Segment:
Compact pickup truck, known for its robust construction and utility.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier, Ford Ranger (global variants), Mitsubishi Triton/Montero Sport.
Platform Sharing:
Shared platform with the Ford Ranger in many international markets, indicating robust engineering and shared development.
Reputation:
The B-Series Drifter (and its Ranger counterpart) is recognized for its durability, reliability, and capability in work and recreational use.
Manual Type:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Coverage Areas:
All repairs, servicing, and troubleshooting procedures
Digital Rights:
Unlimited use on multiple devices, lifetime access
Print Capability:
Printable single pages or entire manual
Engine:
Detailed engine diagnostics, overhaul, and component testing
Transmission:
Repair, adjustment, and overhaul of manual and automatic transmissions
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and rear-wheel drive (RWD) axle and driveshaft service
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension component replacement, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis, repair, and components
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS, brake pad/rotor replacement, bleeding procedures
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, starter, alternator, battery service
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, fuel filter replacement, pressure testing
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat replacement, coolant specifications
Exhaust System:
Muffler, catalytic converter, exhaust pipe replacement
Body And Frame:
Body panel repair, interior trim removal, door mechanisms
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair
Emission Control:
Emission control system components and troubleshooting
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug intervals, fluid checks
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom analysis, common fault finding
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal and installation
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for critical fasteners
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all systems
Special Tools:
Identification and use of specialized tools required for specific repairs
Depth:
Full factory service manual covering all aspects from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Engine Options:
Commonly found with 2.5L and 2.6L inline-4 gasoline engines, and potentially 2.0L diesel or 3.0L V6 engines depending on regional variants.
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 115-145 hp for 2.5L/2.6L variants, with higher outputs for optional engines.
Torque Range:
Torque figures vary but typically range from 140-170 lb-ft for the 2.5L/2.6L engines.
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Common Codes:
Common engine codes include WL (2.5L Diesel), G6 (2.6L Petrol), and potentially others like FE (2.0L Petrol).
Timing Belt Interval:
Recommended replacement every 60,000-90,000 miles or 5-7 years, depending on engine and usage.
Type:
5-speed manual transmission
Type:
4-speed automatic transmission
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Typically GL-4 or GL-5 specification gear oil, viscosity SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, Extended Cab (Cab Plus).
Bed Lengths:
Short bed (approx. 6 ft) and long bed (approx. 7 ft) options.
Curb Weight Range:
Approximately 3,000 - 3,800 lbs (1360 - 1725 kg).
Oil Change Interval:
Recommended every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, using recommended oil type.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 60,000-100,000 miles depending on spark plug type (copper vs. platinum/iridium).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40, API SN/SM/SL or equivalent, with viscosity depending on ambient temperature. Check owner's manual for exact specs.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.5 - 5.5 quarts (4.3 - 5.2 liters) depending on engine variant.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a green or orange coolant meeting specific ASTM standards. Mazda Genuine Coolant or equivalent recommended.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Front suspension bushings, ball joints, exhaust system components, clutch wear (manual transmissions).
Electrical Gremlins:
Some owners report minor electrical issues like gauge cluster problems or sensor failures, often addressable with the manual's diagnostics.
Rust Prevention:
As with many trucks of this era, rust can be an issue in certain climates, particularly on the frame and body panels.
Mazda Truck Legacy:
Mazda has a long history of producing reliable compact trucks, starting with models like the Mazda Proceed.
Third Generation:
This generation (UF platform) represents a significant update, often sharing engineering with Ford's Ranger, reflecting a period of automotive industry collaboration.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in North America (USA, Mexico) and Asia (Thailand, Taiwan) depending on the target market.
