The Mazda CX-5 Diesel 2013’s first glance is enough to intrigue you. It’s got that sleek and sporty appearance that many SUV lovers adore. The curves and lines are all there, screaming “modern and stylish.” Now, let’s get to the heart of the engine. It’s diesel, which usually translates to great fuel efficiency and robust torque. The engine makes you think about long road trips and quickly conquering off-road terrain. Or at least, that’s what I thought at first.
But here’s where the plot thickens, not in a good way. You see, the older Mazda CX-5 Diesel has a not-so-hidden secret, and it’s troublesome. Blown head gaskets. Yes, you heard it right: blown head gaskets. It’s like that nagging headache that won’t go away. Blown head gaskets are a severe issue that can cause significant damage to a vehicle’s engine and be costly to repair. Owners of Mazda CX-5 diesel vehicles need to be aware of this issue and take steps to prevent it from happening.
The blown head gasket issue in the Mazda CX-5 diesel is most commonly seen in older vehicle versions. This issue is caused by a gasket failure that seals the cylinder head to the engine block. When the gasket fails, coolant can leak into the engine cylinders, which can cause the engine to overheat and potentially cause significant damage.
In addition to the blown head gasket issue, some owners of Mazda CX-5 diesel vehicles have also reported problems with the vehicle’s diesel particulate filter (DPF). The DPF is designed to capture and remove harmful particulate matter from the vehicle’s exhaust, but if it becomes clogged or damaged, it can cause the engine to run poorly or stall.
To prevent these issues, owners of Mazda CX-5 diesel vehicles should follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and perform regular checks of the vehicle’s fluids and filters. It’s also important to avoid driving the vehicle at high speeds for extended periods, as this can strain the engine and increase the risk of a blown head gasket or other issues.
How can I tell If my Mazda CX-5 Diesel’s DPF is clogged or damaged?
A clogged or damaged diesel particulate filter (DPF) can cause various issues with your Mazda CX-5 diesel, including poor engine performance and reduced fuel efficiency. Here are some signs that your DPF may be clogged or damaged:
- Warning lights: The most common sign of a clogged or damaged DPF is the appearance of warning lights on your dashboard. These warning lights may include a “DPF” or “engine” light, indicating an issue with the DPF or the engine.
- Reduced engine performance: A clogged or damaged DPF can cause your engine to run poorly, with reduced performance and acceleration. You may notice that your car takes longer to accelerate or has trouble maintaining speed.
- Increased fuel consumption: A clogged or damaged DPF can also cause your car to use more fuel than usual. If you notice that you’re getting fewer kilometres per litre than usual, it could be a sign that your DPF is clogged or damaged.
- Smoky exhaust: If your car’s exhaust emits smoke or soot, it could indicate that your DPF is clogged or damaged. This is because the DPF is designed to capture and remove soot and other particulate matter from the exhaust, but if it becomes clogged, this material can build up and be released into the air.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to take your Mazda CX-5 diesel to a qualified mechanic or dealer for diagnosis and repair. Having said that, you may be able to drive the car for a short period, but it’s important to get the issue fixed as soon as possible. In some cases, you may be able to temporarily clear a clogged DPF by driving the car at high speeds for an extended period. This can help to burn off some of the accumulated soot and other particulate matter in the filter, but it’s not a permanent solution and may not work in all cases. It’s still worth noting, despite what your ‘kawaya’ swears by, that ignoring a clogged or damaged DPF can cause further damage to your engine and reduce the overall lifespan of your vehicle.
