Well I got the car back last night and although I'm delighted that it doesn't need a new engine, the whole experience with Mazda has left me with a bit of a sour taste in my mouth....
So, I was told after they had done an initial inspection of the car that the low oil pressure warning was as a result of it requiring it's 75,000 mile service, so I agree to let them do the service. Then they call me to tell me I need to replace the front discs and brake pads -Probably standard to pick stuff like this up in inspection.
Then when I go to pick the car up I get the bill for £789 which is broken down approximately as follows:
1. Oil Pressure Low fault - £180 (2 hrs labour @ £90/ph)
2. Service/ parts etc. About £300
3. Labour - About £300
No explanation of what had caused the Low oil pressure but it certainly doesn't look from the invoice as if this was 'because the 75,000 mile service was due'. It also seemed that fixing the low pressure was labour only, no parts. I suspect that the oil strainer has been cleaned.
As I said, I'm happy that the car is OK, and the cost doesn't really bother me.
I'm just a bit miffed as I seem to have been misled and they haven't actually told me what was done to remove the low oil pressure fault....
Just thought I'd pass it on in case it is of use to anyone