🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

626

Chassis Codes:

GF (sedan, hatchback), GW (wagon)

Generation Designation:

GD/GV (first generation, though this manual covers the subsequent GF/GW)

Generation Covered:

Fifth Generation

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size sedan/wagon

Target Audience:

Consumers seeking a reliable, practical, and affordable family vehicle.

Competitors:

Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Ford Mondeo, Volkswagen Passat.

Design Philosophy:

Focus on Japanese engineering, reliability, good handling characteristics, and practical interior space.

Value Proposition:

Offers a balance of performance, comfort, and durability at a competitive price point.

📋 Manual Details

Continents Regions:

Global (specific regional variations may exist, but manual covers core design)

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine overhaul, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, timing belt/chain, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection system (MPI), emission control systems.

Transmission Drivetrain:

Manual transmission (FS5A-EL, G4A-EL), automatic transmission (FW6A-EL), clutch, driveshafts, differentials, axles, AWD system (if applicable).

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, ABS, front and rear disc brakes, parking brake, brake fluid specifications.

Suspension Steering:

Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (multi-link), power steering system, steering column, wheel alignment specifications.

Electrical Electronics:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), ignition system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, ECUs, sensors (e.g., crank angle, cam angle, O2), comfort systems (power windows, mirrors, locks).

HVAC:

Air conditioning system, heater, ventilation, blower motor, refrigerant type and charge.

Body Chassis:

Body panel removal/installation, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, interior trim, chassis lubrication points.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, tire rotation, brake pad inspection.

Engine Repair:

Timing belt replacement, head gasket repair, piston ring replacement, bearing replacement, valve adjustment, fuel injector testing/replacement.

Transmission Repair:

Clutch replacement (manual), automatic transmission fluid flush and filter replacement, torque converter inspection, seal replacement.

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

OBD-II codes, diagnostic procedures for various systems, common fault finding.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Tracing electrical faults, testing sensors, component testing, wiring harness repair.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.

Diagnostic Tools:

Specifies use of scan tools for ECU diagnostics and live data monitoring.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF (standard for professional manuals)

Quality:

High-resolution, designed for clear printing of diagrams and text.

Digital Binding:

N/A (Digital download)

Digital Paper:

N/A (Digital download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Common:

FS-DE (2.0L)

Engine Displacement Common:

1991 cc (2.0 Liters)

Engine Type Common:

Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve, Naturally Aspirated

Horsepower Common:

Approx. 118-135 hp @ 5500-6000 rpm (depending on market and specific tuning)

Torque Common:

Approx. 130-135 lb-ft @ 4000-4500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating varies by market, typically 87 AKI / 91 RON recommended)

Alternative Engine Code:

FP-DE (1.8L, less common in North America for GF/GW)

Alternative Engine Displacement:

1839 cc (1.8 Liters)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Std:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Opt:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (FS5A-EL / G4A-EL variants)

Automatic Transmission Modes:

Typically includes P, R, N, D, 2, 1 (or similar sequential gear selection for engine braking)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Mazda M-III ATF or equivalent (Dexron III compatible)

📐 Dimensions

Length Sedan:

Approx. 4620 mm (181.9 in)

Width:

Approx. 1755 mm (69.1 in)

Height:

Approx. 1405 mm (55.3 in) (sedan)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2615 mm (103.0 in)

Cargo Volume Sedan:

Approx. 440 liters (15.5 cu ft)

Cargo Volume Wagon:

Significantly larger than sedan, variable with seats folded.

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1300-1450 kg (2866-3197 lbs) depending on trim and body style.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Not explicitly stated in product info, but typically around 1800-1900 kg.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Likely 4-star rating for driver/passenger (typical for era, but specific NHTSA data for this model year is needed for confirmation).

IIHS Side Impact:

Not widely tested under current IIHS protocols for this generation.

ABS:

Optional on many trims, standard on higher trims.

Traction Control:

Rarely available on this generation, mostly as a dealer-installed accessory or on very specific high-trim models.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags standard.

Seat Belts:

3-point inertia reel seat belts front and rear, with pretensioners and load limiters for front seats.

Child Seat Anchors:

ISOFIX/LATCH points typically available on rear seats.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Aftermarket head units common; factory units often had cassette player with AM/FM radio, optional CD player.

Navigation:

Not available from factory on this generation.

Cruise Control:

Available on most trim levels.

Keyless Entry:

Optional on higher trims.

Bluetooth:

Not factory equipped, aftermarket installation required.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil.

Engine Oil Filter Replacement:

Replace with every oil change.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 60,000 miles or 4 years (critical component for FS-DE engine, failure can cause catastrophic damage).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically every 60,000 miles for iridium or platinum tipped plugs.

Engine Oil Viscosity:

5W-30 (common recommendation, check owner's manual for specific climate variations)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based coolant, Mazda FL22 or equivalent (typically long-life).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Common Problems Engine:

Timing belt failure if not replaced on schedule, potential oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan, intake manifold gasket leaks.

Common Problems Transmission:

Automatic transmission shifting issues or torque converter shudder; manual clutch wear.

Common Problems Suspension:

Worn front struts, worn control arm bushings, rear axle bushings (especially on wagons).

Common Problems Electrical:

Window regulator failures, power lock actuator issues, corrosion on electrical connectors in humid climates.

Common Problems Body:

Rust on rocker panels, rear wheel arches, and around the windshield.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Philosophy:

Known for zoom-zoom driving dynamics, reliability, and distinctive Japanese design.

Previous Generation:

Mazda 626 GD/GV (1983-1991)

Next Generation:

Mazda 6 (GG/GY) replaced the 626 line.

Production Years:

1997-2002 (for GF/GW generation)

Manufacturing Locations:

Primary assembly in Japan (Hofu plant), with potential for other global assembly sites.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The Mazda 626 has historically received multiple '10 Best' awards in earlier generations, but the GF/GW generation's specific accolades are less prominent than its predecessors.

Consumer Reports:

Typically rated as average to above-average for reliability in its segment during its production run.

Emissions Standards:

Designed to meet the emissions standards of the era in its target markets (e.g., EPA in the US, Euro emissions standards in Europe).