Segment:
Lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports convertible/roadster.
Reputation:
Known for its affordability, fun-to-drive dynamics, and reliable performance.
Key Competitors:
BMW Z4, Audi TT, Porsche Boxster (higher end), Honda S2000 (discontinued but direct competitor), Nissan 370Z Roadster.
Driving Dynamics:
Balanced chassis, near 50/50 weight distribution, responsive steering, engaging handling.
Body Styles:
Offered in soft-top convertible and the innovative Power Retractable Hardtop (PRHT) coupe-cabriolet body styles.
Engine:
2.0L MZR-L (LF-VE), including assembly, disassembly, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, emissions, and troubleshooting.
Transmission:
6-Speed Manual Transmission (Mazda), 6-Speed Automatic Transmission (optional), including overhaul, service, and troubleshooting.
Drivetrain:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) system, differential, axles, driveshafts, and hub assemblies.
Suspension:
Front independent double wishbone, Rear independent multi-link, shocks, springs, control arms, bushings, sway bars, and alignment procedures.
Brakes:
Front ventilated discs, Rear solid discs (or ventilated depending on market/trim), ABS, EBD, brake fluid service, caliper and rotor replacement, parking brake.
Steering:
Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS), steering column, tie rods, and power steering fluid (if applicable, though EPAS is prevalent).
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, body control module (BCM).
HVAC:
Air conditioning system (R134a refrigerant), heating system, climate control modules, blower motor, and cabin air filter replacement.
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk lid, convertible top mechanism (soft top and power retractable hardtop - PRHT), interior trim, chassis components.
Infotainment And Audio:
Audio system, speakers, navigation system (if equipped), Bluetooth connectivity.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seatbelts, ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin, fuel), spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid service, transmission fluid change.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting for all major systems, component testing.
Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, electrical component replacement.
Diagnostics:
Use of scan tools, sensor data interpretation, wiring harness testing, ECU (Engine Control Unit) and TCM (Transmission Control Module) diagnostics.
Adjustments:
Wheel alignment, clutch adjustment, parking brake adjustment.
Installation And Replacement:
Component replacement for engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, electrical parts, body panels, convertible top components.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed specifications, torque values, diagnostic procedures, and wiring diagrams.
Engine Type:
Naturally aspirated inline-4 cylinder, DOHC, 16 valves
Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1999 cc)
Engine Code:
LF-VE (Mazda MZR-L)
Horsepower Approx:
167 hp @ 7000 rpm (North American spec), 158 hp @ 7000 rpm (European spec)
Torque Approx:
140 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (North American spec), 135 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (European spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline, 91 Octane (Premium Unleaded Recommended)
Coolant Type:
Mazda FL22 Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Blue) or equivalent.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20 API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.9 US quarts (4.6 Liters) with filter change.
Type:
6-Speed Manual Transmission (MZ6)
Type:
6-Speed Automatic Transmission with Paddle Shifters (optional)
Manual Gear Ratios:
Typically around: 1st: 3.76, 2nd: 2.13, 3rd: 1.54, 4th: 1.22, 5th: 1.00, 6th: 0.85, Reverse: 3.96
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Mazda GL-4 75W-90 Gear Oil (or equivalent high-quality synthetic GL-4)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mazda ATF-FZ (or equivalent JASO 1-A certified ATF)
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-Star (typically for driver and passenger in NC generation)
IIHS Side Impact Test:
Good (typically for NC generation)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with emergency brake assist.
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger front airbags, Seat-mounted side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point pretensioner seatbelts with load limiters.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and pop-up rollover hoops (hidden behind seats) for PRHT and reinforced structure for soft-top.
Oil And Filter Change:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 75,000 miles (120,000 km) (Iridium spark plugs).
Coolant Replacement:
First replacement at 10 years or 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 5 years or 50,000 miles (80,000 km).
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Every 3 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km), or when indicated by brake fluid moisture test.
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Refer to manual; typically 50,000-75,000 miles (80,000-120,000 km) or inspection.
Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:
Refer to manual; typically 50,000-75,000 miles (80,000-120,000 km) or inspection.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check owner's manual for specific recommendation).
Power Steering Fluid:
N/A (uses Electric Power Assist Steering - EPAS, no hydraulic fluid).
Engine Oil Consumption:
Some early NC models experienced higher than expected oil consumption, especially when driven hard. Checking oil level regularly is advised.
Convertible Top Mechanism:
Soft top fabric wear, water leaks (especially around seals), and potential issues with the PRHT motor or latches if not maintained.
Radiator:
Some reports of radiator leaks or premature failure, especially in warmer climates.
Clutch Wear:
As with any manual transmission sports car, clutch life is dependent on driving style.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear in suspension bushings can lead to squeaks or imprecise handling over time.
