Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head, block, pistons, rings, crankshaft, camshafts, valve train, timing belt/chain, seals, gaskets
Engine Control System:
ECU, sensors (MAP, TPS, O2, ECT, CKP, CMP), actuators (injectors, ISC, EGR), ignition timing, fuel injection system (MPI)
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emission control (EVAP)
Emission Control:
Catalytic converter, EGR system, secondary air injection, PCV system, emission control sensors and valves
Intake Exhaust Cooling:
Intake manifold, throttle body, air filter, exhaust manifold, muffler, radiator, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses
Lube System:
Oil pump, oil filter, oil pan, oil galleries, oil pressure specifications, oil cooler (if equipped)
Ignition Charging Starting:
Spark plugs, ignition coils, distributor (if applicable), ignition control module, alternator, battery, starter motor, wiring
Automatic Transmission:
Automatic transmission overhaul, valve body, torque converter, solenoids, fluid service, diagnosis
Manual Transmission:
Manual transmission overhaul, clutch assembly, clutch hydraulics, gear ratios, shift linkage, fluid service
Drivetrain:
Transfer case (if AWD, though unlikely for MX-3), propeller shaft, driveshafts, CV joints, differential overhaul, axle bearings
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, bushings), alignment specifications, wheel bearings
Wheels Tires:
Tire pressure recommendations, wheel torque specifications, wheel bearing replacement
Brake System:
Front and rear disc brakes (likely), brake calipers, rotors, pads, brake lines, master cylinder, brake fluid specifications, ABS diagnosis (if equipped)
Parking Brake:
Parking brake mechanism, cables, adjustment procedures
Steering:
Steering column, steering rack (likely rack and pinion), power steering pump, fluid specifications, tie rod ends, steering angle sensor (if equipped)
Air Conditioning:
A/C system diagnosis, refrigerant types, compressor, condenser, evaporator, expansion valve, fan clutch, cabin filter replacement
Supplemental Restraint System:
Airbag system diagnosis, sensors, control module, seat belt pre-tensioners, SRS warning light troubleshooting
Seat Belts:
Seat belt operation, inspection, and replacement
Engine Immobilizer:
Immobilizer system operation and troubleshooting (if equipped)
Cruise Control:
Cruise control system operation, diagnosis, and repair
Wiper Washer:
Wiper motor, linkages, washer pump, fluid reservoir, wiper blades
Door Locks:
Door lock mechanisms, power door locks, keyless entry system (if equipped)
Meter Audio Visual:
Instrument cluster, gauges, warning lights, audio system wiring, speaker replacement
Horn:
Horn operation, wiring, horn button
Glass Mirrors:
Windshield replacement, side mirror adjustment/replacement, rear view mirror
Instrument Panel:
Instrument panel removal, illumination, gauge cluster repair
Seats:
Seat adjustment mechanisms, seat trim removal/replacement
Body Panels:
Engine hood, doors, trunk lid operation, adjustment, and repair; body panel replacement
Exterior Interior Trim:
Bumpers, fenders, body side moldings, interior door panels, dashboard trim, headliner
Electrical System:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, relay functions, component testing, troubleshooting electrical faults
Multiplex Can Communication:
Diagnosis of multiplex wiring systems and CAN bus communication (if applicable to the 1997 model)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, fluid checks and top-offs, filter replacements, tune-ups, brake pad replacement, battery testing
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common issues, fault code retrieval and interpretation (OBD-I or OBD-II depending on market), component testing procedures
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair across all vehicle systems
Rebuilds:
Detailed instructions for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds with specifications
Adjustments:
Alignment adjustments, parking brake adjustments, clutch adjustments, throttle cable adjustments
Wiring Schematics:
Complete, detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, including power distribution, grounds, and component connections
Depth:
Factory level, comprehensive; covers everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including diagnostic procedures
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
At every oil change
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (typically an in-tank unit for later models)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 30,000 miles for standard plugs, 60,000-100,000 miles for platinum/iridium
Timing Belt Replacement:
Approx. 60,000-90,000 miles or 5-7 years (critical for interference engines, check specific engine type)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic: Every 30,000-50,000 miles. Manual: Every 50,000-70,000 miles.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
Typically 5W-30 or 10W-30 API SG or higher
Engine Oil Capacity 1 6L:
Approx. 3.7 US quarts (3.5 liters) with filter
Engine Oil Capacity 2 0L V6:
Approx. 4.4 US quarts (4.2 liters) with filter
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant (e.g., Mazda FL22 or equivalent green coolant)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Mazda Genuine ATF D-II or equivalent ATF
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Mazda Genuine ATF D-II or equivalent ATF
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-4 gear oil, 75W-90 or 80W-90
Engine Mounts:
Can degrade over time, leading to vibration
Timing Belt:
Crucial to replace on schedule; failure can cause severe engine damage (interference engine).
Fuel Pump Reliability:
Some reports of premature fuel pump failure
Exhaust Manifold Cracks:
Common on some V6 engines due to heat cycling
Suspension Bushings:
Wear can lead to noisy suspension and poor handling
Power Steering Leaks:
Hose or pump seals can leak