Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size Sedan
Brand Philosophy:
Mazda's 'Jinba Ittai' (horse and rider as one) driving dynamics philosophy.
Key Competitors 2014 2015:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion, Hyundai Sonata, Chevrolet Malibu.
Design Language:
KODO - Soul of Motion design language.
Powertrain Technology:
SKYACTIV-G engine technology focused on efficiency and performance.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for sharp handling, responsive steering, and a comfortable ride.
Safety Features Availability:
Available with advanced driver-assistance systems (i-ACTIVSENSE).
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine disassembly, assembly, component inspection, and overhaul procedures for the 2.5L SKYACTIV-G I4 engine.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection system, ignition system, emission control systems (EVAP, EGR), engine control module (ECM) operation, diagnosis, and reprogramming.
Transmission Automatic:
Detailed service and repair procedures for the SKYACTIV-DRIVE 6-speed automatic transmission, including fluid service, valve body diagnosis, and internal component repair.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) axle shafts, differential, and related components. All-wheel drive (AWD) system components (if applicable for specific market variants).
Suspension:
Front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link suspension systems, including component identification, removal/installation, alignment specifications, and shock absorber/spring replacement.
Steering:
Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) system, including steering rack, column, motor control, and troubleshooting.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brake systems, including ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, and component replacement.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component locations, fuse box information, starter, alternator, battery, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), horn, and accessory circuits.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, including refrigerant charging, compressor diagnosis, climate control module operation, and component replacement.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim components, and basic chassis repair procedures.
Infotainment And Navigation:
MAZDA CONNECT infotainment system, navigation system, audio components, and related control modules.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system diagnosis and replacement, seat belt pre-tensioners, and related safety restraint system (SRS) components.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, cabin air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs (coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid).
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, and procedures for diagnosing common automotive faults.
Repair And Replacement:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for replacing virtually all major and minor mechanical and electrical components.
Wheel Alignment And Balancing:
Specifications and procedures for wheel alignment and tire balancing.
Brake System Service:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake caliper service, and brake fluid bleeding.
Engine Component Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for engine rebuilds, including piston ring installation, bearing replacement, cylinder head service, and valve adjustments.
Transmission Service:
Transmission fluid and filter replacement, torque converter service, and internal transmission component repair.
Electrical Component Testing:
Testing procedures for sensors, actuators, relays, motors, and control modules using multimeters and diagnostic scan tools.
Climate Control System Repair:
Refrigerant handling, leak testing, compressor replacement, and condenser/evaporator service.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to in-depth component overhaul and advanced diagnostics.
Diagnostic Tools:
Includes information on using OBD-II scan tools and specific Mazda diagnostic software (e.g., IDS or equivalent).
Torque Specifications:
Extensive list of torque specifications for all fasteners and critical components.
Special Tools:
Lists and descriptions of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.
Length Overall:
Approx. 191.5 inches (4865 mm)
Width Overall:
Approx. 72.4 inches (1839 mm)
Height Overall:
Approx. 57.1 inches (1450 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 106.3 inches (2700 mm)
Front Track:
Approx. 62.0 inches (1575 mm)
Rear Track:
Approx. 62.0 inches (1575 mm)
Headroom Front:
Approx. 38.5 inches (978 mm)
Legroom Front:
Approx. 42.2 inches (1072 mm)
Shoulder Room Front:
Approx. 57.0 inches (1448 mm)
Hip Room Front:
Approx. 54.4 inches (1382 mm)
Headroom Rear:
Approx. 37.4 inches (950 mm)
Legroom Rear:
Approx. 38.5 inches (978 mm)
Shoulder Room Rear:
Approx. 55.0 inches (1397 mm)
Hip Room Rear:
Approx. 53.6 inches (1362 mm)
Trunk Volume Cu Ft:
Approx. 14.8 cu ft
Curb Weight Min:
Approx. 3,241 lbs (1470 kg) for manual transmission
Curb Weight Max:
Approx. 3,375 lbs (1531 kg) for automatic transmission
NHTSA Overall Rating:
5-Star (for most configurations)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for models equipped with optional front crash prevention)
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Traction Control System (TCS) standard.
Braking Assist:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA).
Driver Assistance Options:
Available i-ACTIVSENSE suite including: Smart City Brake Support (SCBS), Radar Cruise Control (MRCC), Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS).
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags.
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.
Head Restraints:
Active front head restraints to help reduce whiplash injuries.
Infotainment System Name:
MAZDA CONNECT
Infotainment Display:
7-inch full-color touchscreen display.
Audio System:
AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system, available Bose premium audio system.
Connectivity Features:
Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio streaming, USB/Auxiliary audio input jacks, Pandora and Stitcher internet radio integration.
Navigation:
Optional factory-installed navigation system.
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Available Mazda Radar Cruise Control (MRCC).
Forward Collision Warning:
Available Smart Brake Support (SBS) / Smart City Brake Support (SCBS).
Lane Keeping Assist:
Available Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS).
Blind Spot Monitoring:
Available Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM).
Smartphone Integration:
Limited integration compared to modern Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Primarily through Bluetooth and app integration for specified apps.
Oil And Filter Change:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Refer to manual for severe driving conditions.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Often recommended around 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Cabin Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Often recommended around 20,000 miles (32,000 km).
Spark Plugs:
Replace at 75,000 miles (120,000 km) for iridium-tipped spark plugs.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mazda typically lists 'lifetime' fluid, but independent experts recommend replacement every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) for longevity, especially under severe use. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Coolant:
Replace every 75,000 miles (120,000 km) or 5 years, whichever comes first.
Brake Fluid:
Replace every 3 years, or as needed based on condition (moisture absorption).
Power Steering Fluid:
EPAS (Electric Power Assisted Steering) system – no fluid to check/replace as it's electric. Older models might have had hydraulic systems.
Common Complaints:
Some reports of oil consumption in earlier SKYACTIV-G engines (though less prevalent in the 2.5L compared to the 2.0L), occasional infotainment system glitches, and potential for carbon buildup in direct-injection engines if driven solely on short trips.
Maintenance Tips:
Regular oil changes with correct synthetic oil are crucial for the longevity of the direct-injection engine. Using quality fuel is recommended.
