🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

MX-6

Model Variant:

626

Year Range:

1988-1989

Chassis Code:

GD

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Mazda MX-6 (and its 626 platform sibling) was positioned as a sporty, front-wheel-drive coupe and sedan, often competing with models like the Ford Probe (which shared a platform), Toyota Camry Coupe, and Honda Prelude in the late 1980s.

Competitors:

Ford Probe, Toyota Camry Coupe, Honda Prelude, Nissan Stanza Coupe, Mitsubishi Galant.

Coupe Design:

Sleek, aerodynamic coupe styling that offered a more aggressive alternative to the sedan counterpart.

Platform Sharing:

Shared platform and many components with the Mazda Capella/626, allowing for extensive parts interchangeability and service data.

Performance Orientation:

Offered a more driver-focused experience compared to the standard 626 sedan, with enhanced handling and available performance engines.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Full Service, Repair, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics

Secondary Coverage:

Rebuilding, Refurbishing, Restoration

Estimated Pages:

Hundreds (Specific count not provided, but implies extensive documentation)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine mechanicals, tuning, diagnostics, cooling, lubrication, fuel, ignition, emission controls

Transmission:

Manual and automatic transmission repair, overhaul, diagnostics, fluid specifications

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive system, axles, CV joints, differentials

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, alignment, shocks, springs, bushings

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, linkages, components

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), hydraulic system, parking brake, ABS (if equipped)

Electrical:

Complete wiring diagrams, lighting, starting, charging system, fuses, relays, ignition, instrumentation, power accessories

Body And Frame:

Body panel repair, interior trim, glass, weatherstripping, structural components

Climate Control:

HVAC system operation, diagnosis, repair, refrigerant handling

Safety Systems:

Seat belts, airbags (if equipped), passive restraint systems

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspections

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults

Repair And Overhaul:

Detailed instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly

Diagnostic Charts:

Symptom-based diagnostic flowcharts and troubleshooting trees

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all fasteners

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive and detailed electrical schematics for all systems

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of special tools required for specific procedures

Depth:

Comprehensive: from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable, allowing quick access to specific information (common for professional PDFs)

Quality:

High-resolution scans, suitable for printing individual pages or sections.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital PDF Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Common:

FE (2.0L SOHC), F2 (2.2L SOHC Turbo), KF (2.5L DOHC V6)

Engine Displacement 2.0L:

1998 cc

Engine Displacement 2.2L:

2184 cc

Engine Displacement 2.5L V6:

2490 cc

Horsepower 2.0L Sohc:

Approximately 100-110 hp (varies by market and tune)

Horsepower 2.2L Turbo:

Approximately 145-160 hp (varies by market and tune)

Horsepower 2.5L V6:

Approximately 160-170 hp (varies by market and tune)

Engine Configuration:

Inline-4 (2.0L, 2.2L), V6 (2.5L)

Fuel Delivery:

Fuel Injection (Electronic, Multi-point)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

Drive Type:

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 177.2 inches (4490 mm) - Varies slightly by body style

Width:

Approx. 69.1 inches (1755 mm)

Height:

Approx. 51.8 inches (1315 mm) - Coupe

Wheelbase:

Approx. 101.2 inches (2570 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2900-3300 lbs (1315-1500 kg) - Varies by engine and trim

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Specific NHTSA ratings for these years are difficult to find directly, but generally, cars of this era had limited frontal impact protection compared to modern standards. Side impact and rollover ratings were not as commonly tested.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) often available as an option or standard on higher trims.

Power Brakes:

Standard

Seatbelts:

Front 3-point retractable seatbelts, rear lap belts.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag typically optional or standard on later models within this range. Passenger airbags were rare for this period.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Optional CD player availability. Speaker configurations varied by trim.

Climate Control:

Manual HVAC controls, with optional automatic climate control on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Available on most models.

Power Steering:

Standard.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by era; primarily focused on basic car functions. No modern connectivity like Bluetooth or USB.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for exact specifications based on driving conditions.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km), depending on driving environment.

Spark Plug Replacement:

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

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial for interference engines (like the 2.5L V6 and some 2.2L variants). Typically recommended every 60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-144,000 km). Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.

Engine Oil Viscosity:

Typically 5W-30 or 10W-30 API SG or SF service classification. Consult manual for specific engine recommendations.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant (traditional green). Mazda recommends a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 recommended. Capacity ~2.0-2.5 liters.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron-II or equivalent ATF. Capacity ~3.5-4.5 liters.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron-II or equivalent ATF.

Engine Mounts:

Can degrade over time, leading to increased vibration and engine movement.

Cooling System:

Radiator leaks, thermostat issues, and fan clutch failures are common on older vehicles.

Electrical Gremlins:

Older wiring harnesses can develop corrosion or insulation breakdown, leading to intermittent electrical issues.

Suspension Wear:

Bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends are wear items and may require replacement, affecting alignment and handling.

Rust Corrosion:

Common in areas with harsh winters, particularly on fenders, rocker panels, and underbody components.

Fuel Pump Reliability:

In-tank fuel pumps can fail with age.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda History:

Mazda has a long history of producing reliable and innovative vehicles, often focusing on driver engagement and distinctive styling.

Mx6 Evolution:

The MX-6 was Mazda's stylish front-wheel-drive personal luxury coupe, built on the same platform as the successful 626 sedan. It was known for its sleek lines and often powerful engine options, including a V6 and a turbocharged four-cylinder.

Production Years Gen2:

1987-1991 (Second Generation GD platform)

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

General Reputation:

While specific awards for the MX-6 of this generation are not widely publicized, Mazda vehicles of the late 1980s were generally recognized for good value, reliable engineering, and driver-friendly dynamics.

Platform Recognition:

The Mazda 626 platform, on which the MX-6 is based, was a consistent performer in automotive reviews for its comfort and engineering.