Segment:
Subcompact/Compact Coupe
Positioning:
Stylish, affordable sporty coupe with a focus on driving dynamics.
Competitors 1995:
Honda Civic Coupe, Toyota Corolla Coupe (AE101), Mitsubishi Eclipse, Nissan 200SX (S14).
Design:
Distinctive wedge-shaped styling, low-slung profile.
Handling:
Sport-tuned suspension, nimble handling characteristics.
Transmission Service:
Included
Wiring Diagrams:
Included
Electrical System:
Included
Periodic Lubrication:
Included
Fuel Injection Fuel System:
Included
Emission System:
Included
HVAC:
Included (Heater/Air Conditional)
Engine Control System:
Included
Restraint System:
Included
Differential Drive:
Included
General Maintenance:
Included
Troubleshooting:
Included (Advanced Guide)
Repair Procedures:
Included (Step-by-step, detailed substeps)
Diagnostic Procedures:
Included
Depth:
Complete Factory Specifications, Repair, Rebuild, Refurbish, Restore
Target Audience:
Professional Technicians and Mechanics, Owners
Compatibility:
All PC based Windows operating systems, Mac
Printability:
Printable without any restriction (entirely or selected pages)
Print Method:
Print individual pages or entire manual
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download - Printable)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download - Printable)
Engine Code:
KF-DE (typically for base models)
Engine Type:
DOHC Inline 4-cylinder
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1839 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
82.0 mm x 86.0 mm (typical for KF-DE)
Compression Ratio:
9.8:1 (typical for KF-DE)
Horsepower:
Approximately 125 hp @ 6000 RPM (for KF-DE)
Torque:
Approximately 115 lb-ft @ 4500 RPM (for KF-DE)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)
ECM Type:
ECU (Engine Control Unit) with integrated diagnostics.
Spark Plug Type:
NGK PFR6A-11 or equivalent (typical)
Transmission Type Standard:
5-Speed Manual
Transmission Type Optional:
4-Speed Automatic
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated, dry single plate.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III or equivalent (check manual for specific Mazda fluid recommendation)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90)
Length:
Approx. 4300 mm (169.3 in)
Width:
Approx. 1680 mm (66.1 in)
Height:
Approx. 1330 mm (52.4 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2500 mm (98.4 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1100-1150 kg (2425-2535 lbs) depending on trim and transmission.
NHTSA Rating:
Specific NHTSA ratings for the 1995 MX-3 are not readily available in general public databases, but similar vehicles of the era typically performed moderately.
ABS:
Available as an option on certain trims.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard. Passenger airbag typically optional or unavailable.
Seat Belts:
3-point front seatbelts, 2-point rear seatbelts.
Body Structure:
Unitized body construction with front and rear crumple zones.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), depending on plug type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial! Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years. This engine has an interference design, meaning belt failure will cause severe engine damage.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity recommendation based on climate).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio). Mazda Premium Long Life Coolant recommended for specific models.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Engine Common Issues:
Timing belt failure (if not replaced on schedule), minor oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan, potential for distributor issues.
Suspension Common Issues:
Worn bushings (control arms, sway bar), strut mounts.
Electrical Common Issues:
Corroded grounds, aging wiring harness issues, HVAC blower motor resistor failure.
Car And Driver 10Best:
The MX-3 was not a perennial winner of Car and Driver's 10Best, but its V6 variant (if applicable to North American market in '95) was often praised for its smoothness and power-to-weight ratio.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings for this era of Mazda were generally good, though specific model data can vary.