Segment:
Kei car (Japan-domestic market)
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, independent repair shops, owners performing DIY maintenance on Mazda Carol models with the K6A engine.
Competitors Segment:
Other Japanese Kei cars of the era, e.g., Suzuki Alto, Daihatsu Mira, Honda Life.
Manual Strength:
Focus on the specific Suzuki K6A engine, providing detailed, factory-level repair procedures crucial for this compact powerplant.
Value Proposition:
Enables owners and technicians to perform accurate diagnostics and repairs, maintaining the reliability and longevity of a specialized vehicle.
Engine Mechanical:
Cylinder head, block, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, camshafts, valve train
Engine Fuel System:
Fuel injection system, injectors, fuel pump, fuel filter, throttle body
Engine Ignition System:
Ignition coils, spark plugs, ignition timing
Engine Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant passages
Engine Lubrication System:
Oil pump, oil filter, oil passages, oil pressure
Engine Air Intake:
Air filter, intake manifold, sensors (MAF/MAP)
Engine Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, sensors (O2)
Emission Control:
PCV system, evaporative emission control
Engine Control System:
ECU, sensors, actuators, wiring diagrams
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting
Repair Procedures:
Engine disassembly, assembly, component replacement
Tests And Adjustments:
Compression tests, leak-down tests, idle speed adjustment, timing adjustments
Component Rebuilds:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head rebuild
Wiring Diagrams:
Electrical system schematics for engine management
Depth:
Comprehensive, factory-level repair and diagnostic information
Engine Type:
Inline 3-cylinder, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft), Naturally Aspirated or Turbocharged variants possible within the K6A family.
Displacement:
658cc (660cc class)
Bore X Stroke:
Typically 68.0 mm x 74.4 mm (for K6A)
Compression Ratio:
Typically around 10.0:1 to 10.5:1 for naturally aspirated versions.
Horsepower:
Approximately 50-60 PS (Naturally Aspirated), higher for turbocharged variants (e.g., 64 PS restricted by Kei car regulations).
Torque:
Approximately 60-70 Nm (Naturally Aspirated), higher for turbocharged variants.
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition Timing:
Electronically controlled by ECU.
Block Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Cylinder Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Length:
Approximately 3,395 mm (Kei car regulation limit)
Width:
Approximately 1,475 mm (Kei car regulation limit)
Height:
Approximately 1,500 - 1,550 mm (depending on suspension)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 700-800 kg (varies by configuration)
Crash Test Data:
Likely limited official crash test data for international markets; JNCAP testing for Japanese models would be relevant.
Braking System:
Front ventilated disc brakes, rear drum brakes. ABS likely optional or standard on higher trims.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags likely standard on many models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners
Features:
Basic AM/FM radio, possibly with CD player. Likely analogue controls, limited digital integration.
Features:
Very limited by modern standards. Features would likely include power steering (variable assist depending on trim), possibly ABS.
Features:
No advanced connectivity features like Bluetooth, USB, or smartphone integration.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 5,000-10,000 km or 6-12 months (refer to manual for precise interval based on driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 km or as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 km, depending on plug type (copper, platinum, iridium).
Coolant Replacement:
Every 2-4 years or 40,000-80,000 km.
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended (confirm viscosity based on ambient temperature and manual).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid At:
Dexron III or equivalent (confirm with manual). Capacity ~3-4 liters.
Transmission Fluid Mt:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil. Capacity ~1.5-2 liters.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Engine Oil Consumption:
Some K6A engines can develop increased oil consumption due to wear in piston rings or valve stem seals, especially at higher mileage. This manual would detail inspection procedures.
Timing Chain Wear:
The K6A uses a timing chain, which is generally durable but can stretch over time, leading to noise or potential timing issues. The manual would cover inspection and replacement.
Ignition Coil Failures:
Coil-on-plug or distributorless ignition systems can experience individual coil failures, leading to misfires. The manual would provide diagnostic steps.
Oxygen Sensor Degradation:
Aging O2 sensors can affect fuel mixture and emissions. Troubleshooting and replacement procedures would be covered.
Mazda Kei Cars:
Mazda has a history of producing Kei cars, often in collaboration or through rebadging agreements, to cater to the Japanese market's specific regulations and preferences.
Carol Lineage:
The Mazda Carol nameplate has been used for various Mazda Kei cars, with the 1998-2001 generation being a rebadged version of the fifth-generation Suzuki Alto.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
