Segment:
Compact Car / Small Family Car
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, classic car enthusiasts
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Volkswagen Golf, Nissan Sentra
Vehicle Strengths:
Reliability, fuel efficiency, practical design, sporty handling (especially GT models)
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to maintain and repair their vehicle, reducing dealership costs and preserving longevity
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, timing, lubrication, cooling
Engine Management:
Fuel injection (EFI), ignition system, emissions control, sensors, actuators, diagnostic codes
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox overhaul, shifting mechanisms, gear ratios
Transmission Automatic:
Torque converter, planetary gear sets, hydraulic control, valve body, overhaul
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive, axles, CV joints, differentials
Suspension:
Front strut, rear independent suspension (or beam axle depending on variant), control arms, shock absorbers, springs, alignment
Steering:
Steering rack, power steering system, column, linkages
Brakes:
Front discs, rear drums (or discs on higher trims), hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, body control modules
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, structural components, corrosion protection
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system diagnosis and repair
Maintenance:
Routine checks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid top-offs, belt adjustments
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, common problem identification, symptom-based solutions
Repair:
Component removal, installation, replacement, adjustment, calibration
Rebuild:
Engine, transmission, carburetor, fuel injection system rebuilds
Diagnostics:
Fault code reading, sensor testing, component testing procedures
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all systems
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics and body repair
Engine Codes Common:
B6 (1.6L), FE (1.5L), BP (1.8L - later models, but some variants might appear), E-series (e.g., FE-DOHC)
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder, SOHC or DOHC
Displacement Common Liters:
1.5L, 1.6L
Displacement Common Cubic Inches:
91.5 cu. in. (1.5L), 97.6 cu. in. (1.6L)
Horsepower Typical:
70-110 hp (depending on engine and market)
Torque Typical:
80-110 lb-ft (depending on engine and market)
Fuel Delivery Common:
Carbureted (early/base models) or Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI/MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Octane Rating Recommended:
87-89 AKI (Anti-Knock Index)
Oil Change Interval Miles:
3,000 - 5,000 miles (or 6 months)
Air Filter Replacement Miles:
15,000 - 30,000 miles
Spark Plug Replacement Miles:
30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on type)
Timing Belt Replacement Miles:
60,000 - 90,000 miles (critical for interference engines)
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SF, SAE 10W-30 or 5W-30 (check owner's manual for climate suitability)
Engine Oil Capacity Quarts:
Approx. 3.5 - 4.5 quarts (with filter)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, permanent type antifreeze (Mazda blue or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Manual Type:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil
Transmission Fluid Automatic Type:
Dexron-II or equivalent ATF
Common Wear Items:
Strut mounts, CV boots, exhaust system components, rear wheel bearings, fuel pumps
Engine Issues:
Oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), thermostat failures, carburetor issues (if applicable), timing belt failure (if not replaced)
Electrical Issues:
Corrosion on grounds/connectors, alternator failure, ignition switch problems
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel arches, rocker panels, rear quarter panels, strut towers, subframes (climate dependent)
Mazda History Context:
Mazda's history of innovation and affordability, particularly with its front-wheel-drive platforms
Third Generation Bf:
Introduced in late 1985/early 1986, this generation saw significant updates including aerodynamics, interior space, and engine technology. It built upon the success of its predecessors.
Model Variants:
Included base models, LX, GLS, GT (often with sporty suspension and engine options), and limited editions. Also sold as Ford Laser and Mercury Tracer in some markets.
Production Years Bf Gen:
1985-1994 (facelift in 1989)
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan (Mazda's primary plants), various overseas assembly plants (e.g., Australia, South Africa)
