Segment:
Compact/C-segment sedan and hatchback, known for its sporty handling and upscale interior for its class.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf, Subaru Impreza.
Design Philosophy:
Mazda's 'Zoom-Zoom' philosophy emphasized dynamic driving experience, responsive handling, and engaging performance.
Platform:
Shared platform with Ford Focus Mk2 and Volvo S40/V50 (during Ford's ownership of Mazda).
Regions Covered:
Global (primarily North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, reflecting common specifications for the BK generation)
Estimated Pages:
Thousands (Digital format implies comprehensive depth, typically exceeding 1000 pages in printable equivalent)
Type:
Digital Workshop Repair Manual
Language:
English (Standard for most official workshop manuals of this era, though region-specific variations may exist)
Format:
Digital (Likely PDF or proprietary digital format, searchable and hyperlinked)
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, exhaust, emissions control, engine management (ECU diagnostics and calibration)
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual Transmission (MT), Automatic Transmission (AT), clutch system, axles, driveshafts, differentials, AWD system (if applicable)
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension (McPherson strut), rear suspension (multi-link), steering system (power steering pump, rack and pinion), wheel alignment specifications
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), brake fluid specifications, hydraulic system
Electrical Electronics:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses and relays, wiring diagrams, instrument cluster, body control module (BCM), immobilizer system
Body Chassis:
Body construction, exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, sunroof, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning), chassis components, corrosion protection
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting charts, fault code interpretation (OBD-II), symptom-based diagnostics, component testing
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, fluid checks and replacements, filter replacements, spark plug service, brake pad replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed instructions for major component rebuilds (e.g., engine, transmission)
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, pressure readings, electrical specifications
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, diagnostics, repair, troubleshooting, and complete rebuild procedures for all major vehicle systems.
File Type:
PDF (most common for digital workshop manuals, allowing for printing and searching)
Searchability:
Searchable text content (if OCR processed correctly), allowing for quick retrieval of specific information
Print Capability:
Printable pages for convenient use in a workshop environment
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital format, not physically bound)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital format, not printed on paper)
Engine Code:
MZR (LF-DE, LF-VE for 2.0L; L3-VE for 2.3L)
Displacement:
2.0L (1999cc) and 2.3L (2261cc)
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve, Naturally Aspirated
Horsepower 2.0L:
Approx. 148 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 2.0L:
Approx. 135 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Horsepower 2.3L:
Approx. 160 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 2.3L:
Approx. 150 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential multi-port fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended, premium may offer slight performance benefit)
Length:
Approx. 174.5 inches (4430 mm) for sedan, 167.7 inches (4260 mm) for hatchback
Width:
Approx. 69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Height:
Approx. 57.7 inches (1465 mm) for sedan, 57.3 inches (1455 mm) for hatchback
Wheelbase:
Approx. 102.2 inches (2595 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2900 - 3100 lbs (1315 - 1406 kg) depending on body style and trim
NHTSA Front Crash:
5-Star (for driver and front passenger in many configurations)
IIHS Front Small Overlap:
Not tested for this generation, but the overall structure was generally considered robust.
ABS:
Standard on most trims
Traction Control:
Available on some higher trims or as an option
Electronic Stability Control:
Available on some higher trims or as an option, often termed DSC (Dynamic Stability Control)
Airbags:
Front airbags (driver and passenger), optional side-impact airbags, optional curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Audio System:
Optional Bose premium audio system, CD player, AM/FM radio, auxiliary input jack.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system, typically integrated into a dashboard display.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims
Keyless Entry:
Standard on most trims
Bluetooth:
Not commonly available from the factory for this generation, may have been an aftermarket addition.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (check owner's manual for exact recommendation).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Iridium spark plugs: ~100,000 miles (160,000 km)
Engine Oil Capacity:
2.0L: Approx. 4.2 US quarts (4.0 L); 2.3L: Approx. 4.8 US quarts (4.5 L) with filter change.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (API SN or higher)
Coolant Type:
Mazda FL22 Long Life Coolant (or equivalent HOAT/OAT coolant)
Common Problems:
Front wheel bearing noise, power steering pump issues (whining), catalytic converter failure, interior trim rattles, coolant leaks from plastic thermostat housing.
Recalls:
Check NHTSA database for any applicable recalls for specific VINs (e.g., Takata airbag recall).
Mazda Legacy:
Mazda has a long history of producing driver-focused vehicles, known for innovation and distinctive styling.
Predecessor:
Mazda 323/Familia
Successor:
Mazda 3 (second generation, BL)
Production Start:
2003 (model year 2004 in North America)
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan, North America (USA), Thailand