Manual Coverage
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Systems Covered
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Powertrain:
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Engine (2.0L FE-DOHC, 2.5L KL-DE), transmission (manual & automatic), drivetrain, fuel system, exhaust system.
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Chassis:
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Suspension (front & rear), steering, brakes (front disc, rear drum/disc), wheels, tires.
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Electrical:
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Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition system, charging system, starting system, instrument cluster, body electronics, power accessories.
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Body:
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Body panels, doors, windows, glass, interior trim, seats, exterior trim, bumpers, collision repair.
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Procedures Included
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Maintenance:
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Routine service, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, belt and hose replacement, spark plug replacement.
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Repair:
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Engine component overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical system diagnostics and repair.
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Troubleshooting:
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Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, fault code interpretation.
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Specifications:
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Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, diagnostic parameters.
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Technical Depth
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Depth:
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Detailed, from basic owner maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes factory-level repair instructions.
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Safety Features
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Ratings
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NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
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Likely 4-star (based on similar vehicles of the era, specific ratings may vary by country).
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NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
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Likely 4-star (based on similar vehicles of the era, specific ratings may vary by country).
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Active Features
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ABS:
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Available/Optional on many trims, standard on higher trims.
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Traction Control:
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Less common on this generation, potentially available on very high-spec models.
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Passive Features
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Airbags:
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Driver and passenger front airbags standard on most models.
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Seat Belts:
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Three-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners for front occupants.
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Crumple Zones:
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Designed with front and rear crumple zones for impact energy absorption.
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Maintenance
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Service Intervals
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Oil Change Interval:
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Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific conditions).
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Air Filter Replacement:
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Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km).
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Spark Plug Replacement:
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Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) depending on plug type (copper vs. platinum).
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Timing Belt Replacement:
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Crucial for FE-DOHC and KL-DE engines. Typically 60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-144,000 km) or 5-7 years. Interference engine, failure causes severe damage.
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Fluid Specifications
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Engine Oil Type Fe:
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API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for specific viscosity based on climate).
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Engine Oil Type Kl:
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API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for specific viscosity based on climate).
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Coolant Type:
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Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mazda FL22 coolant or equivalent specified for later models, but for 1997, standard green coolant is usually acceptable.
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Transmission Fluid Manual:
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API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil.
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Transmission Fluid Automatic:
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Dexron-III (or equivalent). Specific Mazda ATF types may be recommended in the manual.
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Brake Fluid Type:
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DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
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Known Issues
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Engine Vacuum Leaks:
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Cracked or brittle vacuum hoses, especially around the intake manifold, can cause rough idle and poor performance.
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Automatic Transmission Shifts:
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Can develop harsh shifting or delayed engagement, often due to fluid degradation or worn solenoids/valve body.
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Suspension Wear:
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Bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends can wear over time, leading to clunks and poor handling.
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Rust:
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Common in areas prone to road salt, particularly on wheel arches, rocker panels, and underbody components.
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Electrical Connectors:
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Corroded or loose electrical connectors can cause intermittent issues with lights, sensors, and power accessories.
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