Vehicle Class:
Mid-size Luxury Sedan
Competitors 1996:
Acura Legend, Lexus ES 300, Toyota Avalon, Buick Park Avenue, Oldsmobile Aurora
Design Philosophy:
Mazda's 'Winged Soul Motion' design language, focus on refinement and driving dynamics within the luxury segment
Distinguishing Technology:
Miller-cycle V6 engine (optional), advanced chassis dynamics, premium interior appointments
Manual User:
Professional automotive technicians, experienced DIY mechanics, Mazda enthusiasts, fleet maintenance departments
Engine Mechanical:
Engine disassembly, inspection, assembly, overhaul, timing, cooling system, lubrication system
Engine Performance:
Fuel system (injection, pump, injectors), ignition system, emissions control, diagnostics, troubleshooting
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission: disassembly, inspection, assembly, hydraulic controls, torque converter, shift solenoids, troubleshooting
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission (if applicable): disassembly, inspection, assembly, gear selection, troubleshooting
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, CV joints, differential, wheel bearings, rear axle (if applicable)
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, springs, bushings, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, tie rods, troubleshooting
Brakes:
Front and rear brakes (discs/drums), hydraulic system, ABS system, brake lines, master cylinder, calipers, pads, rotors, troubleshooting
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), lighting, horns, power windows, mirrors, central locking, fuses, relays
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, glass, trim, seats, upholstery, dashboard, interior components, body repair, corrosion prevention
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant, compressor, evaporator, heater core, controls, troubleshooting
Diagnostics:
OBD-II system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), scan tool procedures, sensor testing, troubleshooting flowcharts
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups, belt replacement, spark plug replacement
Troubleshooting:
System-specific diagnostic procedures, fault finding, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair for all major vehicle systems
Overhaul Procedures:
Detailed instructions for complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete electrical system wiring diagrams for all circuits
Depth Level:
Professional Level (suitable for technicians and advanced DIYers)
Diagnostic Capability:
Includes detailed diagnostic procedures for all electronic control modules and sensors
Rebuild Instructions:
Full rebuild procedures for engine and transmission are included
Engine Code:
JE-ZE (Miller-Cycle), KF-ZE (Naturally Aspirated)
Engine Type:
V6, DOHC, 24 valves
Displacement Miller Cycle:
2.3 L (2311 cc)
Displacement Naturally Aspirated:
2.5 L (2490 cc)
Horsepower Miller Cycle:
210 hp @ 5300 rpm
Torque Miller Cycle:
225 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Performance Naturally Aspirated
Horsepower Naturally Aspirated:
170 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Naturally Aspirated:
156 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)
Miller Cycle Explanation:
Mechanical supercharger with an intercooler, optimized for efficiency and low-end torque, variable intake timing
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 Stars (1996 Model Year Ratings)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (1996 Model Year Ratings)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
Front 3-point height-adjustable seatbelts with pretensioners, rear 3-point seatbelts
Child Seat Anchors:
Rear LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system (may not be standard on all trims/locations)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on all models
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) available on some models
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first
Engine Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Automatic Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months (under normal driving conditions)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 60,000 miles (check manual for specific type and gap)
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 (check manual for specific viscosity recommendations based on temperature)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III or equivalent
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Mazda Genuine ATF DEXTRON II / III or equivalent
Miller Cycle Engine Common Problems:
Supercharger belt wear, intercooler leaks, potential for intake manifold issues, oil consumption, premature catalyst failure
Automatic Transmission Common Problems:
Slipping, delayed engagement, solenoid failures (especially in high-mileage units)
Electrical Common Problems:
Window regulator failures, intermittent power locks, sensor failures (e.g., ABS sensors, crankshaft position sensor)
Suspension Common Problems:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, strut mounts, and control arm bushings leading to clunks and poor handling