Positioning:
The Mazda MX-5 Miata (NB) is a celebrated entry in the affordable sports car segment, known for its lightweight design, rear-wheel-drive dynamics, and engaging driving experience. This manual caters to owners and independent repair shops seeking authentic factory-level repair information for this specific generation.
Competitors:
Competes with other lightweight roadsters and affordable sports cars. Its key selling points were affordability, handling, and reliability, making factory-level maintenance information crucial for longevity.
Manual Advantages:
Provides 'complete' coverage, akin to factory workshop manuals, ensuring accuracy and detail beyond basic owner's manuals or Haynes-style guides. Emphasis on 'buy with confidence' suggests a premium, reliable information source.
Primary Coverage:
North America (USA, Canada)
Regional Variations Covered:
Includes specifications relevant to North American market configurations.
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Type:
Factory-style Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (PDF, likely)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, emission control systems.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual transmission (FS5W71C/FS5A-EL), clutch, driveshaft, differential, axles.
Chassis Suspension Steering:
Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system (rack and pinion), wheel alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), ABS (if equipped), parking brake.
Electrical Electronic:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, body control module (BCM), power windows, mirrors, HVAC controls, audio system, SRS airbag system.
Body Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, convertible top mechanism, seats, interior trim, climate control (HVAC) system.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance checks, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting for engine, transmission, electrical, and chassis issues.
Repair Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul (e.g., engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement).
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-II) system information, scan tool usage, sensor testing, actuator testing.
Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic fluid checks and filter changes to in-depth engine internal repair, transmission overhaul, and advanced electrical diagnostics.
File Type:
Likely PDF. May be a collection of scanned pages or a professionally compiled digital document.
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable if professionally compiled; image-based PDFs may not be searchable without OCR.
Compatibility:
Compatible with most PDF readers on Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile devices.
Quality:
Variable depending on source, but described as 'BEST manuals on Tradebit' suggests high quality.
Binding:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital Format)
Engine Name:
BP-Z3 (Mazda MZR family)
Engine Type:
1.8L DOHC 16-valve inline-4
Horsepower 1999-2000:
140 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque 1999-2000:
119 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Horsepower 2001:
142 hp @ 6500 rpm (minor increase)
Torque 2001:
120 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (minor increase)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane recommended)
Emission Control:
Catalytic converter, EGI system (Electronic Gasoline Injection).
Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (FS5W71C)
Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (FS5A-EL)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic, dry single-plate clutch
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (e.g., Mazda Genuine Gear Oil)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III/Mercon compatible ATF (e.g., Mazda Genuine ATF-III)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4 Stars (Driver), 4 Stars (Passenger) - 1999 model
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable - 1999 model
ABS:
Available/Standard depending on trim level (4-wheel disc brakes).
Traction Control:
Optional on some models.
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger front airbags (SRS).
Rollover Protection:
Pop-up roll bar behind seats.
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM/CD player with 4 or 6 speakers. Cassette player was also an option in early models.
Climate Control:
Manual climate control with A/C and heater. Recirculation mode.
Cruise Control:
Available on most models.
Keyless Entry:
Optional on certain trim levels.
Aux Input:
Not typically equipped with standard AUX or USB inputs; aftermarket solutions are common.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Engine Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 36 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 60,000 miles (using platinum or iridium plugs recommended).
Timing Belt:
Non-interference engine. Timing belt replacement recommended around 90,000 miles, although not critical if it breaks (unlike interference engines).
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 API SG or higher (e.g., Mazda Genuine Oil 5W-30)
Coolant:
Mazda Genuine Super Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, suspension bushings, wheel bearings, radiator hoses, fuel pump, alternator. The NB is generally reliable, but age can lead to these component failures.
Engine Specific:
Some early NB models might experience oil consumption if driven hard or not maintained. Ensure proper oil level checks.
Convertible Top:
Fabric wear, seal degradation, and manual mechanism issues over time.
Heritage:
Mazda has a long history of producing driver-focused vehicles. The Miata lineage, inspired by classic British roadsters like the Lotus Elan and MGB, has consistently emphasized pure driving pleasure and accessible sports car performance.
Nb Generation:
The NB generation (1998-2005) succeeded the original NA. It featured a stiffer chassis, updated styling (including pop-down headlights replaced by fixed units), improved aerodynamics, and more power. The 1999-2001 models represent the initial phase of the NB generation.
Manufacturing Location:
Hiroshima, Japan
Car And Driver 10Best:
The Miata, across its generations, has been a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best list, underscoring its enduring appeal as a driver's car.
Other Awards:
Consistently praised for value, handling dynamics, and reliability by automotive journalists and publications worldwide.
