Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints, sway bar), rear suspension (multi-link, trailing arms, struts, sway bar), shock absorber replacement, bush replacement.
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, glass replacement, chassis structure, corrosion protection.
Procedures Included
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, transmission fluid changes, belt inspections and replacement.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common symptoms (e.g., no start, poor idle, braking issues, AC problems).
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair across all covered systems.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Methods for diagnosing electrical issues, engine performance problems, and system malfunctions.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Factory-level, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced diagnostics and electrical troubleshooting.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Primary Format:
PDF
Compression Format:
WINRAR (for download delivery)
Print Quality
Printability:
All pages are printable.
Text Searchability:
Completely searchable text.
Binding Type
Binding:
Not applicable (digital download)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
Not applicable (digital download)
File Integrity
File Origin:
Real files, not scans.
Delivery Method
Delivery:
Instant Download
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Options 1996 626 Mx6:
2.5L V6 (KL-DE) and 2.0L Inline-4 (FS-DE)
Performance
V6 Horsepower Est:
Approx. 164 hp @ 6000 rpm (KL-DE)
V6 Torque Est:
Approx. 157 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (KL-DE)
I4 Horsepower Est:
Approx. 118 hp @ 5500 rpm (FS-DE)
I4 Torque Est:
Approx. 125 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (FS-DE)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Engine Codes
V6 Engine Code:
KL-DE
I4 Engine Code:
FS-DE
Cylinder Head
V6 Head Type:
DOHC 24-valve (V6)
I4 Head Type:
DOHC 16-valve (I4)
🔧 Transmission
Standard Transmission 626
Type:
5-speed Manual
Optional Transmission 626
Type:
4-speed Automatic
Standard Transmission Mx6
Type:
5-speed Manual (often standard with V6)
Optional Transmission Mx6
Type:
4-speed Automatic (often optional with V6)
Automatic Transmission Features
Electronically Controlled:
Yes, often electronically controlled for smoother shifts and better fuel economy.
Fluid Specifications
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mazda ATF-Type III or equivalent (check manual for exact spec)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.3 inches (2649 mm)
Length:
Approx. 185.0 inches (4699 mm) for 626 Sedan, 176.2 inches (4475 mm) for MX-6 Coupe
Width:
Approx. 69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Height:
Approx. 54.7 inches (1390 mm) for MX-6, 54.1 inches (1374 mm) for 626 Sedan
Weights
Curb Weight Est:
Approx. 3100-3300 lbs (1406-1497 kg), varies by model and engine
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Impact Ratings 1996:
Not readily available for this specific model year, but generally considered average for its class at the time.
Active Features
ABS:
Available on higher trims, often standard with V6 and MX-6 models.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver airbag standard, passenger airbag available on some trims.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seatbelts.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette or CD player, with optional premium sound systems.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on many trims, particularly with automatic transmissions.
Connectivity
N/A:
No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB found in this era of vehicle.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for exact recommendation).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Recommended every 60,000-90,000 miles for the V6 (KL-DE) engine. The I4 (FS-DE) may have a timing chain or belt depending on specific variant, check manual.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on plug type (check manual).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended (check manual for temperature variations).
Coolant Type:
Mazda Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Known Issues
Common V6 Issues:
Internal coolant leaks (intake manifold gaskets or cylinder head gaskets), oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, occasional distributor issues.
Common I4 Issues:
Less prone to major issues, but can experience oil leaks and exhaust manifold cracks.
Suspension Wear:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends are common due to age and mileage.
Automatic Transmission Issues:
Some transmissions may exhibit slipping or harsh shifting with high mileage, often related to solenoid issues or fluid degradation.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mazda Philosophy:
Known for 'Zoom-Zoom' driving dynamics, sporty feel, and reliable engineering.
Model Evolution
Third Generation 626 Mx6:
The 1996 models belong to the GE platform (1992-1998 for 626, 1992-1997 for MX-6), which introduced a more rounded and aerodynamic styling.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Japan and Flat Rock, Michigan, USA (for North American market)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best:
The Mazda 626 and MX-6 families have historically been well-regarded and have appeared on Car and Driver's 10Best lists in prior generations, showcasing their competitive nature.