🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

MPV

Model Nickname:

Mazda MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle)

Generation Covered:

Second Generation (LW Series)

Vin Code Prefix:

JM0LW

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, dealership technicians

Value Proposition:

Cost savings through self-repair, comprehensive technical guidance, dealership-level information

Ease Of Use:

Step-by-step instructions, illustrations, easy-to-follow directions

Content Richness:

Hundreds of illustrations, detailed specifications, wiring diagrams

📋 Manual Details

Model Years Covered:

1996, 1997, 1998

Regions Covered:

North America (implied by technician usage)

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (Detailed information implies hundreds of pages)

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (Downloadable PDF/Compatible with multiple OS)

File Compatibility:

Windows (7, Vista 32/64, XP, Me, 2000, NT, 98), MAC OS

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine Overhaul & Rebuilding, Timing Belt Replacement, Engine Performance, Transmission Information, Firing Orders, Serpentine Belt Routings with Diagrams, Timing Belt Service Procedures

Chassis:

Brakes, Front End Procedures & Specifications, Suspension, U-Joint & CV-Joint Service Procedures

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete Wiring Diagrams, Wiring Schematics

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting Codes, Computer Diagnostic Codes, Troubleshooting & Diagnostics

Features:

Sunroof, Air Conditioning Service & Capacities

Maintenance:

Factory Maintenance Schedules & Charts

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions, Repair Procedures

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting Concerns, Driving Concerns

Depth:

Comprehensive (Covers diagnostics, rebuilding, troubleshooting, and routine maintenance)

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (implied by OS compatibility and printability)

Searchability:

Searchable Text (implied by digital format and typical manual structure)

Printability:

Printable Pages

Image Resolution:

Enlargable Images (for detailed viewing and printing)

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

V6, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)

Engine Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2490cc)

Engine Code:

G5M

Horsepower Approx:

160-170 hp @ 5200-6000 rpm (estimated for this generation)

Torque Approx:

150-160 lb-ft @ 3000-4000 rpm (estimated for this generation)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Timing Belt Interval Approx:

60,000 miles / 5 years (typical for this era)

Spark Plug Type:

Iridium or Platinum tipped (consult manual for exact spec)

Engine Oil Type Approx:

5W-30 API SG or SH (consult manual for exact spec)

Engine Oil Capacity Approx:

4.5-5.0 US quarts (with filter, consult manual for exact spec)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT)

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission (was available on some trims, though less common for MPV)

Drive Type:

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) / All-Wheel Drive (AWD) available

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron III (or equivalent, consult manual for exact spec)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity Approx:

3.5-4.0 US quarts (drain and fill, consult manual for exact spec)

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

GL-4 SAE 75W-90 (typical, consult manual for exact spec)

📐 Dimensions

Body Style:

Minivan

Wheelbase Approx:

112.2 inches (2850 mm)

Length Approx:

187.4 inches (4760 mm)

Width Approx:

71.5 inches (1816 mm)

Height Approx:

66.1 inches (1679 mm)

Curb Weight Approx:

3700-4000 lbs (depending on trim and drivetrain)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Approx:

5350 lbs

Towing Capacity Approx:

2000-3500 lbs (depending on configuration and market)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver Side:

4-Star (1997 model year, typical for this era)

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger Side:

4-Star (1997 model year, typical for this era)

IIHS Side Impact Rating:

Good (1997 model year, for vehicles equipped with side airbags, if available)

Brakes:

Front: Ventilated Discs; Rear: Drums (standard), Optional Rear Discs available

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option or standard on higher trims

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags

Seat Belts:

3-point front and rear seat belts with pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM Stereo with Cassette Player and CD Player option. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims

Auxiliary Input:

Not typically available on factory systems of this era

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first)

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles

Brake Fluid Change Interval:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (typical recommendation)

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron II/III or ATF compatible (consult manual)

Coolant:

Mazda Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent HOAT (consult manual)

Common Problems:

Timing belt wear/failure (critical preventative maintenance), O2 sensor issues, potential transmission solenoid issues, catalytic converter failure (less common than some rivals), door latch mechanisms, power sliding door motors (if equipped).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

Mazda is known for its sporty driving dynamics, innovative rotary engines (though not in this model), and stylish designs. The MPV represented their entry into the minivan segment.

Generation Timeline:

First Gen (1989-1998, rear-wheel drive based), Second Gen (LW, 1999-2005, front-wheel drive based, this manual covers the transition/end of the first gen in some markets and start of the second gen globally for '99).

Model Classification:

Compact/Mid-size Minivan

Manufacturing Locations:

Japan (primarily)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Mixed to average for reliability during this period, though specific year ratings vary. Consult Consumer Reports archives.

Jd Power Dependability:

Mazda's dependability ratings fluctuated during this period. Refer to specific model year JD Power studies for precise data.