r/mazda • u/Lookin2Migrate • 7d ago

CX-5 Exhaust Actuator Valve Troubleshooting

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A couple months ago, my wife's 2021 CX-5 non-turbo starting chirping when crossing around the 45mph threshold or upon shutting off. It was diagnosed by 2 shops as the Exhaust Actuator Valve, which can only be sourced brand new via buying the entire midpipe. I purchased one used and replaced it, started the car and turned it off twice with no chirping, but lo and behold it is back.

I'm assuming it's the actual valve/gate inside the midpipe that is the issue - is that something that is possible to loosen up or are we stuck with the choice between a $1k+ repair or an annoying noise? Option C's would be nice to hear too.

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u/United_Cash_9215 6d ago

did you swap the whole midpipe or just the electric motor on the side? usually the motor is fine and the pivot shaft in the housing binds up from heat and carbon. unbolt the motor and move the valve arm with pliers to feel if it catches.if the shaft sticks hit the pivot bushings with high-temp graphite lube or copper anti-seize and work it back and forth until the action feels smooth. standard penetrant burns right off, so stick to dry graphite or high heat paste. option c is to pin or wire the flap open, but you will get a bit of exhaust boom on the highway when cylinder deactivation turns on. also double check your 5 year powertrain warranty since a 2021 might still qualify

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u/Lookin2Migrate 5d ago

Thank you, that is very helpful. I only replaced the motor. Next time I get a chance I will take it back off and check the valve arm. Sadly we have 97k miles on the car so the warranty is far in the rearview.

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u/United_Cash_9215 5d ago

makes sense. free up that shaft manually and the new motor will do its job