Positioning:
The 1996 Mazda 626 was positioned as a mid-size sedan known for its comfortable ride, reliable performance, and European-inspired styling, competing against vehicles like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Nissan Altima.
Comparison Points:
Offered a blend of performance and practicality, often praised for its handling dynamics relative to its class. Competed on value and features.
Vehicle Highlights:
Available in sedan and coupe (MX-6 sibling) body styles. Notable for its refined interior and quiet cabin for its era.
Primary Coverage:
Maintenance and Repair Procedures
Secondary Coverage:
Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Specifications
Estimated Pages:
Estimated 800-1200+ pages (typical for full factory service manuals)
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system, emissions control
Drivetrain:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission, front-wheel drive, axles, differentials
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS included), wheels and tires
Body And Interior:
Body construction, interior trim, seats, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), power accessories (windows, locks), SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) / Airbags
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instruments, charging system, starting system, fuses and relays, audio system, security system
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Repair:
Engine component removal/installation, transmission overhaul, brake system repair, suspension overhaul, steering rack replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (OBD-I/OBD-II if applicable)
Technical Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, wiring diagrams, component identification, special tool usage
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic fluid services to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and electrical schematics.
Compatibility:
Requires Adobe Acrobat Reader or compatible PDF viewer for optimal display of images and graphics.
Image Quality:
High Resolution for clear display of diagrams, schematics, and illustrations.
Binding:
Digital (PDF) - No physical binding
Paper:
Not Applicable (Digital Format)
Engine Code And Type:
FS-DE (2.0L DOHC 16V Inline-4), KF-DE (2.5L DOHC 24V V6)
Displacement 2.0L:
1998 cc (122 cu in)
Horsepower 2.0L:
118-122 hp @ 5500-6000 rpm (depending on market and specific tune)
Torque 2.0L:
129-130 lb-ft @ 4500-4700 rpm
Displacement 2.5L:
2490 cc (152 cu in)
Horsepower 2.5L:
168-170 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 2.5L:
159-160 lb-ft @ 4500-4800 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Compression Ratio 2.0L:
9.4:1
Compression Ratio 2.5L:
9.2:1
Manual Transmission:
5-speed manual (FS-DE and KF-DE models)
Automatic Transmission:
4-speed automatic (FS-DE and KF-DE models)
Transmission Control:
Electronic control for automatic transmission models.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent API GL-4 rated ATF)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 75W-85 gear oil
Length:
Approx. 183.5 inches (4661 mm)
Width:
Approx. 69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Height:
Approx. 54.7 inches (1390 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.3 inches (2650 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3000-3200 lbs (1360-1450 kg) depending on engine and transmission
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically around 4100-4200 lbs
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-star (driver), 4-star (passenger) for 1996 models (check specific test data)
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (standard), optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels
Traction Control:
Not commonly equipped on base models, may be present on higher trims/optional packages.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags (SRS)
Seatbelts:
Front pretensioner seatbelts
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on certain trims, providing enhanced braking control.
Power Features:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors common on higher trim levels.
HVAC:
Manual or automatic climate control systems with air conditioning and heating.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, subject to driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) depending on plug type.
Timing Belt Replacement Fs De:
Crucial interval: 60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-144,000 km). This is an interference engine, so failure is catastrophic.
Timing Belt Replacement Kf De:
Crucial interval: 60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-144,000 km). This is an interference engine.
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ or SL, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for climate specific recommendations)
Coolant Type:
Mazda Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitors.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Engine Mounts:
Can deteriorate over time, leading to increased vibration and clunking noises.
Suspension Components:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings can lead to noise and imprecise handling.
Cooling System:
Leaking radiators, hoses, and water pumps are common due to age.
Ignition System:
Distributorless ignition system components (coil packs, plugs, wires) can fail, causing misfires.
Mazda Philosophy:
Mazda has a history of producing engaging and reliable vehicles, often with a focus on driver enjoyment and innovative engineering.
626 Lineage:
The 626 has been a staple in Mazda's lineup since the 1970s, evolving through multiple generations with various platform and design changes, often sharing technology with Ford during certain periods.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan (Hofu Plant) and North America (Flat Rock, Michigan, USA).
Generation Production Years:
The GD/GV generation spanned from 1987 to 1992. The GF/GW generation, which includes the 1996 model year, was produced from 1992 to 1997. This manual covers the latter part of the GF/GW generation.
Automotive Press Reviews:
Consistently received positive reviews from automotive journalists for its styling, handling, and value proposition during its production run.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings varied across model years and specific powertrains, but generally considered competitive within its segment. Manual provides insights into common wear items.
