🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

626

Model Variant:

MX-6 GD Series

Years Covered:

1988-1992

Chassis Code:

GD

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

A comprehensive technical resource for owners and independent workshops seeking detailed repair and maintenance information for the Mazda 626 and MX-6 GD series.

Competitors:

This manual provides a level of detail comparable to official factory service manuals, offering a cost-effective alternative for specialized repair knowledge.

Features:

Includes detailed wiring diagrams, exploded views of components, and specific procedures for each engine variant, crucial for accurate diagnosis and repair.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Coverage:

2.0L FE DOHC, 2.0L FE8 (FE12) SOHC, 1.8L F8 SOHC, 1.6L F6 SOHC, 2.0L RF-CX, RF-N Diesel

Estimated Page Count:

800+

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete overhaul, tuning, component diagnostics, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system, emission control systems

Transmission:

Manual and Automatic transmission repair, overhaul, clutch service, gearshift mechanisms, fluid specifications

Chassis And Body:

Frame and body repair, suspension systems (front and rear), steering system, wheel alignment, body panels, interior trim

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, lighting, charging system, starting system, ignition system, instrumentation, power accessories, fuse and relay identification

Brakes:

Disc brake and drum brake service, hydraulic system, parking brake, ABS (where applicable) diagnostics and repair

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance checks, oil change intervals, filter replacement procedures, tune-up specifications, fluid level checks and top-ups

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides for engine, electrical, and mechanical issues

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems, including disassembly, assembly, and component replacement

Technical Data:

Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, timing settings, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)

Suspension Service:

Detailed instructions for replacing struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, and bushings. Includes wheel bearing service.

Steering System Repair:

Rack and pinion steering system diagnostics, seals replacement, and power steering pump service.

Exhaust System Service:

Catalytic converter replacement, muffler and pipe repair/replacement, oxygen sensor service.

Cooling System Diagnostics:

Radiator removal and installation, thermostat replacement, water pump service, coolant leak detection.

Fuel Pump And Injector Service:

Fuel tank removal, fuel pump replacement, fuel injector cleaning and replacement procedures.

Air Conditioning System:

Refrigerant handling (with appropriate safety warnings), compressor service, component replacement (condenser, evaporator), leak detection.

Body And Interior Trim:

Removal and installation of door panels, dashboard components, exterior trim pieces, and bumpers.

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics

Diagrams And Illustrations:

Includes detailed line drawings, exploded views, and schematic diagrams for clarity in repair procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

High-resolution scans, searchable text content, printable pages

Searchability:

Searchable PDF allows quick access to specific topics and components.

Print Readability:

Clear text and legible diagrams for ease of use during repairs

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Family Common:

FE-series (DOHC and SOHC)

Fe DOHc Designation:

Mazda FE-DOHC, a 16-valve DOHC inline-4, known for its performance in the MX-6 and sporty 626 variants.

Fe Sohc Designation:

Mazda FE-SOHC, a 12-valve SOHC inline-4, providing a balance of economy and performance.

F8 Designation:

Mazda F8, a 2.0L SOHC inline-4, common in entry-level 626 models.

F6 Designation:

Mazda F6, a 1.6L SOHC inline-4, typically found in base models for fuel efficiency.

Rf Diesel Designation:

Mazda RF-CX/RF-N, a 2.0L indirect injection diesel inline-4, known for fuel economy but lower performance.

Fe DOHc Power Range:

Typically 140-145 hp (depending on market and specific tuning)

Fe Sohc Power Range:

Typically 110-120 hp (depending on specific variant)

F8 Sohc Power Range:

Typically 90-100 hp

F6 Sohc Power Range:

Typically 80-90 hp

Rf Diesel Power Range:

Typically 60-70 hp

Fuel Delivery Petrol:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for FE and F series engines; Carburetor systems on some earlier F-series variants

Fuel Delivery Diesel:

Indirect injection, typically with Bosch fuel injection pump

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission Options:

5-speed manual

Automatic Transmission Options:

4-speed automatic (e.g., Jatco units)

AWD Availability:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) was an option on some MX-6 and 626 models, particularly with the FE-DOHC engine.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Coupe (MX-6), Sedan (626), Hardtop (626)

Wheelbase Approximate:

2600 mm (varies slightly by body style)

Curb Weight Range:

1200 kg - 1500 kg (depending on engine and features)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data Availability:

Limited publicly available official crash test data for this era; emphasis is on passive safety features described in the manual.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an available option on higher trims and later models.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts, often with pretensioners on front seats in later models.

Airbags:

Driver airbag was an option and became more common towards the end of the production run; passenger airbags were rare.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM radio with cassette player, often with optional premium sound systems (e.g., Clarion, Bose on higher trims).

Controls:

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

Cruise Control:

Available on most models, particularly those with automatic transmission and higher engine displacements.

Power Steering:

Standard hydraulic power steering system.

Features:

Limited connectivity by modern standards; focus on essential vehicle functions and comfort features.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Petrol:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Recommended replacement interval for FE-series engines is around 60,000 miles or 4-5 years, a critical maintenance item to prevent catastrophic engine damage.

Engine Oil Type Petrol:

API SG or SH rated, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 commonly recommended. Consult manual for specific variant.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 often specified.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron II or equivalent ATF.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Engine Common Problems:

Degradation of intake manifold gaskets on DOHC engines leading to vacuum leaks; distributor O-ring leaks; potential for distributor internal failure.

Electrical Common Problems:

Corrosion in wiring harnesses, particularly at grounds; intermittent power window issues; headlight switch failures.

Chassis Common Problems:

Wear in suspension bushings and ball joints; rust in wheel arches and rocker panels, especially in areas with road salt.

Diesel Engine Common Problems:

Glow plug issues; wear in injection pump seals; carbon buildup in intake ports.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Reputation:

Mazda built a reputation for sporty handling and reliable engineering during this period, particularly with its rotary engines and front-wheel-drive platforms.

Gd Generation Context:

The GD generation represented a significant step forward in design and technology for both the 626 and its sporty coupe sibling, the MX-6, offering more refined styling and improved performance compared to previous models.

Production Period:

The GD platform was produced globally from 1987 to 1992.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Reputation:

The Mazda 626 and MX-6 GD generation were generally well-regarded for their styling, handling, and value, often appearing on 'best buys' lists for their respective classes.

Handling Dynamics:

Praised for their balanced chassis and independent suspension, contributing to a sporty driving experience.

Emissions Standards:

Designed to meet emissions standards of the late 1980s and early 1990s (e.g., EPA, CARB in the US).