Segment:
Compact Sporty Coupe / Hatchback
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, owners seeking in-depth knowledge
Competitors:
Honda Civic Coupe, Toyota Celica, Mitsubishi Eclipse, Nissan NX, Ford Probe
Design Philosophy:
Mazda's focus on 'Jinba Ittai' (horse and rider as one), emphasizing driver engagement and balanced handling
Unique Selling Points:
Lightweight construction, distinctive styling, availability of the potent K8-DE 1.8L V6 engine
Primary Coverage:
Mechanical, Electrical, Body and Chassis
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Repair, Diagnostics
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical (B6, KF), fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust, emissions control
Drivetrain Systems:
Manual Transmission (M5, M6), Automatic Transmission (F4A-EL), clutch, drive axles, differentials
Suspension Systems:
Front suspension (MacPherson strut), Rear suspension (Multi-link beam axle), steering system, wheel alignment
Braking Systems:
Front disc brakes, Rear drum brakes (or disc on some models), ABS (optional)
Electrical Systems:
12V electrical system, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
Body Chassis Systems:
Body structure, exterior panels, interior trim, seats, HVAC system, doors, windows, locks
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes, belt tensioning, brake pad replacement
Repair Procedures:
Engine component overhauls, transmission removal/installation, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuild, starter motor replacement, alternator replacement
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides for common issues, fault code interpretation (OBD-I for early models, OBD-II for later ones), circuit testing
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical component resistance values
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to major component overhaul)
Engine Code 1:
B6 (1.6L Inline-4)
Engine Code 2:
K8-DE (1.8L V6)
1.6L I4 Horsepower:
90-100 HP (varies by market and year)
1.8L V6 Horsepower:
125-135 HP (varies by market and year)
1.8L V6 Torque:
112-117 lb-ft @ 4,500-5,000 RPM
Fuel Delivery 1.6L:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Delivery 1.8L V6:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
ECU Type:
EGI (Electronic Gasoline Injection)
Length:
Approx. 163.6 inches (4155 mm)
Width:
Approx. 66.7 inches (1695 mm)
Height:
Approx. 51.4 inches (1305 mm)
Curb Weight 1.6L:
Approx. 2300-2400 lbs (1043-1089 kg)
Curb Weight 1.8L V6:
Approx. 2500-2600 lbs (1134-1179 kg)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 98.2 inches (2495 mm)
Track Width Front:
Approx. 57.5 inches (1460 mm)
Track Width Rear:
Approx. 56.1 inches (1425 mm)
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
Not comprehensively rated for early models; later models may have basic frontal ratings.
ABS Availability:
Optional on some models, standard on later performance variants.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard from 1994 onwards; Passenger airbag optional/unavailable depending on market and year.
Seatbelts:
Front three-point height-adjustable seatbelts, rear lap belts.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced roof structure and A-pillars for structural integrity.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette player with optional CD changer. Basic speaker configurations.
Instrument Cluster:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, and engine temperature. Warning lights for various systems.
Cruise Control:
Available on higher trim levels and V6 models.
Auxiliary Input:
Not standard; aftermarket solutions often required for modern device connectivity.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) depending on plug type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Recommended every 60,000 - 90,000 miles (96,000 - 144,000 km) for the 1.8L V6 engine (check manual for specific interval).
Engine Oil Spec:
API SG/SH or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for specific viscosity and capacity).
Coolant Spec:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water), Mazda FL22 or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Common Electrical Issues:
Faulty door lock actuators, intermittent gauge cluster operation, aging wiring harness connections.
Common Engine Issues:
V6 engine can experience sticky intake valves or camshaft seal leaks. I4 engines are generally robust but can suffer from ignition component failure (coil packs, wires).
Common Suspension Issues:
Worn ball joints, strut mounts, and bushings leading to knocking noises and poor handling. Rust in suspension components.
Common Body Issues:
Rust formation in wheel wells, rocker panels, and around the rear window. Fading paint on plastic trim.
Mazda Philosophy:
Known for sporty driving dynamics, innovative technology, and reliable engineering.
Styling Evolution:
The MX-3 was characterized by its sleek, low-slung profile and distinctive quad-headlamp design.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (and potentially other Mazda facilities)
Discontinuation Year:
1998
