Mazda CX5 Diesel Showing Signs of Possible Faulty Air Mass Sensor

Hey there, I had pretty much the same symptoms with my '12 Mazda CX9. Seemed like she lost her power, check engine light was on and off, and she was occasionally puffing out dark smoke, too. Turns out, it was indeed the mass air flow (MAF) sensor that had gone bad. It's a critical part for your engine as it measures the volume and density of the air entering it and which tremendously affects its performance. Symptoms like stalling, unusual engine behavior or reduced power are telltale signs. My local mechanic confirmed the issue, and replacing the sensor did the trick. It wasn't too complicated so it was sorted out in one visit. My car has been running smoothly ever since. So I'd suggest you to get your MAF sensor checked first. Hope this helps! Good luck!

Hey! Thanks for sharing your experience, sounds super similar to what I'm dealing with my CX5. I was suspecting the MAF sensor and this kinda confirms it. Do you recall how much it cost you for the MAF sensor replacement? I'm trying to brace for the potential hit to my wallet. Also, has your CX9 thrown any curveballs since then, or has it been smooth sailing? Cheers!

Hey! You're spot on about the wallet hit. For the MAF sensor fix, it cost me just a smidge over 415€ - not exactly a steal but it made all the difference. As for my trusty CX9, she's been behaving like a charm since I had that sensor sorted out; it seems that was the crux of her bad mood. Get that MAF sensor looked at ASAP and your CX5 will be back in fighting form in no time. Best of luck! Cheers!

Hey again, 415€ sounds steep, but if it does the trick and gets my girl back on track, I guess it's a price worth paying. Thanks heaps for all the helpful info! It's definitely lulled my worries a bit. Fingers crossed my final mechanic visit goes just as smoothly as yours did. Cheerio!