Segment:
Full-size luxury sedan
Competitors:
Toyota Crown, Nissan Cedric/Gloria, Honda Legend, Lexus LS400 (later generations), BMW 7 Series, Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Distinguishing Features:
Rear-wheel drive platform, smooth V6 engines, refined interiors, innovative technologies (e.g., Eunos Cosmo-derived rotary engine in some markets/generations, advanced suspension systems).
Powertrain:
Engine, transmission, drivetrain, fuel system, exhaust system
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes, wheels, tires
Electrical:
Lighting, instrumentation, audio system, power accessories, charging system, starting system, engine control, body control modules
Body:
Body panels, interior trim, climate control, safety systems (SRS), glass, doors, locks
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (OBD-I/OBD-II)
Repair:
Component removal and installation, adjustment procedures, overhaul procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical schematics and component-level repair.
File Format:
Likely PDF with searchable text and high-resolution images.
Quality:
Excellent; designed for clarity with detailed diagrams and technical illustrations.
Binding Type:
Digital download (if purchased as a physical copy, typically bound for workshop durability).
Paper Type:
N/A (for digital format); High-quality, durable paper for printed versions.
Engine Type:
V6 (SOHC and DOHC variants)
Displacement:
3.0L (2954cc) - common JDM/export engine. Other displacements (e.g., 2.0L rotary) may exist for specific markets.
Engine Code:
e.g., JE (for 3.0L V6)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 190-250 hp (depending on generation and market tune)
Torque Range:
Approximately 200-240 lb-ft
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Coolant Type:
Proprietary Mazda coolant or equivalent (typically Ethylene Glycol based, long-life formula recommended for later models).
Oil Type:
Refer to owner's manual/manual for specific viscosity (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-30, 10W-40 depending on climate and generation).
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.5-5.5 quarts (with filter change)
Spark Plug Type:
Refer to manual for specific part numbers (e.g., NGK, Denso platinum or iridium plugs).
Transmission Type:
Automatic Transmission (e.g., 4-speed or 5-speed electronically controlled)
Transmission Type:
Manual Transmission (less common, primarily for specific JDM models)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Mazda ATF-J, Dexron III equivalent, or specific recommended ATF.
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 3-4 quarts (drain and fill), higher for full overhaul.
Drive Type:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)
Differential Type:
Limited-slip differential (LSD) often available on higher trims.
Differential Fluid:
GL-5 Hypoid Gear Oil (specific viscosity recommended, e.g., 75W-90)
Length:
Varies by generation, typically around 190-200 inches
Width:
Varies by generation, typically around 70-72 inches
Height:
Varies by generation, typically around 55-57 inches
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3500-3900 lbs
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by configuration, consult manual or vehicle VIN.
Wheelbase:
Varies by generation, typically around 110-114 inches
Wheel Size:
15-inch, 16-inch, 17-inch alloys common
Tire Size:
Common sizes include 205/65R15, 215/60R15, 215/55R16, 225/50R16, 225/55R16, 225/50R17
Bolt Pattern:
5x114.3mm (5x4.5 inches)
NHTSA Ratings:
Varies by model year and region. Early models may not have comprehensive ratings.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (standard on most later models)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) available on some models
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard on later models. Side airbags available on select trims.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced body structure
Audio System:
Premium audio systems (e.g., Bose) available on higher trims, cassette and CD players common.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation systems on later models.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Automatic Climate Control:
Available on higher trims.
Phone Integration:
Not applicable for early generations; later models may have basic hands-free options or aftermarket solutions.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to specific manual for exact recommendation).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles or as per manual, especially under severe service.
Coolant Change Interval:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles for conventional coolant; consult manual for long-life coolant interval.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000-100,000 miles for platinum/iridium plugs (refer to specific plug type).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific recommendation)
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) or specific Mazda power steering fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Suspension bushings, CV joint boots, oxygen sensors, catalytic converters (due to age/mileage), climate control actuators, power window motors.
Engine Specific Concerns:
Variable valve timing (VVT) system issues (if equipped), oil leaks from valve cover gaskets and oil pan seals, timing belt/chain wear (depending on engine).
Transmission Specific Concerns:
Solenoid issues, torque converter problems, occasional transmission control module (TCM) failures.
Oil Filter:
Examples: Mazda B6S8-14-302, Fram PH3600, Wix 51348 (verify with manual and VIN).
Air Filter:
Examples: Mazda BP4W-13-215, Fram CA8009 (verify with manual and VIN).
Cabin Air Filter:
Not standard on all models/generations; if equipped, part numbers vary.
Mazda Luxury Aspirations:
The 929 represented Mazda's push into the premium luxury segment, aiming to compete with established European and American brands.
Generations:
Three main generations: First Gen (1971-1972), Second Gen (1973-1977), Third Gen (1978-1986 - Luce/Cosmo based), Fourth Gen (1987-1991 - HC platform), Fifth Gen (1991-1994 - HB platform).
Production Years:
1971-1972, 1973-1977, 1978-1986, 1987-1991, 1991-1994 (model availability varies by region).
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan
Import Car Of The Year:
The Mazda 929 (especially later generations) often received accolades and positive reviews for its comfort, refinement, and value in the luxury segment, though specific awards may vary by publication and year.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings vary by generation and model year; older models may have specific known issues due to age. The manual is critical for understanding these.