This Mazda 3 was using a lot of fuel and running rough so we replaced the airflow meter  -  then the dashboard warning light came on so the owner brought it to us for some more diagnostics and help. 

Initial vehicle scan and diagnostics of the Mazda 3 

Using the scan tool, we monitored air flow meter data: grams per second and air temperature. Both readings were out of specifications. We diagnosed the air flow meter as faulty due to the air flow and temperature from the component being out of specifications.

We replaced the air flow meter and tested everything again - the air temperature was good and grams per second came in around 2 grams per second, all within specifications, and also during the road test all indicators were okay, the car was no longer running rough!

The vehicle returned to us approximately one week later with a warning light on the dashboard.   There were no running issues, that had been fixed  - just the light present on the instrument cluster.  We read the message  - P0171 (bank one system too lean). Intake air temperatures from the air flow meter were okay, grams per second were down.  We suspected there might be an issue with the new air flow meter that had been installed.  We fitted a replacement air flow meter for the customer and everything was okay!

But the vehicle returned with the same code, but this time the engine light was only coming on intermittently. We pico scoped the fuel pump and that showed us slight wear in two of the pump cells, so we the checked fuel pressure which was within specifications every time. We also checked the operation of the front air fuel ratio sensor, all okay.

So again we started looking at grams per second reading from the air flow meter and we noticed that the reading would drop occasionally. Suspecting a slight intake leak we filled the manifold with smoke to inspect for leaks -  yet there were none to be found.

After finding no EXTERNAL intake leaks we started suspecting an INTERNAL intake leak. When disconnecting and blocking the evaporative emission purge solenoid valve between the valve and the manifold, the grams per second reading rose to within spec. So we checked for a leak through the evaporative emission purge solenoid valve - there wasn't one. We reassembled the purge valve and hose to intake manifold with a clamp , all readings were within spec. A further test drive indicated no faults.

A few weeks later guess which car was back, yep, and the same code. Still going with the evaporative emission valve and internal intake leak theory we removed the hose between the purge valve and fuel tank, this time there was a huge intake leak, this wasn't happening last time we checked!!  Also, the scan tool showed that the purge valve should be closed. By blocking the intake leak all readings were within specifications, most importantly, the grams per second through the air flow meter had risen.

We found we could use the actuation tests on the scan tool to control the duty cycle of the purge valve. Finding the purge valve intermittently not shutting when commanded, even though the signal was getting to the purge valve from the engine control module, all okay, we suggested replacement of the purge valve. Once the purge valve was replaced we tested it with the scan tool, it shut every time we commanded it to...brilliant!!

We took the vehicle for a good long test drive while monitoring the purge valve duty cycle and grams per second from the air flow meter - everything was operating normally and whenever the purge valve was shut the grams per second was within specifications. WE DID IT. #CELEBRATIONS

Sometimes car diagnostics can be a tricky business -  sometimes there can be more than one faulty part and fixing the first one found can lead to finding more problems. Even experts like us sometimes need to use extra investigations and some out of the box thinking to solve the problem.  But the most important thing about this story - This customer's vehicle is now running smooth and no warning lights! 

If your car isn't performing as well as it should, or your warning lights are shining - give us a call at Blackwood dyno tune for expert diagnostics and service. 

Mazda 3 - FAQs

Car diagnostics can be a tricky business - this Mazda 3 was running rough and using too much fuel, so of course, we fixed it ... but then a tricky warning light had us scratching our heads!

Mazda car diagnostics case study in Blackwood

Car service case study: Mazda 3 warning light.

Auto Electrical servicing is one of the most important ways of keeping modern cars running efficiently and safely. You should always visit a qualified auto electrician to ensure your vehicle is maintained properly.

It is easy to spot an auto electrical issue when the worst happens. A car which will not start signals an issue with the battery, alternator or spark plugs. But what about when there are more subtle issues going on with your vehicle? There are warning signs which can signal that you need to make a trip to see an auto electrician or suitably qualified mechanic. Some of the top symptoms and causes of auto electrical failure include:

Faulty start due to worn out spark plugs.

Engine will not start due to a broken alternator.

Dead battery due to buildup on the connection cables.

Puddle under a car which will not start due to a leak in the battery.

Engine does not engage due to failed starter and cylinders which haven't been ignited.

Car will not start due to faulty electrical components.

In addition to the traditional systems such as starter motors and simple systems like radios, the electrical systems of modern cars now need to cope with many more components. Such things as modern safety systems & controls and a range of electronic devices such as navigation systems and various entertainment devices all rely on your auto electrical system to function.

Auto Electrical Services from Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service include testing, servicing, refitting and repairing a whole range of electrical components fitted to different types of vehicles including:

Have all of your auto electrical issues taken care of when you make an appointment at Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service today!

Common FAQs - Auto Electrical

In addition to the traditional systems such as starter motors and simple systems like radios, the electrical systems of modern cars now need to cope with many more components like modern safety systems & controls, navigation systems and various entertainment devices...

Auto Electrical Servicing - common problems

A vehicle's ignition system is designed to ignite a fuel-air mixture and plays an important role in how the vehicle functions.

When your car will not start, it can be a heartbreaking experience. It often seems this only ever happens when you have somewhere to be in a hurry. When you have to get back on the road or back on with your day, you need a mechanic in Blackwood you can trust. A vehicle's ignition system is designed to ignite a fuel-air mixture.

Without the ignition system the vehicle simply will not start. When you are faced with an issue with a car’s ignition system you should turn to Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service for the following reasons:

Decades of Service & Experience: We have been established for over 20 years and offer a combined experience of decades.

Courteous Customer Service: We are friendly, honest and dedicated to our customer service.

Fair & Competitive Prices: We pride ourselves on charging you only what you should be paying, and no more

Local and International Vehicle Experience: We can work on any type of car, old or new, European or Australian

Latest dyno and scan tool diagnostic technology

Our customers visit us for a range of reasons, from an alternator which will not catch to a car which will not start. There are several things which can go wrong with the ignition system such as:

Wear and Tear: The battery, spark plugs, distributor cap and wires will not last forever. Replacement of these items at regular intervals prevents larger ignition issues.

Weak Ignition: When spark plugs need to be replaced it is usually not all of them at once. A misfire in one or more sparkplugs will cause a weak start-up of the car and is an indication that a service may be needed soon.

Battery Issues: A battery can wear out or its terminals become corroded. We have the equipment to clean and test batteries or can replace them as needed.

Coil Wire is Frayed: When the charge is not carried to the spark plugs, the ignition fails to catch and the coil wire must be replaced.

Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service Ignition Repair Services Include:

Ignition Signal Sensor Test and Replacement

There are a few warning signs that will indicate your ignition system needs a repair. If you recognise your vehicle is not starting well or it's not running smooth, talk to Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service. We will examine the following:

Your ignition coils - These often short circuit and cause hard starting, rough idle or no power.

Your distributor cap - These also wear out or crack causing a short, leading to rough idle, no power or hard starting.

Your spark plugs - A critical component that can wear out and must be changed at regular intervals. Worn or damaged spark plugs can cause ignition coil failure.

Your alternator - It could simply not be charging well.

Your starter motor - Failure can cause the motor to fail to start.

To ensure a hassle free start to your busy day contact Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service to have your ignition system checked. We’ll help you get your car up and running first time – every time!

Car won't start? It can be a heartbreaking experience. It often seems this only ever happens when you have somewhere to be in a hurry. When you need a local mechanic in Blackwood you can trust contact Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service straight away ...

Ignition system servicing in Blackwood

As your trusted local Mechanic in Blackwood, we take great pride in offering the very best in car service and automotive repairs.

At Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service, we understand that the current 'cost of living pressure' is making it difficult for many people to afford car servicing, which often leads to the neglect of essential maintenance like oil changes and fluid checks. 

To help extend the life of your vehicle and alleviate some financial strain, we are offering free under bonnet fluid checks and tyre pressure checks on all vehicles, only charging for any fluids that need topping up. 

You can drop by our workshop after 1pm any day for this complimentary service, and while you're here, feel free to ask any questions about your vehicle's maintenance needs. We aim to help keep your car in good condition until you're able to afford a full service.

Free Under Bonnet Fluid and Tyre Pressure Checks

You can find out more about Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service and what is happening in our workshop lately by visiting our Facebook Page and learning more about us.

Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service is an independent, family owned and operated business, backed by Repco. Which means you get the friendly local service you expect from a family business, combined with the peace of mind from the Repco Nationwide Warranty. An RAA Approved Mechanical Repairer and Tyre Service Specialist, Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service is also a member of the Motor Trade Association of South Australia.

Independent, family owned and operated business

Owner operator Ricky Monserrat has a passion for all things automotive and treats every car like he would his own, ensuring your vehicle is maintained in its safest and most efficient condition.

Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service provide a full range of expert car servicing and repairs and our mechanics look after you and your car with top level care, skill and professionalism. 

No obligation, free quotes on your Air-Con, Log Book Service, European & Luxury Car Servicing, Car Maintenance and Dyno Tuning along with a full Range of car services. We service European Vehicles, Diesel vehicles, LPG Vehicles, Rear wheel drive cars, Front wheel drive cars, Four wheel drives, Electric Cars, Hybrid Cars and much more.

All mechanical repairs and full car servicing on most makes and models

Repco Authorised Service Nationwide Warranty on all work performed

Repco Auto-Tech trained automotive technicians 

New car servicing and fleet management solutions

Full range of car servicing means: no matter what your problem, we can fix it! Whether it is called a major car service, a basic car service or a log book service, a major or minor repair - we can look after your car.

Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service are your local European and Luxury car Service Specialists.

To get the most out of your European car you should always take it to a mechanic who is familiar with European vehicles and is aware of the differences between European models and cars built in Australia or imported from Asia. We are highly experienced and fully qualified to service and repair a range of European and Luxury Car Makes, including BMW, Porsche, Volkswagen, Audi and Jeep, just to name a few. We also perform work on the following vehicle types;

We can service your New Car. As your local Repco Authorised Service centre, we can carry out car manufacturers scheduled services and stamp your service log book. Your new car statutory warranty will be validated and protected.

Diesel 4WD and Diesel Passenger Car service in Blackwood

Did you know we're able to perform service and repairs on your diesel 4WD or diesel passenger car? Modern diesel engines require the expertise and experience of a fully qualified automotive technician. Our service centre is professionally equipped to carry out the following repairs and services: 

Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) regeneration

Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Valve repairs

Catch Can & Fuel Pre-filter Kit installation 

Loan Cars at Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service

Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service mechanics understand that life can be busy and that's why we have two loan cars available, so you can get on with your life while we take care of your car! Pick-up and drop-off service in the local area is also available.

Saving the environment - we reduce, reuse and recycle

We share your care for our environment - all waste product including oils and coolants are disposed of using specialised automotive waste management services.

It's important for your car and the environment that you only choose a workshop that is qualified to carry out air conditioning services.  Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service care about the environment and have Arctick Authorisation to reliably and responsibly conduct automotive air conditioning service (AU00940). ARC Approved Car Air Conditioning Servicing reduces Fuel Costs and protects your health. 

Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service is an independently owned and operated service centre. Every Repco Authorised Service is the same friendly local garage you're used to dealing with. Nothing changed, not even the name over the door and you get to talk to the mechanic who fixes your car. Our mechanics aren't hidden away. You get to know them personally. They're only too happy to talk to you about your car and discuss any problems. It's just another part of our friendly local service. 

Repco Auto-tech keeps us up-to-date with the latest technology. If you drive a late model vehicle you can be sure that Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service will use the latest technology and repair methods. Repco Auto-tech keeps every mechanic fully updated on all new models with service bulletins and regular workshop clinics.

 We are proud to be an American Express Card Member Favourite and we also accept Visa and Master Card.

For friendly car service from a trusted independent business, rely on the mechanics at Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service.

Your local Mechanic in Blackwood offers the very best in car servicing and automotive repairs. To get your car tuned to it's top performance, contact Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service now! With over 25 years of performance enhancing experience, we can surely increase the functionality of your vehicle, save your fuel and get you to your destination sooner, safer and more efficiently.

Automotive Servicing, Tuning and Repairs in Blackwood, South Australia

Diesel vehicles are great cars – renowned for their torque (towing capacity) and fuel efficiency. However, they can occasionally present challenges that require expert attention. It’s important to find a mechanic who understands diesel engines and their intricate design. 

At Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service, we are fully equipped and certified to work on, diagnose and repair your diesel vehicles. All our technicians are fully qualified diesel mechanics, certified through Repco’s Auto-Tech training program.

With our diagnostic scan tools and comprehensive knowledge, just know that your diesel vehicles are in the best possible care at Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service. 

Did you know that it is not recommended to travel short distances daily with your diesel engine? The engine does not get warm enough for regeneration to take place, resulting in the diesel particulate filter becoming very quickly full of soot particles. 

A diesel engine draws in large amounts of air to operate efficiently. Over time, carbon deposits build up on the inner walls of the induction system. This carbon (black soot, similar to what you would find in a chimney) restricts air flow, affecting performance, and if left untreated, carbon build up can decrease performance and economy. 

These are 5 parts of your Diesel engine that you should know about:

ECU (Engine Control Unit): This is essentially the vehicle's brain. The diagnostic scan assesses the ECU for any error codes, misconfigurations, or software issues that might affect engine performance.

Fuel Injection System: Diagnostics check the timing, spray pattern, and operation of the injectors to ensure the fuel is being delivered to the engine properly, which is critical for maintaining fuel efficiency and engine performance.

Turbocharger System: Scans the turbocharger for issues related to its operation, including reduced boost pressure and leaks that could result in decreased engine power and increased fuel consumption.

Exhaust System (including DPF): Checks for blockages or malfunctions within the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and the entire exhaust system, which can lead to increased emissions and reduced engine performance.

Cooling System: Evaluates the operation of the radiator, water pump, and thermostat to prevent overheating, which is vital for preventing engine damage.

Some of the most common issues faced by diesel engines include: 

What other issues can occur with Diesel Engines? 

Poor Fuel Quality: Contaminated or low-quality diesel fuel can lead to clogged fuel injectors and reduced engine performance.

Turbocharger Failure: Turbochargers can fail due to wear and tear, improper maintenance, or foreign objects damaging the turbine, leading to a significant loss of power.

Overheating: Diesel engines can overheat due to cooling system malfunctions, such as a faulty thermostat or a clogged radiator, potentially causing severe engine damage.

Starting Issues: Cold weather or faulty glow plugs can lead to difficulties in starting the engine, as diesel engines rely on heat for the ignition.

EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) Valve Failure: The EGR valve helps lower the vehicle's emissions; however, if it becomes clogged or malfunctions, it can cause engine performance issues and increased emissions.

At Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service, we work towards extending the life of your diesel vehicle, by using our comprehensive knowledge and specialised scan tools, to take a deeper look at the problems occurring. The scan covers crucial components, such as the engine control unit (ECU; essentially the vehicle’s “brain”), fuel injection system, exhaust system, and more, providing a comprehensive health check that is essential for maintaining the vehicles performance. We can save you money by finding the problem early on!

Just know that when you bring your diesel vehicle into us at Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service, it is in the best care. We will communicate with you throughout the entire process and answer any questions you may have! 

Unlock the full potential of your diesel engine with expert diagnostics, tuning, and repair at Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service. Trust our team for unmatched expertise and customer service in Blackwood, SA.

Premier Diesel Engine Diagnostics and Repair in Blackwood

 A customer with a Ford Ranger called with a lack of power and engine light on issue. In this instance there were 3 different reasons for the power loss and engine light to be on. When diagnosing faults, never assume it is the first one you find. 

The front bumper and grill were removed, exposing the old leaking intercooler.

This image shows the damaged Turbo Charger intake wheel, which had to be replaced due to irreparable damage as described above.

Above you can see specks of aluminium from the turbo stuck to the carbon inside the intake manifold. We also highly recommend for turbo diesel vehicles, an annual intake throttle carbon clean and then a fitment of an oil catch can to stop the heavy carbon build up in the inlet manifold. 

Finally, the new replacement intercooler has now been fitted after repairing the turbo charger and cleaning the intake manifold. Most turbo vehicles have the intercooler fitted in front of the radiator.

When diagnosing vehicle faults, we never assume it is the first one we find.

Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service share a recent diagnostic service on a Ford Ranger with a 'Check Engine' light on

Case Study - Ford Ranger, No Power and Engine light on

If you're thinking about buying a second hand vehicle we highly recommend a pre-purchase vehicle inspection.

The purchase of a car is often one of the biggest financial outlays you will make and having a specialised trained technician conducting an inspection before you buy can give you peace of mind. Some great reasons to invest in a pre purchase vehicle inspection include:

Avoid costly repairs that aren't covered by second hand dealer warranty

Highlight damage from a previous motor accident

Provides leverage when negotiating the purchase price

Avoids unexpected repair bills down the road

Our highly skilled team carry out vehicle inspections at our Blackwood workshop. We provide a simple to read inspection report that will assist you to make an informed choice along with a purchase recommendation. 

Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service will perform a comprehensive vehicle inspection via our digital Smart Inspector reporting system, which you can share (if you choose) with the seller, enabling you to either negotiate a better price or select a different vehicle that better suits your needs.

By investing in our pre-purchase vehicle inspection you will have peace of mind when purchasing your next vehicle, plus it could also save you thousands of dollars in future repair costs. Below are some of the items we regularly check on our customers prospective vehicles;

During the engine check we review many components to determine wear and faults. The items below are inspected where applicable and any faults and comments are listed in the report:

Cooling system (radiator, water pump, hoses, fan)

During the transmission and driveline check we review many components to determine wear and faults. The items below are inspected where applicable and any faults and comments are listed in the report:

During the steering and suspension check we review many components to determine wear and faults. The items below are inspected where applicable and any faults and comments are listed in the report:

During the body check we review the exterior to determine wear and faults. The items below are inspected where applicable and any faults and comments are listed in the report:

During the brake check we review many components to determine wear and faults. The items below are inspected where applicable and any faults and comments are listed in the report:

During the wheels and tyres check we review many components to determine wear and faults. The items below are inspected where applicable and any faults and comments are listed in the report:

During the electrical check we review many components to determine wear and faults. The items below are inspected where applicable and any faults and comments are listed in the report:

Battery performance test and inspect terminals

Along with all the other parts reviewed above the following components are also inspected to determine wear and faults:

Don't let what should ideally be an enjoyable and worthwhile experience such as the purchase of a new vehicle, leave a sour taste in your mouth when you realise you've bought a lemon. Get a Pre-Purchase Vehicle Inspection from Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service before you commit to buying.

Don't let what should ideally be an enjoyable and worthwhile experience such as the purchase of a new vehicle, leave a sour taste in your mouth when you realise you've bought a lemon. Get a Pre-Purchase Vehicle Inspection from Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service before you commit to buying...

Don't buy a Lemon - Pre Purchase Vehicle Inspections in Blackwood

The customer brought his Nissan Urvan mobile home to us, requiring the removal of the LPG gas tank from the dual fuel system as they were having running problems with the van not running on LPG.

It was a wise a decision because the cost to repair the LPG system outweighed the gains achieved using a cheaper fuel. Plus the vehicle would be lighter and be more fuel efficient running on petrol due to the restrictions on air intake when LPG is installed. They chose Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service as we’re fully licensed to fit, service and remove LPG systems.

To remove the LPG tank from underneath the motor home, it was raised on the hoist. Some tanks are installed inside the cabin of the car or more usually in the boot area, so when you remove the LPG tank it increases the luggage/storage space to a factory configuration. The LPG tank does not have to be empty to remove it from the vehicle. 

Here’s the LPG 100 litre tank that was removed from the Nissan Urvan. During the removal procedure we also remove the LPG fuel lines, associated wiring, gauges and electrical switches in the cabin.

This shows the LPG Converter, associated wiring, gauges, electrical switches, feed and supply lines that were also removed from vehicle. Once the system has been removed, we then adjust the tune for the vehicle to run correctly and efficiently on petrol, as this would have been changed when the LPG system was originally fitted to the vehicle.

The customer brought his Nissan Urvan mobile home to us, requiring the removal of the LPG gas tank from the dual fuel system as they were having running problems with the van not running on LPG. It was a wise a decision

Nissan Urvan Mobile Home LPG Gas system removal article from Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service

Case Study - Nissan Urvan CamperVan LPG Gas System and Tank Removal 

Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service can conduct a vehicle Inspection with your next car service and provide you with a free Vehicle Condition report. 

Mention this web page when you book your car for any service, and we will happily provide you with a fully itemised written report.

During this visual inspection (carried out by a qualified mechanic) we will check 65 important areas of your car.
The Vehicle Condition Report can alert you to any issues before they impact you or your family and before they cost you extra time and money.

The Repco Auto-Tech trained mechanics at Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service are fully qualified to advise you on every aspect of car service and repair, across all makes and models of vehicles.
The Repco Authorised Service 65 point Vehicle Condition Report offers you additional peace of mind.

Book a car service in Blackwood with Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service to ensure you are inspected and protected, because safety matters.

Ask about a 65 Point Vehicle Inspection Report with your next car service.

Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service in Blackwood can conduct a vehicle condition inspection to assess the condition of most motor vehicles and provide you with a Vehicle Condition Report.                     

Whether you are purchasing a used car, embarking on a long trip, or just trying to decide whether to keep or sell your car, our Vehicle Condition Report will help give you the information you need to make a decision*.                     

The Vehicle Condition Report covers a wide number of critical areas of the vehicle. The report can be carried out on all passenger, 4WD and light commercial vehicles. To help give you peace of mind, our Vehicle Condition Report offers you a thorough understanding of common issues that can arise.                      

An itemised condition* report performed by qualified  technicians

Testing is completely independent of car dealers

*Important. There are certain items that cannot be checked without complete dismantling of components which are not covered in this report.                             Please call Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service if you have a specific concern you’d like addressed.                         

The Vehicle Condition Inspection goes deeper than a roadworthy inspection.

150 Point Vehicle Inspection Report in Blackwood

Vehicle Condition Report

MTAA

IAME

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We advise that our workshop will be closed for the Christmas period from the close of business on Friday the 20th of December and reopening on Thursday the 2nd of January

We advise that the workshop will be closed over the Easter long weekend reopening on Tuesday the 11th of April

We wish to advise that we will be closed from Thursday the 25th of April for ANZAC Day and also Friday 26th of April, reopening Monday the 29th of April.

We wish to advise that we will be closed for the public holiday on the 26th of January. 

Blackwood Dyno Tune and Service is a family owned and operated business that has been servicing the needs of motorists in the southern Adelaide metropolitan area since 1993.

We are proud to display the signs of RAA Approved Repairer and Motor Trade Association of South Australia. We have been certified and approved by these organisations and abide by the strict code of practice that such accreditation requires. You can feel assured that your vehicle is in excellent hands.

Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service

Vehicle Condition Report

A Vehicle Condition Report provides:

Related articles

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Common Auto Electrical Problems

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Car Service and Tuning Specialists

Diesel Engine Diagnostics

Case Study - Ford Ranger, No Power and Engine light on

Need a pre purchase vehicle inspection?

Case Study - Nissan Urvan CamperVan LPG Gas System and Tank Removal

Inspected & protected