Market Position:
Mid-size sedan/wagon segment, positioned as a stylish and engaging alternative to competitors like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Ford Fusion.
Competitive Analysis:
The 2005 Mazda 6 offered a compelling blend of sporty handling (Jinba Ittai driving philosophy), distinctive styling, and practicality, appealing to buyers seeking more than just basic transportation.
Key Features:
Sporty chassis tuning, available hatchback and wagon body styles, upscale interior appointments for its class, optional Bose premium audio system, advanced safety features.
Coverage Areas:
Full Service, Repair, Diagnostics, Maintenance, Electrical Schematics, Bodywork, Troubleshooting, Specifications
Page Count:
Estimated 2000+ pages (Digital Software)
Manual Type:
Official Factory Service Manual (Software)
Format:
Software (Digital Download / CD-ROM)
Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Control (ECM), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Drivetrain, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS, EBD), Air Conditioning (HVAC), Electrical System, Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts), Immobilizer, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Body & Chassis, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim
Systems Covered More:
Body electrical components (windows, locks, mirrors), climate control system (heater core, evaporator, refrigerant), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior lights), security system (immobilizer, alarm).
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Maintenance, Component Removal & Installation, Engine Overhaul, Transmission Service & Repair, Brake System Bleeding & Service, Steering System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Diagnostics & Repair, HVAC System Servicing, Body Panel Repair & Replacement, Diagnostic Troubleshooting Flowcharts, Torque Specifications, Wiring Diagrams, Component Testing Procedures, Lubrication & Fluid Changes
Procedures Included More:
Torque specifications for all major fasteners, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation and troubleshooting, component testing procedures (e.g., sensor resistance, voltage checks), timing belt/chain service (if applicable, though 2.3L uses timing chain), body panel alignment and repair.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic fluid changes to full engine/transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics)
File Format:
Proprietary Software or PDF via Digital Download
File Format Notes:
Software typically offers advanced search functionality, interactive diagrams, and sometimes video clips. Ensuring compatibility with modern operating systems is crucial for older software versions.
Print Quality:
N/A (Digital - High Resolution, Searchable Text)
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Software)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Software)
Content Completeness:
Complete factory service information, including repair procedures, technical specifications, wiring diagrams, and diagnostic information.
Primary Engine:
2.3L DOHC 16-valve Inline-4 (MZR L3-VE)
Horsepower 2.3L:
160 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Torque 2.3L:
155 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
Fuel System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Sequential Port Injection
Engine Codes:
L3-VE (2.3L), LF-DE (2.0L - less common in North America)
Block Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Compression Ratio 2.3L:
9.7:1
Cooling System Type:
Pressurized, liquid-cooled
Lubrication System Type:
Forced lubrication with wet sump
Standard Transmission:
5-Speed Manual (F5M-R)
Optional Transmission:
5-Speed Automatic (FN5A-EL)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Activematic (manual shifting mode), electronic control
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (Consult Manual for specific Mazda P/N)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Mazda ATF Type M-V (Consult Manual for specific Mazda P/N)
Differential Type:
Open Differential (integrated with transmission)
Manual Gear Ratios 1St 5Th:
Consult Manual (Typical for segment: 1st: ~3.6, 2nd: ~1.9, 3rd: ~1.3, 4th: ~1.0, 5th: ~0.75)
Automatic Gear Ratios 1St 5Th:
Consult Manual (Typical for segment: 1st: ~2.8, 2nd: ~1.6, 3rd: ~1.0, 4th: ~0.7, 5th: ~0.6)
Length Sedan:
approx. 187.6 inches
Width Sedan:
approx. 70.1 inches
Height Sedan:
approx. 57.3 inches
Wheelbase Sedan:
approx. 105.3 inches
Track Width Front Sedan:
approx. 60.0 inches
Track Width Rear Sedan:
approx. 59.6 inches
Front Headroom Sedan:
approx. 38.9 inches
Front Legroom Sedan:
approx. 42.5 inches
Rear Headroom Sedan:
approx. 37.4 inches
Rear Legroom Sedan:
approx. 34.8 inches
Trunk Volume Sedan:
approx. 14.2 cubic feet
Curb Weight Sedan Manual:
approx. 3,175 lbs
Curb Weight Sedan Automatic:
approx. 3,241 lbs
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Consult Vehicle Specific Sticker
Towing Capacity:
Not recommended for towing.
NHTSA Frontal Driver Rating 2005:
5 Stars
NHTSA Frontal Passenger Rating 2005:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Driver Rating 2005:
4 Stars
NHTSA Side Rear Passenger Rating 2005:
4 Stars
IIHS Frontal Offset Rating 2005:
Good
IIHS Side Impact Rating 2005:
Good
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS - availability varies by trim)
Passive Features:
Front Dual-Stage Airbags, Front Side-Impact Airbags, Side Curtain Airbags (available on some trims), Pretensioner Seatbelts
Passive Features More:
Collapsible Steering Column, Front and Rear Crumple Zones.
Infotainment Features:
Standard AM/FM/CD player, optional Bose premium audio system with subwoofer, available steering wheel audio controls.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise Control, Limited availability of traction control.
Connectivity Features:
Auxiliary input for audio (on some models/aftermarket).
Lighting Options:
Halogen headlights, optional fog lights.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (consult manual for specific oil type and severe duty intervals).
Engine Coolant Replacement:
Initial replacement at 60,000 miles, then every 45,000 miles thereafter (or as per manual).
Spark Plug Replacement 2.3L:
Platinum-tipped spark plugs: ~100,000 miles. Inspect at ~50,000 miles.
Engine Oil Spec 2.3L:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or higher (ILSAC GF-5 recommended). Capacity: approx. 4.5 quarts with filter.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (consult manual for specific recommendation)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Dexron III ATF or equivalent (consult manual for specific Mazda P/N)
Manual Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 2.0 liters (Consult Manual)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 8.0 liters (Total capacity, fluid change typically ~3.5-4.0 liters) (Consult Manual)
Engine Coolant Type:
Mazda FL22 Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Green) or equivalent silicate-free, ethylene glycol-based coolant.
Known Issues Common:
Rust/corrosion (especially in salt-belt regions), power steering pump leaks, catalytic converter failure, automatic transmission shifting issues, HVAC blower motor resistor failure, strut mount wear.
Oil Filter Part Number:
Consult manual or aftermarket equivalents (e.g., Mazda P/N B6Y1-14-302, Wix 57060, Fram PH7317)
Engine Air Filter Part Number:
Consult manual or aftermarket equivalents (e.g., Mazda P/N GJ21-13-215, Fram CA9930)
Brand Heritage:
Mazda, a Japanese automaker known for its 'Zoom-Zoom' driving philosophy and innovative rotary engines (though not featured in the 6), has a history of producing reliable and engaging vehicles.
Model Evolution:
The Mazda 6 replaced the Mazda Capella/626. The first generation (GG/GY/MPV) was introduced in 2002 and received a mid-cycle refresh for the 2006 model year. The 2005 model represents the pre-facelift version.
Model Evolution Notes:
The first-generation Mazda 6 was lauded for its European-influenced styling and dynamic driving characteristics, setting it apart from many mainstream sedans.
Production Locations:
Primary assembly in Hofu, Japan; Flat Rock, Michigan, USA (for North American market) under contract with Ford Motor Company.
First Generation Production:
2002-2008