Segment:
Compact to Mid-size Station Wagon
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, auto repair shops, Mazda enthusiasts
Key Competitors:
Toyota Camry Wagon, Honda Accord Wagon, Subaru Outback
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive, in-depth repair and maintenance information for extended vehicle lifespan and cost savings.
Vehicle Strengths:
Practicality, reliability, engaging driving dynamics for its class.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, diagnosis, timing belt, cooling system, lubrication system
Engine Electrical:
ECU diagnostics, ignition system, fuel injection, sensors, wiring diagrams
Transmission Manual:
Overhaul, clutch replacement, gear selection diagnostics
Transmission Automatic:
Overhaul, fluid service, shift control diagnosis, solenoids
Drivetrain:
Axles, CV joints, differential, driveshafts
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, rack and pinion, steering column, wheel alignment
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, disc/drum brake service, fluid specifications, bleeding procedures
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, interior/exterior electrical components, fuses, relays
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heating, ventilation, blower motor, refrigerant handling
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, upholstery, trim, seat mechanisms
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seat belts, chassis structure
Basic Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic flowcharts for common and uncommon issues
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions with torque specifications for all major components
Component Replacement:
Detailed guides for replacing parts like alternators, starters, water pumps, etc.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II system diagnostics, sensor testing, circuit testing
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems
Depth Level:
Comprehensive - from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Diagnostics Coverage:
Advanced diagnostics for engine management, ABS, and other electronic systems
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for certain procedures
Engine Code Common:
FS-DE (2.0L DOHC I4), FY-DE (2.5L DOHC I4)
Displacement 2.0L:
1991 cc
Horsepower 2.0L:
118-130 hp @ 5500-6000 rpm (depending on market and exact variant)
Torque 2.0L:
129-135 lb-ft @ 4000-4500 rpm (depending on market and exact variant)
Displacement 2.5L:
2490 cc
Horsepower 2.5L:
168 hp @ 6000 rpm (typical for GW model)
Torque 2.5L:
162 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (typical for GW model)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
ECM Type:
OBD-II Compliant
Transmission Type Common:
5-speed Manual, 4-speed Automatic
Transmission Type Optional:
Automatic transmission was common, availability of manual varied by market/trim
Automatic Features:
Electronically controlled, lock-up torque converter
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III/Mercon (or equivalent specified in manual)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (check manual for exact spec)
Length:
Approx. 4660-4690 mm (183.5-184.6 in)
Width:
Approx. 1770-1795 mm (69.7-70.7 in)
Height:
Approx. 1475-1500 mm (58.1-59.1 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2615-2625 mm (103.0-103.3 in)
Cargo Volume:
Variable, significant with rear seats folded
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1300-1450 kg (2866-3197 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically around 1900-2000 kg
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-star driver, 4-star passenger (for 1997 model)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable (for models tested)
ABS:
Available (standard on some trims/later years)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger front airbags (standard)
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seat belts, pretensioners on front belts
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette or CD player, optional premium audio systems available.
Display:
Basic analog gauges, climate control indicators. No integrated infotainment screens.
Cruise Control:
Available on higher trim levels.
Traction Control:
Rarely available on this generation, typically not a standard feature.
Connectivity Features:
Basic, typically limited to audio inputs (cassette adapter, CD changer ports).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to manual for specifics).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Recommended every 60,000-90,000 miles or 5-7 years, critical for these engines to prevent catastrophic failure.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000 miles for iridium or platinum plugs (check manual for specific type and interval).
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ/SL, ILSAC GF-3, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for precise recommendation based on climate).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based, P-HOAT or OAT type (Mazda FL22 or equivalent green/orange coolant, consult manual).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check reservoir cap or manual).
Engine Mounts:
Can degrade over time, leading to increased vibration.
Cv Axle Boots:
Prone to tearing, leading to grease leakage and potential CV joint damage.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear out, causing knocking sounds and affecting handling.
Ignition Coils And Wires:
Can fail, causing misfires and rough running (on earlier ignition systems).
Automatic Transmission Shifting:
May become hesitant or rough with age; fluid changes are crucial.
