Segment:
Entry-level luxury sedan
Competitors:
Acura Vigor, Lexus ES 300, Toyota Camry (higher trims), Nissan Maxima, Buick Park Avenue.
Engine Technology:
Miller-cycle V6 engine (optional) known for its torque and efficiency.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasized comfort, refinement, and quiet operation with unique styling.
Performance Focus:
Balanced performance with a focus on comfortable highway cruising.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine disassembly, inspection, and reassembly procedures for all engine variants.
Engine Management:
Detailed coverage of ignition system, fuel injection system, emissions control, and engine control module (ECM) diagnostics.
Transmission Automatic:
Complete overhaul and repair procedures for the automatic transmission, including torque converter and valve body.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, including drive axles, CV joints, and differential.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications, shock absorbers, springs, and bushings.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brake systems, ABS operation and diagnostics, brake fluid specifications, and component replacement.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, and alignment procedures.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, fuse and relay locations, lighting system, charging system, starting system, and accessory circuits.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, and component replacement.
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, door mechanisms, glass replacement, and structural information.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system diagnosis and service precautions.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, fluid checks and replacements, spark plug service, air filter replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common problems.
Repair And Overhaul:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing, actuator testing, and ECM data interpretation.
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearances, fluid capacities, and electrical values.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive and clearly labeled wiring schematics for all vehicle systems.
Diagnostic Depth:
Advanced diagnostics, including component-level testing and signal tracing.
Rebuild Depth:
Full engine and transmission rebuild procedures with detailed measurements and tolerances.
Service Bulletins:
Potential inclusion of manufacturer service bulletins relevant to the 1996 model year.
Engine 1 Code:
KJ-VEM (Miller Cycle)
Engine 1 Type:
2.3L V6 Supercharged Miller Cycle
Engine 1 Horsepower:
210 hp @ 5300 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
212 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:
86.0 mm x 83.0 mm
Engine 1 Compression Ratio:
8.0:1
Engine 2 Type:
2.5L V6 DOHC
Engine 2 Horsepower:
170 hp @ 6000 rpm
Engine 2 Torque:
155 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Engine 2 Bore X Stroke:
84.5 mm x 75.0 mm
Engine 2 Compression Ratio:
9.5:1
0 60 Mph:
Approx. 7.0-7.5 seconds (Miller Cycle)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 octane recommended for Miller Cycle)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 60,000 - 100,000 miles for iridium or platinum plugs (check specific engine variant).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Not applicable, both engines use a timing chain.
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 - 5.0 quarts (check owner's manual for precise amount and oil type)
Engine Oil Viscosity:
5W-30 or 10W-30 (API SG or higher, check owner's manual)
Coolant Type:
Mazda Long Life Coolant (or equivalent silicate-free coolant)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Miller Cycle Engine Detonation:
Can be sensitive to fuel quality and spark plug condition, leading to detonation. Requires precise maintenance.
Automatic Transmission Harsh Shifts:
Occasional reports of harsh shifting or delayed engagement, often related to fluid condition or valve body issues.
Ignition Coil Failure:
Some owners report ignition coil failures, leading to misfires.
Vacuum Hose Cracking:
Aging rubber vacuum hoses can crack, leading to vacuum leaks and performance issues.
Suspension Component Wear:
Typical wear items like ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings may require replacement with age and mileage.
Mazda Philosophy:
Mazda's commitment to driving dynamics and distinctive design.
Millenia Introduction:
Introduced in 1994 as Mazda's flagship sedan, replacing the Mazda 929.
Generation 1:
First generation (1994-1997) featured unique styling and the innovative Miller-cycle engine.
Generation 2:
Second generation (1997-2002) received updated styling and powertrain options, but discontinued the Miller-cycle engine.
Manufacturing Location:
Hofu Plant, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan
Production Period:
1994-2002