Class:
Entry-level Luxury Sedan / Mid-size Sedan
Target Audience:
Consumers seeking a blend of performance, comfort, and luxury
Competitors:
Acura Legend, Lexus ES 300, Infiniti J30, Toyota Avalon
Distinguishing Technology:
Miller Cycle supercharged V6 engine (unique in its class at the time)
Design Philosophy:
Focus on quiet, comfortable, and refined driving experience with a touch of sportiness
Authenticity:
Directly sourced from dealership technician manuals, ensuring accuracy and completeness
Repair Confidence:
Empowers owners and independent mechanics with the knowledge to perform repairs correctly the first time
Diagnostic Codes:
OBD-I and early OBD-II (if applicable for year)
Repair Scope:
All models and all repairs A-Z
Geographic Coverage:
North America (likely, based on common market availability)
Estimated Pages:
1000-1500 (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals of this era)
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Purpose:
For dealership technicians and professional repair use
Format:
Printed (as implied by 'exact same manual used by technicians')
Engine Mechanical:
Full disassembly, inspection, assembly, timing, lubrication system, cooling system, engine management system
Engine Performance:
Supercharger operation and maintenance, fuel injection system, ignition system
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (e.g., 4-speed electronic automatic), clutch, torque converter, transmission control module (TCM)
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD), axles, CV joints, differential
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, springs, alignment procedures
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, column, alignment
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system (Anti-lock Braking System), brake fluid specifications, hydraulic system
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system, refrigerant, compressor, blower motor, climate control panel
Body And Interior:
Exterior trim, body panels, doors, windows, seats, dashboard, interior trim panels
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Repair:
Engine component replacement, transmission service, suspension overhaul, brake system repair, electrical component troubleshooting and replacement
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values
Special Tools:
Identification of special tools required for specific procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive, from routine maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds
Diagnostic Detail:
Advanced diagnostic strategies, circuit analysis, sensor data interpretation
Accuracy:
Factory-level accuracy and detail, specific to the 1996 Millenia
Type:
4-speed Automatic Electronically Controlled (4EAT)
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios detailed within the manual (e.g., 1st: 2.804, 2nd: 1.509, 3rd: 1.000, 4th: 0.720, Reverse: 2.100)
Availability:
None (only automatic was offered for the Millenia)
Control:
Transmission Control Module (TCM) for adaptive shift control and diagnosis
Fluid Type:
Mazda ATF MV, Dexron III, or Mercon equivalent
Capacity Qt:
Approx. 4.0-4.5 quarts (pan drop and refill)
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not specifically rated by NHTSA for this year/model, but generally considered safe for its class
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional (or standard on higher trims)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts with pretensioners, 3-point rear seatbelts
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced roof structure (standard)
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific plug type)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years (under severe driving conditions, more frequently)
Engine Oil:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 (or 10W-30 depending on temperature)
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based, Mazda specific or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Engine Oil Capacity Qt:
Approx. 4.2 quarts with filter change
Engine:
Potential for oil leaks, issues with the supercharger belt tensioner, carbon build-up in cylinders due to Miller cycle design (requiring decarbonizing)
Transmission:
Harsh shifting or slipping can indicate TCM or solenoid issues
Electrical:
Aging wiring harnesses, intermittent sensor failures, HVAC control panel issues
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, premature strut wear