Segment:
Compact Car / Small Family Car
Target Audience:
Economical commuters, young drivers, enthusiasts seeking a reliable and simple vehicle to maintain.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Ford Escort, Volkswagen Golf
Design Philosophy:
Practical, reliable, and economical transportation with a focus on driver engagement.
Engine:
Complete Engine Overhaul, Tuning, Diagnosis, Lubrication System, Cooling System, Fuel System, Ignition System, Emission Controls
Transmission:
Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission (Service, Overhaul, Diagnosis, Fluid Specifications)
Brakes:
Disc Brakes, Drum Brakes, Parking Brake, Hydraulic System, ABS (if equipped)
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting System, Charging System, Starting System, Fuses and Relays, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, ECM/ECU Diagnosis
Suspension:
Front Suspension (McPherson Strut), Rear Suspension (Independent or Beam Axle, depending on model), Steering System, Wheel Alignment
Body:
Body Panel Repair, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass, Upholstery, Interior Trim
Steering:
Power Steering System (Diagnosis, Repair, Fluid Type)
Chassis:
Frame and Body Structure, Alignment Specifications
Fuel System:
Fuel Pump, Injectors, Fuel Lines, Fuel Filter, Carburetor (if applicable), Emission Control Systems (EGR, Catalytic Converter)
Climate Control:
HVAC System (Heater Core, A/C system if equipped, Blower Motor, Controls)
Maintenance:
Oil Change, Filter Replacement, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Adjustment, Fluid Checks and Top-offs, Tune-up Procedures
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Charts, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides, Common Problems and Solutions
Repair:
Component Removal and Installation, Component Rebuild Procedures, Torque Specifications for all critical fasteners
Diagnostics:
OBD-I diagnostic codes (if applicable), circuit testing, component testing.
Installation:
Aftermarket accessory installation guidance, component replacement procedures with specific torque values.
Timing Belt:
Replacement procedure and interval (critical maintenance item for interference engines).
Depth:
Comprehensive - suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Wiring Diagrams Quality:
Includes detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all major systems, crucial for troubleshooting.
Engine Code:
B6 (1.6L), E5 (1.5L), FE3 (1.8L SOHC/DOHC)
Displacement:
1.6 Liters (1597 cc) common variant
Configuration:
Inline 4-Cylinder
Horsepower:
Approx. 85-115 hp (depending on specific engine variant and market)
Torque:
Approx. 90-105 lb-ft (depending on specific engine variant and market)
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel Injection (Electronic Fuel Injection - EFI), Carburetor (on some earlier or base models)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Type:
Distributor Ignition System with Electronic Control Unit (ECU) and Ignition Coil.
Components:
Radiator, Fan (mechanical or electric), Water Pump, Thermostat, Hoses.
Crash Test Data:
Limited official crash test data available for this era, but generally considered a safe compact vehicle for its time.
Braking System:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes. Optional ABS on some higher trims.
Seat Belts:
Standard 3-point front seat belts, 2-point rear belts (lap belts).
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag typically not standard, optional on some trims.
Oil Change:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as specified by plug type.
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 recommended for most climates. Check manual for specific viscosity and capacity (approx. 3.5-4.0 quarts).
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water). Capacity approx. 6.0-7.0 quarts.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 (check manual for confirmation)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil (check manual for specific type and capacity)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent (check manual for specific type and capacity)
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II or equivalent (check manual)
Differential Fluid:
API GL-5 SAE 80W-90 gear oil (for rear-wheel drive variants if applicable, typically FWD for 323)
Common Problems:
Rust (especially on wheel arches, rocker panels, and rear quarters), aging rubber components (hoses, belts, bushings), occasional electrical gremlins, carburetor issues on non-EFI models, clutch wear.
Preventative Maintenance Tips:
Regular rustproofing, meticulous fluid changes, inspection of rubber components, keeping electrical connections clean.
Manufacturer:
Mazda Motor Corporation, Japan
Generation:
BF (1985-1991)
Updates For 1988:
Minor styling tweaks, potential introduction of new trim levels or engine options in specific markets. Focus on reliability and economy.
Production Period:
1985-1991 (BF Generation)
Global Markets:
Widely sold globally under various names including Mazda Familia, Mazda 323, Mazda GLC, and Mercury Tracer (North America).
