🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

Mazda 6

Year:

2008

Chassis Code:

GH

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size sedan, competing in a segment known for practicality, comfort, and increasingly, driving dynamics.

Competitors:

Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion, Chevrolet Malibu.

Design Philosophy:

Mazda's 'Nagare' design language aimed for flowing lines and a more dynamic appearance.

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for its 'Zoom-Zoom' driving experience, emphasizing responsive handling and engaging performance.

Interior Appointments:

Focus on driver-centric cockpit design, quality materials, and ergonomic layout.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

Intended Audience:

Professional Technicians and Advanced DIYers

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, emission control, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, engine control module (ECM).

Drivetrain:

Manual transmission, automatic transmission (incl. Sport mode), drive shafts, differentials, axles, front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive (if applicable).

Chassis:

Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, braking system (ABS, DSC), wheels and tires.

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, power windows, power locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, infotainment system, body control module (BCM), wiring diagrams.

Body:

Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, seats, airbags, climate control system (HVAC).

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance checks, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake, transmission, power steering), filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting charts, fault code interpretation, diagnostic procedures for all major systems, component testing.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, electrical component replacement.

Specifications:

Torque specifications, fluid capacities, electrical component resistance values, diagnostic parameter values.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering detailed disassembly, assembly, adjustment, and diagnostic procedures for all vehicle systems.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Fully searchable text for quick access to information.

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or sections.

Page Count:

Estimated 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

MZR LF-VE (for 2.0L), MZR L3-VE (for 2.3L), MZR LY3P (for 2.5L - some markets)

Displacement 2.5L:

2,488 cc (2.5 Liters)

Displacement 2.3L:

2,261 cc (2.3 Liters)

Horsepower:

167 hp @ 6,000 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

167 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm (approx.)

Horsepower:

156 hp @ 6,500 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

150 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm (approx.)

Injection Type:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Configuration:

Inline 4-cylinder, transversely mounted

Valve Train:

DOHC (Double Overhead Camshafts), 4 valves per cylinder

Timing Drive:

Timing Chain

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type 2.5L:

6-speed manual transmission

Transmission Type 2.3L:

5-speed manual transmission

Transmission Type 2.5L:

5-speed automatic transmission with Sport Mode

Transmission Type 2.3L:

5-speed automatic transmission with Sport Mode

Drive Wheel System:

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-85 (or equivalent specification, refer to manual for exact part number)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Mazda ATF JWS3309 or equivalent (refer to manual for exact part number)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

190.9 inches (4850 mm)

Width:

72.4 inches (1839 mm)

Height:

57.7 inches (1465 mm)

Wheelbase:

109.4 inches (2780 mm)

Curb Weight Approx:

3,300 - 3,500 lbs (1497 - 1588 kg) depending on configuration

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Approx:

4,430 lbs (2010 kg)

Trunk Volume Approx:

14.0 cubic feet (396 liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

5-star

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

5-star

NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:

5-star

NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:

5-star

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Driver:

5-star

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:

5-star

IIHS Roof Strength:

Good

IIHS Rear Impact Head Restraints:

Good

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCS)

Stability Control:

Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)

Airbags:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-impact curtain airbags (front and rear).

Seatbelts:

3-point ELR seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters for all seating positions.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Bose premium audio system available on higher trims, with CD player, AM/FM radio, and auxiliary input.

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation system.

Climate Control:

Manual or automatic dual-zone climate control.

Headlights:

Halogen headlights, with HID (Xenon) headlights available on higher trims. Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS) available.

Bluetooth:

Available Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio streaming functionality.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.

Tire Rotation:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Replacement typically every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Cabin Air Filter:

Inspect and replace annually or every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).

Spark Plugs:

Iridium spark plugs typically require replacement every 100,000 miles (160,000 km).

Engine Oil:

SAE 0W-20, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified synthetic engine oil (refer to manual for exact specification and capacity).

Engine Coolant:

Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent (long-life, phosphate-based ethylene glycol).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron III/Mercon or equivalent ATF (refer to manual).

Engine:

Some reports of oil consumption in earlier MZR engines (2.3L), intake manifold flap issues (on certain variants), and occasional sensor failures. The 2.5L generally considered more robust.

Transmission:

Some automatic transmission complaints regarding rough shifting or delayed engagement; periodic fluid service is crucial.

Suspension:

Worn control arm bushings and strut mounts can lead to knocking noises and affect handling, particularly on higher mileage vehicles.

Electrical:

Occasional issues with power window motors, and infotainment system glitches.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Philosophy:

Founded in 1920, Mazda has a long history of innovation, including rotary engine technology (Wankel).

Generation:

This is the second generation (GH) of the Mazda 6, succeeding the GG generation. Introduced for the 2008 model year.

Design Changes:

Key changes included a redesigned exterior with a more aerodynamic profile, updated interior with improved materials and ergonomics, and new engine options including the larger 2.5L engine.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Hofu, Japan, and also in Flat Rock, Michigan, USA for the North American market.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Received IIHS Top Safety Pick awards in prior years, indicating strong crash test performance.

Consumer Reports:

Generally rated as average to above average for reliability by organizations like Consumer Reports, with some powertrain and electrical system caveats.