P018A Mazda Mazda 3 Ii Diagnostic Trouble Code

P018A Mazda Mazda 3 Ii code definition:
P018A is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic P-Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code for Mazda Mazda 3 Ii.

P018A Mazda Mazda 3 Ii is defined as Cylinder 3 Injector Circuit Malfunction. This code means the PCM (powertrain control module, also known as ECM or engine control) has detected a problem in the injector or its wiring, or in injector circuit for cylinder 3. This is because the barometric pressure sensor is part of the MAF sensor. Sometimes, the MAF's sensing wire can accumulate and get covered with dirt, dust and/or oil residue, which can also lead to the error code.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P018A Mazda Mazda 3 Ii diagnostic trouble code may include:

Carbon Buildup on O2 Sensor
Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illuminated
Hesitation upon acceleration
If the DPF is not cleared the ECU will revert to the "Limp Home Mode" until the situation is corrected

Possible Causes :

Fuel with a large percentage of sulfur will clog the DPF quickly
The Mass Airflow sensor will also cause this problem. Mass Airflow circuit malfunction.
Some aftermarket accessories and performance modifications

Common Misdiagnoses

Vehicle Speed Output Circuit Problem
Cruise Control Servo Indicates Low Problem
A/C System High Pressure High Temperature Problem
PCM Stack Overrun Problem
Transmission Control Module Reprogrammable Memory Problem

Repair Processes :

Look for damage to the tank indicating impact that may have damaged the fuel pump or sender. Once located, visually inspect the connectors and wiring. Look for rubbing, scraping, bare wires, worn spots or melted plastic connectors.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code P018A Mazda Mazda 3 Ii is not difficult to diagnose and repair. Thus, it always pays to have a qualified technician to look after your vehicle should this error code arise.

Diagnosing this code requires the engine to be in good running shape, without unmetered air entering the engine. If other codes that relates to misfiring condition, lean running or air entering the engine is present, then you must first fix those error codes before P018A Mazda Mazda 3 Ii.

Fortunately, P018A Mazda Mazda 3 Ii is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.