🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

6

Year:

2003

Chassis Code:

GG/GY (First Generation)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size Sedan / Wagon

Competitors 2003:

Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion, Chevrolet Malibu

Driving Dynamics:

Known for its engaging driving experience and sporty handling, often praised for its chassis tuning and responsive steering.

Design Philosophy:

The first generation Mazda6 (Atenza in Japan) was designed to challenge established benchmarks with a focus on sporty styling, performance, and driver engagement.

Body Styles:

Available as a 4-door Sedan, 5-door Hatchback, and 5-door Sport Wagon.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Type:

Full Service Repair

Estimated Page Count:

1500-2000+

Type:

Workshop Manual / Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Management, Fuel System, Emission Control, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Turbocharging (if applicable), Exhaust System

Drivetrain:

Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Clutch, Driveshafts, Axles, Differential

Chassis:

Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Hydraulic, ABS, DSC), Wheels & Tires

Electrical:

Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Body Control Modules, Powertrain Control Modules, Audio System, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Mirrors), Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts)

Body And Frame:

Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Interior Trim, Glass, Seals, Corrosion Protection

Maintenance:

Scheduled Maintenance (Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plugs, Belts, Hoses), Fluid Level Checks & Replacements, Brake Service, Tire Rotation

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Wiring Diagrams, Component Testing, Scan Tool Procedures

Repair Rebuild:

Engine Component Replacement (Pistons, Rods, Crankshaft, Valves), Cylinder Head Repair, Transmission Overhaul, Brake Caliper Rebuild, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Repair

Installation Replacement:

Component Installation, Aftermarket Part Installation Guidance, Body Panel Replacement, Interior Component Installation

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick access to information

Printability:

Printable pages for on-site reference

Image Resolution:

High-resolution images, diagrams, and schematics

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Usdm:

LF-DE (2.3L DOHC Inline-4)

Engine Displacement Usdm:

2.3 Liters (2261 cc)

Engine Configuration:

Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16 Valves

Bore X Stroke Usdm:

87.5 mm x 94.0 mm

Compression Ratio Usdm:

9.7:1

Horsepower Usdm:

160 hp @ 6,500 rpm

Torque Usdm:

155 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Fuel Octane Rating Usdm:

87 Octane (Minimum)

Other Engine Options Usdm:

Optional: 3.0L MZI V6 (1MZ-FE based) - 220 hp (Not typically specified in basic service manuals for the 2.3L base)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Usdm:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Usdm:

5-Speed Automatic Transmission with Sport Mode

Manual Gear Ratios:

Refer to manual for specific gear ratios (e.g., 1st: ~3.30, 2nd: ~1.94, 3rd: ~1.33, 4th: ~1.00, 5th: ~0.81, Reverse: ~3.11, Final Drive: ~4.10)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Mazda ATF-MV (or equivalent DEXRON-III/MERCON compatible)

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil

📐 Dimensions

Length Sedan Wagon:

Sedan: Approx. 187.4 in (4760 mm) / Wagon: Approx. 188.4 in (4785 mm)

Width:

Approx. 70.1 in (1780 mm)

Height Sedan Wagon:

Sedan: Approx. 56.7 in (1440 mm) / Wagon: Approx. 57.7 in (1465 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 105.3 in (2675 mm)

Track Width Front Rear:

Approx. 60.4 in (1535 mm) / Approx. 60.6 in (1540 mm)

Curb Weight Usdm Approx:

3,100 - 3,400 lbs (depending on body style and transmission)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Refer to vehicle VIN plate or manual for exact GVWR

Cargo Volume Sedan Cubic Feet:

Approx. 14.2 cu ft

Cargo Volume Wagon Cubic Feet:

Approx. 25.1 cu ft (rear seats up) / Approx. 60.2 cu ft (rear seats down)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Test Driver:

Five Stars (for 2003 model year)

NHTSA Frontal Crash Test Passenger:

Five Stars (for 2003 model year)

IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:

Good (for 2003 model year)

Traction Control:

Traction Control System (TCS) available on higher trims or as an option

Stability Control:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) available on higher trims or as an option

Anti Lock Brakes:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on most trims

Airbags Front:

Driver and Front Passenger Airbags

Airbags Side:

Optional Front Side-Impact Airbags and Curtain Airbags (depending on trim and body style)

Seatbelts:

3-point Seatbelts with Pretensioners and Load Limiters (Front)

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD player. Bose premium audio system optional on higher trims. Steering wheel audio controls available.

Climate Control:

Manual air conditioning standard. Optional automatic climate control on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control on most models.

Keyless Entry:

Standard keyless entry on most models. Optional remote keyless entry with alarm.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for severe duty conditions.

Engine Oil Filter Replacement:

With every oil change.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection. Refer to manual.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) depending on spark plug type (e.g., iridium, platinum). Refer to manual.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Coolant Flush:

Every 50,000 - 100,000 miles (80,000 - 160,000 km) or 5 years, depending on coolant type. Refer to manual.

Engine Oil Viscosity Usdm:

SAE 5W-20 (Preferred) or SAE 5W-30. Refer to manual for ambient temperature ranges.

Engine Oil Type:

API SN, SM, SL, or SJ with ILSAC GF-5, GF-4, or GF-3 classification.

Engine Oil Capacity Usdm:

Approx. 4.5 US quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change (2.3L engine).

Coolant Type:

Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent HOAT - Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) - Pink/Orange color.

Coolant Capacity Usdm:

Approx. 7.2 US quarts (6.8 Liters) (2.3L engine).

Rust Corrosion:

Corrosion, particularly around wheel wells, rocker panels, and subframes, is a common issue, especially in regions with road salt.

Suspension Components:

Premature wear of front lower control arm bushings and sway bar links can lead to clunking noises and poor handling.

Power Steering Pump:

Occasional failure or leaks from the power steering pump and rack.

Window Regulators:

Failure of power window regulators can be a common electrical issue.

Engine Mounts:

Degradation of engine and transmission mounts can lead to increased vibration and noise.

Exhaust Manifold Cracks:

In some cases, exhaust manifolds can develop cracks due to heat cycles, leading to exhaust leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Philosophy:

Mazda's 'Zoom-Zoom' philosophy emphasizing driving pleasure and engagement.

Generation:

First Generation (GG/GY), launched in 2002 for the 2003 model year.

Design Inspiration:

Designed by chief designer Yoshihiko Washio. Based on the Mazda 'Manx' concept car.

Production Years First Gen:

2002-2007

Assembly Locations:

Hofu, Yamaguchi, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Best:

Car and Driver's 10Best list for 2003.

Motor Trend Car Of The Year:

Nominee for Motor Trend Car of the Year.

Kbb Value Proposition:

Often praised for its value proposition, combining sporty driving dynamics with a practical and stylish package.