Segment:
Subcompact coupe and hatchback, known for sporty styling and engaging handling.
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts and DIY mechanics seeking to maintain or restore their MX-3.
Competitors:
Honda Civic Coupe, Toyota Corolla Coupe, Mitsubishi Eclipse, Nissan Sentra SE-R.
Unique Selling Points:
Optional 1.8L V6 engine (K8-DE) was a standout feature in its class, offering a refined driving experience.
Design Philosophy:
Mazda's 'Zoom-Zoom' philosophy emphasizing driving enjoyment and agile handling.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Comprehensive diagnostic procedures for all major systems.
Maintenance Schedules:
Detailed maintenance schedules and recommended service intervals.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step repair procedures for mechanical, electrical, and body components.
Component Rebuilds:
Information on rebuilding major components such as engines, transmissions, and differentials.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Extensive troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues.
Electrical Diagrams:
Complete wiring diagrams and electrical system schematics.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Precise specifications and permissible tolerances for all serviceable parts.
Number Of Pages:
Hundreds of Pages (Specific count not provided but implies comprehensive coverage)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Engine:
Complete coverage including lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions control, and engine management.
Transmission:
Detailed coverage for both manual and automatic transmissions, including removal, installation, and overhaul.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, including axles, CV joints, and differential.
Suspension:
Front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link suspension systems, including alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, including pump, rack and pinion, and related components.
Brakes:
Front disc and rear drum/disc brake systems, including ABS (if equipped), hydraulic components, and rotor/pad replacement.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive coverage of starting and charging systems, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, and wiring.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, glass, and structural components.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair.
Emissions Control:
Detailed information on emissions systems, including catalytic converter, O2 sensors, and EGR.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, and belt inspection/replacement.
Engine Overhaul:
Engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly procedures.
Transmission Repair:
Detailed procedures for transmission repair, including clutch replacement (manual) and torque converter servicing (automatic).
Brake System Service:
Brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper servicing, brake fluid flush, and bleeding procedures.
Suspension Component Replacement:
Replacement of struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, and ball joints.
Electrical Component Testing:
Testing and replacement of alternators, starters, batteries, sensors, and actuators.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying the root cause of malfunctions.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Detail Level:
Includes detailed torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Special Tools:
Identifies any special tools required for specific repair procedures.
Transmission Type 1 6L:
5-speed Manual Transmission.
Transmission Type 1 8L V6:
5-speed Manual Transmission.
Transmission Type 1 6L Opt:
4-speed Automatic Transmission.
Transmission Type 1 8L V6 Opt:
4-speed Automatic Transmission.
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated, single dry plate (manual transmission).
Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:
API GL-4 (e.g., SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil).
Transmission Fluid Spec Automatic:
Mazda ATF J (or equivalent DEXRON-II/III).
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Not readily available for this model year from public NHTSA records. Assume basic safety standards of the era.
IIHS Small Overlap Front:
N/A (Testing protocols not established during this era).
ABS:
Optional on some trims, standard on higher performance variants.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard from approx. 1994 onward. Passenger airbag optional/unavailable on early models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seatbelts, height-adjustable.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (standard NGK plugs).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles or 4 years (critical for interference engines).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-30 API SG or SH (check manual for temperature specific recommendations).
Engine Oil Capacity 1 6L:
Approx. 4.0 US quarts (3.8 liters) with filter change.
Engine Oil Capacity 1 8L V6:
Approx. 4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Timing Belt Failure:
Critical failure point if not replaced on schedule for the K8-DE V6 engine (interference engine).
Vacuum Leaks:
Common with age, affecting idle quality and performance, especially around intake manifold gaskets and hoses.
Alternator Failure:
Premature failure of alternators has been reported on some models.
Suspension Wear:
Worn bushings, ball joints, and struts are common due to age and mileage.
Rust Corrosion:
Potential for rust on wheel wells, rocker panels, and subframes, especially in northern climates.
