Vehicle Segment:
Compact to Mid-Size Minivan
Target Audience:
Families, individuals seeking versatile transportation with sliding doors and flexible seating
Key Competitors:
Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, Chrysler Town & Country/Dodge Grand Caravan, Ford Windstar
Distinctive Features:
Unique styling for its time, agile handling for a minivan, optional AWD (on some models), rear-seat entertainment options (higher trims)
Value For Buyer:
Empowers owners and independent mechanics with comprehensive knowledge to perform all repairs and maintenance accurately, saving time and money.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication, cooling, timing systems
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, fuel injection, starting and charging, sensors, ECUs, diagnostics
Transmission Automatic:
Transmission assembly, hydraulic control, torque converter, electronic controls, fluid service
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission assembly, clutch, drivetrain components (if applicable to specific models within range)
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), ABS, EBD, parking brake, hydraulic lines
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, rack and pinion assembly
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, springs, bushings
Electrical System:
Lighting, wipers, horn, power windows, power locks, mirrors, interior/exterior lighting circuits
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system, refrigerant, blower motor, controls
Body Interior:
Interior trim, seats, dashboard, door panels, body panels, glass, seals
Body Exterior:
Bumpers, fenders, hood, trunk lid, doors, body shell structure, paint
Chassis Frame:
Unibody construction, mounting points, structural integrity checks
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seatbelts, restraint systems
Preventative Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, fault code interpretation
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, sensor testing, actuator testing, wiring diagrams
Engine Overhaul:
Complete engine rebuild procedures, component specifications, torque values
Transmission Overhaul:
Detailed steps for automatic transmission disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly
Brake Service:
Brake pad/shoe replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder service, bleeding procedures
Suspension Alignment:
Wheel alignment specifications and adjustment procedures
Electrical Repairs:
Wiring diagrams, connector pinouts, component testing and replacement
Body Repairs:
Panel replacement, dent repair, glass replacement, seal maintenance
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds)
Detail Level:
Includes detailed diagrams, exploded views, torque specifications, clearances, and electrical schematics
NHTSA Frontal Crash Driver:
4 stars (for models with side airbags, potential variability)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Passenger:
4 stars (for models with side airbags, potential variability)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
Traction Control:
Optional on some models
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution Ebd:
Standard with ABS
Airbags Side Impact:
Optional on some trims/years
Seatbelts:
3-point ELR seatbelts for all positions, pretensioners for front seats
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (consult manual for specific driving conditions)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 12,000-15,000 miles or annually
Spark Plug Replacement 4Cyl:
Approx. 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on spark plug type, iridium recommended)
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
Approx. 100,000 miles (iridium recommended)
Timing Belt Replacement:
For FS-DE (4-cyl), timing belt replacement is critical. Interval typically 60,000 miles. GY-DE (V6) uses a timing chain which is generally maintenance-free.
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SN or higher, ILSAC GF-5 or higher (e.g., SAE 5W-30 or 5W-20, check owner's manual for exact viscosity)
Engine Oil Capacity Qts:
4.5-5.0 (4-cyl), 4.8-5.2 (V6) - check manual for exact fill level
Coolant Type:
Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent silicate-free, extended-life coolant (typically P-HOAT type)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Issue Engine Mounts:
Premature wear of engine mounts, leading to vibration, especially under acceleration or deceleration.
Common Issue Automatic Transmission:
Potential for rough shifting or transmission slipping due to internal wear or electronic control issues. Regular fluid changes are crucial.
Common Issue Suspension Bushings:
Wear in control arm bushings and sway bar links, resulting in clunking noises and reduced handling precision.
Common Issue Power Steering Pump:
Occasional leaks or pump failure, leading to loss of power steering assist.
Common Issue Exhaust System:
Corrosion and leaks in the exhaust system, particularly in regions with harsh winters.