Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size sedan/hatchback/wagon
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, owners seeking detailed maintenance information
Key Competitors 2003:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion, Chevrolet Malibu
Manual Advantage:
Officially licensed, comprehensive coverage, digital searchability, detailed diagrams and illustrations
Software Benefit:
Faster access to information, easier navigation compared to print manuals
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, diagnosis, component testing, timing, lubrication system
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection system (DFI/MPI), ignition system, emissions control system, cooling system
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox repair, overhaul, diagnosis, shifting mechanisms
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission overhaul, diagnosis, hydraulic control, torque converter
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD), axles, CV joints, differential, propshaft (if AWD)
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, alignment
Steering:
Power steering system, rack and pinion, steering column, linkage
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/disc), ABS, EBD, brake pads, rotors, calipers, lines, fluid
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, horn, wipers, power accessories
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, hinges, latches, interior trim, seats, upholstery, HVAC controls
Climate Control:
HVAC system, A/C compressor, refrigerant, heater core, blower motor, controls
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seat belts, SRS system diagnosis and components
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, trouble codes (DTCs), scan tool usage, sensor data interpretation
Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes, belt inspection/replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common problem resolutions
Repair:
Component replacement, assembly/disassembly procedures, calibration, adjustments
Installation:
Accessory installation, component upgrades (where applicable)
Electrical Diagnosis And Repair:
Wiring diagrams, circuit testing, component repair/replacement
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds)
Engine Code Usdm:
FS-DE (2.3L DOHC I4)
Engine Displacement Usdm:
2.3 liters (2261 cc)
Engine Configuration Usdm:
Inline 4-cylinder, 16-valve, DOHC
Horsepower Usdm:
148 hp @ 5,500 rpm
Torque Usdm:
150 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
Engine Code Alternative:
LF-DE (2.0L DOHC I4 - primarily for non-US markets, but some exceptions exist)
Engine Displacement Alternative:
2.0 liters (1991 cc)
Horsepower Alternative:
120-130 hp (approximate)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Requirement:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane minimum
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Electronic Ignition (DS-IE)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (FL22)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
★★★★★ (5-Star)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
★★★★★ (5-Star)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat Passenger:
★★★★☆ (4-Star)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat Passenger:
★★★★☆ (4-Star)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good
ABS:
Standard (4-wheel disc brakes with ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional (TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Optional (DSC - Dynamic Stability Control)
Airbags Front:
Standard (Driver and Passenger SRS Airbags)
Airbags Side:
Optional/Standard on higher trims (Front Side-Impact SRS Airbags)
Airbags Curtain:
Optional (Front and Rear Side-Curtain SRS Airbags)
Seat Belts:
3-point ELR front and rear with pretensioners and load limiters
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (using synthetic oil)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (using iridium-tipped plugs)
Coolant Flush:
Every 100,000 miles or 10 years (with Mazda FL22 coolant)
Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:
Every 60,000 miles (under normal driving conditions)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.8 US quarts (4.5 Liters) with filter (for 2.3L)
Engine Oil Viscosity:
5W-20 (preferred for fuel economy, check owner's manual)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF DEXRON III compatible or Mazda Genuine Power Steering Fluid
Common Problems:
Rattling noise from exhaust heat shield, premature wear of front sway bar end links, potential for carbon buildup on intake valves (direct injection engines are more prone, but relevant for diagnosis), HVAC blower motor failure, occasional transmission solenoid issues in automatics.
Mazda Brand Focus:
Sporty handling, unique design, driver engagement ('Zoom-Zoom' era)
First Generation Launch:
2002 (for the 2003 model year)
Design Philosophy:
Challenged conventional mid-size sedan design with a focus on driving dynamics and European styling influences.
Platform:
Mazda's first European-designed platform, shared with Ford Mondeo and Volvo S40/V50.
Manufacturing Location:
Hofuf, Saudi Arabia (for some export markets), Flat Rock, Michigan, USA (for North American market)