Rusted 2001 Mazda Protegé

[Reader Questions]

1- I have a 2001 Mazda Protegé 5, 120,000 km with both rear fenders very very rusted. Is it worth paying to have it repaired or should I change the car? I was told that the body repairs could cost between $2,000 and $3,000.

2- Is it best to buy a used or new car?

3- Any major problems with the 2005 Toyota Matrix?

Thank you.

[Mat]

1- If your car still goes strong and if you like it, you may want to consider getting it fixed. You already know the car's history, so no surprise there, and it definitely will cost you less than changing it.

2a- Whether you go after a new or a used car is somewhat a personal choice. With a new car, you pay more but you get peace of mind. It "should" be hassle free and it is covered by a warranty in case you are not lucky.

2b- With a used car you definitely pay less, but you don't know what you are getting into. If you go for a recent pre-owned vehicle it may still be covered by a manufecturer's warranty. In all cases you MUST have the coveted vehicle inspected.

3- Transport Canada does not report any recalls on the 2005 Matrix. There is one for the 2003-2004 model and one for the 2009-2010 model though: http://wwwapps.tc.gc.ca/saf-sec-sur/7/vrdb-bdrv/search/SearchResult.aspx?lang=eng&mk=2734!10341!2474&md=M ATRIX&fy=0&ty=9999&ft=&ls=0&sy=0

[minsheng]

What a nice gentleman,Mat.