Welcome to the CARFIX Vehicle Wiki for the Mazda 929/Sentia i. This resource is designed to provide owners with valuable information on maintaining and understanding their vehicle. Although a comfortable and relatively affordable executive car when new, many 929s may now require more diligent upkeep.
Owners of the Mazda 929/Sentia i should be aware of some common issues that may arise, particularly in higher mileage vehicles. Air suspension failures can occur, impacting ride quality. Climate control problems, such as malfunctioning air conditioning or heating, are also frequently reported. Additionally, oil leaks are common, especially from the valve stem seals. These issues typically start to appear around 150,000 to 250,000 kilometers. Repairing these issues is considered moderately DIY-friendly for the competent home mechanic.
When taking your Mazda 929/Sentia i for a Warrant of Fitness (WOF) inspection, pay particular attention to potential watch points. Corrosion of the rear subframe is a known issue. Front lower ball joints should also be inspected carefully for wear and play.
Owning a Mazda 929/Sentia i can be a rewarding experience, offering a comfortable ride and a taste of executive motoring. Here's a breakdown of common maintenance areas:
• Braking System: Keeping the brake system in top condition is crucial. Regular inspection and replacement of components like the disc brake rotors (front) play a critical role in safety.
• Wipers: Maintain clear visibility by replacing wiper blades. Consider passenger side blade, driver side blade and regular refills of the front wipers.
• Steering: Steering rack boots protect vital steering components from debris and damage. Replacing the steering rack boot kit when necessary is essential.
• Engine Health: Address potential oil leaks by replacing valve stem seals and oil seal camshaft end. Regular oil changes with quality engine oil are essential for engine longevity. Consider the timing belt idler when performing timing belt services.
• Transmission: Ensure smooth gear changes by maintaining the automatic transmission filter as recommended.
• Suspension & Handling: Address worn suspension components, including shocks/struts and suspension bush set rear sway bar link, to maintain ride quality and handling. Camber correction screws can assist in fine-tuning wheel alignment.