🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

3 / Axela

Year:

2002

Chassis Code:

BK Series (First Generation)

Engine Codes:

Z6 (1.6L), LF-VE (2.0L), MZR-CD (2.0L Diesel)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Compact family car / hatchback.

Target Audience:

DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, fleet maintenance.

Key Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf.

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for its sporty handling and engaging driving experience.

Design Philosophy:

Stylish and modern exterior and interior design.

Reliability:

Generally good reliability record, reflecting Mazda's engineering.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive service and repair for Mazda 3 / Axela (BK Series, 2002 onwards).

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, printable pages.

Binding Type:

Digital Download (N/A for physical binding)

Paper Type:

Digital (N/A for physical paper type)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, rebuild procedures, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing belt/chain, oil pump, lubrication system.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, EVAP system, fuel lines.

Ignition System:

Spark plugs, ignition coils, ignition control module (if applicable), wiring diagrams.

Cooling System:

Radiator, coolant hoses, thermostat, water pump, cooling fan, coolant specifications and capacity.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, exhaust pipes, O2 sensors.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch system, gearbox assembly, gear selection, input/output shafts, bearings, seals, transmission fluid specifications and capacity.

Transmission Automatic:

Torque converter, planetary gear sets, valve body, transmission control module (TCM), hydraulic system, transmission fluid specifications and capacity.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive system, drive axles, CV joints, differential.

Suspension Front:

MacPherson struts, control arms, ball joints, sway bar, bushings, alignment specifications.

Suspension Rear:

Multi-link or independent rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications.

Steering System:

Power steering pump, steering rack, tie rod ends, steering column, steering fluid specifications.

Brake System:

Front and rear brake calipers, rotors, brake pads, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS system, parking brake, brake fluid specifications and bleeding procedures.

Wheels And Tires:

Wheel specifications, tire pressure recommendations, lug nut torque specifications.

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior lights), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.

Engine Control Module:

ECM/ECU operation, sensors (crankshaft position, camshaft position, MAF, MAP, O2, coolant temperature), actuators.

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, seats, dashboard, HVAC system (controls, ducting, blower motor).

Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:

A/C compressor, condenser, evaporator, refrigerant, HVAC control panel, blower motor, cabin air filter.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS components, diagnostic procedures), seat belt pre-tensioners.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

General troubleshooting steps, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (OBD-II).

Scheduled Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, cabin air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs.

Major Engine Repairs:

Engine overhaul, head gasket replacement, piston ring replacement, bearing replacement.

Transmission Repair:

Clutch replacement, transmission rebuild (manual and automatic), torque converter replacement.

Brake System Repair:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper rebuild, master cylinder replacement, brake bleeding.

Suspension Component Replacement:

Strut and shock absorber replacement, control arm replacement, ball joint replacement.

Steering System Repair:

Power steering pump replacement, steering rack replacement, tie rod end replacement.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting electrical circuits, component testing, wiring repair.

HVAC System Repair:

A/C system recharge, component replacement (compressor, condenser), blower motor replacement.

Body Panel Repair And Replacement:

Door panel removal, fender replacement, bumper repair.

Interior Component Removal And Installation:

Dashboard disassembly, seat removal, center console removal.

Airbag System Diagnostics And Replacement:

Safely handling SRS components, diagnostic procedures.

Depth Of Coverage:

Full factory-level repair information.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Detailed diagnostic procedures, sensor data interpretation, troubleshooting flowcharts.

Rebuild Procedures:

Complete engine and transmission rebuild instructions with torque specifications.

Special Tools:

Identification of required special tools and their usage.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Code:

Z6-VE

Engine 1 Type:

Inline-4 Cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve

Engine 1 Displacement:

1.6 Liters (1598 cc)

Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:

78.0 mm x 83.6 mm

Engine 1 Compression Ratio:

9.7:1

Engine 1 Horsepower Approx:

103 hp @ 6000 rpm

Engine 1 Torque Approx:

146 Nm (108 lb-ft) @ 4000 rpm

Engine 2 Code:

LF-VE

Engine 2 Type:

Inline-4 Cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve, Variable Valve Timing (VVT)

Engine 2 Displacement:

2.0 Liters (1999 cc)

Engine 2 Bore X Stroke:

87.5 mm x 94.0 mm

Engine 2 Compression Ratio:

9.7:1

Engine 2 Horsepower Approx:

138 hp @ 6000 rpm

Engine 2 Torque Approx:

180 Nm (133 lb-ft) @ 4500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Recommended Fuel:

Unleaded gasoline, Octane rating 91 or higher.

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission.

Automatic Transmission:

4-speed automatic transmission.

Transmission Fluid Type Manual:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (Manual)

Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:

Mazda ATF JWS3317 or equivalent (Automatic)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4415 mm (Hatchback), 4460 mm (Sedan)

Width:

Approx. 1745 mm

Height:

Approx. 1465 mm (Hatchback), 1435 mm (Sedan)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2640 mm

Curb Weight Approx:

1250 kg - 1350 kg (depending on engine and trim)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 1750 kg

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating:

Information not readily available for 2002 models for specific NHTSA ratings. Typically scored well in frontal and side impacts for its era.

ABS:

Standard on most models, Anti-lock Braking System.

Traction Control:

Optional on some higher trims.

Airbags:

Frontal airbags for driver and passenger. Side airbags and curtain airbags available on select trims.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM CD player, optional premium audio systems available on higher trims.

Display:

Basic digital display for clock, radio, and climate settings. No integrated navigation on base models.

Cruise Control:

Available on most models.

Auxiliary Input:

Not standard; may be an aftermarket addition.

Bluetooth:

Not available on 2002 models; typically introduced in later generations.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Check manual for specific conditions.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically around 60,000 - 75,000 miles (96,000 - 120,000 km) for platinum or iridium plugs. Refer to manual for exact interval.

Timing Belt Replacement:

The Z6 and LF-VE engines utilize a timing chain, which generally does not require periodic replacement under normal maintenance. However, the manual will specify any inspection intervals or replacement procedures if wear is detected.

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30, API SN/SP, ILSAC GF-5 or higher.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.0 - 4.5 Liters (4.2 - 4.8 US Quarts) with filter change, depending on engine.

Coolant Specification:

Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent (Ethylene Glycol based, Phosphate-free).

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid Specification:

Mazda Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III/Mercon compatible ATF.

Common Issues Engine:

Oil leaks from valve cover gasket, minor oil consumption on high-mileage engines, occasional carbon buildup on intake valves.

Common Issues Suspension:

Worn sway bar links, noisy front struts/shocks, worn control arm bushings.

Common Issues Electrical:

Failing power window motors, occasional issues with climate control modules, SRS warning light illumination (often due to wiring or seat occupancy sensor).

Common Issues Exhaust:

Corrosion of exhaust components, particularly in areas with harsh winters.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda History:

Mazda, a Japanese automaker known for its innovative technology and driver-focused vehicles, has a long history of producing reliable and engaging cars.

Mazda3 First Generation:

The Mazda 3 (also known as Mazda Axela in Japan and other markets) was introduced in 2003 as a 2004 model year vehicle, replacing the Mazda Familia/323. The 2002 model information in the product name likely refers to early production or market introduction timelines for this generation.

Production Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Japan (Hofu) and later in other global locations.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Awards:

The Mazda 3 (first generation) was frequently featured on Car and Driver's '10Best' lists in subsequent years for its engaging driving dynamics, solidifying its reputation.