🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

Mazda 3

Year:

2004

Generation:

1st Generation

Chassis Code:

BK

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Mazda 3 (BK) was positioned as a sporty and engaging compact car, competing in a segment with strong rivals like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Ford Focus. It was known for its sharp handling and driver-focused interior.

Competitive Analysis:

Offered a compelling blend of performance and practicality, often favored by enthusiasts for its dynamic chassis tuning and available upscale features. Its styling was also a differentiating factor compared to some more conservative competitors.

Key Features:

Mazda's 'Zoom-Zoom' driving philosophy, distinctive styling, available Skyactiv-G engines (though not branded as such in this generation), sporty handling, spacious interior for its class, and robust build quality.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Comprehensive maintenance and repair procedures for the 2004 Mazda 3 (1st Generation).

Page Count:

Estimated 1500-2500 pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals).

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF), potentially available in print.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems:

Engine (including MZR 2.0L and 2.3L variants), Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, HVAC, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Electrical System (including wiring diagrams), Body & Chassis, Safety Systems (Airbags, ABS), Emissions Control, Diagnostic Procedures, Body Control Modules (BCM), Powertrain Control Modules (PCM).

Procedures:

Scheduled Maintenance, Routine Inspections, Troubleshooting Guides, Step-by-step Repair Instructions, Component Removal and Installation, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) interpretation and resolution, Torque Specifications, Fluid Capacities and Types, Lubrication Points, Wiring Schematics, Special Tool Requirements, Overhaul Procedures, Component Testing, Adjustment Procedures.

Engine Repair:

Detailed procedures for engine overhaul, including cylinder head removal/installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft removal, valve timing adjustments, and component diagnostics.

Transmission Repair:

Complete overhaul procedures for both manual and automatic transmissions, including gearset replacement, clutch pack service (automatic), seal replacement, and torque converter diagnostics.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Extensive wiring diagrams covering all vehicle systems, including lighting, power windows, locks, comfort controls, and powertrain management. Detailed diagnostic flowcharts for electrical faults.

Suspension Steering Service:

Procedures for suspension component replacement (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings), steering rack removal and installation, and wheel alignment specifications.

Brake System Service:

Detailed instructions for brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, bleeding the brake system, and diagnosing ABS system faults.

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance tasks (oil changes, filter replacements) to advanced diagnostics and complete component overhauls. Includes detailed electrical troubleshooting and system-specific repair procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (searchable text, bookmarked chapters, printable pages).

Print Quality:

High-resolution images, clear diagrams, and sharp text suitable for printing.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital format); If printed, typically coil-bound or perfect-bound for workshop use.

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format); If printed, typically heavy-duty, laminated pages for durability in a workshop environment.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

MZR 2.0L L4 (FS-DE/LF-DE) and MZR 2.3L L4 (L3-VE).

2.0L Performance:

Approx. 148-150 hp @ 6000 rpm, 135-137 lb-ft torque @ 4500 rpm.

2.3L Performance:

Approx. 160-170 hp @ 6000 rpm, 150-156 lb-ft torque @ 4500 rpm. (Note: Speed trims may have higher output).

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI).

Engine Management:

OBD-II compliant engine control unit (ECU).

2.0L Engine Code:

FS-DE / LF-DE (depending on market and specific variant).

2.3L Engine Code:

L3-VE.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission.

Optional Transmission:

4-speed automatic transmission (FWD only).

Transmission Features:

Sport Shift/Manumatic functionality on some automatic models.

Clutch Type:

Dry single-plate clutch (manual transmission).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

102.7 inches (2606 mm).

Length:

174.5 inches (4433 mm).

Width:

69.1 inches (1755 mm).

Height:

57.7 inches (1466 mm).

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2,950 - 3,150 lbs (1340 - 1430 kg), depending on engine and transmission.

Cargo Volume:

Approx. 11.7 - 12.0 cubic feet (sedan).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test:

5-Star (Driver & Passenger) - 2004 Model Year.

IIHS Front Crash Test:

Good.

Active Safety:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS - optional/standard on higher trims).

Passive Safety:

Front airbags, Front side-impact airbags, Pretensioner seatbelts, Crumple zones, Side-impact door beams.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM/CD player with optional MP3 playback. Some trims may feature premium audio systems (e.g., Bose).

Display:

Typically a digital display for radio and clock. Optional navigation system available on some higher trims.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by modern standards. Primarily focused on ABS, EBD, and optional Traction Control.

Connectivity Options:

Auxiliary input for audio (on some models), optional Bluetooth hands-free phone system (rare for 2004).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, with conventional oil. Using synthetic oil may allow for extended intervals as specified by Mazda, typically 7,500 miles (12,000 km).

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Recommended replacement at 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or if visibly dirty.

Cabin Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Recommended replacement at 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Iridium spark plugs: 75,000 miles (120,000 km).

Engine Oil Type:

API SM or ILSAC GF-4 certified synthetic or semi-synthetic 5W-20 or 5W-30 (check owner's manual for specific recommendations per engine and climate).

Coolant Type:

Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (FL22) or equivalent. Typically a 50/50 mixture of ethylene glycol and distilled water. Do not use conventional green coolant.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Mazda Genuine ATF J-M3 or equivalent Mercon V compatible fluid (confirm compatibility). DO NOT use Dexron III/VI.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Common Issues:

Rust on rear wheel arches and rocker panels, worn sway bar links and bushings (leading to clunking noises), intermittent check engine lights (often related to EVAP system or O2 sensors), occasional power window regulator failures, A/C compressor clutch issues, and transmission shifting problems (especially in older automatic transmissions).

Timing Belt Or Chain:

Both the 2.0L and 2.3L MZR engines utilize a timing chain, which is designed to last the life of the engine and does not require periodic replacement like a timing belt.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.0-4.5 US quarts (3.8-4.3 liters) with filter change, depending on engine.

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 5.5-6.0 US quarts (5.2-5.7 liters).

Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 7.0-7.5 US quarts (6.6-7.1 liters) for a drain and fill.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mazda has a history of producing engaging and driver-oriented vehicles, with a focus on engineering innovation and distinctive styling. The 'Zoom-Zoom' marketing campaign emphasized the joy of driving.

Model Evolution:

The first-generation Mazda 3 (BK) was introduced for the 2004 model year, replacing the Protegé. It was built on Mazda's new 'Global Small Car' platform (shared with Ford Focus).

Production Years:

2004-2009 (First Generation).

Assembly Locations:

Japan (Hofu), Mexico (Salamanca).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Best:

Car and Driver's 10Best list in 2004.

Kbb Rating:

Consistently rated well for value and reliability by Kelley Blue Book.