Vehicle Segment:
Compact Car
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious consumers, young drivers, and those seeking reliable transportation.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Nissan Sentra.
Value Proposition:
Affordability, respectable fuel economy, and a reputation for reliability and good driving dynamics.
Manual Benefit:
Empowers owners and technicians with the in-depth knowledge required for efficient and accurate repairs.
Powertrain:
Comprehensive coverage of all engine and transmission components.
Chassis:
Detailed information on suspension, steering, brakes, and wheels.
Electrical:
Extensive coverage including wiring diagrams, component locations, and diagnostic procedures.
Body:
Repair and adjustment procedures for interior and exterior body components.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.
Engine Overhaul:
Complete disassembly, inspection, and reassembly procedures for engine components.
Transmission Repair:
Detailed steps for manual and automatic transmission diagnostics, repair, and overhaul.
Brake System Service:
Pad replacement, caliper service, rotor replacement, brake fluid bleeding, and ABS system diagnostics.
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Shock/strut replacement, ball joint service, tie rod end replacement, power steering system service.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guide for common electrical faults, ECU diagnostics, and sensor testing.
HVAC System Repair:
Refrigerant handling, compressor replacement, system leak testing, and component diagnostics.
Body Panel Replacement:
Procedures for replacing fenders, doors, bumpers, and other exterior panels.
Depth:
Factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (Platinum type).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Not Applicable (This engine uses a timing chain).
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
API Service SG, SH, or SJ; SAE 5W-30 Recommended.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based, long-life coolant (e.g., Mazda Super Long Life Coolant).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Wear Item:
Front strut mounts and bushings can wear prematurely, leading to noise and poor handling.
Engine Performance:
Some instances of occasional rough idle or misfires due to carbon buildup on intake valves or faulty ignition coils.
Electrical Gremlins:
Window regulators and power door lock actuators can be a failure point.
Corrosion:
Rear wheel arches and rocker panels are susceptible to rust, especially in areas with road salt.
Mazda Philosophy:
Jinba Ittai (Horse and Rider as One) - emphasizing driving feel and connection.
Generation:
Third Generation (BJ, 1998-2003) with a facelift in 2001 for North America.
Bodystyles:
Sedan, Hatchback (3-door and 5-door), Wagon.
Production Years:
1998-2003 (This manual covers the 2004 model year, which typically falls under the prior generation's design with minor updates).
