Vehicle Market Niche:
Lightweight, affordable, rear-wheel-drive sports car, popular for its engaging driving dynamics and open-top motoring.
Key Competitors Era:
Toyota MR2, Honda Civic CRX (in terms of affordability/performance ratio), later Chevrolet Camaro/Pontiac Firebird, Ford Mustang, Nissan 300ZX.
Driving Experience:
Renowned for its 'jinba ittai' (horse and rider as one) philosophy, offering direct steering feedback, balanced chassis, and communicative handling.
Design Philosophy:
Compact, lightweight design with a focus on driver involvement, minimalist interior, and a reliable, peppy four-cylinder engine.
Diy Savings:
Empowers owners to perform routine maintenance and complex repairs, significantly reducing dealership or independent mechanic labor costs.
Supported Years:
1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998
Regions Covered:
North America (USA, Canada), potentially International variants (JDM, EUDM may have minor differences in specifications)
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 1500-2000+ pages (Digital download, actual page count varies by specific printing/edition, but this is a comprehensive workshop manual).
Manual Type:
Complete Workshop Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PC, Mac, Tablet, Smartphone compatible)
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection system (EFI), exhaust system.
Engine Performance:
Ignition system, emissions control, engine diagnostics, trouble codes (OBD-I).
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual Transmission (5-speed), Automatic Transmission (4-speed), clutch system, driveshaft, differential, axles.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes (on most models), ABS system (if equipped), brake system components, hydraulic lines, parking brake.
Suspension Steering:
Front independent suspension (double wishbone), rear independent suspension (multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, power steering system (if equipped), steering column, wheel alignment specifications.
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, ignition switch, power windows, power mirrors, central locking.
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, convertible top mechanism, interior trim, chassis components, corrosion protection.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system components, refrigerant, diagnostics.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, air filter replacement.
Repair Rebuild:
Engine internal repairs, transmission overhaul, clutch replacement, brake component replacement, suspension component replacement, steering rack replacement, electrical component repair, convertible top repair.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, troubleshooting flowcharts, identifying causes of symptoms.
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, electrical values, diagnostic parameters.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Focus:
Detailed diagnostics for the OBD-I system, including specific sensor testing and interpretation of symptoms.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 4-cylinder (DOHC)
Engine Displacement:
1.6 Liters (1597 cc)
Horsepower Early Models:
115 hp @ 6500 rpm (for 1990-1993 models)
Horsepower Later Models:
118 hp @ 6500 rpm (for 1994-1995 models, slight revision), 133 hp @ 7000 rpm (for 1996-1998 models with 1.8L BPD-DE engine)
Torque Early Models:
100 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (for 1.6L)
Torque Later Models:
105 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (for 1.6L revised), 114 lb-ft @ 5300 rpm (for 1.8L BPD-DE)
Fuel System Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (minimum) recommended, 91 octane preferred for optimal performance.
Engine Management System:
OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics, First Generation)
Engine Cooling:
Pressurized liquid cooling system
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil recommended.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:
Dexron III / Mercon equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF).
Clutch Type:
Dry, single plate, diaphragm spring clutch
Manual Gear Ratios Example:
1st: 3.308, 2nd: 1.947, 3rd: 1.333, 4th: 1.000, 5th: 0.822, Reverse: 3.167 (Note: Ratios may vary slightly between early/late models)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (standard copper plugs), or 60,000 miles (platinum plugs if specified).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical: Every 60,000 miles or 5 years, whichever comes first, due to interference engine design.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 recommended for most climates (consult manual for temperature-specific viscosity).
Coolant Specification:
Mazda FL22 coolant or equivalent long-life, ethylene glycol-based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Problem 1:
Oil leaks from the rear main seal and valve cover gasket.
Common Problem 2:
Coolant leaks from the radiator and heater hoses.
Common Problem 3:
desgaste del embrague (Clutch wear), especially with aggressive driving.
Common Problem 4:
Window regulator issues and convertible top wear/leaks.
Common Problem 5:
Radiator fan relay failures.
Common Problem 6:
Seat belt mechanism issues.
