Target Audience:
Economy-minded buyers, first-time car owners, enthusiasts
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Nissan Sentra
Vehicle Strengths:
Reliability, affordability, good handling (especially Mazdaspeed versions), practical interior
Manual Value:
Enables DIY repairs, reduces labor costs, ensures correct procedures are followed
Primary Coverage:
Complete repair and service procedures
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, diagnostics, electrical systems, chassis, body
Estimated Pages:
Approximately 1500-2000 (typical for a comprehensive factory service manual of this era)
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, inspection, and repair for all variants
Engine Performance:
Engine tuning, fuel injection, ignition system, emission control
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission repair, clutch, gearbox
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission repair, torque converter, shift control
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive, axles, CV joints, differential
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, tie rods
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS, brake lines, master cylinder, calipers
Electrical System Powertrain:
Engine control module (ECM), sensors, actuators, wiring diagrams for powertrain
Electrical System Body:
Lighting, wipers, power windows, door locks, interior electronics, wiring diagrams for body
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system diagnosis and repair
Body And Frame:
Body panels, doors, bumpers, chassis structure, repair procedures
Fundamental Procedures:
Basic maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic flowcharts
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair
Scheduled Maintenance:
Recommended service intervals and procedures
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Detailed wiring diagrams, component testing, circuit analysis
Pre Delivery Inspection:
Inspection checklist for new vehicles
Jacking And Towing:
Correct jacking points, lifting procedures, towing guidelines
Depth:
Comprehensive: from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, advanced diagnostics
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-star driver, 4-star passenger (for sedan, typical for the era)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
ABS:
Available (standard on higher trims, optional on some)
Traction Control:
Less common, potentially available on specific trims or Mazdaspeed models
Airbags Front:
Standard dual front airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional front side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (typical recommendation)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months (typical)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (depending on spark plug type)
Timing Belt Replacement:
This model uses a timing chain, not a belt, which generally does not require periodic replacement.
Engine Oil:
API SN/SP, ILSAC GF-6A, SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (check manual for specific engine variant)
Coolant:
Mazda FL22 Long Life Coolant (or equivalent G12/G12+ type, pre-diluted)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Engine Oil Consumption:
Some FS-DE engines can experience increased oil consumption with age and mileage; proper maintenance is key.
Exhaust Manifold:
Cracking on the exhaust manifold can occur due to thermal stress.
Cv Boots:
Front CV axle boots can wear and tear, leading to lubrication loss and joint damage.
Ac Compressor:
AC compressor clutch or the unit itself can fail over time.
Mazda Philosophy:
Jinba Ittai - unity of horse and rider, emphasizing driver engagement and responsiveness
Generation:
Second Generation (BJ, 1998-2003)
Facelift:
Minor facelift for 2001 model year, continuing into 2002
Manufacturing Location:
Hofu, Yamaguchi, Japan; AutoAlliance International, Flat Rock, Michigan, USA (for some markets)
