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Question

Recently had rear brakes replaced on 1998MazdaMPV all-sport 4WD model(110K mi) Next day noticed load leveler light coming on and not going off as quickly as before. Had 300 lb. load in rear of car and load level light stayed on. I took the car back to the brake mechanic, suspiscious that something had gotten 'disconnected' when the wheels were off for the brake job. I was told that the load leveler sensor has no voltage and needs to be replaced. Mazda factory part is $900, installation only a few minutes. My mechanic says a used part is not available. Now he wants to replace the entire automatic 'airbag'shock system with a manual system that I would need to adjust as needed. I still think it's more than coincidence that this sensor 'went bad' at the same time the rear brakes were replaced and that something simple (fuse?, disconnected hose?) is the cause. Should I go elsewhere for a 2nd opinion? Your thoughts on sensor failure? Thanks

Submitted: 16 days and 20 hours ago.
Category: Car
Value: $13
Status: CLOSED
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Optional Information

Year: 1998
Make: Mazda
Model: MPV all sport 4wd
Engine: 6 cylinder 180.2 cu in

Already Tried:
looking for used part on-line. My mechanic says sensor has no voltage. I suspect a disconnect somewhere-air hose? fuse?

Posted by Tracer 16 days and 20 hours ago.

Answer

Hello, I will agree that the odds of suspention failure the day after brake work would be rare. It is possible the sensor arm came off when lifted or overextended when lifted preventing the system from working correctly. There are 3 fuses that feed the system which are :

AC

Hazzards

BTN

 

The BTN would have to be ok or you would be missing many other items from working. Isuspect fuses ok as the light does come on. I have seen on some vehicles when lifted, the air shocks hag so much that they start to leak once back on the ground. if the original shop can not figure th problem out, yes, 100% get a second opinion and have them be sure to recheck the height sensor. I feel a suggestion to replace the whole system to manual at this piont is not practical.

16 days and 19 hours ago.

Reply

Forgot to mention that valve cover gaskets were replaced at the same time it was in for rear brakes. According to Mazda, the on board compressor for the ALL system is at front passenger side under battery. This is where the valve repairs took place, further convincing me that something is 'disconnected' causing the sensor failure. Agree?

Accepted Answer

I do agree in that i suspect? the shop bumped something etc. it is possible but i can in no way confirm. You can look around compressor yourself to see if any plug disconnected etc. Some shops are just not comfortable with auto ride suspection problems. If the original shop can not locate the problem, then i would notify them you will get second opinion. just keep in mind it could ? have failed day after repairs but would be very odd to do so. This air ride system was very reliable and i have done little in any repairs to this type system. I am leaning towards a shop error. Most all of us techs have had a minor problem from time to time. it can not be ruled out

 

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Expert: Tracer
Pos. Feedback: 100.0 %
Accepts: 
Answered: 11/4/2009

ASE Certified Technician

32 years Foreign / Domestic Cars All aspects of Diag and Repair

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