Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, timing system, lubrication
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starting and charging systems, sensors, ECUs, wiring diagrams
Fuel System:
Fuel injection, fuel pump, fuel filter, evaporative emission control (EVAP)
Cooling System:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, cooling fan, coolant specifications
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, exhaust pipes
Transmission Mechanical:
Manual gearbox overhaul, clutch assembly, Automatic Transmission (AT) unit, torque converter
Transmission Electrical:
AT shift control, TCM, transmission sensors
Drivetrain:
Front axle, rear axle, CV joints, driveshafts, differential
Suspension:
Front suspension (struts, control arms), rear suspension (multi-link), shock absorbers, springs
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic/electric), steering rack, steering column, wheel alignment
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, brake calipers, brake pads, brake lines, ABS, EBD, DSC
Electrical System Body:
Lighting, wipers, power windows, central locking, horn, interior/exterior lamps
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater, ventilation, climate control module
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, seats, dashboard, body sealing
Chassis And Frame:
Frame structure, underbody components, corrosion protection
Driver Information:
Instrument cluster, warning lights, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based diagnosis
Engine Repair:
Engine overhaul, head gasket replacement, timing belt/chain replacement, piston ring replacement
Transmission Repair:
Clutch replacement, manual transmission rebuild, automatic transmission service and overhaul
Brake System Service:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake fluid flush, ABS component diagnosis
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Component replacement (shocks, struts, ball joints, tie rods), alignment procedures
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring harness repair, sensor testing, ECU diagnostics, component testing
HVAC Service:
Refrigerant recharge, compressor replacement, heater core service
Body Panel Repair:
Door, fender, hood, bumper removal and installation, panel alignment
Safety System Service:
Airbag system information, seatbelt pre-tensioner replacement
Diagnostic Information:
Includes Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), symptom analysis, and pinpoint tests
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions with torque specifications, special tools, and illustrations
Technical Specifications:
Precise measurements, tolerances, clearances, fluid capacities, and electrical data
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all systems, color-coded for clarity
Illustrations And Diagrams:
Exploded views, schematics, and detailed diagrams of components and systems
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic or synthetic blend oil.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for standard iridium plugs
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: Check as needed, automatic: Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or as per severe service schedule
Engine Oil Type And Capacity:
SAE 5W-20 synthetic or synthetic blend (check manual for exact spec), capacity approx. 4.8 US quarts (4.5 L) for 2.3L
Coolant Type:
Mazda FL22 Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Green)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Rust And Corrosion:
Common issue in areas with road salt, particularly on wheel arches, rocker panels, and subframes.
Clutch Wear:
Manual transmission clutches can wear out over time, especially with aggressive driving.
Power Steering Leaks:
Some models may experience leaks from the power steering hoses or pump.
Exhaust Manifold Cracks:
The exhaust manifold can develop cracks due to thermal stress, leading to exhaust leaks and a ticking noise.
Alternator Failure:
Early models sometimes had issues with alternator longevity.
Interior Rattles And Squeaks:
Like many cars of this era, interior trim pieces can develop squeaks over time.