Mazda MX-6 (1991-1997) How to Remove the Bumpers

Name and Production Years

The second generation of the Mazda MX-6 was produced from 1991 to 1997. In Japan, the model was also sold as the Mazda Eunos 500 (from 1992) under the Eunos dealership network, while in North America, it was marketed as the Ford Probe (second generation) due to the partnership between Mazda and Ford. In Europe and other markets, the car retained the MX-6 name.

 

Model Code and Platform
The MX-6 II was based on the Mazda GE platform, which was also used for the Ford Probe II. The body code for the MX-6 was GE. The car was offered exclusively as a 2-door fastback coupe, emphasizing its sporty character.

 

Facelift
In 1994, Mazda gave the model a minor facelift:

  • The radiator grille was updated (featuring a smoother design).
  • The bumpers and taillights were refreshed.
  • New interior trim materials were introduced.
  • Additional options, such as ABS and leather upholstery, were added to some versions.

 

Engines and Modifications


The MX-6 II was offered with several engines:

  • 2.0 L FS-DE (I4, 115–118 hp) – the base naturally aspirated engine, available in Europe and Japan.
  • 2.5 L KL-DE (V6, 164–170 hp) – a more powerful version, popular in the U.S. and Japan.
  • 2.0 L KF-ZE (V6, 160 hp) – a Japanese variant with variable valve timing (found in the Eunos 500).

 

Transmission options:

  • 5-speed manual (for all versions).
  • 4-speed automatic (optional).

 

How to Remove the Front Bumper

  1. Open the hood.
  2. Remove the five clips securing the upper part of the front bumper under the hood.
  3. Move to the lower part and unscrew six bolts.
  4. Turn or remove the front wheels.
  5. Free the front part of the wheel arch liners.
  6. Unscrew one bolt on each side, securing the bumper corners to the fenders (fastened from bottom to top).
  7. From the inside of the fenders, unscrew two nuts on each side (use a socket wrench with an extension).
  8. Unscrew the nuts securing the bumper reinforcement brackets to the body (located in the engine bay).
  9. With an assistant, carefully pull the bumper forward (avoid damaging the wiring).
  10. Disconnect the electrical connectors from the lighting units.

Mazda MX-6 Front Bumper Mounting Diagram (1991-1997)

How to Remove the Rear Bumper

⇒Useful tips on how to remove the bumper and not break anything.⇐

  1. Start with the sides. Unscrew the bolts securing the wheel arch liners and one bolt on each side holding the bumper corners to the fenders.
  2. Lift the trunk lid.
  3. Unscrew two bolts (fastened from top to bottom) under the trunk lid.
  4. Remove the taillights.
  5. Under the taillights, unscrew two bolts on each side.
  6. Remove the trunk trim panels.
  7. Unscrew two nuts inside the fenders.
  8. Unscrew four bolts from the underside (fastened from bottom to top).
  9. Unscrew the nuts securing the bumper reinforcement brackets to the rear panel.
  10. Disconnect the side marker light connectors and, with an assistant, pull the bumper backward.

Mazda MX-6 Rear Bumper Mounting Diagram (1991-1997)

All-Wheel-Drive Version (1991–1993)
In Japan and some European countries, an all-wheel-drive MX-6 4WD variant was offered, featuring the Dynamic 4 system (engageable rear-wheel drive). This version was equipped with a 2.0-liter FS-ZE engine (145 hp) and was relatively rare.

 

Sport Versions and Tuning

  • In Japan, the Eunos 500 Type S featured upgraded suspension and interior.
  • In the U.S., the MX-6 was sometimes modified for IMSA racing.
  • In Australia and Europe, the MX-6 participated in rally competitions but without major success.

 

Technologies and Features

  • One of the first Mazdas with a multi-link rear suspension, improving handling.
  • Available with 4WS (four-wheel steering) on Japanese versions (rare).
  • High-quality interior materials, with options including power-adjustable seats and a sunroof.

 

Interesting Facts

  • A joint project with Ford – the MX-6 II and Ford Probe II were co-developed, but the MX-6 had a more "Japanese" design and suspension tuning.
  • Almost a rotary engine – initially, the MX-6 was planned to have a rotary engine, but the idea was scrapped for cost reasons.
  • Rare AWD – the 4WD version was produced for only two years and is now considered a collector's item.
  • Movie appearances – the MX-6 II appeared in several Japanese films and TV series in the 90s.
  • Poor sales in Europe – due to high pricing and competition from the Honda Prelude and Toyota Celica, the MX-6 sold worse than in the U.S.

 

Conclusion
The Mazda MX-6 II is an underrated 90s coupe that combined style, technology, and good performance. Despite sharing a platform with the Ford Probe, it remained more "Japanese" and appealing to enthusiasts. Today, it is a rare car, especially in 4WD and V6 versions, and deserves attention from collectors.