Hi there. I found a used 2003 Mazdaspeed Protege for $6500 at a dealer and I've been going back and forth on whether to buy it. The previous owner put in several mods and it seems to be in pretty good condition visually with 32,000 original engine miles. The problem as stated in the listing is that it had a piggyback computer that went bad and now it's running a big turbo on the stock ECU. The dealer claims that it runs fine up to 60-80 as long as you don't push the engine or floor it, and that fixing the problem with a new piggyback and dyno tune would be $1200. I haven't had a chance to go see it yet as it's two hours from where I live. I'm also not sure what to look for when I actually do see it.

I was wondering if anyone could tell me if buying it is a bad idea and/or how much money/work would I have to be putting into it? I'm willing to put another few thousand in to fix it up as long as it's safe to drive in the meantime. Do I run the risk of detonation even in normal driving conditions?

If more information is needed I can answer as much as I can. I apologize in advance as I obviously have no idea what I'm doing. This is supposed to be the first car that I work on myself and the extent of my knowledge is whatever I could find online. I appreciate any help at all.

 

it might be a good idea to let this one pass and start with a car in good working condition.

 

This is a car for someone who wants to tinker. That someone will buy at $2500.

Just the fact that you have to ask tells me that you should not buy it. The dealer wants to sell a problem at cost or at a slight loss. If he could make a profit after fixing it he would.