4469 messages,
Last post on Oct 27, 2006 at 9:04 PM
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Mazda MPV Forum.
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Mazda MPV, Van
#4420 of 4469 Re: Using AC and Power Loss and rough running when wet [user777]
by tcc21
Jul 18, 2006 (9:56 pm)
That's an obvious and interesting activity to see when it happens. I will give that a try this coming weekend. Thing is, I'd rather not have a coughing car for a day or so when I really need it...but it's the only way I'll find out what the problem is. I could also just call my local friendly dealer and see what 'normal' reply I get from them this time!!
#4421 of 4469 Re: Using AC and Power Loss and rough running when wet [tcc21]
by jipster
Jul 19, 2006 (5:53 am)
TCC, I'm not sure, but I believe it is not necessary for the check/service engine light to actually be on for the dealership to check it. If the light comes on, then the code for the malfunction is stored in the vans computer. So, even if the light goes off before getting to the dealership...the stored codes can still be read.
#4422 of 4469 Re: Using AC and Power Loss and rough running when wet [tcc21]
by dtownfb
Jul 19, 2006 (1:32 pm)
The codes should still be stored. You can go to most auto parts stores and they can read the codes for free. Some even give you a print out of the code.
#4423 of 4469 Re: Using AC and Power Loss and rough running when wet [jipster]
by tcc21
Jul 20, 2006 (9:57 pm)
That sounds like a better plan. Would Checker Auto or Auto Zone be ones that could do this for a person? Somehow, I don't see these people able to go under the hood and work on this issue? They're more behind the counter types....??
#4424 of 4469 Re: Using AC and Power Loss and rough running when wet [tcc21]
by jipster
Jul 21, 2006 (6:41 am)
Autozone read the codes on my Buick Regal a few weeks ago when it was running rough(check engine light had come on)
The Autozone salesman didn't go under the hood, they just attached the reading device to something under my dash...took about 30 seconds. I don't know if they would need to "go under the hood" on the MPV.
Whatever the diagnostic shows, write it down and research to see if any further diagnostics is needed. I went to Autozone with my Buick, when they tested it my mass airflow sensor came up with a maulfunction. When I took it to the dealership to get it fixed, the dealership stated the diagnostic fee was $89.I stated I already had it diagnosed at Autozone. They stated it was just a general diagnosis and it really doesn't say how to fix it as there are a multitude of problems that could be related etc etc. So, they said they could replace the mass airflow sensor but couldnt guarantee that would fix it. So, I told them to go ahead and run the diagnostics again. They did and it was indeed the mass airflow sensor. If I had gambled I would have saved $89. But, at least I had the info going in so they didn't try to sell me a new engine or something.
If Autozones diagnostics shows a faulty part...ask for a price from them. Dealerships will probably charge double for the part. If you know a mechanic who could put it in for you it could save ya some money. Good luck.
#4425 of 4469 Re: Using AC and Power Loss and rough running when wet [jipster]
by dtownfb
Jul 21, 2006 (9:53 am)
So you paid to have your car diagnosed again? And I bet they still tried to sell you a new MAF (which you probably didn't need). Your dealership is right the code doesn't tell you how to fix something or what part is faulty. It tells you waht part of the engine is not operating properly. you still have to diagnose the problem. You should told him you had it scanned and the code was Pxxxx. Then he coudl diagnose it without the $89 charge.
I had my MAF trip the check engine light in my Olds Intrigue. Got the car scanned and printed out the code (also clear the code). I posted on Edmunds and someone suggested cleaning the MAF first. So i spent 10 minutes cleaning the MAF and haven't tripped the check engine light in 8 months. this is why I suggested that the poster put the code on here first. Also get a print out if the store provides it.
#4426 of 4469 Re: Using AC and Power Loss and rough running when wet [dtownfb]
by jipster
Jul 21, 2006 (2:01 pm)
Yes, I paid to have it diagnosed again. Dealership saying they would have to diagnose the "problem". I ended up paying over $300 for a new MAF sensor.
After paying to have it replaced, I talked to a friend that said what you wrote. It could have been cleaned. Or, that it was a simple job (30 minutes) and he could have done it for me. It wouldn't surprise me at all if it didn't need replacement...though the car was hesitating, rpm fluctuating reguardless of throttle input...and cutting out on occasion. Yep, I should have been more patient and posted here or sought out others opinions before going to the dealership, maybe would have saved me some money.
I should have asked for the part as well...would have helped me understand the problem, should it happen again in the future.
#4427 of 4469 Re: Using AC and Power Loss and rough running when wet [jipster]
by dtownfb
Jul 24, 2006 (9:52 am)
it happens. The key thing is it fixed your problem and you a a bit wiser.
#4428 of 4469 Re: Hesitation - coil pack issues [jimhefpgh]
by jimhefpgh
Jul 24, 2006 (11:04 am)
Thanks to dtownfb and subearu for your advice. Also thanks to dtownfb for explaining how Autozone can read the codes on a check-engine light. That is awesome, I didn't know they could do that for free.
That's what I should have done - instead I took it to my Mazda dealer and sure enough the problem was a code PO302 "misfire #2 cylinder". They replaced the coil just for that cylinder.
They charged me $88 for the part and 127.50 for the diagnostic and labor to replace.
Just out of curiosity, I checked at Autozone for what they would charge me for one coil - only $45!! So the dealer is charging about double what your local autoparts store is selling it for.
Anyways, the van runs great now.
#4429 of 4469 O/D light flashing - tranny issues
by husker92
Aug 02, 2006 (8:38 am)
Hello all, it has been a while (couple years) since I last posted.
We have 2002 which has been pretty good to us, but recently it started shifting a little hard. My wife then called me this morning and said it was making a clunking noise and the O/D light was blinking.
I searched the site and found some info, but it was all scattered and was answers to questions in previous e-mails that I couldn't see.
Any info would be appreciated.