Hi i own a 2001 3.0l V6 Automatic Mazda tribute. When it is cold or hasnt been turned on for a few hours it will stall unless i keep the revs up. It usually takes about 10 minutes for it to warm up enough so the problem doesnt occur. i have sent it to my mechanic numerous times with no success. It started out pretty bad but it has only been getting worse. If anyone has any suggestion it would be greatly appreciatied. I have replaced the leads and the spark plugs, as well as cleaning out transmission fluid and engine oil many times and have had it serviced every 10,000kms
Thanks

 

Hi Coonie05:

I am guessing that a sensor is not quite up to snug.

I would use CRC MAF sensor cleaner and clean the MAF sensor and the Air Intake Temperatrue sensor as well.
There is also a ECT sensor (Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor) which could be faulty.
Another cause could be a clogged EGR system. That requires cleaning the EGR valve and opening the EGR ports in the intake plenum.
The IAC valve ( idle air control valve) could be faulty as well. I would clean the whole throttle body and the IAC valve to see if it makes a difference.

Another possibility is a vacuum leak. Once the engine is warm the computer uses all sensor input and may be able to keep the engine running.When it is cold the computer runs on programs with assumed data therefore it may not be able to correct for out of range situations.

I suppose you will take it to a mechanic. Make sure they know that cleaning is cheaper than replacing things.

Good luck.

 

Make sure to disconnect negative terminal of battery followed by depression of brake pedal.
Now you can clean your parts. Re-hook up battery, let idle for 10 minutes. drive for a bit.

 

Having almost same exact problem. Ever since the temperature dropped down significantly (winter time in Canada), my '03 V6 won't start unless I pump the gas while turning on the ignition (one foot on brake, the other on gas).

Mechanic couldn't spot the problem, but he did mention that my engine was flooded with gas :S

 

These cars are aging. Before swapping anything you should do the things I suggested in my original reply.
When checking for vacuum leaks take a good look at the air intake hose. There may be cracks that you only see when you bend the hose.