Mazda 3 Traction Control

[nixon1905]

Hi guys, I am just about to buy a mazda 3 but the dealer is currently repairing a traction control fault. He assures me that it is just a switch that needs replacing, however I am wary that it might run a little deeper. Could somebody that has a mazda 3 look at the traction control and Stability (ESP) lights and tell me if they should light up on start up or how I could get them to light up easily.

This would really be a massive help!

Thanks

[Superhoop]

Yes they should, and then go out 3 seconds after the car is started

Did they tell you what the fault code was - I'd put money on it being C1288, brake pedal pressure sensor

A common fault on them, requires a replacement hydraulic unit (available as a separate part - and recon available too)

It's a Bosch unit, and is almost identical to VW Golf, Seat Leon etc.. Which also suffer the same problem.

[nixon1905]

Thanks. No they didn't tell me what the fault code was. So just to confirm both the traction control and esp light should come on for at least a few seconds. Just a bit wary they might remove a light or something! I take it that the traction control light also comes on if you get the wheels spinning and the ABS will not work either? Its an 54 plate if that makes any difference at all?

[Superhoop]

The TCS light should definitely be on on start up, and go off with the ABS light after 3 seconds of engine running.

If there is a fault in the system, neither ABS or TCS will operate - just test drive it and stamp on the brakes... ABS will either work, or it won't in which case there's a problem

ETA: if the code is C1288, there is no work around for it other than repair, and once it's set, just clearing it won't prevent it coming straight back on.

[M4cruiser]

I remember looking into this myself about a year ago, did some Googling and found it was quite a common fault, with Mazda dealers wanting £1,500 to fix it out of warranty .. so double check before you buy!

[nixon1905]

M4cruiser said:

I remember looking into this myself about a year ago, did some Googling and found it was quite a common fault, with Mazda dealers wanting £1,500 to fix it out of warranty .. so double check before you buy!

Yes I noticed this as well. Does anybody know what sort of costs might be expected for an independent garage to fix? Like was said it might be similar to the golf cost?

[bstark]

Where are you based? If you're in Kent then Freelance Mazda in Luton (near Chatham) are excellent.