Target Audience:
Owners and independent repair shops seeking to perform maintenance and repairs on the specified Ford Telstar and Mazda 626 models.
Cost Savings:
Designed to help users save money on common maintenance tasks like oil changes, spark plug replacement, and air filter changes.
Ease Of Use:
Presented as an accessible resource for individuals intimidated by car repairs, emphasizing clarity and comprehensiveness.
Systems Covered:
Lubrication and Maintenance, Engine Tune-up, Engine, Cooling System, Fuel System, Clutch, Automatic Transmission, Steering, Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Brakes
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, diagnostics, repair procedures, component removal and installation, adjustments, specifications
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive; covers basic to advanced repair and maintenance tasks, suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
Primary Engine 1:
2.0L (1998cc) FE SOHC I4
Primary Engine 2:
2.0L (1998cc) FE-E SOHC I4 (EFI)
Primary Engine 3:
1.8L (1781cc) FP SOHC I4
Primary Engine 4:
2.0L (1998cc) RF Diesel I4 (Turbocharged for some markets/trims)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 85 hp to 120 hp depending on engine and specific market tune.
Torque Range:
Approximately 95 lb-ft to 120 lb-ft depending on engine and specific market tune.
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (various types, e.g., Hitachi, Keihin) or Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI).
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition System (Distributor-based).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., green universal or specified OEM type).
Oil Type Spec:
API SF or SG, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended for most climates (refer to manual for precise specification).
Standard Transmission:
5-speed manual transmission (e.g., F5M-R).
Optional Transmission:
4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., Jatco/Mazda 4EAT).
Automatic Transmission Modes:
Often includes a 'Normal' and 'Power' or 'Sport' mode.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron II or equivalent is common (verify with manual).
Clutch Fluid Type:
DOT 3 brake fluid (for hydraulic clutch systems).
Passive Safety:
Seat belts (front, often with pretensioners on later models), collapsible steering column, reinforced body structure.
Active Safety:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (with potential for rear discs on higher trims), power assisted brakes on many models.
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM radio with cassette player, potentially with 4 speakers. Aftermarket head unit upgrades common.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited by era; may include power steering (optional or standard depending on trim), power brakes.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, using the specified oil viscosity and API rating.
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Recommended every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Around 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), depending on spark plug type (copper vs. platinum).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km) or 2-3 years.
Engine Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 5.5-7.0 quarts (5.2-6.6 liters), varies by engine.
Common Wear Items:
Timing belts (critical to replace on schedule), fuel injectors/carburetor issues, suspension bushings, exhaust systems, rust in certain climates.
Common Electrical Issues:
Aging wiring harnesses, alternator issues, starter motor wear, dashboard light failures.
Engine Performance Issues:
The manual will cover diagnosing issues related to fuel delivery, ignition timing, vacuum leaks, and emissions controls.
Ford Telstar Heritage:
The Ford Telstar was a badge-engineered version of the Mazda 626, primarily sold in Australia, New Zealand, and parts of Asia, representing Ford's partnership with Mazda during this era.
Mazda 626 Generation:
This manual covers the GC generation of the Mazda 626 (1978-1982) and the GD generation (1982-1987), with the specific years 1983-1987 falling into the early to mid-GD phase.
Manufacturing Locations:
Mazda plants in Japan, and assembly by Ford Australia.
