🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mazda Model: MPV Year: 1996 Codes Platform Code: LW 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Mini-Van Target Audience: Families, practical consumers Competitive Analysis Key Competitors 1996: Toyota Previa, Honda Odyssey, Chrysler Town & Country/Dodge Caravan/Plymouth Voyager Key Features Unique Selling Proposition: Rear-wheel drive platform offering better handling and towing compared to many front-wheel drive competitors in its class at the time. Design Philosophy: Functional and spacious interior with a focus on driver engagement for a minivan. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Market: North America Regions Covered: USA, Canada Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1500+ Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Exhaust Chassis: Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Wheels & Tires Electrical: Ignition, Charging, Starting, Lighting, Body Electrical, HVAC Controls, Instrument Cluster, Power Accessories Body: Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Glass Maintenance: Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Checks, Lubrication Procedures Included Diagnosis: Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) Repair: Component Removal & Installation, Overhaul Procedures, Component Reassembly Adjustment: Alignment, Clutch Adjustment, Brake Adjustment Replacement: Serviceable Parts Replacement (belts, hoses, filters, spark plugs, etc.) Technical Depth Level: Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to in-depth engine/transmission overhaul) Diagnostics: Detailed diagnostic flowcharts and procedures for various systems. Wiring Diagrams: Includes detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all major systems. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: Searchable PDF Print Quality Resolution: High-resolution (suitable for printing chapters/sections) Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: 2.5L V6 (J5) Engine Type: SOHC V6 (VE) Displacement: 2.5 Liters (2490 cc) Performance Horsepower Hp: 140-160 hp (depending on specific market tuning) Torque Lb Ft: 150-170 lb-ft (depending on specific market tuning) Fuel System Induction Type: Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended) Technical Details Bore X Stroke: 83.0 mm x 76.7 mm Compression Ratio: 8.9:1 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 4-Speed Automatic Transmission Optional Type: N/A (No Manual Transmission Option for this model year) Features Control Type: Electronically Controlled Fluid Type: Mazda ATF-Type T-IV (or equivalent) Gear Ratios First Gear: 2.804:1 Second Gear: 1.531:1 Third Gear: 1.000:1 Reverse: 2.260:1 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 4770 mm (187.8 in) Width: 1785 mm (70.3 in) Height: 1750 mm (68.9 in) Wheelbase: 2820 mm (111.0 in) Front Track: 1520 mm (59.8 in) Rear Track: 1515 mm (59.6 in) Interior Seating Capacity: 7 passengers (2-2-3 configuration) Cargo Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row: Approx. 21.5 cu ft Cargo Volume With 3Rd Row Folded: Approx. 50.5 cu ft Weights Curb Weight: 1700 - 1850 kg (3748 - 4079 lbs) (Varies by trim and options) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr: 2450 kg (5401 lbs) Towing Capacity: Up to 3500 lbs (with optional towing package) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact Driver: 4-star (1996 model year ratings) NHTSA Front Impact Passenger: 4-star (1996 model year ratings) Active Features ABS: Available (Standard on some higher trims) Traction Control: N/A Passive Features Airbags: Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags Seatbelts: 3-point front and rear seatbelts, with pretensioners and load limiters for front occupants. Child Safety: Rear door child safety locks, ISOFIX/LATCH anchor points may be present on later iterations or specific markets but not standard for 1996. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: AM/FM Stereo with Cassette Player, optional CD Player. Speakers: Typically 4-6 speakers. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard on most trims. Connectivity Aux Input: N/A (Pre-dating widespread auxiliary inputs) 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (depending on driving conditions and oil used) Engine Air Filter Replacement: Every 15,000-30,000 miles Spark Plug Replacement: Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on plug type) Transmission Fluid Change: Every 30,000-60,000 miles (recommended) Coolant Flush: Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific climate recommendations) Engine Oil Capacity: Approx. 4.5 US quarts (with filter) Coolant Type: Ethylene Glycol based coolant (Green) Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 Known Issues Common Wear Items: Ignition coils, spark plug wires, front sway bar end links, catalytic converter, O2 sensors, valve cover gaskets (potential oil leaks). Transmission Issues: Occasional transmission slippage or harsh shifting if fluid maintenance is neglected. Torque converter issues can arise with high mileage. Engine Issues: Overheating if cooling system is not maintained. Intake manifold gaskets can sometimes leak vacuum. EGR valve clogging can cause rough idle. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Mazda Philosophy: Zoom-Zoom (though this slogan was later adopted, the spirit of driver engagement was present). Model Evolution First Generation: 1990-1998 Second Generation Introduction: 1999 (Facelifted model, different platform in some markets) Significant Changes 1996: Minor updates, typically cosmetic or feature adjustments, the core platform remained the same as earlier years of...