Vehicle Segment:
Lightweight, affordable sports car (Roadster/Convertible)
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking a pure driving experience, affordable sports car ownership.
Key Competitors:
Lotus Elan, Triumph TR7 (historically), later models competed with Chevrolet Camaro/Pontiac Firebird Convertibles, Ford Mustang Convertible.
Design Philosophy:
Jinba Ittai (horse and rider as one) - driver-centric, balanced handling, lightweight construction.
Powertrain Layout:
Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive (RWD)
Body Style:
Two-door convertible
Manual Benefit Diy:
Empowers owners to perform their own maintenance and repairs, fostering a deeper connection with their vehicle and saving costs.
Engine Service:
Detailed troubleshooting, repair, and overhaul procedures for the 1.6L DOHC engine.
Transmission Service:
Procedures for both the 5-speed manual and optional 4-speed automatic transmissions.
Brake System:
Inspection, maintenance, and repair of front disc and rear drum brakes, including ABS if equipped.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive coverage of wiring diagrams, component testing, and diagnostic procedures for all electrical systems.
Suspension And Steering:
Maintenance and repair of the double wishbone suspension, steering rack, and related components.
Cooling System:
Service procedures for the radiator, water pump, thermostat, and cooling fan.
Fuel Injection System:
Detailed information on the electronic fuel injection (EFI) system, including fuel pump, injectors, and sensors.
Emission Control System:
Diagnosis and repair of emission control devices and related systems.
Chassis And Body:
Body panel alignment, repair procedures, and chassis maintenance.
Restraint System:
Information on seatbelts and airbags (if applicable to the specific 1990 model, though airbags were less common).
Interior Components:
Service and repair procedures for interior trim, seats, and dashboard components.
Differential And Drive Axle:
Maintenance and repair of the rear differential and drive axles.
Heater And Air Conditioning:
Service procedures for the HVAC system.
Engine Control System:
Diagnosis and troubleshooting of the Engine Control Unit (ECU) and related sensors.
General Maintenance:
Oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements, tire rotation, and general inspection procedures.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic steps for identifying and resolving common and uncommon vehicle issues.
Engine Repair:
Detailed instructions for engine assembly/disassembly, cylinder head service, piston and connecting rod replacement, and crankshaft service.
Transmission Repair:
Transmission overhaul, clutch replacement, and gear selection mechanism repair.
Brake System Repair:
Brake pad/shoe replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder overhaul, brake line repair, and bleeding procedures.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Testing of electrical components, circuits, and use of diagnostic tools.
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Replacement of ball joints, tie rod ends, shock absorbers, springs, and wheel bearings.
Fuel System Service:
Fuel injector cleaning, fuel filter replacement, fuel pressure testing, and fuel pump service.
Wiring Diagram Interpretation:
Guidance on understanding and utilizing the detailed wiring schematics for electrical diagnostics.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (DIY to Professional Shop Level)
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostic procedures and troubleshooting trees for all major systems.
Repair Complexity:
Covers routine maintenance to major component overhauls and rebuilds.
Special Tools:
Identification of necessary specialized tools and equipment for specific repairs.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using conventional oil).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles (Manual); Every 30,000 miles (Automatic).
Coolant Change Interval:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type And Capacity:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 (4.2 US quarts with filter).
Coolant Type:
Mazda Genuine Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, radiator leaks, window motor failures, subframe rust (especially in certain climates), O2 sensor issues.
Engine Management:
Potential for MAF sensor or TPS issues leading to rough idle or poor performance.
Rust Prone Areas:
Rocker panels, rear quarter panels, sills, and subframes are susceptible to rust.