Market Position:
The Mazda MX-6 was positioned as a stylish, front-wheel-drive personal luxury coupe, often competing with vehicles like the Honda Prelude, Ford Probe (which shared its platform), and Mitsubishi Eclipse.
Competitive Analysis:
Offered a blend of sporty styling, comfortable interior, and a refined driving experience, aiming at buyers who valued aesthetics and everyday drivability over raw performance. The 1990 model year represents a key point in its first generation, often featuring a V6 engine option.
Key Features:
Pop-up headlights, sleek aerodynamic design, front-wheel drive, optional V6 engine, available all-wheel steering (AWS) on certain trims, comfortable and driver-oriented cockpit.
Coverage Areas:
All models and all repairs A-Z
Page Count:
Varies by original publication, typically 1000+ pages for comprehensive factory service manuals.
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Likely a physical book or digitized PDF.
Systems Covered:
Engine (mechanical, fuel, ignition, cooling, lubrication), Transmission (manual & automatic), Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes (ABS if equipped), Electrical System (lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, starting, charging), Climate Control, Body & Chassis, Diagnostics, Specifications, Torque Values, Wiring Diagrams.
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, scheduled service, component removal and installation, troubleshooting, diagnostic procedures, repair and overhaul of all major systems, bodywork repair, electrical system diagnostics.
Technical Depth:
Vehicle-specific, factory-level detail for technicians; covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including specialized tools and diagnostic techniques.
File Format:
N/A (Physical) or PDF (Digital)
Print Quality:
High (for original factory manuals), clarity of diagrams and text is crucial.
Binding Type:
Comb-bound, hardcover, or paperback (depending on original publisher).
Paper Type:
Durable paper stock suitable for workshop environments.
Engine Options:
Commonly offered were the 2.2L F2T (turbocharged inline-4) and the 2.5L J5A (V6). The manual specifies which engines are covered.
Engine Horsepower Torque:
1990 2.2L Turbo (F2T): Approx. 145-164 hp, 170-185 lb-ft torque. 1990 2.5L V6 (J5A): Approx. 164 hp, 156 lb-ft torque. Exact figures will be in the manual.
Fuel Injection:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for both engine variants.
Standard Transmission:
5-speed manual transmission.
Optional Transmission:
4-speed automatic transmission.
Transmission Features:
The manual will detail specific clutch specifications, torque converter details, gear ratios, and fluid capacities for both manual and automatic transmissions.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 100.4 inches (2550 mm).
Length:
Approx. 175.0 inches (4445 mm).
Width:
Approx. 68.1 inches (1730 mm).
Height:
Approx. 51.8 inches (1315 mm).
Curb Weight:
Ranges from approximately 2900 to 3300 lbs (1315 to 1500 kg), depending on engine and options.
Safety Ratings:
Specific NHTSA/IIHS ratings for 1990 models may be limited or unavailable. The manual will detail built-in safety features.
Active Safety Features:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on some models, power-assisted disc brakes (front), power-assisted drum or disc brakes (rear).
Passive Safety Features:
Seat belts (3-point front, 2-point rear), reinforced safety cage, energy-absorbing steering column, padded interior surfaces.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, often with optional premium sound system and amplifier. Manual covers radio removal and speaker replacement.
Driver Assistance Features:
Optional All-Wheel Steering (AWS) system on some trims, cruise control.
Connectivity Features:
Basic by modern standards; primarily focused on mechanical and electrical systems covered by the manual.
Recommended Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for precise intervals.
Recommended Tune Up Interval:
Spark plugs, air filter, fuel filter replacements at specified mileage intervals (e.g., 30,000-60,000 miles).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended. Manual will specify exact grades based on temperature.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant. Manual specifies mixture ratio and capacity.
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
GL-4 gear oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90).
Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent ATF. Manual specifies capacity and type.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Wear Items:
CV joints, exhaust system, suspension bushings, power window regulators, turbocharger (on F2T models), fuel injectors.
Electrical Gremlins:
As with many cars of this era, minor electrical issues related to aging wiring, grounds, and switches can occur. Manual is key for diagnosis.
Brand Heritage:
Mazda has a long history of producing sporty and driver-focused vehicles, from the iconic RX-7 to the Miata. The MX-6 builds on this legacy of stylish coupes.
Model Evolution:
The first-generation MX-6 (GD) was produced from 1987 to 1991. It was based on the Mazda Capella platform and shared mechanicals and styling cues with its sibling, the Ford Probe. The 1990 model year falls within this successful first generation.
Production Period:
1987-1991 (1st Generation).
