🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mazda Model: MX-3 Year: 1995 Generation Generation Name: First Generation (EC) Generation Years: 1991-1998 Codes Chassis Code: EC 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Subcompact sport coupe Target Audience: Younger drivers, performance-oriented buyers, those seeking stylish and affordable coupes. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Honda Civic Coupe, Toyota Corolla Coupe, Mitsubishi Eclipse, Nissan Sentra SE-R. Key Features Vehicle Selling Points: Unique styling, advanced V6 engine option (for its class), sporty handling, affordable price point. Manual Value Proposition Manual Benefit: Empowers owners and technicians with comprehensive knowledge to maintain, diagnose, and repair the 1995 Mazda MX-3, ensuring longevity and optimal performance. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Scope: Comprehensive service and repair Page Count Estimated Page Count: Approximately 1000+ pages (typical for a complete factory service manual) Manual Type Manual Type: Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Digital Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Systems: Engine mechanical, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust Drivetrain Systems: Manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch, driveshafts, differential Suspension Steering: Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, power steering Braking Systems: Front brakes (disc), rear brakes (disc or drum depending on spec), parking brake, ABS (if equipped) Electrical Systems: Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, wipers, horn, instrument cluster, fuses, relays Body Chassis: Body construction, doors, windows, interior trim, exterior trim, frame, bumpers HVAC System: Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) system Procedures Included Maintenance Procedures: Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups Repair Procedures: Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake service, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair Troubleshooting Diagnostics: Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, fault code interpretation (for OBD-I systems) Specifications Data: Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values Technical Depth Depth Of Coverage: Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Likely text-searchable if professionally converted, allowing quick access to specific topics. Print Quality Print Readability: Designed for on-screen viewing and printing. Quality depends on the source conversion. Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital PDF) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital PDF) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code 1: BP-ZE Engine Type 1: DOHC 16-valve Inline-4 Displacement 1: 1.8 Liters (1839 cc) Bore Stroke 1: 83.0 mm x 85.0 mm Compression Ratio 1: 9.8:1 Horsepower 1: 129 hp @ 6500 rpm Torque 1: 117 lb-ft @ 5300 rpm Optional Engine Engine Code 2: K8-DE Engine Type 2: DOHC 24-valve V6 Displacement 2: 1.6 Liters (1640 cc) Bore Stroke 2: 71.0 mm x 72.4 mm Compression Ratio 2: 9.7:1 Horsepower 2: 103 hp @ 7000 rpm Torque 2: 97 lb-ft @ 5500 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline Engine Management ECU Type: OBD-I compliant 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Standard: 5-speed Manual Transmission Optional Transmission Type Optional: 4-speed Automatic Transmission Features Transmission Features: FWD (Front-Wheel Drive) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 2500 mm (98.4 inches) Length: 4200 mm (165.4 inches) Width: 1690 mm (66.5 inches) Height: 1315 mm (51.8 inches) Weights Curb Weight Approx: 1100 - 1200 kg (2425 - 2645 lbs), depending on engine and options 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact Rating: Not specifically rated for 1995 by NHTSA in a manner directly comparable to modern standards. Typically considered adequate for its era. Active Features Active Safety Features: Front disc brakes, rear disc or drum brakes, power-assisted steering (standard on V6, optional on I4) Passive Features Passive Safety Features: Seat belts (front and rear), reinforced body structure. Airbags: Driver-side airbag was optional or standard depending on trim level and market. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM/Cassette player, optional CD player. Basic analog controls. Driver Assistance ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature, typically on higher trims or specific models. Connectivity Connectivity Features: None. This era predates modern Bluetooth or USB connectivity. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic or synthetic blend oil recommended). Coolant Flush Interval: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years. Spark Plug Replacement: Typically every 60,000-100,000 miles depending on plug type (iridium/platinum recommended). Timing Belt Replacement: Every 60,000 miles or 4 years for the BP-ZE (Inline-4). The K8-DE (V6) uses a timing chain, which is generally maintenance-free unless issues arise. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: API SG/SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on ambient temperature). Engine Oil Capacity: Approximately 4.0-4.5 Liters (4.2-4.8 Quarts) with filter change for BP-ZE. Coolant Type: Mazda/Ford Premium Gold Antifreeze/Coolant (ethylene glycol based), or equivalent (50/50 mix). Transmission Fluid Manual: API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil. Transmission Fluid Automatic: Mazda ATF M-III or equivalent Dexron II/III compatible ATF. Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Known Issues Engine Issues: Premature wear on the BP-ZE engine's...
Empowers owners and technicians with comprehensive knowledge to maintain, diagnose, and repair the 1995 Mazda MX-3, ensuring longevity and optimal performance.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Coverage Scope:
Comprehensive service and repair
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 1000+ pages (typical for a complete factory service manual)
Mazda ATF M-III or equivalent Dexron II/III compatible ATF.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Known Issues
Engine Issues:
Premature wear on the BP-ZE engine's camshaft/camshaft bearings, oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), occasional ignition coil failure.
Transmission Issues:
Wear in manual transmission synchros, potential for automatic transmission solenoid failure or torque converter issues with high mileage.
Suspension Steering Issues:
Front suspension compliance steer effect can degrade with age, worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings are common.
Electrical Issues:
Corrosion on grounds and connectors, failure of HVAC blower motor resistor, dim dashboard lighting.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mazda Sports Heritage:
Mazda has a long history of producing engaging and sporty vehicles, from the RX series to the Miata.
Model Evolution
Mx3 Design Philosophy:
Designed as a stylish, affordable, and fun-to-drive sport compact, with a particular emphasis on its unique V6 engine option.
Production
Production Years:
1991-1998
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best:
The V6 engine was lauded for its smoothness and power relative to its displacement, earning it praise but not typically a place on Car and Driver's 10Best list.
Automotive Journalism Reviews:
Praised for its styling, handling balance, and the availability of the unique V6 engine, though sometimes criticized for its somewhat firm ride and interior space.