Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size luxury sedan.
Target Audience:
Owners seeking detailed DIY repair, maintenance, or professional mechanics.
Competitors 1996:
Acura Legend, Lexus ES 300, Infiniti J30, Toyota Avalon.
Manufacturer Positioning:
Mazda aimed to compete in the premium sedan market with a focus on performance and refined styling.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides in-depth technical knowledge essential for maintaining the complexity of a luxury sedan.
Engine System:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, and maintenance for engine operation.
Lubrication System:
Oil pump, filter, passages, oil pressure checks, and maintenance procedures.
Cooling System:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, coolant types, bleeding procedures, and troubleshooting.
Fuel And Emission Control System:
Fuel injection, fuel pump, injectors, EVAP system, O2 sensors, and emissions diagnostics.
Engine Electrical System:
Ignition system, starting system, charging system, ECU diagnostics, sensors, and wiring diagrams.
Automatic Transaxle:
Operation, control systems, hydraulic circuits, repair, and fluid maintenance.
Front And Rear Axles:
Differential operation, axle shaft seals, and related components.
Steering System:
Power steering pump, rack and pinion, steering column, and alignment procedures.
Braking System:
Hydraulic system, ABS components, brake pads, rotors, calipers, and bleeding.
Traction Control System:
Operation, sensors, actuators, and troubleshooting for TCS.
Wheels And Tires:
Tire specifications, wheel torque, and related maintenance.
Suspension:
Shock absorbers, struts, control arms, bushings, and alignment specifications.
Body:
Exterior panels, doors, glass, trim, and structural components.
Body Electrical System:
Lighting, power windows, locks, mirrors, wipers, and interior electronics.
Heater And Air Conditioning Systems:
HVAC system components, refrigerant, operation, and troubleshooting.
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine checks, fluid changes, filter replacements, and scheduled servicing.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed, step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair.
Disassembly And Assembly:
Complete guidance for dismantling and reassembling vehicle components.
Adjustment Procedures:
Specific instructions for calibrating and adjusting various systems.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic approaches to diagnose and resolve common and complex vehicle faults.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Methods for identifying the root cause of system malfunctions.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive; covers all aspects from basic maintenance to complete overhaul and advanced diagnostics.
Diagrams And Illustrations:
Includes drawings and specifications for assembly/disassembly.
Technical Specifications:
Detailed data including torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, and electrical parameters.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions.
Transmission Fluid Interval:
Often recommended around 60,000-100,000 miles or per severe service schedule.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG, SH, or SJ; SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended. Check manual for specific viscosity by temperature.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Mazda ATF-MV or equivalent DEXRON-III / MERCON.
Coolant Type:
Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent ethylene glycol based with corrosion inhibitors.
Common Engine Issues:
Intake manifold gasket leaks, coolant leaks, variable intake valve timing (VVT) solenoids (if equipped), carbon buildup.
Common Transmission Issues:
Slipping, delayed engagement, torque converter issues.
Common Electrical Issues:
Power window regulators, HVAC blower motor, intermittent dash lights.
Common Suspension Issues:
Worn control arm bushings, strut mounts.
