In stabiliity

I write of my Mazda 3 that shows a DSC fault warning light. I had the fault analysed by a Mazda garage and found it to be Code C1288 Pressure transducer Main Primary Input failure. The garage contacted Mazda on my behalf for a goodwill gesture but was refused as the service history was not a Mazda garage. This is to warn other potential purchasers of purchasing second hand cars from car supermarkets without Mazda service history. I purchased my car from Trade-Sales in Slough with 9,000 miles. At 3 years and one month and 19,000 miles the DSC failed. Trade-Sales supplied the service details carried out by Helphire, the original owner. As this is a known fault Mazda decline to offer any assistance with payment. The cost to replace the unit is £1,400, which I believe is exorbitant for a small unit. I have received information from many Mazda 3 owners via your website (My user name GREENFINGERS) and wonder if this was subject to a safety recall? I would appreciate your opinion on this.

Asked on 30 January 2010 by B.T., via e-mail

Answered by Honest John
This is reminiscent of the Teves ABS/ESP problem prevalent on VAG models, BMW 1 Series and 3 Series, Volvo S40/V50 (same underneath as your car). ESP warning light can indicate Fault Code "Boost Pressure Sensor G201" (the Mazda fault code is C1288). This is embedded inside Teves Mk 60 ABS systems and requires replacement of ABS control unit/pump. Seems to be age-related, occurring mainly in 3 - 5 year old cars. Does not necessarily lead to an MoT failure. VOSA has refused to issue a safety recall for other cars affected, implying that ESP failure is not safety related.
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