Variable Air Duct (VAD) Shutter Valve Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Mazda 6. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the air cleaner case. (See INTAKE-AIR SYSTEM REMOVAL/INSTALLATION .)
Disconnect the vacuum hose from the VAD shutter valve actuator.
Connect a vacuum pump to the VAD shutter valve actuator.
Apply vacuum and verify that the rod moves.
- If the rod does not move, replace the air cleaner.
Fig 1: Vacuum Testing VAD Shutter Valve
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.

Fig 2: VAD Shutter Valve Specifications
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.

Fig 3: Identifying VAD Shutter Valve Components
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.