Vehicle Segment:
Compact Minivan
Target Audience:
Families, individuals seeking versatile and practical transportation with a hint of sporty driving feel.
Key Competitors:
Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Chrysler Town & Country/Dodge Grand Caravan, Ford Windstar, Mercury Villager
Mazda Differentiation:
Mazda's emphasis on 'Zoom-Zoom' driving dynamics provided a more engaging experience compared to some more comfort-oriented competitors.
Unique Selling Points:
Agile handling for its class, versatile interior configuration, Mazda's sporty driving DNA applied to a minivan.
Interior Versatility:
Configurable seating, sliding rear doors (standard on this generation), ample cargo space.
Covered Systems:
General Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Brake System, Wiring Diagram, Electrical System, Suspension, Periodic Lubrication, Steering, Cooling System, Fuel Injection/Fuel System, Emission System, Heater/Air Conditioning, Engine Control System, Chassis/Body, Restraint System, Interior, Differential/Drive, Axle
Electrical System Details:
Includes detailed wiring diagrams, electrical system diagnostics, component testing, and troubleshooting for all integrated electrical systems.
Chassis And Body Coverage:
Detailed information on chassis components, frame construction, body panels, doors, latches, hinges, and interior trim.
Suspension And Steering Details:
Covers front MacPherson struts, rear multi-link suspension, steering column, rack and pinion, and associated components.
Fuel And Emission Systems:
Covers fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emission control system (EVAP), and catalytic converter.
Included Procedures:
Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Repair, Rebuild, Refurbishment, Restoration, Diagnostic Procedures, Electrical Service Procedures, Tune-up
Repair Procedure Format:
Step-by-step instructions, numbered instructions, detailed substeps, notes, cautions, and warnings.
Diagnostic Tools:
Guidance on using diagnostic tools and interpreting diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Troubleshooting Approach:
Advanced troubleshooting guide to diagnose and correct problems systematically.
Illustrations And Diagrams:
Includes all necessary illustrations, drawings, and photos to guide through repair procedures; enlarged insets for detailed part examination.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering fundamentals to advanced diagnostics and repair; as used by factory-trained technicians.
Compatibility:
Works on all PC-based Windows operating systems and Mac; requires Adobe PDF Reader.
Storage Options:
Can be saved to hard drive and burned to CD-ROM.
Printability:
Printable without restriction (individual pages or entire manual)
Digital Searchability:
Search function available for easy navigation and printing of specific information.
Binding Method:
Digital Download (Printable by user)
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital Format)
Engine Options:
2.5L V6 (AJ-DE, AJ-VE), 3.0L V6 (Ford Duratec 30, Cyclone)
Engine Code Examples:
AJ-VE (2.5L V6), Duratec 30 (3.0L V6)
2.5L V6 Horsepower:
Approx. 170 hp @ 6000 rpm (AJ-VE)
2.5L V6 Torque:
Approx. 170 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (AJ-VE)
3.0L V6 Horsepower:
Approx. 195-200 hp @ 6000 rpm (Ford Duratec 30)
3.0L V6 Torque:
Approx. 200-205 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (Ford Duratec 30)
Engine Displacement Options:
2.5 Liters, 3.0 Liters
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) / Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Engine Management:
Engine Control Module (ECM) manages fuel injection, ignition timing, and emissions controls.
Standard Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic
Optional Transmission:
N/A (Typically only automatic offered in North America for this generation)
Transmission Type:
FWD (Front-Wheel Drive) / AWD (All-Wheel Drive) available on some trims
Drivetrain Options:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), All-Wheel Drive (AWD) on select trims
Transmission Control:
Electronic control of automatic transmission for optimized shift points and performance.
All Wheel Drive System:
Active-time AWD system, distributing power between front and rear axles as needed for traction.
Length:
Approx. 182.5 inches (4635 mm)
Width:
Approx. 71.5 inches (1816 mm)
Height:
Approx. 67.1 inches (1704 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 106.7 inches (2710 mm)
Seating Capacity:
7-Passenger (with 2-2-3 configuration typically)
Cargo Volume:
Variable depending on seat configuration, but substantial for its class.
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3600 - 4000 lbs (depending on configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by configuration, typically around 5000-5500 lbs.
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4-star (for 2001 model year, as an example)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4-star (for 2001 model year, as an example)
IIHS Small Overlap Front:
IIHS ratings not readily available for this specific generation and model year without direct lookup, but generally good for its era.
Active Safety:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Optional Traction Control (on some models/trims)
Steering System:
Power Rack and Pinion steering, potentially speed-sensitive on later models.
Passive Safety:
Front Airbags, Optional Side Airbags, Crumple Zones, Side Impact Door Beams
Child Safety Features:
LATCH child seat anchor points (introduced in later years of this generation).
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional premium audio systems, potentially cassette players in early models.
Climate Control:
Manual or Automatic Climate Control systems, dual-zone climate control on some higher trims.
Navigation System:
Optional factory navigation system available on higher trim levels in later years.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise Control, Rear Parking Sensors (on some later models/trims).
Cruise Control Details:
Standard cruise control functionality, electronically controlled for consistent speed.
Connectivity Options:
Limited by era; primarily focused on audio inputs and basic vehicle controls.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for exact specifications).
Timing Belt Replacement:
For AJ-DE/AJ-VE engines: Check manual, generally around 90,000 miles. For Duratec 30 (chain-driven), replacement is not a scheduled interval.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Typically recommended every 12,000-15,000 miles or annually, depending on air quality.
Engine Oil Type:
5W-30 or 5W-20 (API Certified) for most AJ-VE engines, refer to manual for specific viscosity and API classification for each engine variant.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III/Mercon compatible Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF). Always verify with the specific manual.
Coolant Type:
Mazda Long Life Coolant (LLC) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with OAT/HOAT formulation. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (refer to manual for specific recommendation)
Common Wear Items:
CV Axles, Wheel Bearings, Suspension Components (ball joints, tie rod ends), EGR valve (on some engines), A/C system components (compressor, condenser).
Engine Specific Issues:
Minor oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, potential for intake manifold gasket leaks on some V6 variants.
Common Electrical Issues:
Power window motors, intermittent warning lights, issues with body control modules on later models.
Cooling System Maintenance:
Regular flushing of the cooling system to prevent corrosion and maintain optimal performance is crucial.
Transmission Performance:
Occasional issues with harsh shifting or transmission slippage may require solenoid replacement or fluid service.
Brand Focus:
Mazda is known for its sporty driving dynamics, unique design, and reliability.
Second Generation Introduction:
The second generation (LW platform) was introduced for the 1999 model year, featuring a completely new body style and platform, often based on Mazda's own chassis rather than shared Ford platforms (unlike some earlier models or competitors).
Platform Sharing:
While the LW generation aimed for Mazda-specific development, some components or engineering might have had Ford influence due to the historical partnership.
Redesign Focus:
This generation represented a significant shift towards a more European-inspired design and driving dynamics, moving away from earlier, more Americanized minivan designs.
Manufacturing Location:
Likely assembled in Japan, with potential North American market variants.
Production Years Global:
1999-2005 (North America), extended slightly in other markets.
