Variable Fresh Air Duct (VFAD) Actuator Inspection (13B-MSP (High Power))

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Mazda RX-8. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the front bumper.
Disconnect the vacuum hose of the VFAD actuator.
Install the vacuum pump to the VFAD actuator.
Verify that the rod moves as indicated in the figure below when gradually applying a vacuum to the VFAD actuator. See Fig 2 .
- If it cannot be verified, replace the fresh-air duct. (See INTAKE-AIR SYSTEM REMOVAL/INSTALLATION .)
Fig 1: Applying Vacuum To VFAD Actuator
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.

Rod movement

Fig 2: VFAD Actuator Rod Movement
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.