Positioning:
The Mazda MX-5 Miata (NC generation) is renowned as the quintessential affordable, lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports car, emphasizing driving purity and open-top motoring. This manual is targeted at owners and technicians aiming to maintain and repair this iconic vehicle.
Competitors:
Competes with cars like the Nissan 370Z (earlier models), Toyota MR2 Spyder (discontinued), and various entry-level sports coupes/convertibles. Its unique selling proposition is its accessible price point, engaging handling, and consistent focus on driver involvement.
Vehicle Highlights:
Lightweight chassis, perfect 50/50 weight distribution, independent front and rear suspension, responsive steering, potent yet efficient MZR engine, available with manual or automatic transmission, iconic roadster styling.
Engine:
Comprehensive coverage including MZR 2.0L (LF-VE) engine: diagnosis, repair, disassembly, assembly, specifications, timing system, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, emissions control.
Transmission:
Coverage for both 6-speed manual transmission (M-Type) and 6-speed automatic transmission (FW6A-EL): overhaul, diagnostics, fluid specifications, gear ratios, clutch operation (manual), torque converter operation (auto).
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive system: driveshaft, differential, axle shafts, wheel bearings, troubleshooting, lubrication, and repair procedures.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension: double wishbone (front), multi-link (rear), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, sway bars, wheel alignment specifications, diagnosis of wear and tear.
Steering:
Electric Power Steering (EPS) system: components, diagnosis, torque sensor calibration, steering angle sensor, rack and pinion assembly repair.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes: ABS, EBD, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system, brake fluid specifications, caliper and rotor replacement, bleeding procedures, parking brake system.
Electrical System:
Complete electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter motor, fuses, relays, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), horn, power windows, power locks, keyless entry, immobilizer system.
Climate Control:
Air conditioning (A/C) system: refrigerant, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, diagnosis of leaks and performance issues, heater core replacement.
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, convertible top operation (manual and power soft tops), chassis and structural repair, bumper replacement, trim pieces.
Interior:
Dashboard removal, seat removal and installation, airbag system component locations and precautions, interior trim, instrumentation, audio system.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) system: diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), scan tool usage, live data interpretation, troubleshooting guides for various systems.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance: oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, transmission fluid change, differential fluid change.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major mechanical and electrical components, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake system repairs, electrical component diagnosis and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Comprehensive diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common and uncommon issues across all vehicle systems.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities and types, engine clearances, alignment angles, tire pressure recommendations.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed and color-coded wiring diagrams for all electrical circuits.
Depth:
Expert-level technical information suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, and advanced electrical system diagnostics.
Type:
6-Speed Manual Transmission (Mazda M-Type)
Type:
6-Speed Automatic Transmission (FW6A-EL) with paddle shifters on some trims.
Manual Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios detailed in manual (e.g., 1st: 3.76, 2nd: 2.13, 3rd: 1.52, 4th: 1.20, 5th: 1.00, 6th: 0.84, Reverse: 3.52, Final Drive: 4.10).
Automatic Features:
Sport mode, paddle shifters (optional), adaptive shift control.
Manual Fluid:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (e.g., Mazda Genuine Gear Oil or equivalent).
Automatic Fluid:
Mazda ATF-FZ or equivalent DEXRON-III/VI compatible fluid.
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for 2006-2008 models, specific ratings vary by year and testing methodology).
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags).
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with Traction Control System (TCS).
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags (optional/standard depending on trim/year).
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Rollover Protection:
Pop-up rollover protection bars behind headrests.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 7,500 miles, replace as needed (typically every 15,000-30,000 miles).
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 7,500 miles, replace as needed (typically every 15,000-30,000 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 75,000 miles (using iridium-tipped spark plugs).
Coolant Flush:
First flush at 75,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles thereafter.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Engine Oil:
API SN or SP, ILSAC GF-5 or GF-6, SAE 0W-20 Synthetic (e.g., Mazda Genuine Oil or equivalent).
Coolant:
Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (FL22) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with long-life additives.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Problems:
Minor oil consumption (normal for high-revving engines, but excessive needs investigation), power steering pump failure (EPS), water pump leaks, clutch wear (depending on driving style), convertible top mechanism issues, minor rust accumulation on specific areas.
