🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

MX-6

Year:

1989

Chassis Code:

GE

First Generation Designation:

1st gen

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Sporty front-wheel-drive coupe, positioned as a stylish and performance-oriented alternative to mainstream sedans.

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts seeking a combination of performance, style, and practicality, appealing to a younger demographic and those looking for a unique sporty car.

Key Competitors:

Toyota Camry Coupe, Honda Accord Coupe, Ford Probe, Mitsubishi Eclipse, Nissan 240SX, Pontiac Grand Prix Coupe.

Design Philosophy:

Sleek, aerodynamic styling with a distinctive coupe profile, often featuring pop-up headlights.

Platform Sharing:

Shared platform with the Mazda Capella/626, offering a solid foundation.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Type:

Comprehensive

Repair Scope:

All Models & All Repairs A-Z

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 1500-2000 pages (typical for OEM service manuals of this era)

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, often derived from original printed FSM)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, inspection, diagnosis, timing, lubrication, cooling system, fuel delivery, emission controls, seals, gaskets, pistons, rings, crankshaft, camshaft, valves.

Engine Management:

Ignition system, fuel injection system (EFI), sensors (MAP, TPS, O2, ECT, CKP, CMP), actuators, ECU diagnosis, wiring diagrams, troubleshooting.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch system, gearbox assembly, disassembly, inspection, gear shifting mechanisms, linkages, bearings, seals, synchromesh, troubleshooting, fluid specifications.

Transmission Automatic:

Torque converter, transmission hydraulic system, valve body, planetary gear sets, clutches, bands, transmission control unit (TCU), troubleshooting, fluid specifications, cooling lines.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) system, CV joints, drive axles, differential, hubs, bearings, lubrication, troubleshooting.

Suspension:

Front suspension (MacPherson struts, control arms, ball joints, sway bar), rear suspension (multi-link independent suspension), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications, troubleshooting.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, pump, hoses, steering column, universal joints, troubleshooting, fluid type and capacity.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes (depending on trim/option), brake pads, rotors, calipers, master cylinder, brake booster, hydraulic lines, parking brake system, ABS (if equipped), bleeding procedures, troubleshooting.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring harness diagrams, connectors, grounding points.

Climate Control:

HVAC system, air conditioning (compressor, condenser, evaporator, refrigerant), heating system, blower motor, controls, ducting, troubleshooting.

Body And Trim:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, seats, glass, mirrors, weatherstripping, body repair, rust prevention, corrosion treatment.

Accessories:

Power windows, power locks, sunroof, cruise control, sound system, exterior trim, emblems, spoilers.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid replacement, transmission fluid changes, tire rotation, lubrication.

Diagnosis And Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (if applicable for EFI systems), electrical circuit testing, mechanical component testing.

Repair And Rebuild:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation for all major vehicle systems.

Component Replacement:

Detailed procedures for replacing parts such as engine components, transmission units, brake assemblies, suspension parts, electrical modules, body panels, and interior trim.

Adjustments:

Valve adjustments, throttle cable adjustments, parking brake adjustments, clutch pedal adjustments, wheel alignment procedures.

Special Tools And Equipment:

Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific repair or diagnostic procedures.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, including power distribution, grounds, component locations, and wire colors.

Depth:

Factory-level detail for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts.

Detail Level:

Provides torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, diagnostic charts, and step-by-step repair instructions.

Diagnostic Focus:

Emphasizes systematic diagnosis and troubleshooting for all major systems.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Searchable text content for quick information retrieval.

Print Readability:

High-resolution scans ensuring clear diagrams, illustrations, and text for printing.

Original Binding:

Likely Spiral-bound or Hardcover for printed versions.

Digital Binding:

N/A (Digital format)

Original Paper:

Durable, coated paper stock suitable for workshop environments.

Digital Paper Simulation:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

FE3 (2.0L DOHC 16V Inline-4)

Engine Displacement 1:

1991 cc

Engine Configuration 1:

Inline-4, DOHC, 16 valves

Bore X Stroke 1:

85.0 mm x 88.0 mm

Compression Ratio 1:

9.1:1

Horsepower 1:

145-160 hp @ 6000-6500 rpm (varies by market and specific tune)

Torque 1:

130-135 lb-ft @ 4000-4500 rpm (varies by market and specific tune)

Engine Code 2:

KL-DE (2.5L DOHC 24V V6)

Engine Displacement 2:

2490 cc

Engine Configuration 2:

V6, DOHC, 24 valves

Bore X Stroke 2:

84.5 mm x 74.2 mm

Compression Ratio 2:

9.1:1

Horsepower 2:

164-170 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque 2:

145-150 lb-ft @ 4500-5000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Approximately 15.5 gallons (58.5 liters)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

Traction Control:

Optional (often with automatic transmission and V6 engine)

All Wheel Drive:

Not typically available on the 1st generation MX-6.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 178.0 inches (4521 mm)

Width:

Approximately 69.1 inches (1755 mm)

Height:

Approximately 51.4 inches (1306 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 101.4 inches (2575 mm)

Front Track:

Approximately 58.7 inches (1491 mm)

Rear Track:

Approximately 57.9 inches (1471 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 2800-3100 lbs (1270-1406 kg), depending on engine and options.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Not commonly specified in marketing materials, but important for load capacity.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Likely not available or tested under modern rating systems. Early 1990s safety standards differed significantly.

ABS:

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

Traction Control:

Optional on some models.

Seat Belts:

Front 3-point seat belts with pretensioners (common for the era), rear lap belts.

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag was not standard and might have been optional or unavailable on all 1989 models.

Headrests:

Front and rear headrests (design varies by seat type).

Crumple Zones:

Designed with front and rear crumple zones for energy absorption in impacts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM cassette stereo with 4 to 6 speakers. Optional CD player may have been available later in the generation.

Dashboard Display:

Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, and temperature. Warning lights for various systems.

Cruise Control:

Optional electronic cruise control system.

Power Steering:

Standard hydraulic power-assisted steering for improved maneuverability.

Connectivity Features:

Limited to basic vehicle functions; no modern infotainment connectivity (Bluetooth, USB, etc.) available from the factory.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 - 5,000 miles (6,000 - 8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Check manual for specific recommendations based on driving conditions.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km), or as needed based on inspection.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) depending on spark plug type (copper vs. platinum).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial for DOHC engines. Every 60,000 - 90,000 miles (96,000 - 145,000 km). If the belt breaks, catastrophic engine damage will occur (interference engine).

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended. Check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on ambient temperature.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter for 2.0L, approx. 5.0 quarts (4.7 liters) with filter for 2.5L V6.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mazda recommends specific mixtures.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 recommended. Capacity approx. 2.0-2.5 liters.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron II or equivalent. Capacity approx. 3.0-3.5 liters for fluid change, higher for overhaul.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron II or equivalent.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4. Always use fresh, sealed fluid.

Engine 2 0L Fe3:

Timing belt failure if not replaced at recommended intervals (interference engine), potential for valve stem seal leaks causing oil consumption.

Engine 2 5L Kl De:

Less prone to catastrophic failure than the 2.0L, but can still have head gasket issues with age and neglect. Intake manifold gaskets can leak.

Suspension:

Wear in control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends can lead to alignment issues and clunking noises.

Electrical:

Degradation of wiring harnesses and connectors over time, especially in high-heat areas. Power window motors and regulators can fail.

Rust:

Common rust areas include wheel wells, rocker panels, and the rear strut towers due to age and exposure to elements.

HVAC:

A/C system recharge and compressor issues are common with age. Blend door actuators or vacuum lines can fail.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Legacy:

Mazda has a long history of producing sporty and driver-focused vehicles, known for innovations like the rotary engine and lightweight designs.

Predecessor:

The MX-6 succeeded the Mazda RX-7 (SA/FB generation) as Mazda's primary front-wheel-drive sporty coupe, though it served a different market segment.

Platform Development:

The first-generation MX-6 (GE chassis) was developed under the Codename 'Type 481' and shared its platform with the fourth-generation Mazda Capella (GD series) / Mazda 626.

Design Collaboration:

The design was heavily influenced by Mazda's research into aerodynamics and driver ergonomics.

Production Years:

1987-1992 (for the first generation).

Manufacturing Location:

Hofu Plant, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan.

Market Introduction 1989:

The 1989 model year represented a continuation of the initial launch of the first-generation MX-6, with minor updates likely occurring between model years.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Journal Awards:

While specific awards for the 1989 model are not widely publicized, the MX-6 consistently received positive reviews for its styling, handling, and value proposition during its production run.

Performance Reviews:

Often praised for its engaging driving dynamics, especially in V6 variants, and considered a competent performer in its class.

Manufacturing Standards:

Manufactured to Mazda's rigorous quality control standards of the era.