is having trouble starting and sometimes stalls. What could be the issue?
Difficulty starting or stalling in your MAZDA 929;LUCE 1979–1986 could indicate a fuel pump failure, which is a known potential problem for this model, especially as it ages.
Where can I get an automatic transmission filter for my MAZDA 929;LUCE 1979–1986 in NZ?
CARFIX stocks 329 SKUs for your MAZDA 929;LUCE 1979–1986. You can find an automatic transmission filter for your vehicle on the CARFIX website, as it's a component that should be replaced during routine transmission servicing.
What are the typical maintenance items I should be aware of for my MAZDA 929;LUCE 1979–1986?
Key maintenance items for your MAZDA 929;LUCE 1979–1986 include replacing the engine oil pan gasket, inspecting and potentially replacing the timing chain guide and timing belt (camshaft), and replacing the oil seal crank shaft rear to address oil leaks. You should also regularly inspect and replace front brake pads and check the tie rod end and sway bar coupling mount.
My MAZDA 929;LUCE 1979–1986 has over 150,000 km and the automatic transmission feels like it's slipping. Is this a common problem?
Yes, early models of the MAZDA 929;LUCE 1979–1986 can experience automatic transmission issues, particularly around the 150,000-250,000 km mark. If you notice slipping or rough shifting, it's important to investigate this promptly.
What should I check on the rear suspension of my MAZDA 929;LUCE 1979–1986 to ensure it passes a WOF?
For your MAZDA 929;LUCE 1979–1986, ensure the rear suspension bushes are in good condition. Worn bushes in this area can lead to a WOF failure.