Colorado Diesel Power Loss Points to MAF Sensor Issues

Had the exact same symptoms on my 2011 Chevy Silverado diesel last season. The rough running and power loss were caused by a faulty fuel injector. The mass air flow sensor readings were fine, but the air-fuel ratio was way off due to one bad injector not delivering fuel properly. Initial diagnosis showed a lean condition, similar to yours. After testing the intake manifold and oxygen sensor, the mechanic pinpointed it to injector #3 misfiring. It was a serious issue that needed immediate attention since bad injectors can damage other engine components if left unfixed. The repair involved removing and replacing the defective fuel injector. While they had it apart, they inspected the other injectors too, smart move for preventive maintenance at that mileage. The truck ran like new afterward, no more jerking or power loss. Worth getting it diagnosed properly by a diesel specialist who can properly test the fuel injection system. Don't wait too long, driving with a bad injector can lead to bigger problems.

I had that identical problem with my Colorado last winter! Mine turned out to be a combination of a failing oxygen sensor and gummed up throttle body. The check engine light was what first tipped me off, then noticed the power loss and jerking during acceleration. The mechanic initially thought it might be the catalytic converter based on the codes, but further testing showed the oxygen sensor was sending bad readings which messed up the air-fuel mixture. They cleaned the throttle body while they were in there since it was pretty dirty. How long did it take them to fix yours and what was the damage to your wallet? Just curious if you've had any other issues pop up since the repair? Mine's been running great but always good to know what to watch out for.

Quick update on the repair, got it all sorted last week! The mechanic confirmed it was a bad fuel injector causing the lean condition, just like we suspected. Replacing the faulty injector fixed the power loss and rough running completely. Total cost came to 515 for parts and labor. The check engine light is now off and the engine runs perfectly smooth, no more jerking during acceleration. They tested all other injectors while they were at it, and those checked out fine. The oxygen sensor readings are now spot-on, showing proper air-fuel mixture. No other issues have popped up since the fix, the truck runs like new again. Really glad I didn't wait longer to get it repaired, running too lean could've caused more expensive problems down the road with the catalytic converter or other engine components. Definitely worth every penny to get it properly diagnosed and fixed by a qualified shop. Just make sure to find someone who really knows their way around diesel injection systems.

Finally got it fixed today, what a relief! Took it to a different mechanic who actually specializes in diesels. Turned out it was indeed a bad fuel injector like you guys suggested. They ran some tests and found injector #4 wasn't firing properly, throwing off the whole air-fuel ratio. Bill came to around €600, bit steep but worth it. The mechanic explained everything clearly and showed me the diagnostic readings. Took them about 4 hours total to replace the injector and test everything. They also cleaned the mass air flow sensor while they were at it since it was pretty dirty. Truck's running like new now, no more jerking or power loss during acceleration. Check engine light is finally off and the engine feels strong again. Really glad I didn't keep driving it in that condition, mechanic said it could've damaged the catalytic converter if left unfixed. Going to stick with this shop from now on. Their attention to detail and clear communication made a huge difference compared to my last mechanic experience.