This manual covers the Mazda MX-5 Miata, specifically models from the NC generation produced in 2008 and 2009, identified by the chassis code NC1. Renowned for its adherence to Mazda's Jinba Ittai philosophy, this lightweight sports car offers agile handling and an engaging driving experience, positioning it among notable contemporaries like the Honda S2000 and Porsche Boxster. The MX-5 Miata is engineered for enthusiast drivers seeking a pure, analog connection to the road, boasting a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter inline-4 engine delivering approximately 167-170 horsepower and a responsive 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. Its design prioritizes driving dynamics, with a balanced chassis and a compact exterior measuring roughly 167.7 inches in length, contributing to its agile performance.
This comprehensive Workshop Service Repair Manual is designed to provide detailed guidance for the complete service, repair, and maintenance of your Mazda MX-5 Miata. It covers all essential systems, including the engine, powertrain, chassis, suspension, brakes, body, and interior electrical systems. Within its extensive pages, you will find step-by-step repair instructions, diagnostic procedures for both mechanical and electrical faults, troubleshooting guides, and detailed electrical schematics. The manual is structured for clarity, featuring numbered instructions, detailed substeps, and critical notes, cautions, and warnings to facilitate accurate work. This resource is invaluable for both do-it-yourself owners and professional technicians aiming to maintain the vehicle's performance and reliability.
Model Years Covered:
2008, 2009
Segment:
Lightweight Sports Car
Brand Philosophy:
Jinba Ittai (Horse and Rider as One)
Key Competitors Era:
Honda S2000, Porsche Boxster, BMW Z4
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for agile handling, balanced chassis, and engaging driving experience
Target Audience:
Enthusiast drivers seeking a pure, analog driving experience
Cost Effectiveness:
Inexpensive way to maintain and repair the vehicle
Accessibility:
Designed for both do-it-yourselfers and experienced mechanics
Primary Coverage:
Complete Service, Repair, and Maintenance
Secondary Coverage:
Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Electrical Schematics
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (Exact count not specified, but described as 'complete' and covering 'every detail')
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Origin:
Factory Service Manual Equivalent
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Print Capability:
Fully Printable
Viewing Features:
Zoom IN/OUT capability
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader & WinZip
Operating Systems:
All Versions of Windows & Mac
Powertrain:
Engine Mechanical System, Engine Electrical System, Emission Control System, Fuel System, Clutch System, Manual Transaxle System, Automatic Transaxle System, Driveshaft and Axle
Chassis And Suspension:
Suspension System, Steering System, Brake System
Body And Interior:
Body Interior and Exterior, Body Electrical System, Restraint System
General Information:
General Information
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance procedures, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all covered systems
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic procedures for mechanical and electrical faults
Electrical:
Electrical system diagnosis and repair, wiring schematics, component testing
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to advanced repair and diagnostics
Illustrations:
Detailed illustrations, drawings, and photos
Instructions Format:
Step-by-step, numbered instructions with detailed substeps
Critical Information:
Notes, cautions, and warnings to pinpoint critical information
Navigation:
Numbered table of contents for fast information retrieval
Resolution Comment:
Assumed high quality for printable pages, suitable for detailed viewing
Binding:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Engine Code:
MZR LF-VE (for North American market)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 4-Cylinder
Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1999 cc)
Horsepower:
Approx. 167-170 hp @ 6700 rpm (varies slightly by market and tune)
Torque:
Approx. 140 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (varies slightly by market and tune)
Redline:
Approx. 7000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane recommended)
ECU Type:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) with integrated diagnostics
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Automatic Transmission (with paddle shifters on some trims)
Manual Clutch Type:
Hydraulically Actuated Clutch
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, e.g., Mazda Genuine Gear Oil, or equivalent high-quality synthetic 75W-90.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific ATF, e.g., Mazda ATF JWS3309 or equivalent.
Length:
Approx. 167.7 inches (4260 mm)
Width:
Approx. 67.7 inches (1720 mm)
Height:
Approx. 49.8 inches (1265 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 91.1 inches (2315 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2450-2550 lbs (1111-1157 kg) depending on transmission and options
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-Star (2008 Model Year)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-Star (2008 Model Year)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good (2008 Model Year)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Available Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) / Traction Control
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags, Side-Impact Airbags (optional/standard depending on trim)
Rollover Protection:
Pop-up Roll Bars / Reinforced A-pillars for rollover protection
Head Unit:
Standard AM/FM/CD player with auxiliary input. Optional Bose premium audio system available.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on higher trim levels.
Cruise Control:
Standard Cruise Control.
Aux Input:
Standard 3.5mm auxiliary audio input for portable music players.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 miles or 6 months, or as indicated by the vehicle's maintenance minder system.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or as part of oil change service.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically around 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically around 15,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically around 60,000-100,000 miles for iridium plugs.
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual for viscosity grade (e.g., 5W-20 or 5W-30) and API service classification. Mazda Genuine Oil or equivalent synthetic recommended.
Coolant Type:
Mazda FL22 Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent silicate-free, OAT-based coolant).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (refer to manual for exact specification).
Common Wear Item:
Clutch wear (typical for manual sports cars), suspension bushings, and brake components.
Engine Specific:
While generally reliable, some owners report oil consumption on higher mileage examples. Proper maintenance is key.
Electrical Common:
Window motor issues or power accessory failures are occasionally reported, often addressable with proper electrical diagnostics.
Heritage Focus:
Mazda's long history of producing lightweight, engaging sports cars dating back to the Cosmo Sport and RX-series.
Nc Generation Introduction:
The NC generation, introduced for the 2006 model year, represented a significant redesign with a larger chassis and more powerful engine.
2008 Updates:
Minor updates for 2008, primarily focused on refinement and package adjustments. The 2009 model largely carried over the 2008 specifications.
Manufacturing Location:
Mazda Hiroshima Plant, Japan
Car And Driver 10Best:
The Mazda MX-5 Miata (all generations) has consistently been recognized by Car and Driver, often appearing on their '10Best' lists for its driving dynamics.
World Car Of The Year:
While the NC generation itself didn't win World Car of the Year, the Miata lineage is globally acclaimed for its driving pleasure.
Reliability Ratings:
Generally considered reliable by consumer reporting agencies, with proper maintenance.
