Mazda 3 (2003 Model) Experiences Power Loss, Engine Issues & Exhaust Problems - Possible Fuel Volume Regulator Fault?

Hey there, I perfectly understand your situation. Not too long ago, I had similar issues with my 2006 Mazda 6, gas engine, and was it a headache! I initially suspected that it might be some form of air intake issue, but turns out I was wrong. The mechanic had a look at it and eventually pointed out this was actually a High-pressure pump was defective. This had a domino effect and was essentially causing my Mazda to belch smoke, behave erratically, and lose power just like yours is. The smell of exhaust was also pretty intense and that's because the unburnt fuel was getting pushed out, causing the car to stall during idle times and guzzle way more fuel than it should. It sounds like your Mazda may be having the same issue. While it is a significant problem, thankfully it's not insurmountable. The good news is once the high-pressure fuel pump was replaced, all these issues were resolved in my case. I reckon you should bring this issue up with your mechanic the next time you take your ride in. Hope this helps and your Mazda gets back on track soon. Take care!

Hey! Bummer hearing about your Mazda troubles, reminds me of a similar grievance I had with my car. I reckon you're onto something with the high-pressure fuel pump theory, had pretty much the same telltale signs with my own ride. By the way, do you recall what the damage was to your wallet when you got your pump replaced? Also, has anything else popped up related to this since you made the fix? Your insight would be a huge help. Cheers!

Heya! Yeah, those car troubles were a real headache, but lucky for me they've seemed to settle down after all the repairs. To answer your question, mending that pesky High-pressure pump set me back about 1510 Euro, wasn't cheap let me tell you. But it's well worth it now seeing how smooth the old Mazda runs. Oh, and as for your second question, you'll be glad to hear that nothing else has gone south since the repairs were made. In fact, you remember that Fuel Volume Regulator issue you were wondering about earlier? Turns out that was indeed messed up in my car too but got fixed at the same time as the pump. No more black smoke, stalling or obnoxious exhaust smells! So in short, no more nasty surprises after the fix. I'd strongly recommend you have your mechanic give those parts a good look next time. Hope that helps and best of luck with your Mazda! Cheers!

Hey again, Thanks heaps for the advice, provided me with quite a bit of clarity. The price stings a bit but if it solves the issue, I guess it's worth it. Really hope that'll be the end of the road for this drama. That's ace to hear nothing else turned up after you got the pump and regulator fixed, it definitely gives me some hope. Now, let's just see if my mechanic agrees with our car forum diagnosis! Alright, time for me to roll up my sleeves and get into tackling this beast of a problem. I truly appreciate your assistance. Will let you know how things turn out with my Mazda. Wish me luck! Cheers!