Positioning:
The Mazda 626 GC and its Ford Telstar counterpart represented a strong contender in the mid-size family sedan and coupe market during the 1980s, known for its balance of comfort, reliability, and sporty handling.
Competitors:
Competed with vehicles like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Stanza, and Ford Tempo/Sierra.
Features:
Front-wheel drive architecture, independent suspension, fuel-injected engines, aerodynamic styling for its era.
Engine:
Complete engine service, overhaul, tuning, diagnostics, lubrication, cooling, fuel, emissions control, exhaust.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission service, repair, overhaul, clutch service, drive axles.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, disc and drum brake service, parking brake, ABS (if applicable).
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, rack and pinion, tie rod ends.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, alignment procedures.
Electrical:
Starting and charging system, ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, body electronics, wiring diagrams.
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, collision repair basics, rust prevention.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system service and repair.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, common problems and their solutions, symptom-based troubleshooting.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major vehicle systems.
Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for major component overhauls, including engines and transmissions.
Installation:
Includes procedures for component installation and removal.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics for major rebuilds and routine servicing.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts and troubleshooting trees for various systems.
Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1998 cc)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 90-100 hp (varies by specific market and emissions control)
Torque Range:
Approximately 110-120 lb-ft (varies by specific market and emissions control)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
System:
Electronic ignition (distributor-based, potentially with electronic control)
Type:
Pressurized liquid cooling system
Configuration:
Inline-4 Cylinder
Body Styles:
Sedan, Hatchback (often referred to as TX5/Hatchback Coupe), potentially Station Wagon for Telstar.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 98.4 inches (2500 mm) - Varies slightly by body style.
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 2500-2800 lbs (1134-1270 kg) depending on body style and equipment.
Crash Test Era:
Limited standardized crash testing available for this era, but design incorporated crumple zones.
Seatbelts:
Standard 3-point front seatbelts, lap belts in the rear.
Construction:
Unibody construction with integrated safety cage and crumple zones.
Brakes:
Front: Ventilated discs; Rear: Drums (or discs on some higher trims/models).
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player, often with optional upgraded speakers.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an available option on higher trims or later models in this range.
Power Features:
Power windows, power door locks, and power mirrors were often available as options or standard on higher trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to specific manual for exact recommendations).
Timing Belt:
Crucial for the FE engine; replacement typically recommended every 60,000-90,000 miles or 5-7 years. Failure can cause severe engine damage.
Engine Oil:
API SG or SF, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for exact viscosity based on temperature).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Dexron-III or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Power Steering Fluid:
Typically uses ATF Dexron-II/III or a specific power steering fluid.
Rust:
Common issue in areas with road salt; check wheel wells, rocker panels, and door bottoms.
Engine Mounts:
Can degrade over time, leading to increased vibration.
Suspension Wear:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings can wear, affecting handling and alignment.
Cooling System:
Radiator, hoses, and water pump can leak or fail over time.
Fuel Injectors:
Can become clogged, affecting performance and fuel economy.
Mazda Focus:
Mazda has a long history of producing reliable and often engaging-to-drive vehicles, with the 626 series being a significant part of their global strategy in the 1980s.
Gc Generation:
The GC generation (1983-1987) was a major redesign from the previous generation, adopting front-wheel drive and a more aerodynamic, modern design. The Telstar was a badge-engineered version for different markets.
Period:
1983-1986 model years covered by this manual.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan, with potential assembly in other regions.
