Product Type:
Electrical Troubleshooting Manual
Chassis Code Common:
GD, GV (626 Wagon), GE (626 Sedan/Hatchback), GE (MX-6)
Engine Code Common:
FS-DE (2.0L DOHC I4), KL-DE (2.5L DOHC V6)
Context:
The 1996 Mazda 626 and MX-6 represented Mazda's offering in the mid-size sedan and sporty coupe segments, respectively. This era saw increased complexity in vehicle electronics.
Rivals 626:
Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, Ford Contour, Chevrolet Malibu.
Rivals Mx6:
Ford Probe, Toyota Camry Solara (later generation), Mitsubishi Eclipse, Nissan 240SX.
Technology Adoption:
These models featured advancements like multi-point fuel injection, optional ABS, and SRS airbags, increasing the importance of accurate electrical diagnostics.
Manual Value:
Crucial for diagnosing and repairing faults that are often difficult to pinpoint without specific electrical diagrams and procedures.
Primary Focus:
Electrical systems, diagnostics, and troubleshooting for 1996 Mazda 626 and MX-6 models.
Secondary Focus:
Wiring diagrams, component locations, diagnostic procedures, electrical specifications, fuse and relay information.
Estimated Pages:
400-600 (typical for comprehensive electrical manuals of this era)
Type:
Factory Service Manual (Electrical Troubleshooting Section)
Format:
Printed (likely a bound paperback or comb-bound manual)
Powertrain Electrical:
Engine control (ECU), fuel injection, ignition system, starter, charging system (alternator, battery), emissions control systems.
Chassis Electrical:
Lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), horn, wipers, washers, power windows, power door locks, power mirrors, power seats, remote keyless entry (if equipped).
Comfort Convenience:
Climate control (HVAC) blower motor, A/C system controls, heater controls, rear defroster, audio system wiring, interior lighting, cruise control.
Safety Security:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) wiring and control module, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) / Airbag system wiring and diagnostics, alarm system (if equipped).
Diagnostics:
Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common electrical faults, symptom-based diagnostics, use of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) if applicable.
Testing:
Procedures for testing individual electrical components (e.g., sensors, actuators, relays, motors), voltage drop testing, continuity testing.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed wiring schematics for all major electrical systems, including harness routing, connector pinouts, wire colors, and component identification.
Component Locations:
Illustrations and descriptions showing the physical location of fuses, relays, control modules, sensors, switches, and other electrical components.
Level:
Advanced diagnostic and repair procedures suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Scope:
Covers troubleshooting of intermittent electrical issues, circuit failures, and component malfunctions, not just basic replacement.
Paper Quality:
Likely durable, high-quality paper suitable for workshop environments, with clear text and legible diagrams.
Diagram Clarity:
High-resolution, clear, and accurately rendered wiring diagrams and component illustrations.
Binding:
Likely perfect bound (paperback) or spiral/comb-bound for ease of use and lay-flat capability.
Engine Options:
Available with a 2.0L inline-4 (FS-DE) and a 2.5L V6 (KL-DE).
Horsepower Fsde:
Approximately 118-125 hp (varies by market and exact configuration)
Torque Fsde:
Approximately 128-130 lb-ft
Horsepower Klde:
Approximately 160-170 hp
Torque Klde:
Approximately 150-160 lb-ft
Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multiport Fuel Injection (MPI).
Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) on some models, or distributor-based ignition.
Length:
Approx. 186.0 inches (4724 mm)
Width:
Approx. 69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Height:
Approx. 54.1 inches (1374 mm)
Length:
Approx. 181.7 inches (4615 mm)
Width:
Approx. 69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Height:
Approx. 51.2 inches (1300 mm)
Curb Weight 626:
Approx. 2800-3100 lbs (1270-1406 kg) depending on engine and options
Curb Weight Mx6:
Approx. 3000-3200 lbs (1361-1451 kg) depending on engine and options
NHTSA Front Impact:
Good to Acceptable (varying by specific test and year, often around 4-star equivalent for driver).
IIHS Side Impact:
Not rated or Marginal for many models of this era.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags (SRS) were standard or optional depending on trim.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seatbelts, with pretensioners often standard on front seats.
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM cassette player with optional CD changer. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.
Climate Control:
Manual climate control or optional automatic climate control systems were available.
ABS:
ABS was an option and crucial for modern braking performance. The manual will detail its electrical components.
Early Electronics:
Features like remote keyless entry and power accessories were common, relying on dedicated electronic control units and wiring.
Service Intervals General
Oil Change:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions.
Spark Plugs:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), depending on type (copper vs. platinum).
Timing Belt:
Crucial for the FS-DE and KL-DE engines. Replace every 60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-144,000 km). Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH or higher. Viscosity: 5W-30 or 10W-30 typically recommended (check owner's manual for specific climate ratings).
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol-based coolant. Mazda recommends specific mixtures (e.g., 50/50). Capacity: Approx. 6.5-7.5 quarts (6.2-7.1 liters).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II or Dexron III compatible fluid. Capacity: Approx. 3.5-4.5 quarts (3.3-4.3 liters) for a drain and fill.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 recommended. Capacity: Approx. 2.0-2.5 quarts (1.9-2.4 liters).
Alternator Failure:
Alternators can fail over time, leading to charging system issues.
Power Window Motors:
Window regulator and motor issues are common on many vehicles of this vintage.
Cruise Control:
Vacuum hoses or electronic control modules related to cruise control can be problematic.
Wiring Harness Corrosion:
Corrosion in connectors, especially in humid climates or near salt-exposed roads, can cause intermittent faults.
Mazda Philosophy:
Mazda is known for its 'Zoom-Zoom' driving dynamics and engineering, often offering engaging platforms.
Generation Ge:
The 1996 model falls into the GE generation (1992-1997), characterized by rounded styling and front-wheel drive, moving away from rear-wheel drive of earlier generations.
Generation Ge Based:
The MX-6 of this period was a sporty coupe closely related to the 626, sharing many components but with a distinct chassis and styling focused on performance and handling.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan, with potential assembly in other regions.
