Segment:
Mid-size Sedan/Hatchback/Wagon
Usp:
Sporty handling, attractive styling, value for money
Key Competitors:
Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion, Volkswagen Passat
Design Philosophy:
Zoom-Zoom driving dynamics, Jinba-Ittai (horse and rider as one)
Platform:
Ford Global CD3 Platform (shared with Ford Mondeo, Volvo S60/V70)
Engines Covered:
2.3L L3-VE I4, 3.0L AJ V6
Transmissions Covered:
5-speed Manual (FS5A-EL), 4-speed Automatic (G4A-EL)
Body Styles Covered:
Sedan, Hatchback, Wagon
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 2000-3000 pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, emissions control, engine electrical, starter, charging, powertrain control module (PCM) diagnosis
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual transmission overhaul, automatic transmission overhaul, clutch, drive axles, differential
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, power steering, wheel alignment
Brakes:
Brake system operation, hydraulic components, disc brakes, drum brakes (if applicable), ABS, parking brake
Electrical Electronics:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, gauges, wipers, washers, horn, power accessories, body control module (BCM), immobilizer system
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant handling, climate control
Body Chassis:
Body construction, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, windows, seats, safety restraints (airbags, seatbelts)
Maintenance Routine:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt replacement
Repair Overhaul:
Engine disassembly and assembly, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component testing and replacement
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical circuit testing, component testing
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds)
Type 1:
5-speed Manual (FS5A-EL)
Type 2:
4-speed Automatic (G4A-EL)
Automatic Features:
Activematic (manual shift mode for automatic transmission)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mazda ATF-Type T-IV or equivalent
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil
NHTSA Frontal Driver Side:
5-star
NHTSA Frontal Passenger Side:
5-star
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models with side airbags)
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Optional (TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Optional (DSC - Dynamic Stability Control)
Airbags:
Front airbags, available front side airbags, available side curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
Pretensioner and load-limiter front seatbelts
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic blend oil)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Iridium-tipped spark plugs: Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 quarts (4.3 L) with filter for 2.3L, 5.0 quarts (4.7 L) with filter for 3.0L
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ or higher, ILSAC GF-3, SAE 5W-20 (recommended)
Coolant Type:
Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Common Problem 1:
Intake manifold runner control issues (especially on 2.3L)
Common Problem 2:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket
Common Problem 3:
Catalytic converter failure (often related to misfires)
Common Problem 4:
Power steering pump noise or leaks
Common Problem 5:
Automatic transmission shifting issues or failure (especially on higher mileage vehicles)
Mazda Philosophy:
Focus on driving enjoyment, innovative technology, and stylish design
Introduction Date:
Introduced for the 2003 model year, replacing the Mazda Capella/626
Design Inspiration:
Inspired by Mazda's Nagare design concept and the 'Zoom-Zoom' marketing theme
Manufacturing Locations:
Hofu, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan; Flat Rock, Michigan, USA (for North American market)
