Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, inspection, repair, timing belt, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (mechanical aspects)
Engine Performance:
Engine control systems (ECM), ignition system, fuel injection system, emission control systems, turbocharging (if applicable to specific variants)
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission (MT) disassembly, assembly, repair, clutch system
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission (AT) disassembly, assembly, repair, hydraulic control, torque converter
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) components, drive shafts, CV joints, differentials
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, struts, shocks, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, wheel alignment
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, brake calipers, pads, rotors, hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnostics
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator, starter), lighting system, horn, wipers, power windows, door locks
Body Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, seats, airbags, climate control system (HVAC)
Body Exterior:
Bumpers, fenders, hood, trunk lid, doors, glass, exterior trim
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, timing belt replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush
Engine Repair:
Engine overhaul, head gasket replacement, piston ring replacement, valve seal replacement, bearing replacement
Transmission Repair:
Clutch replacement, transmission fluid service, seal replacement, internal component repair
Suspension Repair:
Strut replacement, ball joint replacement, bushing replacement, shock absorber replacement
Brake Repair:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake caliper servicing, bleeding the brake system, ABS sensor replacement
Electrical Repair:
Alternator testing and replacement, starter motor replacement, wiring harness repair, sensor diagnostics and replacement
Climate Control Repair:
AC compressor replacement, evaporator servicing, heater core replacement, blower motor replacement
Body Repair:
Door hinge adjustment, panel alignment, glass replacement, interior component removal and installation
Diagnostics And Testing:
Component testing procedures, electrical circuit testing, pressure testing, scan tool usage
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics and bodywork.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed procedures for using diagnostic tools and interpreting fault codes.
Repair Specificity:
Step-by-step instructions with torque specifications, special tool requirements, and illustrations.
Oil Change Interval Recommendation:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions.
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years, whichever comes first (crucial for FS-DE engine).
Engine Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 24,000 miles (38,000 km) or 2 years.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SN/SP, ILSAC GF-5/GF-6A, SAE 5W-30 (check owner's manual for exact specs)
Engine Oil Capacity Approx:
4.0-4.3 US quarts (3.8-4.1 liters) with filter change.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III/Mercon (or equivalent) ATF
Coolant Spec:
Mazda Genuine Long Life Antifreeze or equivalent (typically ethylene glycol based, pink/red).
Engine Issues:
Timing belt failure (if not replaced per schedule), occasional oil consumption, starter motor issues.
Suspension Issues:
Worn front control arm bushings, worn sway bar links, occasional premature strut wear.
Electrical Issues:
Alternator failure, power window regulator issues, occasional instrument cluster problems.
Exhaust Issues:
Corrosion on exhaust components, catalytic converter failure.