Segment:
Mid-size Sedan / Sport Sedan
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, fleet maintenance.
Key Competitors 2002:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Ford Mondeo, Volkswagen Passat.
Vehicle Highlights:
Sporty handling, stylish design, reliable powertrains, spacious interior for its class.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides in-depth technical knowledge and procedural guidance for maintaining and repairing the Mazda 6 of this era, empowering owners and technicians alike.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, cylinder head, block assembly, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing belt/chain, valves, lubrication system, cooling system.
Engine Performance:
Fuel system (injectors, pump, lines), ignition system, exhaust system, emission control systems (catalytic converter, O2 sensors).
Transmission Mechanical:
Manual transmission overhaul, automatic transmission overhaul (including valve body, clutch packs, torque converter), clutch system (for manual).
Transmission Electronic:
Transmission control module (TCM) diagnostics and operation, shift solenoid testing.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS system (including sensors, control module, hydraulic unit), brake pad replacement, rotor replacement, caliper service, brake fluid bleeding.
Steering:
Power steering system (pump, rack, lines), steering column, wheel alignment specifications.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings), wheel bearings, sway bars.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator, starter), lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, body control module (BCM) basics.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system (compressor, refrigerant, condenser, evaporator), heating system, climate control module, cabin air filter replacement.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, seat removal, trim panel replacement, glass replacement.
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) procedures, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) with descriptions and troubleshooting steps.
Preventative Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tire rotations, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common drivability issues, electrical problems, and system failures.
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing major and minor components across all systems.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all fasteners throughout the vehicle.
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced diagnostics).
Engine Displacement Primary:
2.0 Liters (1991 cc)
Engine Type Primary:
Inline-4 Cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Engine Code Primary Details:
FS-DE (Naturally Aspirated)
Horsepower Primary:
134 hp @ 6000 rpm (US spec)
Torque Primary:
135 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (US spec)
Engine Displacement Optional:
2.3 Liters (2261 cc)
Engine Type Optional:
Inline-4 Cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Engine Code Optional Details:
ZY-VE (Naturally Aspirated)
Horsepower Optional:
160 hp @ 6000 rpm (US spec)
Torque Optional:
155 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (US spec)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Octane Rating:
87 Octane (Recommended for 2.0L), 87 Octane (Recommended for 2.3L)
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual (GZ5)
Optional Transmission:
4-speed Automatic (GF4A-EL)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, lock-up torque converter.
Manual Transmission Clutch:
Hydraulically actuated, single dry plate clutch.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Mazda ATF-MV or equivalent (e.g., Dexron III compatible)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil
NHTSA Front Impact Driver 2002:
5-Star
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger 2002:
5-Star
IIHS Frontal Offset Score:
Good (for original models tested)
ABS:
Standard on all models
Traction Control:
Optional on some trims
Airbags Front:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags (Standard)
Airbags Side:
Optional Front Side-Impact Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Engine Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Service Intervals Filters
Oil Filter Replacement Interval:
Replace with every oil change.
Engine Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months (if equipped).
Coolant Replacement Interval:
Initial flush at 105,000 miles (168,000 km), then every 52,500 miles (84,000 km).
Brake Fluid Replacement Interval:
Every 2 years or 45,000 miles (72,000 km).
Engine Oil Viscosity:
5W-30
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.2 US quarts (4.0 L) with filter for 2.0L; 4.8 US quarts (4.5 L) with filter for 2.3L.
Coolant Type:
Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent HOAT
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Mazda Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron II/III
Common Issues Engine:
Premature oil consumption in some 2.3L engines (ZY-VE), timing belt tensioner noise (2.0L FS-DE), coil-on-plug failure.
Common Issues Transmission:
Automatic transmission hesitation or harsh shifting (GF4A-EL), clutch wear (manual).
Common Issues Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, premature front strut failure, wheel bearing noise.
Common Issues Electrical:
Power window motor failure, HVAC blower motor resistor failure, dashboard warning light illumination (e.g., ABS, SRS).
Common Issues Body:
Rust formation on rocker panels and rear wheel arches, interior trim rattles.
Mazda Heritage:
Founded in 1920, Mazda has a long history of innovation and producing distinctive vehicles, known for their focus on driving dynamics ('Jinba Ittai' - horse and rider as one).
Mazda6 Generation 1:
The 2002 Mazda 6 marked the debut of the first generation (GG platform), replacing the Mazda Capella/626. It was designed with a focus on European styling and performance, winning praise for its handling and design.
Production Location:
Hofu, Japan; Flat Rock, Michigan, USA (for North American market)
Production Years Gen1:
2002-2008