🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

MX-5 Miata

Generation:

NB

Model Years:

1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004

Chassis Code:

NB

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Mazda MX-5 Miata (NB generation) is a quintessential lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports car renowned for its engaging driving dynamics and affordability. It competes with vehicles like the Toyota MR2 Spyder and Porsche Boxster in spirit, though at a significantly lower price point.

Competitive Analysis:

The NB generation refined the formula of the original NA Miata, offering improved chassis rigidity, more power, and modern amenities. This manual provides the essential documentation for owners to maintain and repair this celebrated driver's car.

Key Features:

Lightweight construction, near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution, responsive handling, convertible top (manual or power), and a driver-focused interior.

Manual Usefulness:

Empowers owners to perform routine maintenance and complex repairs, saving significant costs compared to dealership or independent shop labor. Crucial for diagnosing and rectifying common issues.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All systems and components for the 1999-2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata

Page Count:

Estimated 2500+ pages (digital download)

Manual Type:

Complete Workshop Repair Manual / Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts, valve train, timing system

Engine Management:

Fuel injection, ignition system, emission controls, sensors, ECU diagnosis and repair

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, cooling fan, coolant specifications

Lubrication System:

Oil pump, oil pan, oil filter, oil specifications, lubrication passages

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, hangers

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, injectors, fuel pressure regulation

Transmission Manual:

Clutch, gearbox, shift mechanism, transmission fluid specifications

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission components, valve body, torque converter, ATF specifications

Drivetrain:

Driveshafts, universal joints, differential, axle shafts

Suspension Front:

Control arms, ball joints, tie rods, shock absorbers, springs, sway bar

Suspension Rear:

Multilink suspension, control arms, shock absorbers, springs, sway bar

Steering System:

Steering rack, power steering pump, hydraulic lines, steering column, steering wheel

Brake System Front:

Brake calipers, brake pads, brake discs (rotors), brake lines

Brake System Rear:

Brake calipers, brake pads, brake discs (rotors), parking brake mechanism

ABS System:

ABS control module, wheel speed sensors, hydraulic modulator

Electrical System Power:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays

Electrical System Lighting:

Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, signal lights, wiring

Electrical System Instruments:

Instrument cluster, gauges, warning lights, switches

Body Exterior:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, convertible top mechanism, convertible top seal replacement

Body Interior:

Dashboard, seats, trim panels, carpets, safety belts, airbag system removal and installation

Climate Control:

HVAC system, air conditioning compressor, condenser, evaporator, heater core, refrigerant types and capacities

Chassis And Frame:

Frame construction, body mounting, rust repair considerations

Maintenance Routine:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, spark plug replacement

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for all major systems, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides

Engine Repair:

Engine overhaul, head gasket replacement, piston and ring replacement, bearing replacement, timing belt/chain service

Transmission Service:

Transmission fluid and filter change, clutch replacement, transmission rebuild procedures

Brake Service:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake caliper service, brake fluid flush and bleeding, parking brake adjustment

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Component replacement (ball joints, tie rods, control arms, shocks, struts), alignment specifications, steering rack repair

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring harness testing, component testing (sensors, actuators), multimeter usage, oscilloscope interpretation

Body And Trim Repair:

Dent repair, panel replacement, convertible top adjustment and repair, interior trim removal and installation

Heating And Ac Service:

Refrigerant handling, component replacement (compressor, drier, expansion valve), leak detection, system evacuation and recharge

Torque Specifications:

All critical torque values for fasteners across all systems

Tightening Sequences:

Specific sequences for cylinder head bolts, manifold bolts, etc.

Special Tools:

Listing and usage of specialized tools required for certain repairs

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including in-depth electrical diagnostics and bodywork.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchable Text:

Yes, text is searchable for quick access to information

Printable:

Yes, allows for printing of individual pages or sections

Resolution:

High-resolution scans for clear diagrams and text

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

BP-Z3 (early NB), YS (late NB)

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline 4-Cylinder DOHC

Displacement Cc:

1839 cc (1.8 Liters)

Horsepower Hp:

140-155 hp (depending on year and market)

Torque Lb-Ft:

115-125 lb-ft (depending on year and market)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)

Ignition Type:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug or coil-near-plug

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., Mazda FL22 or equivalent)

Oil Capacity Quarts:

4.0 quarts (with filter change)

Recommended Oil Viscosity:

5W-30

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Mazda Genuine ATF JWS3314 or equivalent

Clutch Type:

Dry, single plate, diaphragm spring

📐 Dimensions

Length Inches:

157.2

Width Inches:

66.1

Height Inches:

49.7

Wheelbase Inches:

89.2

Ground Clearance Inches:

4.7

Curb Weight Lbs:

2332 - 2400 lbs (depending on transmission and options)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Lbs:

3000 (approximate)

Cargo Volume Cubic Feet:

4.7 (trunk)

Wheel Size:

15x6.0J or 16x6.5J

Tire Size Standard:

P195/55R15

Tire Size Optional:

P205/45R16

Bolt Pattern:

4x100mm

Wheel Offset Mm:

ET40 (15x6J), ET40 (16x6.5J)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:

4-star driver, 4-star passenger (for comparable models/years)

IIHS Side Impact Rating:

Good (for comparable models/years)

ABS:

Standard on most models, optional on early NB

Traction Control:

Optional on some models

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger front airbags

Rollover Protection:

Reinforced windshield frame and pop-up roll hoops behind seats

Seat Belts:

Three-point retractable seat belts with pre-tensioners

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic factory radio with AM/FM, CD player, and cassette player (optional).

Speaker Configuration:

Typically 4-6 speakers (dashboard, door, rear).

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by era; primarily ABS and optional traction control.

Connectivity Options:

None from factory; aftermarket solutions available for Bluetooth and smartphone integration.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Miles:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, whichever comes first

Air Filter Replacement Interval Miles:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed

Spark Plug Replacement Interval Miles:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on plug type)

Timing Belt Replacement Interval Miles:

N/A (This engine uses a timing chain)

Coolant Flush Interval Miles:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles or 2-4 years

Transmission Fluid Change Interval Miles:

Manual: Every 60,000 miles; Automatic: Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles

Brake Fluid Flush Interval Years:

Every 2-3 years

Engine Oil Type:

Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic SAE 5W-30

Coolant Spec:

Mazda FL22 (Green) or equivalent Long Life OAT coolant

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Dexron III ATF or equivalent

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Known Issues Engine:

Oil consumption can increase with mileage. Occasional coolant leaks from radiator or hoses. Stretched timing chain guides (less common on BP-Z3 than earlier BP engines).

Known Issues Transmission:

Manual clutch wear is normal. Some reports of stiff shifter linkage over time. Automatic transmission can develop issues with torque converter or solenoid packs at high mileage.

Known Issues Suspension:

Worn bushings (control arms, sway bar), worn wheel bearings, and degraded shock absorbers are common with age and mileage.

Known Issues Electrical:

Window motor failures, convertible top switch issues, alternator output degradation, and corroded grounds are noted.

Known Issues Body:

Convertible top fabric wear and seal degradation. Minor rust around wheel arches and rocker panels. Headlight actuator failures.

Known Issues Cooling:

Plastic end tanks on radiators can crack over time. Heater core can develop leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mazda has a long history of producing sporty, driver-focused vehicles. The Miata lineage, starting in 1989, revitalized the affordable roadster market.

Model Evolution:

The NB generation, introduced for the 1999 model year, featured a more aggressive, aerodynamic design than its predecessor, with pop-up headlights being a significant change. It offered more power and improved handling characteristics.

Production Years:

1998-2005 (for the NB generation worldwide)

Manufacturing Location:

Hiroshima, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10 Best:

The MX-5 Miata (including NB generation) has been a perennial recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' list for its exceptional driving experience.

Motor Trend Import Car Of The Year:

Nominated and recognized for its class-leading handling and value.