Segment:
Sporty mid-size coupe, often compared to Honda Prelude and Toyota Camry Coupe.
Key Competitors 1994:
Honda Prelude, Toyota Camry Coupe, Ford Probe (shared platform), Mitsubishi Eclipse.
Design Philosophy:
Sleek, aerodynamic design with a focus on driver engagement and a comfortable ride.
Platform Sharing:
Shared its platform with the Ford Probe.
Engine:
Detailed diagnosis, overhaul, timing, cooling, lubrication, fuel delivery, emissions control.
Transmission:
Automatic and Manual: diagnosis, overhaul, fluid service, clutch, shift control.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive, CV joints, drive axles, differential.
Suspension:
Front struts, rear multi-link, bushings, springs, shocks, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, rack and pinion, steering column.
Brakes:
Front disc, rear disc (likely), ABS system diagnosis and service, brake lines, master cylinder, calipers.
Electrical System:
Full wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting, ignition, ECU, sensors, actuators.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, climate controls, refrigerant handling.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, seats, glass, seals, door mechanisms.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, fluid flushes.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, component testing.
Repair:
Component replacement, overhaul procedures for major systems, bodywork repair.
Installation:
Component installation, accessory fitting (often covered).
Depth:
Comprehensive: from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostics:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, including oscilloscope readings, sensor data interpretation.
Engine Code And Type:
KF-DE (2.5L V6 DOHC)
Horsepower Hp:
170 hp @ 5500 rpm (approximate for US market)
Torque Lb Ft:
155 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (approximate for US market)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Bore X Stroke:
80.4 mm x 83.7 mm (approximate)
Compression Ratio:
9.1:1 (approximate)
Firing Order:
1-4-2-5-3-6
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, timing belt driven.
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (e.g., JATCO 4EAT-FS)
Automatic Features:
Electronic control, Sport mode.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mazda ATF-III (Dexron III equivalent)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Not directly rated or available for this specific year in easily accessible records.
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Not directly rated or available for this specific year in easily accessible records.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some trims.
Traction Control:
Traction control system (TCS) optional on some models.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags standard.
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts with pretensioners, 3-point rear seatbelts.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Gauges:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, and temperature. Some models featured an optional digital climate control display.
Headlights:
Pop-up (retractable) headlights.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for specific grade).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000-90,000 miles or 6 years (critical for V6 engine).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles depending on plug type (copper, platinum).
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.2 US quarts (4.0 L) with filter for 2.5L V6
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended.
Coolant Capacity:
7.5 US quarts (7.1 L) for 2.5L V6
Coolant Type:
Mazda coolant or equivalent (ethylene glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water).
Engine Wear:
Timing belt tensioner failure can cause catastrophic engine damage; regular replacement is vital. PCV valve clogging can lead to oil leaks and rough idle.
Suspension Wear:
Worn control arm bushings and ball joints can lead to steering wander and tire wear. Rear struts can develop leaks.
Electrical Issues:
Window regulators can fail, dashboard warning lights may illuminate intermittently due to faulty sensors or grounds.
HVACt Issues:
Blend door actuators can fail, leading to improper air direction. AC compressor clutch failure is also possible.
Wheel Lug Nut Torque:
75-90 lb-ft (102-122 Nm)
Mazda Philosophy:
Mazda's history of building driver-focused vehicles with innovative technology (e.g., rotary engine, Miata).
First Generation Release:
The first generation MX-6 was introduced in 1987.
Second Generation Release:
The second generation (GE) debuted for the 1992 model year and concluded in 1997.
Manufacturing Plant:
Hofuf, Saudi Arabia (for export markets, including North America) and Hiroshima, Japan.
