Segment:
Compact/Mid-size MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle)
Target Audience:
Families, individuals needing versatile cargo and passenger space.
Key Competitors 1St Gen:
Dodge Caravan/Plymouth Voyager, Toyota Previa, Honda Odyssey (early models), Ford Aerostar.
Key Competitors 2Nd Gen:
Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Ford Freestar/Mercury Monterey, Chrysler Pacifica, Kia Sedona.
First Gen Distinction:
Rear-wheel drive platform (initially shared with Mazda B-Series truck), unique sliding second-row seat, relatively compact exterior dimensions for its class.
Second Gen Distinction:
Front-wheel drive platform, more spacious interior, available all-wheel drive, improved safety features, smoother ride, generally more refined than the first generation.
Applicable Years:
1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012
Generations Covered:
1st Generation (1989-1999), 2nd Generation (1999-2012)
Estimated Page Count:
Comprehensive (specific page count not provided in product info, but typical workshop manuals of this scope exceed 1000 pages)
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF, based on typical sales of such manuals)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, exhaust system, transmission (automatic and manual where applicable), driveline, clutch, transfer case (AWD models).
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS), wheels and tires, chassis lubrication.
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seats, HVAC system, climate control, audio system, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors).
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, ignition system, charging system, starting system, instrumentation, dashboard indicators, fuses and relays, body control modules (BCM), supplemental restraint systems (SRS/Airbags).
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement, brake pad replacement, tire rotation.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, symptom-based troubleshooting, component testing procedures, OBD-II diagnostics.
Repair:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component repair, steering rack replacement, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, body panel repair, HVAC component repair.
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications for fasteners, clearances and adjustments, fluid capacities and types, diagnostic data, specifications for all major components.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics and body repair.
Engine 1:
2.5L (2490cc) Naturally Aspirated SOHC V6 (J5-DE / JT-DE)
Performance 1St Gen V6:
Approx. 120-125 hp, 140-150 lb-ft torque (varies by year and market)
Fuel System 1St Gen:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Engine 2:
2.2L (2184cc) Naturally Aspirated SOHC Diesel (Uncommon in North America)
Engine 3:
3.0L (2954cc) Naturally Aspirated SOHC V6 (G) / 2.5L V6 (J5-DE / JT-DE) in some markets
Performance 2Nd Gen 3.0L:
Approx. 190-200 hp, 200-210 lb-ft torque (varies by year and market)
Fuel System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multiport Fuel Injection (SFI)
Engine Codes Common 2Nd Gen
Common Engine Code:
GZ (3.0L V6)
NHTSA Front Crash Rating 1St Gen:
Could vary by year and specific test, generally good for its era but less advanced than later models.
IIHS Ratings 2Nd Gen:
Varies, some models received 'Good' ratings in frontal offset tests.
ABS:
Available/Standard depending on year and trim. Standard on most 2nd gen models.
Traction Control:
Available on some later 2nd generation models, especially AWD variants.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard on most models from the mid-90s onwards. Side airbags became available on some later 2nd gen models.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system introduced on later 2nd generation models.
Features:
Basic AM/FM/Cassette/CD players, manual HVAC controls. Limited connectivity options.
Features:
Optional premium audio systems, available CD changers, climate control systems, optional rear-seat entertainment systems on some trims.
Features:
Cruise control standard on most models. Limited availability of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) until later model years, if at all. Primarily focused on safety basics like ABS and airbags.
Features:
Early models typically featured only analog connections (e.g., AUX input on later models). Bluetooth connectivity was not common or standard.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to manual for exact specifications.
Timing Belt Replacement V6:
Important for V6 engines; typically around 60,000 - 90,000 miles (96,000 - 144,000 km). Consult manual for specific engine and interval.
Engine Oil:
API SN/SP or equivalent, SAE 5W-30 recommended for most models. Check owner's manual or manual for specific viscosity based on climate.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mazda ATF-J3 or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon. Capacity approx. 3-4 quarts for drain and fill. Full refill approx. 8-9 quarts.
Coolant:
Mazda FL22 Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent green ethylene glycol-based coolant) mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity approx. 8-9 quarts.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4. Check brake fluid reservoir cap and manual.
Common 1St Gen:
Rust (especially on unibody components and undercarriage), EGR valve issues, transmission solenoid issues, potential for front suspension wear.
Common 2Nd Gen:
Power sliding door mechanism issues, EGR valve clogging, ignition coil failures (on V6), potential for rear wheel bearing noise, HVAC blower motor resistor failure.
Mazda Philosophy:
Known for engaging driving dynamics and practical, well-engineered vehicles. The MPV aimed to blend SUV-like utility with car-like comfort.
Generation Transition:
The second generation represented a significant redesign, moving to a FWD unibody platform, which improved ride comfort, interior space, and crashworthiness compared to the RWD body-on-frame 1st gen.
Production Start End:
1988 (Japan) / 1990 (North America) - 2012 (Japan, production ended earlier in some markets like North America)
Assembly Plants:
Hofu, Yamaguchi, Japan (Primary)
Car And Driver:
The Mazda MPV was often praised for its driving dynamics and practicality, though specific 'awards' are less prominent than its consistent presence in segment comparisons.
Consumer Reports:
Ratings varied by year and generation, with some generations noted for good reliability in certain areas and others for specific mechanical issues. The manual provides the critical data to address these.
Safety Certifications:
Compliant with all applicable US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) and Japanese domestic market safety regulations for its respective production years.
