Vehicle Type:
Compact MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle)
Target Audience:
Families, individuals seeking versatile and practical transportation.
Competitors:
Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, Dodge Caravan/Voyager, Chrysler Town & Country, Ford Windstar.
Versatility:
Flexible seating arrangements, ample cargo space, sliding doors (2nd Gen) for easy access.
Handling:
Often praised for car-like handling dynamics compared to other MPVs.
Reliability:
Generally good reliability, especially with proper maintenance.
Engine:
All engine variants, diagnostics, repair, rebuild, tuning, emissions control
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (AT), manual transmission (MT) if applicable, diagnostics, repair, rebuild, fluid service
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD), All-wheel drive (AWD) systems, differentials, CV joints, driveshafts
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, EBD, brake discs, pads, calipers, lines, parking brake
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, linkage
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, ignition, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
Body And Frame:
Chassis, body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, exterior trim, rust repair
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system, components, refrigerants, service
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel lines, evaporative emission control
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converters, mufflers, pipes, emission control
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant specifications
Safety Systems:
Airbag systems, seatbelt mechanisms, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) diagnostics
Diagnostics:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) procedures, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic tools
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, lubrication, tire rotations, spark plug replacement
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair
Rebuild:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures, including torque specifications and clearances
Installation:
Instructions for installing aftermarket parts and OEM components
Adjustment:
Component adjustments (e.g., parking brake, clutch, throttle linkage)
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Diagnostic Scope:
In-depth diagnostic trees, component testing procedures, and electrical troubleshooting guides.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed, color-coded wiring diagrams for all electrical systems.
Torque Specs:
Extensive list of all torque specifications for engine, chassis, and body fasteners.
Tolerances:
Precision measurement tolerances for critical engine and transmission components.
Length:
Varies by generation, approx. 180-184 inches
Width:
Varies by generation, approx. 70-71 inches
Height:
Varies by generation, approx. 67-69 inches
Wheelbase:
Varies by generation, approx. 106-108 inches
Ground Clearance:
Approximately 5.5-6 inches
Seating Capacity:
7-passenger configuration standard (2-2-3 or 2-3-2 layout)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Significant, designed for family utility.
Cargo Volume With 3Rd Row Folded:
Substantially increased, maximizing utility.
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,700 - 4,200 lbs (depending on configuration and drivetrain)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle's VIN plate for specific GVWR.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by plug type: ~30,000 miles for standard, ~60,000-100,000 miles for iridium/platinum.
Transmission Fluid Service:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-4 years.
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific API classification and viscosity (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-30).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 - 5.5 quarts (with filter change), depending on engine.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant (e.g., Mazda FL22 Long Life Coolant or equivalent).
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific type (often ATF or dedicated PS fluid).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Engine Oil Leaks:
Common on higher mileage V6 engines, particularly valve cover gaskets and oil pan seals.
Transmission Hard Shifting:
Can occur with age and fluid degradation; regular fluid service is critical.
Exhaust Manifold Cracks:
Some V6 engines may develop cracks in exhaust manifolds, leading to ticking noises.
Suspension Wear:
Ball joints, control arm bushings, and sway bar links can wear over time, affecting ride and handling.
Power Window Motors:
Occasional failure of power window regulators and motors.
HVAC Blower Motor Failure:
Blower motor resistor or motor itself can fail, impacting cabin climate control.
Mazda Philosophy:
Focus on driving dynamics ('Jinba Ittai' - horse and rider as one), even in utility vehicles.
Generation 1 Launch:
1990
Generation 1 Design:
Distinctive 'cab-forward' design, front-wheel drive platform, available all-wheel drive.
Generation 2 Launch:
1999 (for model year 2000 in North America)
Generation 2 Redesign:
Major redesign, increased dimensions, improved styling, longer wheelbase, sliding rear doors introduced.
Engine Change 2Nd Gen:
Shift to 3.0L V6 (Ford-derived, later re-engineered by Mazda) for improved power.
Production Years:
1990-2005 (North America); continued in other markets until 2012.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Japan (Hofu Plant) for most models sold globally.