Vehicle Segment:
Lightweight sports car, roadster
Key Selling Points:
Driving dynamics, affordability, open-top motoring, reliability
Competitors 2008-2009:
Honda S2000, BMW Z4, Porsche Boxster (higher end), Nissan 350Z Roadster
Engine Placement:
Front-engine, rear-wheel drive
Body Style:
2-door convertible
Chassis Construction:
Lightweight, rigid chassis
Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and technicians with detailed, accurate information for maintenance and repair, reducing reliance on costly dealership services.
Professional Standard:
Provides the same level of detail and accuracy found in official Mazda service documentation.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, inspection, overhaul, timing components, lubrication system, cooling system.
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection system (S-VT, electronic throttle control), ignition system, emission control systems (OBD-II).
Transmission Manual:
Gearing, clutch system, shift mechanism, gearbox overhaul, fluid specifications.
Transmission Automatic:
If applicable, transmission overhaul, torque converter, fluid specifications, electronic control.
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, differential, axle components, wheel bearings, hub assemblies.
Suspension System:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, anti-roll bars, alignment specifications.
Steering System:
Power steering system (if equipped), steering rack, tie rods, steering column, alignment procedures.
Braking System:
Front and rear brakes, ABS system, brake fluid specifications, caliper and rotor replacement, bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting system, power windows, mirrors, wipers, horns.
Climate Control:
HVAC system, air conditioning compressor, refrigerant, heater core, blower motor, controls.
Body And Interior:
Door mechanisms, seat adjustments, dashboard removal, trim panels, convertible top operation and repair.
Body Electrical And Security:
Keyless entry, immobilizer system, central locking, alarm system.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, component testing procedures.
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing major and minor components across all systems.
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed overhaul instructions for engine and transmission.
Torque Specifications:
Critical torque values for all fasteners.
Wheel Alignment:
Specifications and procedures for front and rear wheel alignment.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to complex electrical diagnostics and engine/transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Tools:
Details on required diagnostic tools and scan tool usage.
Special Tools:
Identification of any specific Mazda special tools required for certain procedures.
Transmission Type Standard:
6-speed Manual Transmission (MX-5 Miata)
Transmission Type Optional:
6-speed Activematic Automatic Transmission (available on some trims)
Manual Transmission Features:
Close-ratio gearing, short-throw shifter
Automatic Transmission Features:
Steering wheel paddle shifters (on select models)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
Mazda GL-5 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (Refer to manual for specific Mazda part number, e.g., 0000-GL-5-75W90)
Manual Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 2.1 liters (2.2 US quarts)
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
5-Star (for driver and passenger) for 2008 models.
IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:
Good (Top Safety Pick for 2008 models).
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with Traction Control
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags, side airbags (in seatbacks)
Rollover Protection:
Pop-up rollover hoops behind seats
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (depending on driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual; typically around 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) for iridium plugs.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2-3 years or as per manual recommendations to prevent moisture absorption.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic or Synthetic Blend meeting API SN or ILSAC GF-5 specifications (Refer to manual for exact Mazda specification, e.g., Mazda Genuine Oil).
Coolant Type:
Mazda FL22 Long Life Coolant (or equivalent silicate-free, ethylene glycol-based coolant)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.8 US quarts (4.5 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 7.0 US quarts (6.6 liters)
Oil Consumption:
Some early NC Miatas, particularly those with higher mileage, may exhibit increased oil consumption due to piston ring wear. Regular checks are advised.
Clutch Wear:
As with any manual transmission sports car, clutch wear is dependent on driving style. The manual covers clutch inspection and replacement.
Convertible Top Wear:
Wear on the convertible top fabric or mechanisms can occur over time. The manual should detail lubrication and adjustment points.
Carbon Buildup:
Occasional carbon buildup in the combustion chambers can occur, especially with short-trip driving. The manual provides cleaning and diagnosis procedures.
Mazda Sports Car Legacy:
Continuation of Mazda's long history of producing engaging and affordable sports cars, inspired by the original Mazda Cosmo Sport and RX-7.
Nc Generation Introduction:
The NC generation (introduced for 2006) marked a significant redesign with a larger chassis and updated styling, moving away from the RX-8 platform sharing.
2008 Model Year Updates:
Minor updates may have been introduced, but the core platform remained the same as the initial NC launch. Focus was on refining existing features.
Assembly Location:
Hofu, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan
Production Years Nc Generation:
2006-2015
