The 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata, a distinguished lightweight sports car and roadster, embodies Mazda's rich heritage of producing driver-focused vehicles. This NC generation model, produced between 2005 and 2015, features a rear-wheel-drive, front-engine configuration, a lightweight chassis, and celebrated balanced handling. Key attributes include its convertible soft-top, with an optional hard-top available, and a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine (LF-VE) delivering 167 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque. Its engineering prioritizes an engaging driving experience, making it a standout in its class, often compared to competitors like the Lotus Elise and Porsche Boxster.
This comprehensive workshop service repair manual provides in-depth factory-level detail for the 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. It covers a wide array of systems, including general maintenance, engine and transmission service, brakes, suspension, steering, cooling, fuel, and electrical systems, along with wiring diagrams. The manual offers step-by-step repair procedures, disassembly and reassembly guidance, diagnostic protocols, and troubleshooting tips, all presented with detailed illustrations and important cautions. Its purpose is to empower owners, mechanics, and technicians to effectively maintain, diagnose, and repair the vehicle, ensuring its optimal performance and longevity.
Generation Years:
2005-2015
Market Segment:
Lightweight sports car, roadster
Competitors 2008:
Lotus Elise, Porsche Boxster, Honda S2000
Key Vehicle Features 2008:
Rear-wheel drive, front-engine, lightweight chassis, balanced handling, convertible soft-top (optional hard-top).
Manual Coverage Summary:
Comprehensive factory service and repair for all styles of the 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Estimated Page Count:
Hundreds (specific count not provided, but implies extensive detail)
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Systems Covered List:
General Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Brake System, Wiring Diagram, Electrical System, Suspension, Periodic Lubrication, Steering, Cooling System, Fuel Injection, Fuel System, Emission System, Heater/Air Conditioning, Engine Control System, Chassis/Body, Restraint System, Interior, Differential/Drive, Axle.
Procedures Included List:
Step-by-step repair procedures, disassembly and reassembly guidance, diagnostic procedures, electrical system troubleshooting, maintenance tasks, lubrication schedules.
Technical Depth:
Full factory level detail suitable for both do-it-yourselfers and experienced mechanics, including detailed illustrations, photos, and notes/cautions/warnings.
File Quality:
Professional quality, in-depth
Printability:
Printable without restriction, entire manual or selected pages.
Binding Type For Digital:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type For Digital:
N/A (Digital Download)
Engine Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1999 cc)
Engine Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Horsepower Psi:
167 hp @ 7000 RPM
Torque Lb Ft:
140 lb-ft @ 5000 RPM
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane recommended)
Transmission Type Std:
6-speed Manual
Transmission Type Opt:
6-speed Automatic
Transmission Fluid Type Std:
Mazda GL-5 Manual Transmission Fluid (refer to manual for specific part number)
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
Mazda ATF Type T-IV or equivalent (refer to manual for specific part number)
Wheelbase In:
91.8 inches
Height In:
49.7 inches (soft top), 50.1 inches (hard top)
Curb Weight Lbs:
2496 - 2557 lbs (depending on transmission and options)
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
5-star (2008 Model Year)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for models equipped with optional side airbags)
Active Safety Features Standard:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA)
Passive Safety Features Standard:
Front airbags, Side-impact door beams, Roll bar structure.
Passive Safety Features Optional:
Front side airbags.
Infotainment System 2008:
Basic AM/FM/CD stereo with available premium audio system. Optional navigation system may be present on some trims.
Driver Assistance Features 2008:
Limited; primarily focused on active safety like ABS, EBD, BA. Electronic Stability Control (DSC - Dynamic Stability Control) became standard in later model years or on specific trims.
Connectivity Options 2008:
Auxiliary audio input jack (on some models). Bluetooth connectivity was not standard.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. (Refer to manual for specific oil type and capacity).
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Inspect every 7,500 miles, replace as needed or every 15,000 miles.
Brake Fluid Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months, whichever comes first. (Use DOT 3 or DOT 4 fluid).
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-20, API SN/SP, ILSAC GF-5 or higher. (Check manual for exact specification and capacity).
Coolant Spec:
Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent HOAT coolant, typically P-HOAT, in a 50/50 mix with distilled water).
Common Issues Nc Miata:
Oil consumption can be higher than average for some units, potential for clutch wear, soft top mechanism maintenance, occasional electrical gremlins (especially in older units).
Brand Heritage Focus:
Mazda's long history of producing lightweight, driver-focused sports cars dating back to the original Cosmo Sport and RX series, culminating in the iconic MX-5 Miata lineage.
Nc Generation Context:
The third generation (NC) introduced a more modern design, increased chassis rigidity, and a larger 2.0L engine compared to the previous NB generation, while retaining the core Miata philosophy.
Production Location:
Mazda's Ujina Plant No. 1 in Hiroshima, Japan.
Car And Driver 10 Best:
The MX-5 Miata has been a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best list in previous generations; the NC generation continued this reputation for driving enjoyment.
Konsumen Reports Reliability:
Generally rated as good to excellent, though specific model years can vary. The manual helps address maintenance to ensure reliability.
