Segment:
Compact car, known for its sporty handling and reliability.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Nissan Sentra, Chevrolet Cavalier.
Handling:
Renowned for its well-tuned suspension and engaging driving dynamics.
Reliability:
Generally considered a reliable vehicle with a good reputation for longevity.
Value Proposition:
Offered a good balance of performance, features, and affordability.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system, timing system.
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emission control systems, turbocharging (if applicable).
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, transmission assembly, gears, bearings, seals, shift mechanism, service and overhaul procedures.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission assembly, hydraulic control, torque converter, gear sets, service and overhaul procedures, electronic control unit (ECU) interface.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive, half-shafts, CV joints, differential.
Suspension:
Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints, sway bar), rear suspension (independent or semi-independent, depending on model), wheel alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum configurations), ABS system, hydraulic components, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, fluid specifications.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.
Body And Chassis:
Body construction, panels, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, exterior trim, frame components.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant, compressor, evaporator, condenser, climate control diagnostics.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), seat belts, safety restraint system diagnostics.
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), scan tool procedures, troubleshooting flowcharts.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.
Component Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, steering system repair.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for various systems, identifying causes of common problems.
Electrical Repair:
Wiring repair, component testing, diagnosing electrical faults using wiring diagrams.
Bodywork Repair:
Panel replacement, dent repair, rust repair, glass replacement, interior trim removal/installation.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Displacement:
1.8L (1839 cc) - Common for many US models
Engine Code:
FS-DE (US market)
Horsepower:
Approximately 125-130 hp @ 6000 rpm (depending on market and specific trim)
Torque:
Approximately 115-120 lb-ft @ 4000-4500 rpm (depending on market and specific trim)
Induction:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
ECU:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) manages fuel, ignition, and emissions.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to specific manual for exact recommendation).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 60,000 miles (depending on spark plug type: standard or platinum).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 recommended for most conditions.
Coolant Type:
Mazda Genuine Long Life Coolant (Green) or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant with silicate inhibitors. A 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil (refer to manual for specific capacity).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mazda Genuine ATF JWS3314 or equivalent Dexron III compatible fluid (refer to manual for specific capacity).
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear and failure of engine mounts leading to vibration.
Exhaust Manifold:
Cracking of the exhaust manifold, leading to exhaust leaks and ticking noises.
Automatic Transmission:
Occasional issues with shifting, particularly in earlier models of the generation.
Power Steering Pump:
Potential for noisy or failing power steering pumps.
Window Regulators:
Failure of power window regulators.
