Vehicle Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Minivan
Key Competitors Era:
Honda Odyssey, Toyota Previa, Chrysler Town & Country/Dodge Grand Caravan, Ford Windstar
Manual Attributes:
Detailed sub-steps, notes/cautions/warnings, numbered instructions, bold figure numbers, detailed illustrations/drawings/photos, enlarged insets, numbered table of contents, combined troubleshooting/wiring diagrams
Vehicle Attributes Highlighted:
Designed for repair, maintenance, and restoration by both professionals and DIYers
Primary Focus:
Repair, Maintenance, Diagnostics, Restoration
Estimated Pages:
Extensive (specific number not provided, but implied comprehensive)
Type:
Full Service Repair Manual
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Engine:
Complete engine repair, overhaul, tuning, diagnostics
Transmission:
Automatic transmission service, repair, diagnostics
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) systems, axles, differentials
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment, shock absorbers, struts
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, linkages
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), disc and drum brake service
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, ignition system
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, evaporative emissions (EVAP)
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan, heater core
Exhaust System:
Muffler, catalytic converter, exhaust pipes
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnostics and repair
Body And Frame:
Body panel repair, interior trim, door mechanisms, glass replacement
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance checks, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Troubleshooting:
Comprehensive diagnostic procedures for all major systems
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all components
Diagnostics:
Electrical troubleshooting combined with detailed wiring diagrams
Rebuilds:
Engine and transmission overhaul procedures
Restoration:
Procedures for refurbishing and restoring vehicle components
Depth:
Professional Technician Level, suitable for DIY enthusiasts
Engine Code:
FS-DE (2.0L DOHC Inline-4), J5-DE (2.5L SOHC V6)
Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1991cc), 2.5 Liters (2490cc)
Horsepower 2.0L:
Approximately 120-125 hp
Torque 2.0L:
Approximately 125-130 lb-ft
Horsepower 2.5L V6:
Approximately 140-165 hp (depending on specific market/tuning)
Torque 2.5L V6:
Approximately 150-175 lb-ft
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Length:
Approx. 177.6 - 179.1 inches
Width:
Approx. 71.5 inches
Height:
Approx. 66.5 - 67.1 inches
Seating Capacity:
6-7 Passengers (typically 2+2+2 or 2+3+2)
Cargo Volume:
Variable, with folding rear seats
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,500 - 3,800 lbs
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-star (Driver), 4-star (Passenger) - 1997 model (typical for the period)
ABS:
Available (Anti-lock Braking System)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger front airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for all seating positions
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, refer to manual for exact spec.
Transmission Fluid Interval:
Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, or as per manual, depending on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement 2.0L:
Approx. 60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific type and gap)
Spark Plug Replacement 2.5L V6:
Approx. 60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific type and gap)
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for climate suitability)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Mazda ATF-III or Dexron III
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water
Common Problems:
Transmission issues (slipping, delayed engagement), potential for EGR valve clogging (on V6), radiator leaks, timing belt replacement (on V6, though FS-DE is timing chain), some electrical glitches, interior trim wear.
Maintenance Highlights:
Regularly check transmission fluid level and condition, inspect cooling system for leaks, adhere to timing belt replacement schedule for V6 models.
Mazda Philosophy:
Jinba Ittai (Horse and Rider as One) - Focus on driving dynamics and driver connection
Generation Introduction:
Second Generation (LW) launched for the 1992 model year in Japan, introduced to North America for the 1994 model year, with significant updates leading into the 1996-1998 period covered by this manual.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (and potentially other Mazda global facilities)
Parent Company Awards:
Mazda has a history of critical acclaim for vehicle design and driving dynamics, though specific awards for the 1996-1998 MPV are not widely documented in consumer reviews compared to later models.
Consumer Reports Typical Rating:
Generally average to above average for reliability in its class for the era, with specific model year variations.
