Positioning:
The Mazda MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) in this generation served as Mazda's compact minivan offering, competing in a segment populated by vehicles like the Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, and Dodge Caravan. It was positioned as a practical and versatile family hauler with a reputation for reliable engineering and engaging driving dynamics, typical of Mazda vehicles.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, Nissan Quest, Chrysler Town & Country/Dodge Grand Caravan, Ford Windstar.
Vehicle Features:
Sliding rear doors for easy access, flexible seating configurations, relatively car-like handling for a minivan, available all-wheel drive (AWD) on some models, durable powertrain.
Value:
Offers unparalleled value by providing factory-level diagnostic and repair information for all systems, enabling owners and independent mechanics to perform extensive maintenance and repairs, thereby saving significant costs compared to dealership services.
Engine:
Comprehensive coverage including disassembly, inspection, assembly, troubleshooting, diagnostics, and repair for all engine components (e.g., cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valve train, oil system, cooling system, fuel system, ignition system, emission control system).
Transmission:
Detailed repair procedures for automatic transmission (FWD and AWD variants), including hydraulic control, torque converter, gear sets, clutches, seals, and troubleshooting.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) system components, including axles, CV joints, differential, and power transfer unit (PTU) for AWD models.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, including McPherson struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings, coil springs, shock absorbers, and steering knuckle components.
Steering:
Power steering system, including hydraulic pump, steering rack/gearbox, tie rods, steering column, and related components, with troubleshooting and adjustment procedures.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes and rear drum brakes (or rear disc brakes on some models), including master cylinder, brake booster, brake lines, calipers, pads, rotors, shoes, drums, parking brake system, and ABS (if equipped).
Electrical:
Complete electrical system coverage, including wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, relays, starter system, charging system (alternator, battery), lighting systems, instrumentation, body control modules, and power accessories.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair, including refrigerant circuits, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, and controls.
Body:
Exterior body panels, doors, windows, latches, hinges, interior trim, seating systems, and body sealing components.
Chassis:
Frame structure, subframes, and mounting points for various components.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes (oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid), filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, battery checks, tire rotation and pressure checks.
Diagnostics:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon faults, including symptom-based troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, and testing methods for sensors and actuators.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation for all major vehicle systems.
Troubleshooting:
Extensive troubleshooting trees and guides for addressing performance issues, abnormal noises, warning light indicators, and electrical malfunctions.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, diagnostic values, electrical component specifications, and alignment data.
Technical Bulletins:
Includes information equivalent to Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) and service updates relevant to the model years covered.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic preventative maintenance and fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics, and body panel repair.
Engine Type:
2.5L V6 (J5-DE or JY-DE)
Engine Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2500 cc)
Engine Configuration:
Naturally Aspirated, SOHC V6
Horsepower:
Approximately 160-170 hp @ 5,500-6,000 RPM (varies slightly by year and specific engine code)
Torque:
Approximately 155-160 lb-ft @ 4,000-4,500 RPM (varies slightly by year and specific engine code)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Engine Control Unit:
Mazda Electronic Control Unit (ECU)
Coolant Type:
Mazda Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with silicate inhibitors)
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 8.0 - 8.5 Liters (8.5 - 9.0 US Quarts)
Oil Type:
API Service SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 (check manual for specific viscosity recommendations based on ambient temperature)
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.5 - 4.7 Liters (4.8 - 5.0 US Quarts) with filter change
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Mazda: B600-14-302A; Aftermarket: Fram PH3593A, Wix 51522
Length:
Approximately 4735 mm (186.4 in)
Width:
Approximately 1790 mm (70.5 in)
Height:
Approximately 1735 mm (68.3 in)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2805 mm (110.4 in)
Seating Capacity:
7 Passengers (typically 2-2-3 configuration)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approximately 0.5 - 0.7 m³ (18-25 cu ft)
Cargo Volume With 3Rd Row Folded:
Approximately 1.5 - 1.7 m³ (53-60 cu ft)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 1700 - 1900 kg (3750 - 4200 lbs), depending on configuration (FWD/AWD, trim)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically around 2300-2400 kg (5070-5290 lbs)
Towing Capacity:
Approximately 907 kg (2000 lbs) (check owner's manual for specific ratings)
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
4 out of 5 stars (for driver and passenger in frontal impact, 1999 models based on available data)
IIHS Small Overlap Front:
N/A (Tests not performed on this model generation)
ABS:
Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on certain trims.
AWD:
Optional All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system for enhanced traction.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for all occupants, pretensioners for front seats.
Child Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system (introduced in later models of this generation, check specific vehicle).
Engine Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (or 7,500 miles with synthetic oil, consult manual).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months (if equipped).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (Iridium or Platinum type recommended).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 miles (especially for severe usage).
Coolant Replacement:
Initial replacement at 60,000 miles, then every 30,000 miles thereafter (using Mazda Long Life Coolant).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 24,000 miles or 24 months.
Timing Belt Replacement:
This V6 engine uses a timing chain, not a belt, for increased durability. No replacement interval needed for timing chain.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mazda Genuine Power Steering Fluid or ATF Dexron III compatible fluid.
Common Issues:
Transmission solenoid issues (leading to harsh shifting or failure to engage gears), EGR valve clogging (causing rough idle and stalling), minor oil leaks from valve covers or oil pan, radiator leaks, front suspension wear (ball joints, bushings), power window motor failures, rust on rear wheel wells and rocker panels.