🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

MX-3

Year:

1992

Chassis Code:

EC

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Mazda MX-3 was positioned as a sporty, compact coupe offering stylish design and engaging driving dynamics, often appealing to younger buyers seeking an affordable yet fun-to-drive vehicle.

Competitors:

Competed against vehicles such as the Honda Civic Coupe, Toyota Celica, Mitsubishi Eclipse, and Nissan Sentra Coupe. The MX-3 stood out with its unique 'Kryptonite' V6 option in later years, though the 1992 model primarily featured the economical 1.6L.

Distinguishing Features:

Compact dimensions, distinctive styling, independent rear suspension, and a focus on agile handling. The 1992 model year marks the introduction of this platform.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

1992 Mazda MX-3 (EC Platform)

Engine Coverage:

1.6L I4 (B6, B6-ZE)

Transmission Coverage:

5-speed Manual, 4-speed Automatic

Estimated Pages:

Over 1000 (Software Estimation)

Type:

Official Factory Service & Repair Manual (Digital Software)

Language:

English

Format:

Online/Web-Based Software Access

Subscription Period:

1 Year access, with discounts available for renewal.

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Management (ECU, Sensors, Fuel Injection), Lubrication, Cooling, Exhaust Systems

Drivetrain:

Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Drive Axles, Differentials

Suspension Steering:

Front Suspension (MacPherson Strut), Rear Suspension (Independent), Steering System (Power Steering, Non-Power Steering), Wheel Alignment Specifications

Brakes:

Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes (Standard), ABS (Optional/Specific Models), Brake System Hydraulics, Parking Brake

Electrical:

12V Battery System, Charging System (Alternator), Starting System (Starter Motor), Ignition System, Lighting System, Fuses and Relays, Wiring Diagrams (Comprehensive), Instrumentation

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) System Operation, Diagnosis, and Repair

Body Chassis:

Body Exterior Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Interior Trim, Seats, Glass, Chassis Components

Body Electrical:

Power windows, power locks, mirrors, lighting, horn, wipers, interior controls.

Safety Systems:

Seatbelt systems, basic chassis safety components.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, fuel injectors.

Maintenance:

Scheduled Maintenance (Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plugs, Belts), Fluid Checks and Replenishments, Inspections

Diagnosis:

Troubleshooting Charts, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) for Engine Management, Electrical System Diagnosis

Repair:

Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake Caliper/Pad Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Testing and Replacement, Body Panel Repair

Installation:

Component Installation and Replacement (e.g., Alternator, Starter, Radiator)

Troubleshooting Guides:

Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common drivability and electrical issues.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, detailed diagnostics, component-level repair, and full system overhauls. Includes torque specifications, tolerances, and detailed step-by-step instructions.

Diagnostic Tools:

Details on basic diagnostic tools and procedures, referencing factory specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Web-based access, compatible with major web browsers on PC, laptop, smartphone, and tablet. Requires internet connection.

Printability:

Content is accessible digitally; direct printing capabilities depend on the platform's implementation, but core information is designed for clear viewing.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Software)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Software)

Licensing:

Officially licensed, derived from OE (Original Equipment) materials.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

B6 (DOHC Non-VVT), B6-ZE (DOHC VVT - later models, less common for 92 MX-3 in North America)

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve

Displacement:

1597 cc (1.6 Liters)

Horsepower:

Approx. 105-110 hp @ 6000 rpm (for B6 engine)

Torque:

Approx. 100-105 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (for B6 engine)

Injection Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)

Cooling System Type:

Water-cooled

ECM Identification:

ECU (Engine Control Unit) identification and basic function explained for diagnostic purposes.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic

Manual Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios are detailed within the manual, crucial for performance and economy tuning.

Automatic Features:

Includes torque converter, electronically controlled shifts for certain models/market.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4100 mm (161.4 in)

Width:

Approx. 1675 mm (65.9 in)

Height:

Approx. 1330 mm (52.4 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2400 mm (94.5 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1000-1100 kg (2200-2425 lbs), varies by transmission and options

Seating Capacity:

4 Passengers (2 front, 2 rear, though rear is tight).

🛡️ Safety Features

Passive Safety Features:

Seatbelts (3-point front, 2-point rear), Crumple Zones, Steel Reinforcement Beams in Doors

Active Safety Features:

Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an option on some models, but not standard on all 1992 MX-3s.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM stereo radio with cassette player. Speaker configuration varied by trim level.

Stability Control:

Not available on the 1992 MX-3.

Bluetooth Usb:

Not available. Aftermarket solutions required for modern connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-20,000 miles or as needed based on conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (standard spark plugs) or 60,000-100,000 miles (long-life plugs, if applicable).

Engine Oil:

API SG/SH rated, SAE 5W-30 recommended for most climates. Capacity: Approx. 4.0 liters (4.2 US quarts) with filter.

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio). Mazda FL22 or equivalent specified. Capacity: Approx. 6.0 liters (6.3 US quarts).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil. Capacity: Approx. 2.0 liters (2.1 US quarts).

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron II or equivalent ATF. Capacity: Approx. 3.0-3.5 liters (3.2-3.7 US quarts) for initial fill.

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron II ATF or equivalent (if equipped with power steering).

Common Wear Items:

Front struts/shocks, rear wheel bearings, clutch wear, CV joint boots, exhaust system components due to age.

Engine Specifics:

Oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket are common with age. Ignition system components (coil, spark plug wires) can degrade.

Electrical Issues:

Wiring harness degradation in older vehicles, potential issues with window regulators or power locks.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Philosophy:

Mazda has a heritage of producing driver-focused vehicles, often with innovative engineering and a commitment to the 'Zoom-Zoom' driving experience, even in their earlier models.

Mx3 Introduction:

The MX-3 (or Eunos 30X in some markets) was introduced globally for the 1991 model year, with the 1992 model representing an early iteration of this compact sport coupe.

Production Period:

1991-1998

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Journalism:

While specific major awards for the 1992 model are not widely documented, the MX-3 was generally praised by automotive press for its styling and handling characteristics within its class.