Used car expert urges drivers to avoid problematic | Tech News

A top motoring personality has taken to YouTube to warn drivers against buying a certain used model with a notoriously problematic diesel engine.

Whilst the mechanicals in cars are getting increasingly more reliable, there are still certain models that could present a risk of unexpected repair bills and high running costs, particularly if they are not regularly checked.

According to Grant from the YouTube channel Scottish Car Clan, who recently published a video in which he discussed problematic engines in used cars, one example is the Skyactiv diesel, which was fitted to Mazdas between 2010 and 2014.

He explained: “It’s quite surprising to say this about a Japanese engine, but here you go. It’s worth warning you of this because these Mazdas are now at the point where they’re quite price attractive and, understandably, people see a Mazda and think, ‘Oh, well, that will be reliable’.

“Well, from 2010 to 2014, this engine had an issue with the oil pickup pipe, which would get blocked and cause oil starvation, which would ultimately lead to terminal issues. There were also turbo and timing chain problems.”

Launched at the end of 2010, the Skyactiv line of engines was designed to offer particularly good fuel economy and was initially sold in a variety of sizes, ranging from 1.3 litres to 3.3 litres in some markets.

Whilst the engine is particularly fuel efficient, some owners have experienced an issue where the oil pickup pipe and strainer get blocked with debris, preventing oil from reaching the engine.

This fault can quickly result in mechanical components not being properly lubricated, resulting in increased friction that can quickly overheat and wear out parts.

Nevertheless, later in the video, Grant reassured drivers that Mazda made a number of improvements to this engine for the 2015 model year.

He added: “After 2014, this engine got quite a bit better, but don’t consider a Mazda with a Skyactiv diesel engine that was made before that year.”

The improved engines, known as the Skyactiv-D range, were fitted to a number of the company’s most popular models, including the CX-5 SUV, 3 hatchback, and 6 saloon and estate.

Alternatively, drivers who are interested in a used Mazda with a petrol engine should consider an example fitted with the Skyactiv-X engine, introduced in late 2018.

Featuring a particularly high compression ratio for better fuel economy, the Skyactiv-X was publicised for being as frugal as a diesel engine whilst producing significantly fewer emissions.

Whilst the company are currently working on producing a larger variant, the 2.0-litre Skyactiv-X can be found in examples of the Mazda3 and CX-30 made since 2019.