Vehicle Market Segment:
Compact Minivan
Target Audience:
Families seeking versatile and practical transportation.
Key Competitors 1996:
Honda Odyssey, Toyota Previa, Dodge Caravan/Plymouth Voyager.
Mpv Unique Selling Points:
Rear-hinged rear doors (suicide doors) for easier access, car-like handling for its class, V6 engine availability.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and technicians to perform accurate maintenance and repairs, saving on labor costs and ensuring vehicle longevity.
Engine:
Detailed diagnostic and repair procedures for the 2.5L V6 engine (e.g., KL-DE/KL-ZE).
Lubrication System:
Oil pump, oil filter, oil passages, oil cooler (if equipped), oil pressure testing.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant types, fan operation, pressure testing.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, fuel filter, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel tank service, fuel lines.
Emission Control System:
EVAP system, EGR system, catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, emissions testing procedures.
Automatic Transmission:
Overhaul, component testing, fluid types, shift control, electronic controls, torque converter.
Drivetrain:
Propeller shaft, universal joints, differential, axle shafts, wheel bearings.
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, rear multi-link suspension, bushings, springs, shock absorbers, alignment procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, alignment.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, hydraulic system, ABS components (if equipped), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), ignition system, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, glass, doors, lifting points, chassis specifications.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement, belt adjustments.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Systematic fault finding for common issues, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) where applicable.
Component Repair Overhaul:
Step-by-step instructions for disassembling, inspecting, repairing, and reassembling major components.
Specifications Tightening Torques:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for accurate diagnosis and repair of the electrical system.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Covers self-diagnostic capabilities and basic OBD-I/OBD-II (if applicable) system checks.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles or 5 years (critical maintenance).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity recommendations based on temperature).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 US quarts (with filter change).
Coolant Type:
Mazda Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant).
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF.
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Engine Common Problems:
Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, intake manifold gaskets. Potential for timing belt tensioner failure (hence critical replacement interval).
Transmission Common Problems:
Harsh shifting, slipping, or delayed engagement can occur if fluid maintenance is neglected. Torque converter issues are also possible.
Suspension Common Problems:
Worn front struts and rear shocks, worn sway bar links, and bushings can lead to a noisy or imprecise ride.
Electrical Common Problems:
Alternator failure, power window motor issues, and dashboard illumination problems.
Mazda Philosophy:
Jinba Ittai (Horse and Rider as One), focusing on driving dynamics and driver engagement, even in utilitarian vehicles.
First Generation Intro:
Introduced in 1990 (as a 1991 model year) in North America.
Updates For 1996:
Minor styling updates, potentially interior refinements and equipment shuffling. The fundamental platform remained the first generation.
Manufacturing Plant:
Likely Hofu Plant, Yamaguchi, Japan.
Production Years Generation 1:
1990-1998
