Seeking Advice on Renault Arkana's Engine Issues: Suspected Air Mass Sensor Malfunction

Hey, Your symptoms sound quite similar to what I experienced with my 2020 Renault Talisman. Starting with black smoke to stalling, engine shaking like a shoddy roller coaster, and an insatiable thirst for fuel, it was more or less a mirror image of your situation. I initially thought it was a faulty mass air flow sensor too. However, after a trip to my local garage, the mechanic there identified the root cause as damage to the cable harness. Some critters had taken a liking to my beloved beast's wiring setup and had caused some serious havoc. Without diving into the nitty-gritty, it was indeed some serious business that included the wiring system, sensors, and some electrical units that the harness connected. Fixing it was not just about replacing a part but involved diagnostics, intricately examining the system, and ensuring no further damage was done. Do note though, your case might be different given car models and their underlying system variations. But it's quite possible that your air mass sensor, among other components, might be affected due to a damaged cable harness, which is causing the symptoms you described. I'd suggest taking it to a good mechanic and have them check it thoroughly. Hope this helps you. Best of luck with your car. Cheers!

Hey, Really appreciate you covering your experience in detail. What an ordeal with the critters, that's a new one for me! And your point about the cable harness damage affecting other components, it's given me something new to consider. By the way, do you happen to remember roughly how much fixing this damage set you back? I'm trying to get a ballpark figure to keep in hand when I meet the mechanic. Also, since you got the issue fixed, did any other problems crop up? Cheers!

Hey there, No problem, happy to share my experiences if it helps out a fellow car enthusiast! In terms of the costs, if my memory serves right, I had to fork out around 95€ to set things straight. They had to patch up the cable harness, which those nasty critters had a hearty meal on! As for any other issues cropping up, thankfully since I swung by the mechanic, everything's been running smooth - touch wood! The air mass sensor, which initially I also thought was the main villain, has been back to its normal self ever since the cable harness was sorted out. Remember, though, every car's case can be a bit different, so keep an open mind when you take it to your mechanic. He might uncover some other under-the-hood villains! Take care and fingers crossed your Arkana runs smooth and trouble-free soon! Cheers!

Hey there, Thanks for the info, it's a bit of a relief to know about the cost not being sky high. The idea of other potential villains skulking around under the hood does make me a bit nervous though! But you're right, best not to jump to conclusions before getting it inspected properly. Thanks again for sharing your helpful insights and for the well wishes - gotta admit, I'm really hoping my Arkana starts behaving itself soon! Catch you later. Cheers!