High Temperature Driveability

[Low_Ets]

Hi guys. Great forum[!]. I have a new 2.3 GT with a 5-speed manual. I've noticed a reduced power condition and some slight hesitation during high ambient conditions. Although I understand there is a TSB [released by Mazda USA], I am unable to find the Canadian equivalent.

Two questions:
1] Have others experienced the same condition [this might be an inherent reaction from the on-board diagnostics to reduce the ignition advance curve and prevent detonation]?
2] Is anyone aware of a Canadian-specific TSB addressing this condition.

I've ruled out the MAF sensor - the car runs flawlessly when the temperature is below 22 [and yes, I know colder air is denser and therefore more likely to create more power] and if it were the MAF, the condition would prevail regardless of outside ambient temperature.

Thanks guys....

Low_ETS

[Cardinal Fang]

1. Welcome to the board.
2. Nice post. It's rare to read such a well written post.
3. I think I understand what you're talking about. I've noticed the same but would always attribute the blame to my A/C being on so high. Then again I have an automatic transmission which by definition has a "reduced power condition."

[Fuman]

yeah, i notice this too. it gets really bad with the a/c on or off if the A/C has already been on previously.
edit: i notice my engine sounding louder as well. days like yesterday.

[sp3GT]

My car is much louder and it's really obvious for me too cause I have an exhaust, as for the A/C it has to be on 3 for me to feel some cool.

[Low_Ets]

Thanks Guys. Interesting set of responses. I am coming to the conclusion that this driveability characteristic may in fact be an Engine Management issue; that requires or necessitates a correction to the on-board engine management.

I am soliciting a subscription to Alldata simply to acquire all the Canadian TSBs. I'll debug the contents and let you know what I uncover. In the interim, I'd welcome responses from others.

Regards,

Low_ETS

[Low_Ets]

The hesitation and driveability issues were resolved [!] with a code upgrade on the existing Engine Management. The acceleration has vastly improved and my fuel consumption has significantly decreased. I have averaged 627KMs on the last three fills. Very impressive [!].

[alau]

How/where did you get it done?

[Low_Ets]

HOW = I requested my servicing dealership to confirm that the Engine Management was NO older than current version minus 1 revision. Turns out the version was older and a flash was required.

WHERE = Dave Wood Mazda [absolutely exceptional service with technically adept mechanics].

Regards,

LOW_ETS

[1stMazda]

i havnt noticed any reduction on power with the heat, of course, if i put the A/C it will take some of the power, but otherwise, same thing

[KenYork]

Do you have the date of the Engine Management version/revision?

[Low_Ets]

1stMazda; I would expect to notice some change in performance during warmer weather. After all, hot air is certainly less dense that colder air. Hence the reason CAIs are thought to produce additional power.

KenYork; I don't have the firmware version but I can certainly source it for you. Ultimately, I would simply ask the dealership to execute an upgrade to current version minus 1. Don't always request the latest version unless you are absolutely certain the latest firmware has had enough time to be fully debugged.

LOW_ETS

[Azi]

wouldnt the current version be a de-bugged verion of the previous?

[1stMazda]

1stMazda; I would expect to notice some change in performance during warmer weather. After all, hot air is certainly less dense that colder air. Hence the reason CAIs are thought to produce additional power.

KenYork; I don't have the firmware version but I can certainly source it for you. Ultimately, I would simply ask the dealership to execute an upgrade to current version minus 1. Don't always request the latest version unless you are absolutely certain the latest firmware has had enough time to be fully debugged.

LOW_ETS

I would say it depends on the type of driving, I havnt noticed anything, or at least, nothing thats bad like turning the AC on. Plus, the engine management normally adjust to conditions

[stevenlung]

wouldnt the current version be a de-bugged verion of the previous?

yes, it would, but it might create a new problem after that fixed. That's why the version number will be keep on increasing.

[Jetlag]

The hesitation and driveability issues were resolved [!] with a code upgrade on the existing Engine Management. The acceleration has vastly improved and my fuel consumption has significantly decreased. I have averaged 627KMs on the last three fills. Very impressive [!].

This is very impressive. I've noticed similiar symptoms on my car during extremely hot/ humid days, but figured it was natural because of the extreme conditions. Was it as simple as calling up "Dave Wood" and requesting this "code" upgrade. You seem to have an in-depth knowledege of cars to have come up with this conclusion. I'm not sure if the "average" car owner would recognize this option as a potential solution.

[Jetlag]

Anybody else planning to contact their dealer to have this service performed? Has anyone already done so?

[Low_Ets]

Thanks Jetlag; actually, I suspected there would be a code upgrade available and so I asked the dealership to provide with the most up-to-date revision number. When I realized that mine was older; I simply challenged that addressing the engine management version was also an acceptable remedial action to the problems I was experiencing.

Incidentally, sorry for not responding sooner - I've been out of town working a project to completion.

Regards...LOW_ETS

[Jetlag]

Thanks Jetlag; actually, I suspected there would be a code upgrade available and so I asked the dealership to provide with the most up-to-date revision number. When I realized that mine was older; I simply challenged that addressing the engine management version was also an acceptable remedial action to the problems I was experiencing.

Incidentally, sorry for not responding sooner - I've been out of town working a project to completion.

Regards...LOW_ETS


Just had my ECU flashed today and let me tell you, I concurr with your findings. The car behaves differently now; feels more solid and does not seem to feel as sluggish. Today was a perfect test because of the outside temperature. Way to be in touch with your ride!!

[rcd001]

I'm going to ask them to check the software version on My 3 the next time I go in for service. Woudn't the dealership just check this for you as a good customer service idea, or are the afraid they will open up a can or worms?

[Low_Ets]

Good question; I suspect that most dealership operate under a consistent mantra when warranty work is implied - "if it aint' broke, don't fix it".

I was under the same impression you were. However, I then realized that most dealership receive a marginalized hourly rate for any warranty break/fixes that are executed. Consequently, it is in_THEIR_interest to delay and defer the work until the consumer rate is enforced [ie. outside normal peak warranty period].

Now, this certainly does NOT apply to all dealerships and the blanket statement is certainly imprecise. But there are a number of outfits that do not understand the value of a good CRM solution [lending to partnership and collaboration with a client; leading to a long-standing relationship].

[rcd001]

That is very disapointing to hear. One would think that they would keep tabs on the people that are forum members because they can't pull the wool over our eyes. Bet we know more about our cars then most of the staff at the dealership do.

[Low_Ets]

Hi Guys. It has certainly been a long time since I last posted an update. Unfortunately however, it is NOT a positive one.

I've recently been diagnosed with MS [Multiple Sclerosis] and need to sell my car [the physical requirements of driving a manual transmission are overcoming my equally limited strength]. People on this board appear to be a part of a caring community; hence I'm seeking assistance in selling my vehicle.

My 2007 3 GT is currently leased - the least cost per month TAXES included [!] is $204.36. Yes, that is correct. The monthly payment is extremely LOW.

Although I can share additional details with any prospective buyer, I'd appreciate if you could possibly market and communicate this for me. I would be greatful to find a responsible individual looking for a very well maintained 2007 3.

Thanks again and best regards,

Low_Ets

[TheProfessor]

I'm very sorry to hear Low Ets. I would definately try posting your car on Craigslist, Kijiji, and sites like Leasebusters and Releaseme. I'd also take the time to offer a full list of features, including more info such as colour. Good luck.

[Low_Ets]

Prof; that is definitely sound, precise advice. One correction to my previous note - the LEASE [not least] cost is $204.36/month. I wasn't thinking clearly when composing the note.

Thanks again; if anyone is looking for or knows of someone seeking a very well-maintained 2007 3 [Dark Grey] GT 5-spd - please let me or redirect them accordingly.

Regards,

Low_Ets