Segment:
Subcompact hatchback/sedan
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious buyers, urban commuters, first-time car owners
Key Competitors:
Ford Fiesta, Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris, Hyundai Accent, Kia Rio
Design Philosophy:
Kodo Design (Kinetic Design) - emphasizing flowing lines and a dynamic appearance
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for Mazda's 'Jinba Ittai' (horse and rider as one) driving feel, responsive steering, and agile handling
Fuel Efficiency:
Designed for excellent fuel economy in urban and highway driving
Interior Quality:
Typically praised for better-than-average interior materials and design in its class
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valve train, timing system
Engine Management:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, ECU diagnostics, sensor operation
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox assembly, shift mechanism, gears, bearings, seals
Transmission Automatic:
Torque converter, planetary gear sets, hydraulic control, valve body, electronic control unit
Drivetrain:
Front wheel drive system, driveshafts, constant velocity (CV) joints, differential
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, rear torsion beam axle, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings
Steering:
Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) system, steering column, tie rods, steering rack
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or discs on higher trims), ABS, EBD, brake booster, master cylinder, brake lines
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting system, accessories
Body And Interior:
Exterior body panels, doors, hood, trunk lid, interior trim, seats, dashboard, HVAC system
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seatbelt pre-tensioners, SRS module, sensor diagnostics
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, spark plug replacement
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing major and minor components across all systems
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common fault identification
Diagnostics:
OBD-II code definitions, diagnostic scan tool usage, system-specific diagnostic routines
Rebuilds And Overhauls:
Comprehensive step-by-step instructions for engine and transmission rebuilds
Electrical Repairs:
Wiring harness repair, connector replacement, component testing and replacement
Body And Frame:
Panel alignment, dent repair, rust prevention, welding procedures (where applicable)
Depth Level:
Factory level diagnostics and repair procedures
Diagnostic Codes:
Includes specific Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and their interpretations
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete and detailed electrical wiring schematics for all systems
Special Tools:
Lists and descriptions of specialized tools required for certain procedures
Engine Code:
MZR ZJ-VE (for most global markets, 1.5L)
Engine Type:
Naturally aspirated inline-4 cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Displacement:
1498 cc (1.5 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
78.0 mm x 78.4 mm (typical)
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1 (typical)
Horsepower Ps:
103 PS @ 6000 rpm (typical, subject to regional tuning)
Horsepower Hp:
101 hp @ 6000 rpm (typical)
Torque Nm:
135 Nm @ 4500 rpm (typical)
Torque Lb-Ft:
99 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (typical)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Recommended Octane:
91 AKI (US) / RON 95 (Europe)
Engine Options:
Some markets may offer a 1.3L MZR engine (JYM) or a 1.4L or 1.6L engine depending on region and homologation.
Transmission Type:
5-speed manual
Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic (FS5A-EL)
Manual Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios vary by transmission variant, but are optimized for city driving and economy.
Automatic Features:
Lock-up torque converter for improved fuel efficiency
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (check specific manual for exact Mazda specification, e.g., K020-00-GC0, or equivalent)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mazda ATF-Type T-IV or equivalent (e.g., MERCON V specification might be applicable for some variants)
Length:
Approx. 3950 mm (hatchback)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2490 mm
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 150 mm
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 2450 liters (subject to configuration)
Cargo Volume Seats Up:
Approx. 250 liters (hatchback, to parcel shelf)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1050-1100 kg (depending on transmission and equipment)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model and market, typically around 1500-1600 kg
Wheel Size:
15-inch or 16-inch alloy wheels
Tire Size:
175/65R15 or 185/55R16 (check specific vehicle)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
Typically 4 or 5 stars (depending on market and specific testing year)
IIHS Ratings:
Good in frontal offset, side impact, rear crash, and roof strength tests (for relevant models/years)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brakeforce Distribution
Esc:
Standard Electronic Stability Control (DSC - Dynamic Stability Control in Mazda terminology)
TCS:
Standard Traction Control System
Airbags:
Front airbags, side airbags, curtain airbags (availability depends on trim level and market)
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters
Child Seat Anchors:
ISOFIX/LATCH mounting points
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player with MP3 compatibility, auxiliary input jack, and typically 4 or 6 speakers.
Optional Infotainment:
Higher trims might feature Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming, and potentially a larger LCD display. Navigation was less common in this segment for 2012.
ABS And Traction Control:
Standard ABS, EBD, and TCS across most markets.
Stability Control:
DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) and TCS are usually standard for safety compliance in most regions.
Bluetooth:
Optional, usually dependent on trim level and market. Enables hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Remote Keyless Entry:
Available on most models, often integrated into the key fob.
Headlights:
Halogen headlights, sometimes with projector beam technology on higher trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Severe driving conditions may require more frequent changes.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000-75,000 miles (96,000-120,000 km) for iridium-tipped spark plugs. Consult manual for specific type and interval.
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Every 3 years or 45,000 miles (72,000 km), whichever comes first.
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Inspect for leaks, replacement typically not scheduled but recommended at higher mileage (e.g., 100,000 miles) or if issues arise.
Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years under normal conditions. Severe conditions may require 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Coolant Replacement:
First replacement at 10 years/120,000 miles, then every 5 years/60,000 miles thereafter.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-20, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 liters (with filter change)
Coolant Type:
Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent P-HOAT (Phosphate Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) antifreeze
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Not applicable (Electric Power Assisted Steering - EPAS)
Common Wear Items:
Brake pads and rotors, clutch wear (manual transmission), tie rod ends, wheel bearings
Potential Electrical Issues:
Infrequent reports of minor electrical gremlins, often related to sensors or connections, particularly in older or high-mileage vehicles.
Potential Engine Issues:
Generally reliable engines. Some owners report minor oil consumption over extended periods, which is not uncommon for naturally aspirated engines.
Potential Transmission Issues:
Manual transmissions are robust. Automatic transmissions can occasionally exhibit rough shifting if fluid is neglected.
Suspension And Steering:
Worn suspension bushings and ball joints are common wear items on any vehicle of this age and mileage, affecting ride quality and handling precision.
Mazda Legacy:
Mazda has a long history of producing reliable and driver-focused vehicles, often punching above their weight in terms of engineering and driving dynamics.
First Generation:
The Mazda 2 (first generation, DY) was introduced in 2003, replacing the Mazda Demio in many markets. It was well-received for its light weight and nimble handling.
Second Generation:
The 2012 model belongs to the second generation (DE), which debuted in 2007 globally. This generation saw significant improvements in styling, interior quality, and a focus on lightweight construction for better fuel efficiency and performance.
Design Updates:
The 2012 model typically represents a mid-cycle refresh or carries over the styling from the initial DE generation launch, which was characterized by its sporty and aerodynamic lines.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan (Hofu) and Thailand, with other global assembly plants depending on the market.
Model Years Covered:
This manual specifically covers the 2012 model year of the Mazda 2.
Segment Awards:
The Mazda 2 (DE generation) has been recognized in its class for its sharp styling, engaging driving dynamics, and value for money.
Specific Awards:
While specific major awards for the 2012 model year might not be prominently highlighted, the DE generation consistently received positive reviews and 'Best Buy' designations from automotive publications in its segment.
Reliability Ratings:
Generally receives good to excellent reliability ratings from consumer satisfaction surveys like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports, particularly for the powertrain.
Emissions Standards:
Meets or exceeds regional emissions standards for its model year (e.g., Euro 5 in Europe, EPA standards in the US).
