Mazda CX-8: P0171 and P0174 Diagnosis

P0171 and P0174 both indicate that there is a lean condition present in your Mazda CX-8.  By themselves, these are some of the most common OBD2 codes.   When they appear together, it indicates that the entire engine is running lean. Definition Both of these codes are generic, which means they have the same meaning … Read more

Mazda CX-8:  Clutch Slipping → Diagnosis

Your Mazda CX-8’s clutch provides a direct connection between the engine and transmission.  Without it, it can’t move at all. This connection requires a tremendous amount of pressure.  This guide is intended to help you determine why your clutch is slipping on the flywheel. Note:  This article is for manual cars only.  Here’s the automatic … Read more

Mazda CX-8:  Engine Sputtering (Causes + Diagnosis)

A sputtering engine can indicate a number of problems.  If your Mazda CX-8 has a sputter, it is most likely going to be caused by bad fuel system, ignition system, MAF sensor, or bad catalytic converter.  Your CX-8’s engine is a giant pump.  It pulls in air (where it is measured by the mass airflow … Read more

Mazda CX-8:  Brake Pedal Going to Floor Diagnosis

The single most important safety feature in your Mazda CX-8 is a good set of brakes.  If your brake pedal is going to the floor, it indicates that there is a serious problem in the braking system.  When the pedal goes to the floor, it’s usually caused by a bad master cylinder, leaking brakes, bad … Read more

Mazda CX-8 Shifting Hard: Causes + Diagnosis

One of the most common automatic transmission problems is shifting hard.  If your Mazda CX-8 has a hard shifting transmission, it can be uncomfortable to drive and a sign of serious problems. If your car’s transmission is shifting hard, it can cause a harsh ride and lead to potential damage over time. Numerous factors can … Read more

Mazda CX-8:  Warped Rotors → Symptoms & Causes

  Rotors are metal discs that are visible behind the CX-8’s wheel. They work together with the calipers and brake pads to slow down your Mazda CX-8. Due to braking friction, rotors have to withstand and dissipate a tremendous amount of heat. This causes the rotor surface to be uneven making the brake pedal feel … Read more

Mazda CX-8: Bad Motor Mount → Symptoms + Diagnosis

While your Mazda CX-8’s engine mounts can last the life of the entire vehicle, it is possible that they will go bad.  Vibration and a clunking sound are the two most noticeable symptoms when driving the vehicle.  There are plenty of visible signs as well. Engine mounts connect the engine to the frame of the … Read more

Mazda CX-8:  Bad ECM → Symptoms + Diagnosis

Your Mazda CX-8’s ECM (Engine Control Module) is its brain.  Just like a human’s brain, your CX-8 can’t function without it. It is sometimes referred to as the ECU or PCM.  It’s all the same thing. The ECM controls and directs your entire drivetrain (unless there is a serrate transmission controller). When an ECM starts … Read more