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We picked up our van today after having the tranny fix done. The technician tried to reflash the TCM, but he said it wouldn't accept any reprogramming. He ordered a new TCM and it came with the new program, so all he had to do was install it. There were no hard shifts today, but I guess only time will tell if this is actually the fix.
-Brian
It's not surprising to me that Mazda is ramping down production on the MPV. A recent check of the dealer inventory in my area showed that there are literally hundreds of 2003's sitting around and an even greater number of 2004's. It's too bad. I love my PeeVee, but it's clear that I'm in the unprofitable minority.
The new TCM's part number ends with an "N". The one it replaced ended with a "K".
sugoiya
It's too bad the MPV doesn't sell better, and I really don't understand why it doesn't. It really compares well to the other vans available and I think it actually drives the best of all of them. I guess the majority of the minivan buying public wants the larger vans. That's the only thing I can think of.
I still have hope though. Mazda and Ford announced long ago that they're working on a new line of vans that will use the Mazda6's platform and a new 3.5 liter V-6. So, I actually expect the MPV to take a short hiatus while the factories retool.
Just cross your fingers and hope the project doesn't get axed. Mazda may wind up selling rebadged Freestars if that happens.
Looks like a SWB Caravan is going to be the only small MV left, and I don't think it's as small as the MPV.
Too bad, if it's true. The PeeVee is about the same size as my '99 Quest and anything bigger won't fit into my 70's era garage. Unless I turn it into a one car garage.
Steve, Host
Steve, Host
I've got about 1,500 mi. on the TCM reflash and absolutely no hiccups or complaints. Smooth as butter.
We ordered our PeeVee with the 4 seasons package, but we didn't get the factory hitch or wiring harness. I called around a couple weeks ago to get some estimates to have a hitch and wiring harness installed. Most places wanted right around $400, so I decided to look online to buy the materials and install the stuff myself.
I ended up ordering a hitch, wiring harness, and a light kit which my trailer needs. I got all 3 items from etrailer.com for $199 shipped.
I installed the hitch and wiring harness today. The hitch was kind of a pain in the butt to install, but mainly because I installed it by myself. Because of the weight of the hitch, trying to hold it in place and install the bolts at the same time was a bit tricky. If I had someone helping me, it would've been a breeze. The wiring harness went in without any problems. It's a good thing I ordered the harness that came with a circuit tester. This made the install very easy. Without it, it would've been a mess.
For anyone looking to add a hitch to your PeeVee, this is a good route to go. It costs half of what it would cost to have one installed, and the job takes a very minimum of mechanical skills.
"The total trailer weight (TTW) is the sum of the weights of the trailer load (trailer
weight plus cargo), trailer hitch, vehicle passengers, and vehicle load. Never allow
the total trailer weight (TTW) to exceed specifications in the Trailer Towing-Load
Table."
With the 4-seasons package, the maximum TTW is 3000lbs (again from the manual). Pulling a 2500lb trailer leaves only 500lbs for hitch, passengers and luggage. Only with no passengers, no luggage and a zero weight hitch can you tow 3000lbs.
There are a bunch of other limits that need to be calculated too - GCWR, GAWR, GVWR, etc. All in the manual.
I pull a 1500lb boat trailer. That's as much as I personally want to tow with 2 adults, 2 kids and "stuff".
Steve.
Steve, Host
Steve, Host
How important is the 'All seasons' pkg. if we don't plan to do any towing? I hear the engine is made by Ford (Fix Or Repair Daily). Do they also make the tranny? Several friends of ours have had problems with Ford auto trannys. Maybe that's why Mazda limits their warranty to 4yrs/50k - instead of longer on the drive train like many other mfr's.
YFINJ
Red
It did have a small problem on the Tranny Control Module (sometimes hard-shift 2-3 upshift after 25 mins driven), the Mazda software fix in Feb seems to be working. I got the fix as well, now smooth like butter.
Regardless of whether or not you tow, it is worth it to get the package. The AT oil cooler helps extend the life of the trasmission. The larger capacity radiator does the same for the engine. The heated mirrors are great to burn off the morning dew or frost. you will appreciate the large washer tank if you live in a dusty or snowy (think salt spray) are. The heater adds to the comfort of the rear seat occupants.
RBB
Mazda > MPV > Problems & Solutions > P185 > Msg #3683
TCM = Transmission Control Module
PCM = Powertrain Control Module
XX531XRX SB 05/11/02 - Shift Shock-TCM Reflash
342 W94
FC: 269J
Part#: AJ51-18-9E1
I-90(W) > I-39(N) > Rt-55W (3 mi) > R-Turn on N Alpine Rd. (between Rt-55/Rt-25)
etrailers.com looks good. Do you have any advice? Can you tell me the specific hitch and harness you bought? At this point, I'm planning on calling etrailers.com to place the order so that they can help me out getting the correct stuff. The hitch looks straight forward - I think I'll get the Hidden Hitch class III round tube hitch they have (my MPV does not have the GFX package), but the harness (or hardwire kit?) is confusing to me. How bout Wiring Harness Mounting Brackets? Are they necessary? I just want to make sure I get everything I need.
Thanks in advance!
I heard horrible story that under warranty but dealer refused service / repair due to a remote starter was installed and dealer won't touch the car until the remote starter is UN-installed even there's already a svc bulletin re same problem.
RBB
John, '02 LX
2004 LX
-LX Plus Pkg
-4 Seasons Towing Pkg
-Traction Control w/Side Air Bags
-Power Sliding Doors
-Whitewater Pearl Paint
So far, very satisfied. The firmer driver's seat is going to take awhile to break in.
I traded in a 13 yr. old Chevy Lumina APV (bought new) with 144k on the odo. I figure this one should last me at least 20yrs and 200k miles.
I'm very happy with my '04 Sunlight Silver ES and I am glad to read favorable reports on the MPV that don't also include "great vehicle but not as big as the others". Sometimes smaller really is better!
Steve, Host
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