🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

626

Chassis Codes:

GF, GW

Engine Code Suffix:

RF Turbo

Generation:

Sixth Generation (GF/GW)

Generation Years:

1991-2002 (JDM), 1992-2003 (Global)

Engine Code Primary:

RF

Engine Code Variant:

RF Turbo (Diesel)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Mazda 626 (GF/GW) represented Mazda's mid-size sedan/wagon offering, competing against stalwarts like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Nissan Altima. The RF Turbo variant catered to markets prioritizing fuel efficiency and torque for diesel engine enthusiasts.

Competitive Analysis:

Offered a balance of comfortable ride, practical interior space, and engaging driving dynamics, often praised for its 'Zoom-Zoom' philosophy even in its earlier iterations. The diesel option provided an alternative to gasoline engines, particularly in European and Asian markets.

Key Features:

Spacious interior, reliable chassis, available all-wheel drive (on some GW models), and the distinctive RF Turbo diesel engine known for its robust low-end torque and fuel economy.

Target Audience:

Owners and professional mechanics who need reliable, detailed information for maintenance, repair, and diagnostics of the Mazda 626 GF GW with the RF Turbo diesel engine.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Fuel System, Exhaust, Cooling, Lubrication, Ignition, Starting, Charging, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Clutch, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, ABS, Body Electrical, Climate Control, Interior, Exterior, Chassis, Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Wiring Diagrams.

Page Count:

Estimated 1500+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Complete coverage of all mechanical, electrical, and body systems for GF/GW Mazda 626 models equipped with the RF Turbo diesel engine.

Body And Chassis:

Detailed procedures for body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass replacement, frame straightening basics, and suspension component overhaul.

Fuel System Diesel:

Comprehensive coverage of the diesel fuel injection system, including high-pressure fuel pump, injectors, glow plug system, fuel filter replacement, and bleeding procedures.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, detailed repair procedures, troubleshooting guides, component removal and installation, torque specifications, diagnostic flowcharts, wiring schematic interpretation, component testing.

Diagnostics:

Includes troubleshooting charts for common symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for OBD-I/OBD-II systems (depending on market and year), and component testing procedures.

Engine Rebuild:

Detailed instructions for engine disassembly, component inspection and measurement, reassembly, and break-in procedures. Includes specifications for crankshaft, connecting rods, pistons, cylinders, and valve train.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Includes factory-level diagnostic information and repair strategies.

Electrical System Depth:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all major systems, including engine control, lighting, instruments, power accessories, and safety systems. Procedures for testing and diagnosing electrical faults.

Torque Specifications:

Extensive listing of torque values for all critical fasteners, including engine components, suspension, brakes, and body hardware.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

High-resolution, searchable PDF with hyperlinked sections for easy navigation.

Print Quality:

Printable pages with clear text and high-quality diagrams/illustrations.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

2.0L RF Turbo Diesel I4

Horsepower:

Approximately 90-100 PS (varies by market and specific tune)

Torque:

Approximately 180-200 Nm (varies by market and specific tune)

Fuel System:

Direct Injection, Turbocharged, Intercooled Diesel

Engine Code:

RF

Displacement:

1998 cc

Bore Stroke:

86.0 mm x 86.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

21.0:1

Turbocharger Details:

Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT) or Wastegate Turbocharger depending on sub-model and year.

Cylinder Head Design:

SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) 8-valve cylinder head.

Cooling System Type:

Pressurized liquid cooling system with engine-driven water pump and thermostat.

Lubrication System Type:

Forced lubrication system with a gear-driven oil pump, oil filter, and oil cooler (on some turbo variants).

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (often INVECS-II)

Transmission Features:

Manual transmission clutch type: Dry single plate. Automatic transmission features include electronic control and sport modes on some variants.

Differential Type:

Open differential, integrated with manual or automatic transaxle.

📐 Dimensions

Sedan Length:

Approx. 4620 mm

Wagon Length:

Approx. 4710 mm

Width:

Approx. 1750 mm

Height:

Approx. 1420 mm (Sedan), Approx. 1470 mm (Wagon)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2615 mm

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1300-1450 kg (depending on body style and equipment)

Cargo Volume Sedan:

Approx. 420 liters

Cargo Volume Wagon:

Approx. 470-1400 liters (with rear seats folded)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)

Typical Tire Sizes:

185/70R14, 195/60R15, 205/55R15 (depending on trim and wheel size)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

Varies by market and testing agency. Early models may not have extensive digital records available, but later GF/GW models generally received good marks for their era. Refer to specific market safety reports for detailed data.

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on higher trims, Traction Control System (TCS) on some later models.

Passive Features:

Front airbags, side impact door beams, crumple zones, seatbelt pretensioners.

Front Brake Type:

Ventilated Disc Brakes

Rear Brake Type:

Disc Brakes or Drum Brakes (depending on trim and year)

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Base models featured an AM/FM stereo with cassette or CD player. Higher trims offered optional premium sound systems, sometimes with multi-disc CD changers and basic graphic equalizers.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by modern standards. Primarily included ABS and optional TCS. Cruise control was available on higher trims.

Connectivity Options:

No integrated Bluetooth or advanced smartphone connectivity. Aux input for audio devices may be present on later models or added via aftermarket solutions.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific engine oil type).

Timing Belt Interval:

The RF diesel engine uses a timing belt. Replacement is generally recommended every 60,000-90,000 miles or 5-7 years. Crucial to check and replace as per manual recommendations.

Engine Oil Spec:

API CF/CG-4 or ACEA B3/B4 specification diesel engine oil, viscosity grade 5W-30 or 10W-40 depending on ambient temperature (refer to manual for exact specification).

Coolant Spec:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mazda long-life coolant (FL22) or equivalent is recommended for later models.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 gear oil, viscosity 75W-90.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Mazda Genuine ATF J-M3 or equivalent DEXRON-III/MERCON compatible fluid.

Known Issues:

Potential issues include injector pump leaks, turbocharger wear, glow plug failure, EGR valve clogging (common for diesels), and rust on body panels, especially in areas with road salt. The RF engine is generally robust but requires diligent maintenance.

Oil Filter Part Number:

Typical part numbers include Mazda 8970905290 or equivalent aftermarket brands like Fram PH3569, Wix 51502.

Timing Belt Kit Part Number:

Typically includes belt, tensioner, and idler pulley. Example: Gates TCKWP3290, Gates 5695XS for the belt, and corresponding tensioners/pulleys.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 5.3 liters (with filter change)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 7.5 liters

Manual Transmission Capacity:

Approx. 2.0 liters

Automatic Transmission Capacity:

Approx. 7.0 liters (total fill)

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mazda has a long history of producing reliable and driver-focused vehicles. The 626 nameplate itself has been a core model for Mazda since the 1970s, evolving through multiple generations.

Model Evolution:

The GF/GW generation represented a significant step forward in design and engineering for the 626, moving towards a more sophisticated and European-influenced aesthetic compared to its predecessors. The introduction of the RF Turbo diesel engine expanded its market appeal, especially in regions where diesel fuel was prevalent and economical.

Production Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Japan (Hofu Plant) and also assembled in various overseas plants depending on the market.

Model Variants Offered:

Sedan (4-door) and Wagon (5-door, known as the 'Capella Wagon' or 'Atenza Wagon' in some markets). Various trim levels existed, influencing features and specifications.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the GF/GW RF Turbo variant might be scarce, the Mazda 626 generation generally received positive reviews for its ride quality, handling, and value proposition during its production run. It was often a strong contender in its segment.