🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

MX-3

Year:

1995

Vehicle Type:

Compact Sports Coupe

Chassis Code:

EC

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, and Mazda dealerships.

Value Proposition:

Provides factory-level technical information, replicating what official dealers use, offering cost savings and increased repair confidence for owners.

Documentation Style:

Detailed instructions with step-by-step diagrams, making complex procedures accessible.

Information Breadth:

Covers virtually every aspect of the vehicle, from routine maintenance to in-depth system diagnostics and repair.

Usability:

Designed to be simple to use, even for individuals with limited prior repair experience.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Complete Workshop Procedures

Covered Components:

Engine, Lubrication, Cooling, Fuel, Emissions, Electrical, Clutch, Transaxle (Manual & Automatic), Axles, Steering, Brakes, Suspension, Body, Body Electrical, HVAC, Technical Data, Special Tools

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific edition, typically 500-1000+ pages for a full factory service manual.

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

File Format Details:

PDF format, allowing for zoom in/out functionality for detailed viewing of diagrams and text.

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader (for viewing) and WinZip (for extracting compressed files).

Operating System Compatibility:

Compatible with all versions of Windows and Mac operating systems.

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel and emission control system, engine electrical system, clutch, manual transaxle, automatic transaxle, front and rear axles.

Chassis:

Steering system, braking system, suspension (front and rear).

Body And Accessories:

Body construction, body electrical system, heater and air conditioner (HVAC).

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes.

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures, fault finding, error code interpretation, electrical circuit tracing.

Repair And Overhaul:

Engine component overhaul, transmission rebuilds, brake caliper servicing, suspension component replacement, body panel repair.

Installation:

Component installation procedures, alignment adjustments.

Depth:

Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics.

Diagnostics Level:

Advanced diagnostic procedures, including electrical troubleshooting and component testing.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Digital (PDF)

Printability:

Printable pages for workshop use.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code And Type:

1.8L (1839cc) DOHC 16-valve Inline-4 (BP-ZE)

Horsepower:

129 hp @ 6500 rpm (for BP-ZE)

Torque:

117 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (for BP-ZE)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor-based system depending on market/variant.

ECU:

Engine Control Unit (ECU) with diagnostic capabilities.

Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4.0 US quarts (3.8 liters) with filter change (verify with manual).

Oil Type And Viscosity:

Typically 5W-30 or 10W-30 API SG or higher (verify with manual).

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 6.0 US quarts (5.7 liters) (verify with manual).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-Speed Manual Transaxle

Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transaxle

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated, dry single-plate clutch.

Manual Fluid Type:

API GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (verify with manual).

Automatic Fluid Type:

Mazda ATF J-M3 or equivalent Dexron-III/Mercon (verify with manual).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 167.1 in (4245 mm)

Width:

Approx. 67.3 in (1709 mm)

Height:

Approx. 51.8 in (1316 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 98.6 in (2505 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2600-2800 lbs (1180-1270 kg) depending on transmission and equipment.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings 1995:

Side impact: 4 stars driver, 5 stars passenger (refer to specific NHTSA reports for definitive data).

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on some models.

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag standard.

Seatbelts:

Front and rear seat belts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker configuration typically 4 speakers.

Cruise Control:

Available on higher trim levels.

Oem Diagnostics:

On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-I) system, with transition to OBD-II starting in 1996 for some manufacturers. Manual will detail specific diagnostic connector and procedures for 1995.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions (verify with manual).

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Typically around 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) for platinum or iridium plugs (verify with manual).

Timing Belt Replacement Interval:

Critical: The BP-ZE engine uses a timing belt. Replacement typically recommended every 60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-144,000 km) or 5-7 years. Failure can cause severe engine damage.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (verify with manual).

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Mazda Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron-II/Mercon ATF (verify with manual).

Common Wear Items:

Clutch wear, suspension bushings, exhaust system components, catalytic converter.

Engine Specific Concerns:

Can experience oil leaks from seals and gaskets over time, potential for intake manifold runner issues on some BP engines (less common on MX-3 specific variants but worth noting).

Electrical Issues:

Corrosion in connectors, aging wiring harnesses, and failing sensors can occur due to age.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Mazda Motor Corporation

Generation Timeline:

First generation: 1991-1997. The 1995 model falls within this first generation, likely a mid-cycle refresh if applicable.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The Mazda MX-3 (specifically the V6 'K' engine variant in some markets, though not commonly found in the US in '95) was praised for its handling and distinctive styling. The 1.8L 4-cylinder was more common in the US.