Engine Mechanical:
Detailed component descriptions, disassembly, inspection, assembly, and torque specifications for all engine variants.
Engine Performance Tuning:
Ignition timing, fuel mixture, idle speed adjustments, and diagnostic procedures.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (EFI), fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulator, fuel tank, and lines.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan operation, and coolant specifications.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, and pipes.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch operation, manual gearbox disassembly, inspection, and assembly.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission operation, fluid checks, adjustments, and major overhaul procedures.
Drivetrain Front Wheel Drive:
CV joints, drive axles, differential components.
Suspension Front:
MacPherson strut design, control arms, ball joints, bushings, and alignment specifications.
Suspension Rear:
Independent rear suspension (IRS) design, multi-link components, bushings, and alignment specifications.
Steering System:
Power steering system components, pump, rack and pinion, tie rods, and steering column.
Brake System:
Front disc brakes, rear disc or drum brakes (depending on trim), master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, pads, and bleeding procedures.
Anti Lock Braking System ABS:
ABS component identification, diagnostic procedures, and troubleshooting (if equipped).
Electrical System Overview:
Wiring diagrams for all circuits, component locations, and fuse/relay information.
Charging System:
Alternator, battery, voltage regulator, and related wiring.
Starting System:
Starter motor, ignition switch, and related circuits.
Lighting System:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, and signal systems.
Instrumentation And Gauges:
Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, warning lights, and their diagnostics.
Climate Control HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system operation, components, and service.
Body Electrical Accessories:
Power windows, power locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, and sunroof controls.
Body And Frame:
Panel removal and installation, structural components, and chassis details.
Paint And Trim:
Body panel identification, trim piece removal and installation.
Interior Trim:
Seat removal, dashboard disassembly, door panel removal, and headliner service.
Preventive Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid level checks, belt inspections, spark plug replacement, and more.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Systematic fault finding, diagnostic codes (OBD-I era), and symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Engine Rebuilding:
Full engine teardown, component measurement, bearing clearances, piston ring installation, valve seating, and reassembly.
Transmission Overhaul:
Detailed steps for rebuilding both manual and automatic transmissions, including clutch pack replacement and valve body service.
Brake System Repair:
Caliber overhaul, rotor/drum replacement, brake line replacement, and bleeding procedures.
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Replacement of ball joints, tie rod ends, control arm bushings, struts/shocks, and power steering pump/rack.
Electrical Component Replacement:
Alternator, starter, ignition coil, fuel injectors, sensors, and actuators.
Body Panel Replacement:
Door replacement, fender replacement, hood replacement, and bumper cover service.
Interior Component Repair:
Dashboard repair, seat upholstery, door panel repair, and headliner replacement.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full component rebuilds and advanced diagnostics.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information relevant to using OBD-I scanners and analog multimeter testing.
Torque Specifications:
Extensive list of all critical torque values for fasteners throughout the vehicle.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed, often color-coded, wiring schematics for all major electrical systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles for conventional plugs, potentially longer for platinum or iridium if applicable to this specific model year.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for V6 models (J5 engine). Typically 60,000-90,000 miles. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SG or SG/CD rated, SAE 10W-30 is common, but check manual for exact specification (e.g., 5W-30 or 5W-40 in colder climates).
Coolant Spec:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Manual specifies capacity and type (e.g., Mazda Blue).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 75W-85 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mazda ATF-III or equivalent DEXRON-III/MERCON. Capacity approx. 3-4 quarts for drain and fill.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
Typically Dexron II or III ATF, or a specific power steering fluid recommended by Mazda.
Engine Mounts:
Can degrade over time, leading to increased vibration.
Pop Up Headlight Motors:
Motors and gears can wear out, causing sluggish or inoperative headlights. Manual details repair.
Suspension Bushings:
Rubber bushings in control arms and sway bars can crack and wear, affecting handling and ride quality.
Automatic Transmission Reliability:
While generally reliable, older automatic transmissions can develop shifting issues if not properly maintained. Manual is key for diagnosis.
Rust And Corrosion:
Common on vehicles of this era, particularly in rust-belt regions. Manual covers body panel repair.
Timing Belt Tensioner Wear:
Can lead to premature belt wear or slippage on V6 models if not replaced with the belt.