🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

MX-5 Miata

Chassis Code:

NB

Generation Codes:

NB8B

Model Years Covered By Manual:

1998-2005

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Lightweight, two-seater, rear-wheel-drive sports car.

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and professional repair shops focused on sports car maintenance and performance.

Key Competitors Era:

Lotus Elise, Porsche Boxster, Honda S2000, BMW Z3.

Manufacturer Philosophy:

Jinba Ittai (horse and rider as one) - emphasizing driver connection and feedback.

Design Philosophy:

Simplicity, lightweight construction, balanced chassis, classic roadster proportions.

Benefit To Owner:

Enables owners to perform their own maintenance and repairs, saving money and gaining a deeper understanding of their vehicle.

Benefit To Mechanic:

Provides authoritative technical data and procedures for efficient and accurate diagnostics and repairs.

📋 Manual Details

Overall Coverage:

Comprehensive A-Z

Repair Scope:

Mechanical and Electrical Repairs

Model Variant Coverage:

All Models

Estimated Page Count:

Likely 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

Printable Digital Format (likely PDF)

Print Capability:

All pages printable

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine mechanical (assembly, disassembly, diagnosis), engine control systems (ECU, sensors, actuators), fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system, exhaust system.

Transmission:

Manual Transmission (MT) and Automatic Transmission (AT) removal, installation, disassembly, assembly, repair, diagnosis, clutch system.

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, differential, axles, wheel bearings, hub assembly.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings, steering knuckle, wheel alignment procedures.

Steering:

Steering gear, steering column, power steering system (if applicable), tie rods, steering linkage.

Brakes:

Brake system components (master cylinder, calipers, rotors, pads, lines), ABS system (if equipped), parking brake, brake bleeding procedures.

Electrical:

Complete electrical system coverage including wiring diagrams, lighting system, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system (starter motor), fuses, relays, body control modules, comfort systems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Body:

Body exterior and interior trim, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, glass, seals, convertible top mechanism (if applicable), body repair procedures, corrosion prevention.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling, components.

General Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, brake inspections.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation.

Repair And Rebuild:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, assembly, and installation of all major vehicle systems.

Diagnostics:

On-board diagnostics (OBD-II), diagnostic scan tool usage, circuit testing, component testing.

Specifications:

Tightening torque specifications for fasteners, fluid capacities, component clearances, electrical resistance values.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical wiring schematics for all systems.

Depth:

In-depth, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, and advanced electrical diagnostics.

Illustrations:

Numerous detailed pictures and diagrams illustrating procedures and component locations.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

Likely PDF for digital distribution, allowing for searchability and clear printing.

Image Quality:

High resolution, suitable for clear reproduction of diagrams and photos.

Physical Binding:

N/A (Digital Product - but if physical, typically spiral-bound or perfect-bound for workshop use).

Physical Paper:

N/A (Digital Product - but if physical, would be on durable, thick paper suitable for garage environments).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

BP-Z3 (or similar variations within NB generation)

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline 4-Cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve

Displacement:

1.8 Liters (1839 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

83.0 mm x 85.1 mm (typical for BP-Z3)

Compression Ratio:

9.5:1 to 10.0:1 (varies slightly by market and sub-model)

Horsepower:

Approx. 140-145 HP @ 6500 RPM (for early NB, later models around 146 HP)

Torque:

Approx. 118-122 lb-ft @ 5000 RPM (for early NB, later models around 125 lb-ft)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane Recommended)

Coolant Type:

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

Oil Type Specification:

API SN/SP or ILSAC GF-6A, SAE 5W-30 Recommended

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.2 US quarts (4.0 Liters) with filter change.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (less common, often found on specific trims or markets)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 Gear Oil, 75W-90 viscosity recommended.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III or equivalent ATF.

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated, dry single-plate clutch.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 157.3 inches (4000 mm)

Width:

Approx. 66.1 inches (1680 mm)

Height:

Approx. 49.4 inches (1255 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 89.2 inches (2265 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2300-2450 lbs (1043-1111 kg), depending on trim and equipment.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 3000 lbs (1361 kg)

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 4.7 cu ft (0.13 cubic meters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Generally good for its class, specific ratings may vary by model year and testing protocols of the era. Likely 4-star frontal impacts.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on most models.

Traction Control:

Traction Control System (TCS) available on some later models or higher trims.

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags.

Rollover Protection:

Reinforced A-pillars and pop-up rollover hoops behind the seats.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/CD player, often with optional premium sound systems (e.g., Bose).

Gauges And Displays:

Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, and temperature; often with a digital odometer/trip meter.

Cruise Control:

Available on most models.

Auxiliary Input:

Rarely present from factory, aftermarket solutions common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change:

Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles (24,000 to 48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 96,000 km), depending on plug type.

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 24 months or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron III or equivalent (check specific owner's manual for exact type).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Engine Oil Consumption:

Some early NB models might exhibit higher oil consumption; regular checks are advised. Piston ring wear can be a factor.

Radiator Leaks:

Older radiators can develop leaks, particularly at the end tanks.

Rear Main Seal Leaks:

A potential issue, often addressed during clutch replacement.

Window Winder Mechanism:

Can become stiff or break over time; lubrication or replacement may be necessary.

Convertible Top Leaks:

Older seals may degrade, leading to water ingress. Manual covers sealing and adjustment.

📚 Vehicle History

Marque Specialty:

Mazda has a long history of producing reliable and engaging vehicles, with a focus on sports car driving dynamics since the rotary-powered Cosmo and RX series.

First Generation Context:

The NB generation (1998-2005) succeeded the iconic NA generation, building upon its success with updated styling, improved aerodynamics, and enhanced safety features, while retaining the core Miata driving experience.

Nb Generation Updates:

Introduced fixed-headlights, a more aggressive exterior design, and power bumps over the NA. Later model year updates (NB2, NB3, NB4) included styling refreshes and powertrain enhancements.

Production Period:

1998-2005 (for the NB generation)

Manufacturing Locations:

Hiroshima, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Awards:

Car and Driver's '10Best' list multiple times during its production run.

Automotive Journalism Praise:

Consistently praised for its handling, affordability, and pure driving experience.

Roadster Benchmark:

Widely considered a benchmark for affordable, lightweight sports cars.