Segment:
Compact Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
Individuals and small businesses seeking a practical, affordable, and reliable light-duty truck for personal or work use.
Key Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10, GMC Sonoma, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier
Vehicle Platform:
Shared platform with the Ford Ranger (Mazda's version of the compact truck co-developed with Ford).
Value Proposition:
Offers a balance of utility, fuel efficiency (relative to larger trucks), and straightforward mechanics, often at a competitive price point.
Primary Coverage:
Owner's Information, Operation, Maintenance, Safety Features
Secondary Coverage:
Basic Troubleshooting, Vehicle Identification
Total Pages:
Approximately 100-150 pages (typical for this model year owner's manual)
Powertrain:
Engine operation, lubrication, cooling system basics, fuel system overview, exhaust system overview, transmission operation (automatic and manual)
Chassis:
Brakes (ABS overview, parking brake), steering system, suspension system overview, wheels and tires
Electrical:
Lighting system, instrument cluster and gauges, warning indicators, basic audio system operation, power accessories (windows, locks), battery information
Body And Interior:
Door locks, seat adjustments, safety belts, airbags, climate control system, interior features, exterior features (doors, hood, tailgate)
Routine Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, basic bulb replacement guidance, fuel filling procedures
Emergency Procedures:
Jump starting, changing a flat tire, operating hazard lights, basic troubleshooting of warning lights
Safety Operation:
Proper use of safety belts, understanding airbag system, child restraint system installation guidance
Depth:
Owner-level operation and basic maintenance. Does not include diagnostic codes, detailed repair procedures, or component-level diagnostics.
Digital Format Considerations:
If offered as PDF, expect searchable text and scannable pages. Print quality would be dependent on the source scan/digital file.
Original Print Quality:
Standard OEM print quality for owner's manuals of the era: clear text, functional diagrams, often color for key illustrations.
Original Binding:
Typically saddle-stitched booklet binding.
Original Paper Type:
Standard paper stock, durable enough for regular use.
Engine Code:
YF-DE (or similar Ford 2.3L Duratec variant)
Engine Description:
2.3L Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Horsepower:
Approximately 143 hp @ 5250 rpm
Torque:
Approximately 157 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Engine Oil Capacity:
5.5 US quarts (5.2 Liters) with filter (check manual for exact spec)
Engine Oil Viscosity:
5W-30 (API Service SG, SH, or SJ)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Automatic Transmission Model:
Likely a variant of Ford's 4R44E or 4R55E automatic transmission.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
MERCON V Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 7.2 US quarts (6.8 Liters) for a drain and fill (check manual for exact spec)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 114.5 inches (for standard cab)
Overall Length:
Approximately 190 inches (for standard cab, short bed)
Bed Length:
Approximately 71.5 inches (short bed)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3,100 - 3,400 lbs (depending on configuration)
Max Payload Capacity:
Approximately 1,000 - 1,300 lbs (depending on configuration)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Four-star rating (typical for this model year and segment, check specific recall data for variations)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Four-star rating (typical)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available or standard depending on trim level.
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags
Seat Belts:
Three-point front seat belts, two-point rear seat belts (if applicable), manual lap belts in rear jump seats (if equipped)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 3-5 years (depending on coolant type and conditions).
Coolant Type:
Ford Premium Engine Coolant (green)
Engine Performance:
Some 2.3L engines may experience occasional misfires or rough idle, often related to ignition components (spark plugs, coils) or vacuum leaks. Catalytic converter issues can also occur over time.
Transmission:
Automatic transmissions can sometimes develop issues with shifting, potentially due to solenoid problems or low fluid levels. Manual transmissions are generally robust but clutch wear is expected.
Suspension And Steering:
Ball joint wear, tie rod end wear, and front suspension bushings can be common wear items on trucks of this age and mileage.
Electrical Systems:
Corrosion on electrical connectors, especially ground points, can lead to intermittent issues with lights or accessories.
Oil Filter Part Number:
Motorcraft FL-400S or equivalent (e.g., Fram PH3600, Wix 51515)
Air Filter Part Number:
Motorcraft FA-1640 or equivalent (e.g., Fram CA8053, Wix 42779)
Mazda Truck History:
Mazda has a long history of producing compact trucks, notably the Mazda Proceed and B-Series line, which this B2300 is part of.
B Series Generation:
This generation of the Mazda B-Series (including the B2300) is largely based on the fourth generation of the Ford Ranger, which began with the 1998 model year.
Manufacturing Location:
Typically assembled at the AutoAlliance International plant in Flat Rock, Michigan, a joint venture between Mazda and Ford.
Model Years Produced:
The B2300 designation specifically refers to the 2.3L engine variants produced from 1994 through 2009 (though the platform evolved).
Automotive Press Reviews:
While specific awards for the 2002 B2300 are scarce, vehicles in this segment often received praise for value, fuel economy, and reliability from publications like MotorTrend or Car and Driver during their production runs.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings for the Mazda B-Series (and its Ford Ranger counterpart) have historically been average to above average, depending on the specific model year and components.
