Power struggle

I have been experiencing an intermittent problem with my Mazda 3 1.6d TS2 engine that suddenly loses power as the car comes out of a corner in second gear. The local Mazda garage says the code arising from this shows a problem within the fuel delivery system. However this is a general code and does not pinpoint the specific cause. They checked the fuel injectors and found one was slightly low but within the limit.

I was informed that until a specific code comes up (say the pump or the pressure sensors) they would not be able to cure this problem and I was sent on my way. The last time the engine cut out I took it back to the garage but again the code was not specific and they merely cleared the codes. Do you have any advice on where I go from here?

Asked on 15 September 2011 by AM, Burton on Trent

Answered by Honest John

This is the same engine as used in millions of Citroens, Peugeots, Fords, Volvos and even MINIs. I found this: “Mysterious 'Engine System Faults' on diesel leading them to lose power and revert to limp home mode may be caused by an intercooler pipe weld fault leading to a crack in the pipe. On 1.6TDCI, the thin steel turbo to intercooler pipe can split. It cracks in two places in opposite directions emanating from the two ends of the upper bracket weld. Fractures are of a fatigue nature resulting from vibration, the bracket being rigidly attached to the engine. By May 2010, turbo failures were becoming increasingly common on high mileage 1.6TDCIs.” The other possibility is a duff earth to the fuel tank lifter pump or to its relay. More at: www.honestjohn.co.uk/carbycar/ford/focus-ii-2004/?...d

Tags: technical issues lack of power

Similar questions

What's causing the heavy start on my Renault Megane?

I've just bought a Renault Megane 1.6 petrol. When I start the engine, it starts but loses power at first. It needs a bit of accelerating to keep the engine running. I have changed the spark plugs already,...

Vauxhall Vivaro losing power

I am having some problems with my 2005 Vauxhall Vivaro van. The engine has virtually no power until it reaches 25000rpm. I’ve changed the air filter, mass air flow meter/sensor boost pressure sensor, and...

Volkswagen Passat losing power

My Volkswagen Passat 1.8 petrol loses power gradually when driving from 70mph to 40mph. Sometimes it seems as if its being choked, while other times it drives fine. Any ideas?

Related models

Mazda 3 (2004 - 2009)

Focus based. Bags of room and a comfortable ride, well equipped, saloon is the best looker and sharpest handling, depreciates slower than the 2004 Focus.