Vehicle Segment:
Lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports car (roadster).
Key Selling Points:
Affordable performance, balanced handling, open-top driving experience, reliability.
Competitors 2008 2009:
Honda S2000, BMW Z4, Porsche Boxster (aspirational), Nissan 370Z (later model).
Vehicle Philosophy:
Jinba Ittai (horse and rider as one), emphasizing driver connection to the vehicle.
Powertrain Layout:
Front-engine, Rear-wheel-drive.
Powertrain:
Engine (LF-VE), Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain, Exhaust System
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Front & Rear Disc), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Engine Control System, Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Mirrors)
Body And Trim:
Exterior Panels, Interior Trim, Convertible Top System (Manual & Power Options), Doors, Hood, Trunk
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks & Replenishments, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection/Replacement
Repair:
Engine Assembly/Disassembly, Transmission Rebuild, Brake System Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering Rack Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis & Replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) Interpretation, Component Testing Procedures, Wiring Diagrams
Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Clearances, Tolerances, Alignment Specs, Fluid Capacities & Types
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to full mechanical and electrical system overhauls.
Diagnostic Level:
Advanced, including scan tool data interpretation and component-level testing.
Rebuild Level:
Full engine and transmission rebuild procedures with detailed diagrams and specifications.
Engine Type:
2.0L (1999cc) Naturally Aspirated Inline-4 (DOHC, 16-valve)
Horsepower:
170 hp @ 7000 rpm (US Market)
Torque:
140 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (US Market)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Block Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Cylinder Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Type:
6-Speed Manual Transmission (Getrag-sourced)
Type:
6-Speed Automatic Transmission (with Paddle Shifters)
Manual Clutch Type:
Hydraulically Actuated, Dry Single Plate
Automatic Transmission Features:
Sport mode, manual override with paddle shifters.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (e.g., Mazda Genuine Gear Oil JWS 3309 or equivalent)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mazda Genuine ATF JWS 3309 or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid.
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Impact Test:
5-Star
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Optional Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with Traction Control (TCS) on some models/packages.
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags, Optional Side Airbags.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced Windshield Frame and Pop-up Roll Bars.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Check oil level more frequently.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 7,500 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace annually or every 15,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Inspect at 30,000 miles, replace at 60,000 miles (typically iridium plugs).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil (API SN or ILSAC GF-5 compliant).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 US quarts (4.2 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Mazda FL22 Long Life Coolant (or equivalent HOAT coolant).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Common Concerns Nc:
Occasional reports of oil consumption (check oil levels frequently), potential for worn clutch components at higher mileage, convertible top mechanism issues (especially power tops).
Typical Repairs Covered:
The manual will detail common repairs like brake pad/rotor replacement, suspension bushing replacement, engine mount replacement, and cooling system component service.
Brand Focus:
Mazda has a long history of producing engaging and reliable vehicles, with a particular emphasis on driving dynamics.
Nc Generation Introduction:
The NC generation was introduced for the 2006 model year, replacing the NB generation.
Design Philosophy Nc:
The NC generation aimed for a more refined driving experience while retaining the core Miata principles, with a slightly larger footprint and more powerful engine.
Manufacturing Location:
Hiroshima, Japan.
Production Period Nc1:
2006 - 2008 (facelift in late 2008 for 2009 MY)
Car And Driver 10Best:
The Mazda MX-5 Miata (across generations, including NC) has frequently been named to Car and Driver's 10Best lists, recognizing its exceptional driving dynamics and value.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
While not winning the overall award for the Miata in these years, it consistently received praise from automotive journalists.
Manual Professional Standard:
This WSM adheres to professional automotive service information standards, providing accurate, manufacturer-level diagnostic and repair procedures.
