Mazda 3 Diesel (2016) Issues: Check Engine Light, Long Start Time, DPF Regeneration, and Persistent Pre-Glow Light

Hey! I had a similar issue on my 2013 Mazda 6 Diesel, and you guessed it, it was indeed a faulty glow plug. The symptoms were uncannily similar - black smoke, reluctant starting, that dreaded check engine light, all the works. After rolling into my garage and explaining the situation, my mechanic ran a diagnostic test to pinpoint the issue. Initially, the error code indicated the glow plug was acting up. Post this, to confirm, the mechanic manually tested each glow plug using a multimeter. One of them showed high resistance, indicating it was worn out majorly. Fixing it was a pretty straightforward job. My mechanic replaced the defective plug and the glow plug relay itself, as it was found to be corroded as well. He then reset the fault codes in the car's ECU. While it wasn't a major repair, it's significant in its own respect, considering it affects the basic functioning of the engine. After the replacement, I haven't had any more issues with starting up or black smoke. The DPF went back to doing its thing right too. My tenure with cars suggests it's a bit of a common wear and tear sign in Diesel engines, particularly in cooler climates. So, nothing too alarming but you would want to get it sorted ASAP to avoid further complications. Hope this helps! Cheers!

Hey there! Thanks for sharing your experience. Your situation sounds strikingly similar to mine. I'm kind of relieved that it may not be a severe problem. It's good to hear your Mazda 6 is running smoothly post the fix. By the by, how much did your mechanic charge for the whole replacement job, if you don't mind me asking? Also, has anything else popped up related to this since the fix? Trying to get an estimate and prepare myself for any future surprises that could come my way! Thanks again!

Hey there! You're welcome, happy to help a fellow Mazda owner! In terms of cost, fixing the faulty glow plug set me back by 560 Euro. I reckon it's a fair price considering it was one glitch causing all the hullabaloo. The mechanic had to replace the faulty glow plug and the glow plug relay that had corroded, and the cost of labor, diagnostic test were also included in this. So, it's safe to say that it wasn't a minor fix even though the issue was related to one little faulty part. And regarding your second question, ever since I got it sorted with the mechanic, my Mazda 6 has thankfully been running like a dream. No complications or related problems have popped up since then. The check engine light stays off, no more black smoke, and it starts up pretty well, even when it's nippy outside. So, all's well that ends well, eh? I reckon you should get your car checked out pronto as well. Early diagnosis might save you from any major headache down the line. Good luck!

G'day! A huge thanks for your insights - really helped clarify things for me. That price might sting a bit, but it's worthwhile to keep the ol' girl in top shape, I reckon. If it avoids any potential complications further down the line, I'd consider it money well spent! It's ace to hear that your Mazda 6 is keeping the pace after the repair and it definitely gives me hope for my Mazda 3. It's a relief this isn't some exclusive-to-me issue and can be rectified. Appreciate your help a lot and I'll be getting her checked up right away. Fingers crossed a similar fix does the job! Cheers for sharing your experience - it's been more than helpful. Hoping to have my Mazda back to her best soon. Till then, happy motoring and take care!