Segment:
Mid-size Sedan/Wagon (introduced as a global car)
Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion, Volkswagen Passat
Design Philosophy:
Jinba Ittai (Horse and Rider as One) driving dynamics, sporty handling, unique styling
Engine:
All engine variants (e.g., MZR 2.0L, MZR 2.3L, MZR 3.0L V6)
Transmission:
Manual (FS5A-EL, GF4A-EL) and Automatic Transmissions
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, EBD, DSC, components, troubleshooting
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension, power steering system, components, alignment
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, comfort systems
Body Chassis:
Body construction, interior trim, exterior panels, doors, windows, seats
HVAC:
Climate control system, AC operation, components, troubleshooting
Fuel Exhaust:
Fuel delivery, injectors, exhaust system, emissions control
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seatbelt pretensioners, SRS troubleshooting
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake system repair, suspension component replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) explanations
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-II), sensor testing, actuator testing
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, timing belt/chain service, piston and bearing replacement, cylinder head service.
Transmission Overhaul:
Complete rebuild procedures for both manual and automatic transmissions, including torque converter service.
Body Repair:
Panel replacement, frame straightening (if applicable), door and window mechanism repair.
Diagnostics Electrical:
Detailed circuit diagrams for all electrical systems, including component testing procedures and connector pinouts.
Suspension Alignment:
Specifications and procedures for wheel alignment, suspension component torquing, and chassis measurements.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic checks to full component disassembly and reassembly
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (Driver and Passenger)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
Traction Control:
Optional/Standard on higher trims (TCS)
Electronic Stability:
Optional/Standard on higher trims (DSC - Dynamic Stability Control)
Airbags:
Frontal, Side, and Curtain Airbags (depending on trim)
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts, front pretensioners
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first) with conventional oil, or 7,500 miles/12 months with synthetic oil (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type - iridium recommended)
Engine Oil:
API SN/SM or ILSAC GF-5, SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (check manual for specific engine and temperature range)
Coolant:
Mazda FL22 Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent HOAT coolant)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mazda ATF-Type M-III or equivalent MERCON V
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear or failure of engine and transmission mounts, leading to vibration.
Power Steering Pump:
Leaking or noisy power steering pumps are a common complaint.
Exhaust Manifold:
Cracking of the exhaust manifold on some 2.3L engines.
ABS Modulator:
Potential failure of the ABS modulator/pump unit.
Body Rust:
Susceptibility to rust in wheel wells, rocker panels, and subframes, particularly in areas with road salt.
