Positioning:
A sporty and stylish coupe, positioned as a more upscale and performance-oriented offering from Mazda, competing with vehicles like the Honda Prelude and Toyota Celica.
Competitors:
Honda Prelude, Toyota Celica, Mitsubishi Eclipse, Nissan 240SX
Features:
Sleek aerodynamic design, available powerful V6 engine, optional four-wheel steering (AWS), comfortable and well-appointed interior, sport-tuned suspension.
Powertrain:
Engine (including maintenance, diagnostics, and overhaul), Fuel System, Exhaust System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System
Transmission:
Manual Transmission (MT), Automatic Transmission (AT) (including removal, installation, overhaul, diagnostics, and fluid specifications)
Drivetrain:
Front Wheel Drive (FWD), Axles, Differentials, CV Joints
Suspension:
Front Suspension (MacPherson Strut), Rear Suspension (Multi-link), Shock Absorbers, Springs, Bushings, Wheel Alignment Specifications
Steering:
Power Steering System (including pump, rack and pinion, hydraulic lines, and troubleshooting)
Brakes:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Disc Brakes (or Drum depending on market/spec), ABS System (if equipped), Brake Fluid Specifications, Bleeding Procedures, Component Replacement
Electrical:
12V Electrical System, Battery, Alternator, Starter Motor, Fuses, Relays, Wiring Diagrams, Lighting System, Instruments, Gauges, Ignition Switch
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass, Seals, Body Repair, Rust Prevention
Interior:
Seats, Dashboard, Trim Panels, Headliner, HVAC System (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), Audio System
Safety:
Airbag System (if equipped), Seat Belts, Passive Safety Features
Maintenance:
Routine Maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement), Scheduled Maintenance Intervals, Fluid Checks and Top-offs
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides for Common Problems, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) (if applicable and documented), Symptom-based Diagnostics
Repair:
Component Removal and Installation, Reassembly Procedures, Torque Specifications, Adjustments, Calibration
Troubleshooting:
Detailed step-by-step troubleshooting for various systems and components
Technical Specifications:
Detailed technical data, diagrams, charts, and specifications for all major components and systems
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics and bodywork
Type V6:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (MT)
Type I4:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (MT)
Type V6:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (AT)
Type I4:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (AT)
Aws:
Optional Active Torque Split All-Wheel Drive (AWS) available on select models, featuring electronically controlled rear-wheel steering for improved handling and stability.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 (Refer to manual for exact specifications and capacity)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent) (Refer to manual for exact specifications and capacity)
NHTSA Ratings:
Specific NHTSA ratings for these model years may vary and are not universally published. Generally considered a safe vehicle for its era, but lacked advanced safety features by modern standards.
Features:
Four-Wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) (Optional on some models), Traction Control System (TCS) (Rare, primarily on AWD models)
Features:
Driver and Passenger Airbags, Three-Point Seatbelts with Pretensioners, Crumple Zones, Side-Impact Door Beams
Service Intervals General
Intervals:
Oil Changes: Every 5,000 miles or 6 months. Air Filter: Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Fuel Filter: Replace every 30,000 miles. Spark Plugs: Replace every 60,000 miles (iridium plugs may have longer intervals). Coolant: Flush and replace every 30,000 miles or 2 years. Transmission Fluid: Change every 30,000-60,000 miles depending on usage. Brake Fluid: Flush and replace every 2 years.
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to owner's manual for specific viscosity based on climate)
Coolant:
Mazda Long Life Coolant or equivalent (50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water)
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III ATF or specific Mazda power steering fluid
Common Problems:
Cracked dashboard (common in warm climates), worn suspension bushings, premature clutch wear (manual transmission), CV joint issues, potential for idle control valve issues, aging electrical components, aging rubber hoses and seals.
Oil Filter:
Mazda OEM: B600-14-302A (check specific engine and year for exact fitment)
Air Filter:
Mazda OEM: BP4W-13-215 (check specific engine and year for exact fitment)
Heritage:
Mazda has a long history of producing sporty and driver-focused vehicles, building on the success of predecessors like the RX-7 and the first-generation MX-6.
Generation 2:
The second generation (GE) MX-6, introduced in 1992 for the 1993 model year, was a significant departure from the first generation. It was co-developed with Ford, sharing its platform with the Ford Probe. This generation featured a more aerodynamic and flowing design, a longer wheelbase, and a more refined interior. It also introduced the advanced four-wheel steering system (AWS) as an option. Production continued through 1997 for the North American market, with some markets receiving it up to 1998.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Flat Rock, Michigan, USA (as part of the Mazda-Howa Joint Venture with Ford).
