🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

MPV

Model Generation:

LW Series (First Generation)

Model Years Covered:

1996, 1997, 1998

Chassis Code:

LW (for all variants covered by this manual)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle)

Target Audience:

Families seeking practical, versatile, and maneuverable transportation.

Key Competitors:

Honda Odyssey (early models), Toyota Previa, Plymouth Voyager/Dodge Caravan (smaller variants).

Seating Configuration:

Available in 3-row seating configurations, offering flexible passenger and cargo space.

Doors:

Unique rear-hinged rear doors (suicide doors) for enhanced access.

Driving Dynamics:

Car-like handling and maneuverability compared to larger minivans.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

North America

Specific Regions:

USA, Canada

Estimated Pages:

Over 1500 pages (typical for a comprehensive workshop manual)

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, often distributed electronically)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnostic, repair, and overhaul procedures for all engine variants.

Transmission:

Service and repair for automatic transmission systems, including diagnostics and component replacement.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake system service, including ABS diagnostics and repair.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, steering system, and alignment procedures.

Electrical:

Comprehensive electrical schematics, component testing, wiring diagrams, and diagnostic procedures for all systems.

HVAC:

Air conditioning and heating system servicing, refrigerant handling, and component repair.

Body:

Body repair, panel replacement, door mechanisms, interior trim, and glass service.

Chassis:

Frame and chassis component service, lubrication points, and specifications.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, and tune-up procedures.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic flowcharts and troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for virtually all mechanical and electrical components.

Diagnostics:

OBD-II diagnostics, sensor testing, and ECU troubleshooting.

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and electrical resistance values.

Engine Rebuild:

Detailed steps for engine disassembly, inspection, and reassembly, including machining specifications.

Transmission Overhaul:

Component-level overhaul procedures for the automatic transmission, including valve body and torque converter service.

Body Panel Replacement:

Instructions for removing and installing body panels, doors, fenders, and bumpers.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems, including lighting, power accessories, and engine management.

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on required special tools and diagnostic equipment.

Diagnostic Charts:

Detailed diagnostic flowcharts for pinpointing issues in the engine, transmission, ABS, and other systems.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text within the PDF for quick information retrieval.

Quality:

High-resolution images, diagrams, and text for clear reproduction.

Type:

N/A (Digital format)

Type:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

FS-DE (2.0L), KF-ZE (2.5L V6 - less common in US market for these years)

Displacement:

1998 cc (for 2.0L)

Configuration:

Inline 4-cylinder (2.0L)

Horsepower:

Approximately 125-130 hp (for 2.0L)

Torque:

Approximately 130-135 lb-ft (for 2.0L)

Induction:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Emission Controls:

Catalytic converter, EGR system.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-speed automatic transmission

Type:

N/A (Automatic was standard for most markets)

Drive Type:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) standard, All-Wheel Drive (AWD) optional on some trims.

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF Dexron III (or equivalent, refer to specific vehicle owner's manual or manual for exact specification)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 7.1 liters (15.0 US pints) for torque converter refill (check manual for exact capacity).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4650 mm (183.1 in)

Width:

Approx. 1750 mm (68.9 in)

Height:

Approx. 1670 mm (65.7 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2795 mm (110.0 in)

Seating Capacity:

7 passengers (2-2-3 configuration)

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Approx. 19 cu ft

Cargo Volume With 3Rd Row Folded:

Approx. 47 cu ft

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1550-1650 kg (3417-3638 lbs) depending on configuration.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

3-star rating (typical for this era MPV, check specific year reports if available).

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard or optional depending on trim.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard.

Seat Belts:

3-point seat belts for all occupants, with pretensioners for front seats.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system not standard in 1996-1998 models; older child seat anchoring methods apply.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player and optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Bluetooth:

Not available on these model years.

System Type:

Manual or automatic climate control systems depending on trim level.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), or 7,500 miles if using synthetic oil (refer to manual for specific recommendation).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 60,000-100,000 miles depending on type (platinum/iridium recommended).

Timing Belt:

Replace every 60,000 miles or 5 years (critical item for FS-DE engine).

Engine Oil:

API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 recommended (check owner's manual for precise viscosity).

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze coolant, mixture of 50% coolant and 50% distilled water. Mazda Long Life Coolant (LLC) recommended.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron III (or equivalent).

Engine Misfires:

Common on 2.0L due to ignition coil or spark plug issues; timing belt failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.

Transmission Slipping:

Can occur with age and mileage; regular fluid and filter changes are crucial.

Rear Suspension Noise:

Worn bushings or shock absorbers can lead to clunking noises.

Power Window Motors:

Failure of power window regulators and motors can occur.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda History:

Mazda has a long history of producing reliable and innovative vehicles, often focusing on driving dynamics and unique design features.

First Generation Launch:

The LW generation MPV was launched in North America for the 1996 model year, replacing the earlier, larger, rear-wheel-drive MPV.

Design Philosophy:

Designed as a more compact and car-like alternative to traditional minivans, emphasizing maneuverability and a lower floor height.

Manufacturing Location:

Assembled in Hofu, Yamaguchi, Japan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Consumer Reports:

Consumer Reports ratings for reliability and owner satisfaction were mixed for this generation, with some areas showing better performance than others. Specific awards are not prominently associated with this model year.

Reliability:

Reliability can vary; timely maintenance as outlined in the manual is critical. Common issues are addressed within the manual for proactive repair.