Used Car Expert Fault Guides tell you the common Mazda 121 faults and wear items that can become problems and big bills for their owner.
Independent research indicated that using our fault guides to check a car before you buy it can save you an average of £300 in surprise bills and hidden problems.
That's because our Mazda 121 fault guides are written so that anyone can understand them – even if you know nothing about cars and have no tools. For every common fault, we tell you what to look for, what it means and what it costs.
Select your Mazda 121 fault guide:
Mazda 121 (1996 - 1999) Fault Guide
Mazda 121 (1996 - 1999) Fault Guide
We know of 16 MAZDA 121 (1996 - 1999) faults which our fault check guide makes it easy for you to spot and avoid.
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6 engine faults
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2 suspension wear items or faults
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2 interior problems
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2 bodywork issues
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4 recalls
Here's an example fault on the MAZDA 121 (1996 - 1999)
What to look for:
On V-Tec (16v badged) engines check the paperwork to see if the cam belt has been changed on schedule. On most engines the cam belt must be changed within 100,000 miles.
What it means:
If the cam belt and associated parts (such as roller, water pump and tensioner, sometimes sold as a kit) have not been changed, and the mileage is over these boundaries, the cam belt is likely to fail soon and will cause expensive damage to the engine. Usually the engine has to be replaced or at least re-built.
What to do
Ensure that the cam belt is changed before the car is driven anywhere if it is coming close to its interval. Changing the belt will cost £80 - 220.
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