🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

CX-7

Model Code:

CX7

Applicable Years:

2006, 2007, 2008, 2009

Engine Code:

L3

Transmission Codes:

AW6A-EL, AW6AX-EL

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV (often referred to as a Sport Crossover)

Target Audience:

Families and individuals seeking a stylish, sporty, and versatile vehicle.

Key Competitors:

Nissan Murano, Toyota Venza, Honda CR-V, Ford Edge (during its production era).

Design Philosophy:

Mazda's 'Nagare' design language, emphasizing flow and sportiness.

Powertrain Emphasis:

Sporty performance orientation, often featuring turbocharged engines (though the L3 in this manual is naturally aspirated).

Diy Benefit:

Enables owners to save money on repairs and maintenance by performing work themselves.

Manual Quality:

Reliable, comprehensive, and easy to follow with clear instructions and visuals.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Comprehensive service and repair for Mazda CX-7

Secondary Coverage:

Maintenance, troubleshooting, diagnostics, and repair procedures

Estimated Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (exact count not specified but described as comprehensive)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Service Repair:

Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, assembly, diagnostics, and repair.

Transmission Service Repair:

In-depth coverage of automatic transmission (AW6A-EL/AW6AX-EL) maintenance, repair, and overhaul.

Brake System:

Diagnosis, repair, and maintenance of braking systems, including ABS.

Electrical System:

Troubleshooting and repair of all electrical components, circuits, and modules.

Suspension:

Repair and adjustment of front and rear suspension systems.

Wiring Diagram:

Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems.

Steering:

Diagnosis and repair of power steering and steering linkage components.

Cooling System:

Maintenance, repair, and servicing of the engine cooling system and A/C components.

Fuel Injection Fuel System:

Detailed information on fuel delivery, injection, and management systems.

Emission System:

Diagnosis and repair of emissions control systems.

Heater Air Conditional:

Service and repair of HVAC systems.

Engine Control System:

Diagnosis and repair of the Engine Control Unit (ECU) and related sensors/actuators.

Chassis Body:

Bodywork repair, chassis diagnostics, and alignment procedures.

Restraint System:

Information on airbags, seatbelts, and related safety systems.

Interior:

Procedures for interior trim removal, repair, and component replacement.

Differential Drive:

Service and repair of the drive axles and differential components.

Axle:

Diagnosis and repair of drive axles and CV joints.

General Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks, filter replacements, and general upkeep.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic guides for identifying and resolving common and uncommon issues.

Periodic Lubrication:

Recommended lubrication points and fluid specifications for various components.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive (covers from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds)

Detail Level:

Detailed technical data, step-by-step repair instructions, and component diagrams.

Illustrations:

Hundreds of photos, illustrations, and drawings to aid in repair procedures.

Searchability:

Fully indexed for easy navigation and searching of specific topics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Printability:

Yes, printable for hard copy reference.

Binding:

Digital Download (Printable PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format)

Software Requirement:

Adobe Reader

Operating System Compatibility:

Windows, Mac, and Linux OS

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

L3

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, Naturally Aspirated (This model year typically features the 2.3L DISI Turbo in higher trims, but the L3 code can also refer to a naturally aspirated variant. The manual covers the L3 engine, implying its presence in the target models.)

Displacement:

2.3 Liters (2261 cc)

Horsepower Est:

Approx. 175-180 hp (for naturally aspirated variant); 244 hp (for DISI Turbo variant if applicable)

Torque Est:

Approx. 174-177 lb-ft (for naturally aspirated variant); 270 lb-ft (for DISI Turbo variant if applicable)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI); likely Direct Injection for DISI Turbo models.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Valve Train:

DOHC (Double Overhead Camshafts), 4 valves per cylinder.

Engine Mounting:

Transverse (front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configuration)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Automatic

Transmission Codes:

AW6A-EL / AW6AX-EL

Optional Transmission:

Manual transmission (FS5A-EL or similar) may be available on some trims/markets, but the manual explicitly lists the automatic.

Automatic Features:

Likely features a form of sequential shifting (e.g., Sport Mode) for enhanced driver control.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Specific ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) recommended by Mazda, e.g., Mazda ATF JWS3309 or equivalent.

Gear Ratios:

Detailed gear ratios for all forward gears and reverse are typically included in the manual.

📐 Dimensions

Length Est:

Approximately 4,555 mm (179.3 inches)

Width Est:

Approximately 1,840 mm (72.4 inches)

Height Est:

Approximately 1,615 mm (63.6 inches)

Curb Weight Est:

Approximately 1,630 kg - 1,750 kg (3,594 lbs - 3,858 lbs) depending on configuration.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Est:

Typically around 2,200 kg (4,850 lbs).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating Est:

Likely 4-star or 5-star rating for frontal and side impacts (specific ratings vary by year and test methodology).

IIHS Rating Est:

Likely 'Good' ratings in frontal offset and side impact tests for models equipped with side airbags.

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC).

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags (often standard or optional), front and rear crumple zones, anti-whiplash front head restraints.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic infotainment systems including AM/FM radio, CD player, and potentially MP3 playback. Higher trims might feature a touchscreen display with navigation.

Audio System:

Standard 4-speaker or optional 6 or 8-speaker Bose® premium audio systems.

Driver Assistance Features:

Standard features like ABS, TCS, DSC. Advanced features like adaptive cruise control or blind-spot monitoring were not common in this era for this segment.

Connectivity Options:

Auxiliary audio input jack, optional Bluetooth hands-free phone system.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, or 7,500 miles (12,000 km) with synthetic oil and filter, using the 'severe' schedule if applicable. Refer to manual for exact recommendations based on driving conditions.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Approximately every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), or sooner if driving in dusty conditions.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Approximately every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Recommended around 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or as specified by the manual under severe driving conditions. Crucial for automatic transmission longevity.

Engine Oil Spec:

SAE 5W-20 synthetic blend or full synthetic oil meeting API SN or ILSAC GF-5 specifications (check manual for precise recommendation).

Coolant Spec:

Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with silicate inhibitors, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Common Problems:

Turbocharger issues (oil feed line clogging leading to turbo failure on DISI Turbo models), carbon buildup in direct-injected engines, potential for oil consumption, suspension component wear, and some electrical gremlins.

Manual Utility For Issues:

The manual provides diagnostic procedures and repair steps to address many of these common issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Mazda Motor Corporation

Brand Focus:

Known for Jinba Ittai ('horse and rider as one') driving dynamics, sporty design, and innovative technology.

Generation:

First Generation (DE)

Introduction Year:

2005 (as a concept), 2006 (production)

Facelift Years:

Minor updates occurred in later years, but the core design remained consistent through 2009.

Production Start Year:

2006

Production End Year For This Manual:

2009

Manufacturing Plant Est:

Hofu, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Design Awards Est:

The Mazda CX-7's styling was generally well-received, often praised for its sporty and coupe-like SUV appearance.

Performance Ratings Est:

Praised by automotive critics for its sharp handling and sporty driving dynamics, distinguishing it from more comfort-oriented competitors.

Certification From Manufacturer:

This manual is a direct representation of Mazda's technical documentation, ensuring accuracy and adherence to manufacturer standards.