2005 Mazda Tribute s, FWDFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Symptom Troubleshooting [Engine Control System]: Backfires

BACKFIRES DESCRIPTION

8 BACKFIRES
DESCRIPTION
  • Sound produced from exhaust system
BACKFIRES INSPECTION/ACTION CHART

STEP INSPECTION ACTION
1 PRELIMINARY CHECKS
  • Perform the following preliminary checks:
    • Vacuum lines (check for damage and proper routing).
    • Spark plug wire routing (proper firing order).
  • Are all checks OK? 
 Yes Go to next step.
No Service as required.
Verify symptom no longer exists.
2 PERFORM PCM QUICK TEST
See PCM QUICK TEST  .
  • Are any DTCs displayed during Continuous Memory, Key ON, Engine OFF (KOEO), Engine OFF (KOEO) or Key ON, Engine OFF (KOEO), Engine Running (KOER) Self-Tests? 
 Yes Check for cause.
See DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE NUMBERS  .
No Go to next step.
3 CHECK SECONDARY IGNITION SYSTEM
  • Is strong blue spark visible at each disconnected high-tension lead while cranking engine? 
 Yes Check spark plugs.
See IGNITION COIL-ON-PLUG AND SPARK PLUG -- 2.3L , or IGNITION COIL-ON-PLUG AND SPARK PLUG -- 3.0L .
If OK, Go to next step.
If not OK, clean or replace spark plugs.
No Go to next step.
4 CHECK FUEL DELIVERY SYSTEM Yes Go to next step.
No If pressure is greater than 380 kPa (55 psi):
Replace fuel pump module.
See FUEL PUMP MODULE .
If pressure is less than 240 kPa (35 psi):
Check fuel supply line for restriction.
5 CHECK FUEL DELIVERY SYSTEM Yes Check injector for leakage.
See TEST 10: FUEL INJECTOR INSPECTION  .
If injector leaks, service as necessary.
See FUEL INJECTORS .
If injector OK, go to next step.
No Check fuel supply line for restriction.
6 CHECK BASE ENGINE
  • Check for base engine concerns (such as improper compression, worn camshaft/valve train, gasket leaks).
  • Is a fault indicated? 
 Yes Service as required.
No Go to next step.
7 CHECK EXHAUST SYSTEM
  • Is there a restriction in the exhaust system? 
 Yes Service as required.
No Go to next step.
8
  • Verify test results. If OK, see DIAGNOSTIC INDEX  to service any additional symptoms.
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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.

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