Vehicle Segment:
Compact Sporty Coupe
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and professional technicians seeking accurate repair information.
Competitors Of Vehicle:
Honda CR-X, Toyota Celica, Mitsubishi Eclipse, Nissan 240SX
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides exact factory-dealer information, enabling accurate diagnosis, maintenance, and repair, saving time and money.
Digital Advantage:
Searchable, easily navigable PDF format with printable pages, eliminating the need for physical manuals and protecting against damage.
Coverage Scope:
All models and all repairs A-Z
Type:
Factory Service and Repair Manual
Compatibility:
Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac
Estimated Page Count:
Over 2000 (typical for comprehensive factory manuals of this era)
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Emission Control, Intake, Exhaust, Cooling, Lubrication, Ignition, Starting, Charging, Automatic Transmission, Manual Transmission, Clutch, Transfer Case (if applicable), Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axles
Chassis:
Suspension, Steering Column, Power Steering, Brakes (Control, Parking), Wheels, Tires
Body And Interior:
Body Exterior & Interior, Doors, Locks, Seats, Windshield/Glass/Mirrors, Instrument Panel, Engine Hood, Exterior Trim
Electrical And Electronics:
Electrical System, Wiring Schematics, Meter/Audio/Visual, Horn, Air Conditioning, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Seat Belts, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control, Wiper & Washer, Multiplex/CAN Communication
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), circuit analysis, component testing
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections, lubrication
Repair Procedures:
Component removal, installation, overhaul, adjustment, replacement for all listed systems
Technical Data And Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, pressure readings
Depth:
Factory-level, comprehensive; covering basic maintenance to complex diagnostics and major component overhauls.
Printability:
High-resolution, printable pages; allows for selective printing of specific sections or diagrams.
Image Enhancement:
Supports image zooming for detailed examination and enlarged printing of diagrams.
Binding:
Digital (PDF) - no physical binding, offers portability and digital organization.
Digital Paper Simulation:
N/A (Digital format)
Engine Type 1:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Engine Displacement 1:
1.6 Liters (1598cc)
Engine Code 1:
B6-ME (with Variable Intake System - VIS)
Horsepower 1:
Approx. 114 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque 1:
Approx. 104 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Fuel Delivery 1:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Engine Type 2:
V6, DOHC, 24-valve
Engine Displacement 2:
1.8 Liters (1845cc)
Engine Code 2:
K8-DE (V6)
Horsepower 2:
Approx. 127 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 2:
Approx. 115 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery 2:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Transmission Type Standard:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated, dry single plate (Manual)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, lock-up torque converter
Wheelbase:
Approx. 98.6 inches (2505 mm)
Length:
Approx. 164.8 inches (4185 mm)
Width:
Approx. 67.3 inches (1710 mm)
Height:
Approx. 51.2 inches (1300 mm)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 2400-2600 lbs (depending on engine and options)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Rating Driver:
Not explicitly rated for this model year in readily available archives, but typical for vehicles of its era.
NHTSA Frontal Impact Rating Passenger:
Not explicitly rated for this model year in readily available archives, but typical for vehicles of its era.
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Airbags (standard on most trims for 1996)
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts with pretensioners, 3-point rear seatbelts
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and roof structure (standard for coupe design).
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - available on some trims/models.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player, 4-6 speaker system depending on trim.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control system, depending on trim level.
Cruise Control:
Available cruise control system, operated via steering wheel or stalk controls.
Multiplex Communication:
Features a multiplex wiring system for various electronic functions, covered in detail by the manual.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using recommended oil type).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (standard plugs) or 60,000 miles (iridium plugs, if specified).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles or 4 years, whichever comes first (critical for interference engines).
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for exact viscosity based on temperature range).
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mazda recommends FL22 coolant or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil.
Common Issues 1:
Variable Intake System (VIS) actuator issues, leading to erratic idle or power loss (particularly on the 1.6L engine).
Common Issues 2:
Cracked exhaust manifolds on V6 models due to heat cycles.
Common Issues 3:
Power steering pump leaks or whine.
Common Issues 4:
Aging rubber components (bushings, hoses) due to vehicle age.
Common Issues 5:
Rust development in common areas like wheel wells, rocker panels, and chassis points.
Mazda Philosophy:
Jinba-Ittai (Horse and rider as one), focusing on driver engagement and sporty handling.
Mx3 Introduction:
Introduced in 1991 as a compact, stylish, and affordable sporty coupe, often marketed as the 'New Generation Coupe'.
Mx3 Key Distinction:
Notable for its V6 engine option, a rarity in its class at the time.
Production Period:
1991-1998
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Car And Driver 10Best:
Not a recipient of Car and Driver's 10 Best list, but praised for its styling and V6 engine by automotive publications of the era.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Ratings for reliability varied by model year and powertrain, with some common electrical and powertrain issues noted.
