Last week, after clipping and going over a 2 inch curb with my left wheel to avoid another car in a parking lot, my 2006 Mazda M3 accelerated uncontrollably. Applying the brakes did not work. In the end, I swiped two cars and hit a cement wall head on. This stopped the car and thankfully I am alive. Have you heard of any malfunctions of this kind and how do I get it escalated to Mazda or others to ensure corrective action? updated 02/02/09.

- Phoenix , AZ, USA

The day after purchase of my 2006 Mazda3 I was backing out of driveway, the rear brakes were grinding. They were grinding so loud I could hear them over the radio on level 2 in volume. I should not hear them at all!! I had under 30 miles on the vehicle. I called the service department and the gentleman I spoke with told me this is very common, that all do it. I am sorry, I don't believe that it should be happening, I have never had a vehicle that has done that unless the brake pads, and rotors didn't need replaced. Now, 2 months later, the brakes are still doing it, and seem to be even louder with a small squeak added in.

- Orlando, FL, USA

My 2004 Mazda 3 is experiencing greatly accelerated rear brake pad and rotor wear, both requiring replacement by 32K miles. This is at least 3X faster wear than normal. Front brakes show little wear and look to last up to 100K miles. Dealership says this is normal, independent repair shops say not. Many '04 and '05 Mazda 3 owners are reporting the same problem. Could this problem be the result of improper front/rear brake bias or defective parts/materials" could this situation lead to improper/unsafe braking performance under certain conditions"

- Rohnert Park, CA, USA