Market Segment:
Subcompact hatchback, primarily positioned as an affordable and economical personal transport vehicle.
Competitors:
Ford Fiesta, Opel Corsa (Vauxhall Nova), Volkswagen Polo, Fiat Uno, Peugeot 205, Nissan Micra.
Distinguishing Features:
Compact dimensions for urban maneuverability, fuel efficiency, practicality, known for reliability within its class.
Audience:
First-time car buyers, budget-conscious individuals, city dwellers seeking an economical and easy-to-manage vehicle.
Engine:
Engine mechanical systems, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing system, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emission control
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission disassembly, assembly, adjustments, torque specifications, troubleshooting
Drivetrain:
Clutch, driveshafts, differential, axles, wheel bearings
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, geometry, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment procedures
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, wheel cylinders, brake pads, brake shoes, parking brake, ABS (if equipped)
Steering:
Steering gear, steering column, power steering system (if equipped), tie rods, steering linkage
Electrical:
Battery, charging system (alternator, starter), ignition system, lighting system, instrumentation, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, common electrical fault diagnosis
Body:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, windows, interior trim, body hardware, rust repair basics
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system components, controls, refrigerant handling (basic)
Maintenance:
Routine scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, suspension component replacement, brake system repairs, electrical component diagnosis and replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, starting problems, cooling system issues
Adjustments:
Valve clearance adjustment, ignition timing adjustment, clutch adjustment, brake adjustment
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, diagnostic values
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers disassembly, reassembly, diagnosis, and repair procedures.
Engine Code Variants:
B3 (1.3L SOHC I4), E3 (1.1L SOHC I4 - common in some markets)
Displacement Liters:
1.3L (1324 cc) for the B3 engine
Horsepower Ps:
~63 PS (46 kW) at ~5500 rpm (for B3 engine)
Torque Nm:
~103 Nm (76 lb-ft) at ~3000 rpm (for B3 engine)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (e.g., Hitachi DC type) for most 1990 models; Fuel injection (EFI) became more common in later versions or specific markets.
Layout:
Inline four-cylinder (I4), front-wheel drive
Valvetrain:
Single Overhead Camshaft (SOHC)
Type:
Liquid-cooled, pressurized system
Oil Type Recommendation:
API SG/SH or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific conditions)
Type:
5-speed manual transmission
Type:
3-speed automatic transmission
Clutch:
Single dry plate diaphragm spring type (manual transmission)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil (check manual for specific capacity)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II or equivalent (check manual for specific capacity)
Oil Change Interval Km:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 km or 6 months, whichever comes first (verify with manual).
Air Filter Replacement Km:
Every 20,000 - 30,000 km or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement Km:
Every 30,000 - 40,000 km.
Timing Belt Replacement Km:
Crucial for B3/E3 engines. Recommended every 80,000 - 100,000 km or 5-7 years due to non-interference design risk (verify with manual).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Check manual for specific Mazda coolant type.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (verify with manual).
Engine:
Carburetor adjustment issues, minor oil leaks from gaskets, timing belt wear.
Electrical:
Corrosion on electrical connectors, aging wiring harnesses, starter motor issues, alternator brush wear.
Suspension:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings due to age and mileage. Strut and shock absorber degradation.
Body:
Rust prone in wheel arches, sills, and door bottoms, especially in corrosive climates.
Oil Filter Example:
e.g., Fram PH4386, Purolator L10050 (verify with specific engine and chassis codes).
Air Filter Example:
e.g., Fram CA4126, Wix 42530 (verify).
Spark Plug Example:
e.g., NGK BPR5ES-11 (verify exact fitment).
Mazda Philosophy:
Mazda's history is marked by innovation and a focus on driver engagement, even in its more economy-oriented models.
First Generation:
The DA platform 121 was Mazda's entry into the global subcompact market, often developed in collaboration with Ford (related to the Ford Festiva platform).
Second Generation:
The DB platform 121 (introduced in the early 1990s) saw a redesign and became more closely aligned with Ford's European offerings, notably the Ford Fiesta.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan and South Korea (under license by Kia as the Kia Pride).
Production Years:
First generation: 1986-1991. The 1990 model falls within the first generation (DA).
