Thanks Peter, Yes, after the 4th attempt at repairs (they thought it was a faulty driveshaft as it was 'weeping) it was'nt. I said i have been patient, but had had enough and wanted a full refund or a new car,as it was'nt my fault that a year had passed. This was ignored and was told the best way was a 5th try as mazda said its a tappet gap issue. I agreed as apparently i have to give them a fair chance at repair !! After 2 weeks got car back,no change. Yet another 4 weeks had visit from mazda field technician who diagnosed piston slap, and said that it is'nt causing damage but would put in a report for a short engine because i told him that it was embarrassing for me,as my neigbours from hell find the noise from the car amusing! I hate the thought of them pulling a brand new engine apart, but I don't know what to do next as i dont have the money to fight them in court. Regards Barry

Bought the car 31-12-09, the noise started in April at about 800 mls. 1st repair was in May. further 'repairs were weeks/months apart because they said they were waiting for a courtesy car for me, ( i live 25 miles from the dealer in horsham) I did manage to get a printout of the car 'repair' within the 6mths! Thanks Craig, Regards Barry

Thanks Craig, i didn't think about possible metal fragments causing further problems. Consumer advice says i have to give them a chance to repair, there's always weeks or months between each 'repair' which is why it is a year old, but mazda will probably say i have had it all this time, why have you accepted it ! Regards Barry

Hi Med, the problem started within 6mths, consumer rights said i have to give them 'chances' which has taken 5 tries up till now, almost 1yr! Unfortunately 'Lifestyle Mazda' are 25mls away in Horsham and I'm a full time carer of my mother who's 96 with severe dimensea, so my only car is needed. They're not saying its unrepairable (i wish they would) but so far they may be fitting a 'short' engine. They won't admit of course that it could cause other problems, metal swarf, dvla, engine nos., resale value and explaining the 2nd engine to a buyer etc. I assume you also had a customer welcome pack !! Yes, we do have legal assistance on the car ins, Thanks for your help and web info,very interesting, but so worried to start something i can't finish! Thanks Med, Regards, Barry