Model Generations Covered:
First Generation (GE) and Second Generation (GD)
Production Years Covered:
1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997
Chassis Codes:
GE (First Gen), GD (Second Gen)
Segment:
Sporty coupe, often positioned as a stylish and performance-oriented alternative in its class.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Camry Coupe, Honda Prelude, Mitsubishi Eclipse, Nissan 240SX, Ford Probe.
Design Philosophy:
Sleek, aerodynamic styling, front-wheel drive platform, emphasis on driver engagement.
All Wheel Steering:
Optional (on some models/trims) Active Rear Wheel Steering (AWS) provided enhanced maneuverability and stability, a notable technological feature for its era.
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, repair shops, and owners seeking to maintain or restore their Mazda MX-6.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine disassembly, assembly, inspection, troubleshooting, and repair for all variants.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection system (EFI), ignition system, emission controls, sensors, actuators, ECU diagnosis and testing.
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission overhaul, clutch system, gear selection, and driveline components.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission diagnosis, repair, fluid changes, and electronic control systems.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake systems, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) if equipped, parking brake, component replacement, bleeding procedures.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, steering system, wheel alignment specifications, shock absorbers, struts.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack/gearbox, steering column, linkages, and troubleshooting.
Electrical System:
Starting and charging system, battery, lighting, power windows, door locks, wipers, horn, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.
Body And Trim:
Exterior and interior body panel removal/installation, trim pieces, glass replacement, door/hood/trunk adjustments.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system components, refrigerant handling, diagnosis, and repair.
Cooling System:
Radiator, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant specifications, and troubleshooting.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, and hangers.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, brake fluid, coolant flushes.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems.
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures, including torque specifications and tolerances.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic approaches to diagnosing and resolving common and uncommon vehicle issues.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic DIY maintenance to complex engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostics Level:
Advanced diagnostics, including interpretation of sensor data and electronic control unit (ECU) functions.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all circuits, essential for electrical troubleshooting.
Engine Options:
Naturally aspirated 4-cylinder and V6 engines. Specifics depend on generation and market.
First Gen Engine 1:
2.2L F2 (FE-DOHC) 16-valve Inline-4, producing approx. 145-164 hp.
First Gen Engine 2:
2.5L KL-DE 24-valve V6, producing approx. 160-180 hp.
Second Gen Engine 1:
2.5L KL-DE 24-valve V6, producing approx. 160-180 hp.
Horsepower Range:
145 hp to 180 hp (depending on engine and year).
Torque Range:
138 lb-ft to 154 lb-ft (depending on engine and year).
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) across all covered model years and engines.
Valvetrain:
DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft) for 4-cylinder, DOHC for V6.
Bore Stroke V6:
Approx. 84.5 mm x 74.2 mm (for KL-DE V6).
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission.
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission.
Transmission Coolers:
Automatic transmissions often equipped with dedicated coolers, detailed in the manual.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Typically ATF Dexron II or equivalent, specific part numbers and change intervals are critical and detailed in the manual.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 viscosity recommended, specific OEM part numbers provided.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 100.4 inches (2550 mm) for GE, 104.3 inches (2650 mm) for GD.
Length:
Approx. 177.7 inches (4515 mm) for GE, 184.8 inches (4695 mm) for GD.
Width:
Approx. 68.7 inches (1745 mm) for GE, 69.7 inches (1770 mm) for GD.
Height:
Approx. 51.8 inches (1315 mm) for GE, 52.4 inches (1330 mm) for GD.
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2900-3200 lbs (1315-1450 kg), varies by engine and equipment.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically around 4000 lbs (1814 kg).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions. Specifics in manual.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for V6 engines (KL-DE). Interval typically 60,000-90,000 miles. Manual provides exact procedure and torque specs.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by plug type (copper, platinum). Check manual for specific recommendations and gap settings.
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ or SL, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for exact year/engine specifics).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, Mazda Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent. Capacity approx. 7-8 quarts.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on model year and ABS presence. Capacity approx. 1 quart.
Kl De V6 Oil Consumption:
Some KL-DE V6 engines can experience oil consumption issues; manual provides diagnostic steps for piston rings and valve seals.
Automatic Transmission Issues:
Early automatic transmissions can exhibit shifting problems; manual covers valve body diagnostics and solenoid testing.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings and ball joints can wear over time, leading to noise and handling issues. Manual provides replacement procedures.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses and grounds can cause intermittent electrical faults; detailed wiring diagrams in manual are essential.
Automotive Press Reviews:
Often praised for its styling, handling, and V6 engine performance by automotive journalists of the era.
Design Awards:
Noted for its aerodynamic and attractive design, particularly the first generation.
Iso Certification Manual:
While the manual itself isn't ISO certified, it adheres to industry-standard documentation practices for automotive repair.
