Market Segment:
Affordable sports car, roadster.
Competitors:
Porsche Boxster, BMW Z3, Honda S2000, Toyota MR2 Spyder.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its lightweight chassis, balanced handling, and rear-wheel-drive performance.
Convertible:
Iconic soft-top convertible design, with an optional retractable hardtop available on some trims.
Simplicity:
Focus on driver engagement with a minimalist interior and straightforward mechanicals.
Engine:
Detailed diagnosis, repair, and overhaul of 1.8L BP-Z3 inline-4 engine, including timing belt, ignition system, fuel injection, cooling, lubrication, and emissions control.
Transmission:
Repair and maintenance of 5-speed manual transmission (FS5W71C) and 4-speed automatic transmission, including clutch service, driveline, and differential.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system diagnostics, including ABS, disc brake caliper and rotor service, brake fluid flush, and parking brake.
Suspension Steering:
Front double wishbone and rear multi-link suspension service, shock absorber replacement, wheel alignment, power steering system diagnostics, and steering column.
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, lighting system, starter, alternator, battery, instrument cluster, power windows, mirrors, and audio system troubleshooting.
Body Chassis:
Body panel alignment, door and lock mechanisms, convertible top operation and repair, interior trim removal, and chassis component inspection.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system service, heater core replacement, blower motor, and climate control unit diagnostics.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks including oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, and belt inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation, and symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension and brake component replacement.
Installation:
Guidance on the proper installation of replacement parts and accessories.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers routine maintenance, advanced diagnostics, component-level repair, and full vehicle overhaul. Suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 4-cylinder (DOHC 16-valve)
Displacement:
1839 cc (1.8 Liters)
Horsepower 1999 2000:
140 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque 1999 2000:
119 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Horsepower 2001 2002:
142 hp @ 6500 rpm (slight revision)
Torque 2001 2002:
120 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (slight revision)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with sequential ignition.
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
ECU:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) with OBD-II diagnostic capabilities.
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Clutch:
Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch.
Drivetrain:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (e.g., Mazda RX-8 transmission fluid is often recommended as a higher-performance alternative, verify compatibility).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF.
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-star driver, 4-star passenger (for comparable models of the era).
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable (for comparable models of the era).
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS) on select models.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Roll Bar:
Reinforced windshield frame and integrated roll bar behind seats.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, often with 4 or 6 speakers. Some models featured premium Bose audio.
Instrument Cluster:
Analog gauges including tachometer, speedometer, fuel level, and temperature. Some models featured a digital odometer.
Cruise Control:
Available on most models, controlled via stalk on steering column.
OBD Ii:
Equipped with OBD-II diagnostic port for emissions and engine diagnostics.
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (severe service may require more frequent changes).
Engine Oil Filter:
Replace with every oil change.
Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 60,000 miles (standard platinum plugs); iridium plugs may have longer intervals (refer to manual for specific plug type).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 24,000 miles or 2 years.
Timing Belt:
Replace every 60,000 miles or 5 years (CRITICAL for interference engine).
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 (API Service SG or higher).
Engine Coolant:
Mazda Genuine Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III ATF or Mazda Genuine Power Steering Fluid.
Oil Consumption:
Some engines may exhibit increased oil consumption, particularly with higher mileage. Piston ring wear can be a cause.
Radiator:
Plastic end tanks on the radiator can become brittle and leak over time.
Rear Main Seal:
Oil leaks from the rear main seal are not uncommon with age.
Soft Top Leaks:
Convertible tops can develop leaks over time, requiring seal replacement or adjustment.
Window Regulators:
Window regulator mechanisms can wear out, leading to slow or inoperative windows.
Timing Belt Kit:
Example: Mazda BPT8-12-201A (timing belt), Mazda ZZC1-12-730 (tensioner pulley). Verify with VIN.
Oil Filter:
Example: Mazda BP4M-14-302 or Mazda PY01-14-302. Aftermarket equivalents are widely available (e.g., Wix 57045).
Air Filter:
Example: Mazda BP4M-13-215. Aftermarket equivalents are widely available (e.g., Wix 49278).
Spark Plugs:
Example: NGK PFR6G-11 (Iridium). Always verify for specific year/engine.
Mazda Motorsports:
Mazda has a long history of producing lightweight, driver-focused sports cars, epitomized by the original MX-5 Miata (NA generation).
Generation:
This manual covers the NB generation of the MX-5 Miata, produced from 1998 to 2005. This generation featured a more aerodynamic and refined design compared to its predecessor.
Facelift:
A significant facelift occurred for the 2001 model year, including revised front and rear styling, updated interior, and a minor power increase for the engine.
Production Years:
1998-2005 (NB Generation)
Manufacturing Location:
Mazda's Ujina Plant No. 1 in Hiroshima, Japan.
Car And Driver 10 Best:
The MX-5 Miata (all generations) has consistently appeared on Car and Driver's '10Best' list, highlighting its enduring appeal.
Motor Trend Import Car Of The Year:
While not winning this specific award for these years, the Miata platform has been recognized by various automotive publications for its outstanding value and driving experience.
Overall Owner Satisfaction:
Generally high owner satisfaction due to its reliability, driving pleasure, and affordability.
