Segment:
Compact to Mid-size Station Wagon
Target Audience:
Families, individuals seeking practical and reliable transportation with cargo capacity.
Key Competitors 1999:
Toyota Camry Wagon, Honda Accord Wagon, Subaru Outback, Volkswagen Passat Wagon
Vehicle Strengths:
Reliability, spacious interior for its class, comfortable ride, good fuel economy for its size, practical cargo space.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and technicians with in-depth knowledge for effective maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair, potentially saving on labor costs and extending vehicle lifespan.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical (assembly, disassembly, overhaul), lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (injection, tank, lines), exhaust system, emissions control, ignition system, starting and charging system
Drivetrain Systems:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission, transaxle, clutch, drive shafts, differentials, hubs, bearings, CV joints
Suspension Steering Brakes:
Front suspension (struts, control arms, bushings), rear suspension (multi-link, trailing arms), steering system (rack and pinion, power steering), brake system (discs, pads, calipers, ABS, parking brake)
Electrical Electronics:
Body electrical systems, lighting, instrumentation, infotainment, engine control module (ECM), anti-theft system, power windows, power locks, wipers, horn, HVAC controls
Body Chassis:
Chassis, frame, body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, interior trim, seats, glass, seals
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flushing, brake fluid replacement, transmission fluid changes, belt inspection and replacement
Repair Overhaul:
Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper/rotor replacement, fuel pump replacement, radiator replacement, starter motor replacement, alternator replacement
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical system diagnostics, fuel system diagnostics, engine performance diagnostics
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine oil capacities, coolant capacities, transmission fluid capacities, electrical component data, measurement specifications
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid checks and adjustments to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.
Engine Code 1 Common:
FS-DE (2.0L DOHC)
Engine Code 2 Common:
YF-DE (2.5L DOHC)
2.0L Horsepower:
~125-130 hp (varies slightly by market)
2.0L Torque:
~120-125 lb-ft (varies slightly by market)
2.5L Horsepower:
~165-170 hp (varies slightly by market)
2.5L Torque:
~157-160 lb-ft (varies slightly by market)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition (Distributorless Ignition System - DIS on some models)
Emissions Control:
Catalytic Converter, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), Secondary Air Injection (on some variants)
Type 1:
5-speed Manual Transaxle
Type 2:
4-speed Automatic Transaxle (with overdrive)
Automatic Transmission Modes:
Standard Drive, Power Mode (on some models)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 (refer to manual for exact specification)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mazda ATF Type T-IV or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specification)
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not consistently available or rated for all model years/regions. Generally considered average for its era.
IIHS Crash Test:
Not consistently available or rated for all model years/regions. Generally considered average for its era.
ABS:
Available on higher trim levels or as an option
Traction Control:
Rarely available on this generation
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags standard; side airbags not typically available
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts, pre-tensioners for front seats
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system not standard; ISOFIX anchors may be present on later models or specific markets
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific recommendation based on driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000-100,000 miles for iridium/platinum plugs (varies by plug type).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-4 years.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH/SJ, ILSAC GF-II/GF-III, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for specific grade based on temperature range).
Engine Oil Capacity:
~4.0-4.5 liters (with filter) for 2.0L, ~4.5-5.0 liters (with filter) for 2.5L (refer to manual).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, Mazda FL22 or equivalent (typically a long-life pink or red coolant).
Coolant Capacity:
~6.5-7.5 liters (refer to manual).
Engine:
Intake manifold gasket leaks, occasional oil leaks from valve cover or oil pan gaskets, timing belt replacement critical at prescribed intervals (interference engine).
Transmission:
Automatic transmission solenoid issues or occasional hard shifts, clutch wear in manual transmissions.
Suspension Steering:
Worn bushings (control arm, sway bar), worn tie rod ends, power steering pump leaks or noise.
Electrical:
Window regulator failures, power lock actuator issues, aging wiring harnesses, idle air control (IAC) valve issues.
Other:
Rust in common areas (wheel wells, rocker panels, tailgate), rear hatch struts weakening.
Mazda Philosophy:
Known for offering engaging driving dynamics ('Zoom-Zoom' philosophy began to emerge later, but the spirit was present), innovative design, and reliable products.
Generation Name:
Third Generation Mazda Capella/626 (GF/GW)
Production Years:
1997-2002
Station Wagon Designation:
GW series
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan (Mazda's Hofu Plant), and potentially other global assembly plants depending on market.