🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

MX-6 / 626

Model Variant:

GE Platform

Generation:

Second Generation (GE)

Generation Years:

1991-1997 (MX-6), 1991-1992 (US 626 Coupe/Hatchback)

Chassis Codes:

GE2, GE8

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Mazda MX-6 and its sibling, the Ford Probe, were positioned as sporty front-wheel-drive coupes and hatchbacks in the late 1980s and early 1990s. They aimed to offer a blend of performance, style, and practicality, competing with models like the Toyota Celica, Mitsubishi Eclipse, and Nissan 240SX.

Competitive Analysis:

The GE platform offered a stylish design, often praised for its sleek lines. The availability of a V6 engine provided a performance edge over some four-cylinder competitors. The manual transmission option appealed to driving enthusiasts. Its shared platform with the Ford Probe allowed for economies of scale and wider market reach.

Key Features:

Available V6 engine, independent rear suspension, optional four-wheel steering (4WS) on some MX-6 models, sporty coupe and hatchback body styles, comfortable interior for its class.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Years:

1990, 1991, 1992

Regions Covered:

Likely Global (North America, Japan, Europe, etc. depending on specific manual's origin - assume comprehensive)

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Manual Type:

Workshop Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine control systems (ECU), manual transmission, automatic transmission.

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS), wheels and tires.

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, wipers and washers, power windows, power locks, audio system, climate control, engine control wiring diagrams, body control modules.

Body:

Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seats, bumpers, exterior trim, glass, convertible top (if applicable).

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, fluid flushes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt replacement, battery checks.

Repair:

Engine disassembly and reassembly, transmission repair and overhaul, brake component replacement, suspension component replacement, steering rack replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair, body panel repair.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring diagrams for fault finding, component testing procedures.

Specifications:

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

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance and adjustments to complete engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnostics, and bodywork. Suitable for professional mechanics and skilled DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchable Text:

Likely Yes (typical for professionally produced PDFs)

Printable:

Yes

Print Quality:

High (assuming original factory manual or high-quality reproduction)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Displacement And Type:

2.5L V6 (KL-DE / J5) 2.0L Inline-4 (FE-DE / FE-DOHC)

2.5L V6 Horsepower:

Approx. 160-164 hp (depending on market and year)

2.5L V6 Torque:

Approx. 145-150 lb-ft (depending on market and year)

2.0L Inline-4 Horsepower:

Approx. 110-120 hp (naturally aspirated) Approx. 140-160 hp (DOHC / FE-DOHC)

2.0L Inline-4 Torque:

Approx. 110-130 lb-ft (naturally aspirated) Approx. 125-135 lb-ft (DOHC / FE-DOHC)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

Transmission Features:

Front-wheel drive, clutch type (hydraulic), transmission fluid type (e.g., GL-4 for manual, ATF for automatic).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 177.7 inches (4513 mm)

Width:

Approx. 69.3 inches (1760 mm)

Height:

Approx. 50.4 inches (1280 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 101.2 inches (2570 mm)

Track Width Front:

Approx. 59.1 inches (1500 mm)

Track Width Rear:

Approx. 58.5 inches (1485 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2900-3200 lbs (1315-1451 kg) depending on engine and features

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by model, typically around 4000 lbs (1814 kg)

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 12.7 cu ft (0.36 m3)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings 1990:

Likely 4-star for driver/passenger frontal impact (based on era typical ratings)

IIHS Ratings 1990:

Not readily available, but considered good for its time.

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) (Optional on some models), Power-assisted steering, Front ventilated disc brakes, Rear disc brakes.

Passive Safety Features:

Seat belts (3-point front, 2-point rear), Crumple zones, Side impact protection beams, Driver and passenger airbags (standard on later models, optional on earlier).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player, manual or automatic climate control, basic digital clock.

Driver Assistance Features:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Optional Four-Wheel Steering (4WS) on some MX-6 models for improved handling.

Connectivity Features:

Basic: Cigarette lighter power outlet, antenna connection for radio.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750-5,000 miles (6,000-8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific recommendations).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) depending on spark plug type (copper vs. platinum/iridium).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial for V6 engines: Every 60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-144,000 km) or 5-7 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG/SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for exact viscosity and capacity)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze/coolant (Mazda recommends specific types, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron II/III or equivalent ATF

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron II/III or equivalent ATF

Known Issues:

Timing belt failure (V6), alternator failure, starter motor issues, fuel pump failure, rust in wheel wells and rocker panels, worn suspension bushings, vacuum leaks causing rough idle, sticky climate control actuators.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mazda has a long history of producing innovative and driver-focused vehicles, from compact cars to sports cars. The brand is known for its rotary engine technology and its commitment to driving pleasure.

Model Evolution:

The MX-6 was introduced as a personal luxury sports coupe, succeeding the Mazda RX-7's spirit in a front-wheel-drive format. The second generation (GE) built upon the first generation's success with a more aerodynamic design and improved engineering. It shared its platform with the Ford Probe, a strategic alliance that aimed to reduce development costs and increase market share.

Production Location:

Japan (often Hofu Plant)

Production Years Ge Platform:

1991-1997 (MX-6), 1991-1992 (US 626 Coupe/Hatchback)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The GE platform was generally well-received for its styling and value. While not a recipient of major annual awards, it was a competent player in its segment. Some automotive journalists praised its V6 engine and handling characteristics.