🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

MX-3

Year:

1995

Chassis Code:

EC

Region Of Sale:

Global (North America, Europe, Japan, etc.)

Body Style:

3-door coupe

Engine Code:

K8 (1.6L SOHC), B6-DE (1.6L DOHC, less common for 1995 in some markets), and KL-DE (2.5L DOHC V6, often found in higher trims)

Transmission Code Manual:

G25M-R (for 5-speed manual)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Mazda MX-3 was positioned as a stylish, affordable, and fun-to-drive compact coupe, often targeting younger buyers and those seeking an alternative to more mainstream sedans and hatchbacks. Its distinctive styling and available V6 engine set it apart.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against vehicles like the Honda Civic Coupe, Toyota Celica, Mitsubishi Eclipse, and Ford Escort GT. The MX-3 offered a unique proposition with its optional 1.8L V6 (KL-DE) in many markets, which was a significant differentiator in the segment.

Key Features:

Unique styling, compact dimensions, front-wheel drive, optional 1.8L V6 engine (KL-DE), nimble handling, affordability.

Manual Usefulness:

Essential for owners and independent mechanics to perform accurate diagnostics, repairs, and preventative maintenance, saving time and money compared to dealership services. Enables informed decision-making regarding repairs.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Pre-Delivery Inspection, Scheduled Maintenance, Engine K8 (1.6L SOHC), Lubrication System, Cooling System, Fuel and Emission Control Systems, Engine Electrical System, Clutch, Manual Transaxle G25M-R, Front and Rear Axles, Steering System, Braking System, Wheels and Tires, Suspension, Body, Special Tools, Technical Data, Exterior Lighting System, Heater and Air Conditioning System, Audio System, Electrical Wiring Schematic, Wiring Diagram, Index.

Page Count:

Estimated 1000+ pages (typical for a comprehensive workshop manual of this era)

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Manual / Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical (K8), lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control, exhaust, clutch, manual transmission (G25M-R), drivetrain components (axles, CV joints), steering, hydraulic and disc/drum braking systems, suspension (front struts/coil springs, rear multi-link/beam axle depending on trim), chassis, body structure, electrical systems (lighting, HVAC, audio, power windows/locks), wiring diagrams.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), scheduled maintenance, engine removal/installation, cylinder head service, piston/connecting rod service, crankshaft service, timing belt replacement, fuel system diagnosis and repair, emissions system diagnosis, ignition system testing, clutch replacement, transmission overhaul and repair, driveshaft and CV joint service, steering rack and linkage repair, brake caliper/rotor/drum service, suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, bushings), body panel alignment and repair, HVAC system diagnosis and component replacement, electrical troubleshooting, diagnostic procedures, use of special tools.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers from basic preventative maintenance and inspections to in-depth component diagnostics, repair, and overhaul. Includes detailed torque specifications, clearance measurements, and procedural steps for all major mechanical and electrical systems.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchable Text:

Yes (Assumed for a professionally produced PDF)

Print Quality:

High (for digital reproduction)

Compatibility:

All versions of Windows & Mac

Required Software:

Adobe PDF Reader

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

1.6L SOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder (K8)

Engine Code Primary:

K8

Displacement Primary:

1597 cc (97.4 cu in)

Bore Stroke Primary:

78.0 mm x 83.6 mm

Compression Ratio Primary:

9.4:1

Horsepower Primary:

Approx. 106 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque Primary:

Approx. 100 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Optional Engine Displacement:

1.8L DOHC 24-valve V6 (KL-DE)

Optional Engine Code:

KL-DE

Optional Engine Horsepower:

Approx. 129 hp @ 6200 rpm (US spec)

Optional Engine Torque:

Approx. 115 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (US spec)

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Emission Controls:

Catalytic converter, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation), O2 sensors.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transaxle (G25M-R)

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (FW4A-EL)

Features Manual:

Front-wheel drive, cable-operated clutch, helical limited-slip differential (optional on some performance variants).

Fluid Specifications Manual:

Mazda GL-5 gear oil 75W-90 or equivalent API GL-5 specification. Capacity typically around 1.7-2.0 liters.

Fluid Specifications Automatic:

Mazda ATF-III or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon. Capacity typically around 2.5-3.0 liters for a drain and fill.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4130 mm (162.6 in)

Width:

Approx. 1675 mm (65.9 in)

Height:

Approx. 1315 mm (51.8 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2500 mm (98.4 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1100-1250 kg (2425-2755 lbs) depending on engine and options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 1500-1600 kg

Standard Tire Size:

185/65R14 or 195/55R15 (depending on trim/options)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

4x100 mm

Wheel Offset:

Typically ET35 to ET45

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

NCAP/IIHS ratings for this era are limited, but generally considered to have a basic safety structure for its class. Frontal impact protection would have been standard for the time.

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) often standard on V6 models or optional on 4-cylinder models.

Passive Features:

Driver and passenger airbags (often optional or standard on later models), three-point seat belts with pretensioners (driver side), collapsible steering column.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Optional CD player. Speaker systems typically 4 or 6 speakers. Manual covers wiring and component replacement for audio system.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited to ABS on some models. No advanced electronic driver aids like traction control or stability control.

Connectivity Features:

None.

Lighting System:

Halogen headlights, front and rear turn signals, brake lights, license plate lights, side marker lights, interior dome light. Manual covers bulb types and troubleshooting.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) depending on spark plug type (copper vs. platinum).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years. Crucial for K8 engine due to interference design.

Engine Oil Specification:

API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for ambient temperature recommendations).

Coolant Specification:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Refer to Mazda's recommended coolant type.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid Specification:

Mazda DEXTRON II/III ATF or equivalent.

Known Issues:

Timing belt failure on K8 engine (due to non-replacement), worn CV joints, potential electrical gremlins, rust on body panels and undercarriage, clutch wear, aging rubber suspension bushings, HVAC system component failures (e.g., blower motor, AC compressor).

Torque Specs Mention:

Manual provides detailed torque specifications for all critical fasteners, e.g., cylinder head bolts, main bearings, rod caps, lug nuts.

Diagnostics Tools:

Manual covers basic diagnostic procedures for engine, transmission, brakes, and electrical systems, including fault code reading (OBD-I or early OBD-II depending on market).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mazda has a history of producing sporty and engaging vehicles, often with innovative technology and unique designs, such as the rotary-powered RX-7 and the compact Miata (MX-5).

Model Evolution:

The MX-3 (also known as the Eunos 30X or Mazda 323F in some markets) was part of Mazda's 'X' platform vehicles, known for their distinctive styling and sport-oriented nature. It was produced from 1991 to 1998 and replaced by the Mazda Capella-based Mazda Cronos/Mazda 626 Coupe.

Production Years:

1991-1998

Production Locations:

Japan (Hofu Plant)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While not a widely awarded model, the MX-3 was generally praised for its styling and handling in automotive reviews of its time. It was part of Mazda's strategy to offer distinct vehicles in each segment.