Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, rebuilding, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing system
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection system, ignition system, emissions control, cooling system, lubrication system
Transmission:
Manual transmission (MT), Automatic transmission (AT) - disassembly, repair, overhaul, torque converter
Drivetrain:
Clutch, driveshafts, CV joints, differentials, axles
Suspension:
Front suspension (struts, control arms, anti-roll bar), Rear suspension (multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, alignment
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, steering wheel, tie rods
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes (on most models), ABS system, brake hydraulics, parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, wipers, horn, power windows, power locks
Electronics:
ECU (Engine Control Unit), sensors, actuators, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), dashboard instruments, audio system
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system components, refrigerant, controls
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, locks, exterior trim, interior trim, bumpers, chassis components
Emissions Control:
Catalytic converter, EGR system, EVAP system, oxygen sensors
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspections and replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, electrical system diagnostics, engine performance diagnostics
Repair:
Component removal and installation, system repairs, component rebuilding, body repair procedures
Overhaul:
Complete engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, brake system overhaul
Adjustments:
Valve adjustments, idle speed adjustments, clutch adjustments
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, detailed, technician-level information for all systems and repairs.
Diagnostic Flowcharts:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts and symptom analysis
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete electrical wiring diagrams for all circuits
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of any required special tools
Digital Format Considerations:
If digital, typically PDF. High resolution for diagrams and schematics. Searchable text is a major benefit.
Print Quality Considerations:
High-quality paper and printing for durability in workshop environments.
Binding Type:
Likely a robust, spiral-bound or hardbound format for easy page turning and lying flat on a workbench.
Paper Type Considerations:
Durable, matte finish paper to reduce glare and withstand shop use.
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, 'Sport' mode available on some models
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 Manual Transmission Fluid, SAE 75W-90
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent specification for the era)
NHTSA Crash Test Results:
No specific NHTSA ratings readily available for this model year, but comparable vehicles of the era generally performed moderately.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option on many models
Traction Control:
Traction control system (TCS) available on some higher-trim models
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts in front and rear, pretensioners for front seatbelts
Chassis Design:
Crush zones, reinforced safety cage
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), depending on spark plug type (standard or platinum)
Coolant Replacement:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km) or 2-4 years
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical: Every 60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-144,000 km) or 5-7 years due to interference engine design.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (check owner's manual for specific recommendations)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.8 US quarts (4.6 liters) with filter
Coolant Type:
Mazda FL22 or equivalent long-life coolant, typically a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Engine Mounts:
Degradation of engine mounts can lead to increased vibration.
Power Window Motors:
Failure of power window motors and regulators is a common issue.
Heater Core:
Heater core leaks can occur, often necessitating dashboard removal for replacement.
Cv Joints:
Wear on front CV joints, especially on higher mileage vehicles.
Vacuum Leaks:
Leaking vacuum hoses can cause idle issues and poor performance.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear in suspension bushings can lead to clunking noises and poor handling.
Mazda Brand Philosophy:
Known for sporty driving dynamics ('Zoom-Zoom' precursor), innovative design, and reliable engineering.
Mx-6 First Generation:
First generation (1987-1992) was also a stylish coupe, sharing platform with Ford Probe.
Mx-6 Second Generation Introduction:
Second generation (1991-1997) continued the sporty coupe theme with updated styling and performance, still sharing platform with Ford Probe (second gen).
Production Period:
1991-1997
Manufacturing Location:
Mazda's Hofu Plant, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan
Platform Sharing:
Shared platform and some components with the Ford Probe.