Market Segment:
Affordable lightweight sports car.
Key Competitors 2006-2009:
Honda S2000, Nissan 350Z Roadster, Porsche Boxster, BMW Z4.
Driving Experience:
Renowned for its Jinba-Ittai (horse and rider as one) driving dynamics, balanced chassis, and engaging steering.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to maintain and repair their vehicle, saving on dealership labor costs and fostering a deeper understanding of the car.
Accessibility:
Optimized for PC, MAC, Tablets, and Smartphones, ensuring easy access across multiple devices.
Engine Management:
Engine mechanical, fuel injection, ignition, emissions control, diagnostics, ECU.
Powertrain:
Manual and automatic transmission, clutch, differential, driveshafts, axles.
Chassis And Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, steering system, power steering, wheel alignment.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, EBD, brake calipers, rotors, pads, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, body electronics, fuse/relay locations.
HVAC:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, climate control systems.
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, seats, glass, convertible top operation.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation.
Repair And Overhaul:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and rebuilds.
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, wiring diagrams.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
Engine Type:
2.0L Inline-4 (DOHC, 16-valve, Variable Valve Timing)
Horsepower:
170 hp @ 6700 rpm (2006-2008), 167 hp @ 7000 rpm (2009)
Torque:
140 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (2006-2008), 140 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (2009)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane (minimum)
ECU Type:
Denso or Hitachi (model dependent, covered in manual)
Spark Plug Type:
NGK LF50 (example, refer to manual for specific part numbers)
Transmission Type:
6-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
6-speed Automatic Transmission
Manual Transmission Features:
Short-throw shifter, close-ratio gearing (sport-tuned).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (e.g., Mazda Genuine Gear Oil JWS3309)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mazda Genuine ATF JWS3309 or equivalent
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated, dry single plate.
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
5-Star (for driver and passenger)
IIHS Small Overlap Front Rating:
Good (for vehicles tested in this timeframe, refer to specific tests for exact ratings)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags, side airbags.
Rollover Protection:
Pop-up rollover hoops behind seats.
Audio System:
Standard CD player with AM/FM radio, optional Bose premium audio system, auxiliary audio input.
Navigation:
Optional factory-installed navigation system.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Bluetooth:
Available Bluetooth hands-free connectivity on later models/trims.
Keyless Entry:
Standard keyless entry and push-button start on some trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Coolant Flush:
Every 75,000 miles or 5 years, whichever comes first.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: 75,000 miles; Automatic: 60,000 miles (under severe conditions, more frequent recommended).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified (e.g., Mazda Genuine Motor Oil 5W-20).
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.4 US quarts (4.2 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Mazda Genuine Super Long Life Coolant (Green) or equivalent HOAT coolant.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Common Complaints:
Some reports of clutch wear (especially under aggressive driving), catalytic converter failure (due to exhaust restrictions or misfires), oil consumption at higher mileage, and convertible top mechanism issues.
Diagnostic Tips:
The manual's diagnostic sections are crucial for identifying causes of misfires, ABS warning lights, and HVAC malfunctions, often related to sensors or wiring.
Mazda Sports Car Legacy:
Direct descendant of the iconic Mazda RX-7 and the original NA/NB Miata, continuing Mazda's legacy of pure, driver-focused sports cars.
Nc Generation Introduction:
Introduced for the 2006 model year, the NC generation represented a significant redesign with a larger chassis, more powerful engine, and updated styling.
Facelift Info:
Received a mid-cycle facelift for the 2009 model year, featuring updated front and rear fascias, revised suspension tuning, and powertrain enhancements (minor power increase for some markets).
Production Location:
Mazda's Hofu Plant, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan.
Car And Driver 10Best:
Often cited in automotive publications for its driving dynamics and value, though specific award mentions for the 2006-2009 models should be verified.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Generally rated as average to good for reliability, with the manual covering common wear items and potential repair procedures.
