🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

MX-5 Miata

Chassis Code:

NB

Variant Code:

NB8B

Generation Name:

Second Generation

Generation Years:

1998-2005

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Mazda MX-5 Miata (NB) is a quintessential lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports car celebrated for its pure driving experience and affordability. This manual targets owners and independent repair shops seeking to maintain or repair their NB Miata.

Competitors:

Competed against vehicles like the Toyota MR2 Spyder, Porsche Boxster (though at a higher price point), and various other small roadsters of its era.

Features:

Renowned for its balanced chassis, responsive steering, and engaging driving dynamics. The NB generation offered improved refinement and more power over its predecessor.

📋 Manual Details

Main Coverage:

Complete Workshop Service and Repair

Specific Systems:

Engine Mechanical, Lubrication, Cooling, Fuel, Ignition, Exhaust, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Driveshaft, Axles, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (Hydraulic & Parking), Wheels & Tires, Body Exterior, Body Interior, Body Electrical System, HVAC, SRS Airbag System, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Cruise Control, Audio System.

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed disassembly, inspection, reassembly, torque specifications, timing belt/chain procedures, piston/ring specifications, valve train, cylinder head, crankshaft, connecting rods.

Lubrication System:

Oil pump, oil filter, oil pan, oil pressure testing, lubrication passages.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, cooling fan operation, pressure testing, coolant specifications.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel filter replacement, fuel tank, EVAP system.

Ignition System:

Spark plugs, ignition coils, ignition timing, crankshaft position sensor, camshaft position sensor.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, oxygen sensors.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch inspection, clutch replacement, transmission fluid type and capacity, gearshift linkage, transmission disassembly and reassembly, bearing replacement, seal replacement.

Suspension:

Front and rear shock absorbers/struts, springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings, wheel alignment specifications.

Steering:

Steering rack, power steering pump, power steering fluid, tie rod ends, steering column.

Brakes Hydraulic:

Brake pads, brake rotors, brake calipers, master cylinder, brake lines, brake fluid type and bleeding procedure.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, relay functions, lighting system, battery, alternator, starter motor, body control module (BCM).

HVAC System:

Air conditioning system operation, refrigerant types, blower motor, heater core, evaporator, cabin air filter replacement.

Body Exterior:

Door panel removal, bumper replacement, hood/trunk operation, convertible top service (if applicable to specific variant).

Safety Srs:

Airbag system components, diagnostic procedures, safety precautions when working with SRS.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, belt inspection/replacement, tire rotation.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems, including component replacement, adjustments, and calibration.

Diagnostics:

OBD-II system diagnostics, sensor testing, actuator testing, module communication.

Installation:

Instructions for replacing major components like engines, transmissions, suspension parts, and body panels.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic preventative maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed specifications and tolerances for mechanical components.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Searchable PDF with hyperlinked table of contents for easy navigation. High-resolution scans of original manufacturer documentation.

Quality:

Printable pages with clear text and legible diagrams. Designed for clarity during workshop use.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Nb8B:

BP-Z3 (1.8L DOHC 16-valve Inline-4)

Horsepower Nb8B:

140-146 hp (depending on specific market and year)

Torque Nb8B:

119-122 lb-ft (depending on specific market and year)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Bore X Stroke:

83.0 mm x 85.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.0:1

Valvetrain:

Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, Chain-driven camshafts

Timing Mechanism:

Timing Belt

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 5.5 liters (1.45 US gal)

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 3.7 liters (3.9 US qt) with filter change

Recommended Oil Type:

API SG or SH, ILSAC GF-II or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on climate)

Spark Plug Type:

NGK BKR6E-11 or equivalent

Spark Plug Gap:

1.0-1.1 mm (0.039-0.043 in)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Nb8B:

6-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (available on some NB models)

Clutch Type:

Dry, single-plate, diaphragm spring type

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Mazda ATF M-III or equivalent (Mercon V)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

approx. 3955 mm (155.7 in)

Width:

approx. 1680 mm (66.1 in)

Height:

approx. 1235 mm (48.6 in)

Wheelbase:

approx. 2265 mm (89.2 in)

Curb Weight:

approx. 1050-1150 kg (2315-2535 lbs) depending on transmission and options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Not explicitly stated, but typically around 1300-1400 kg

Towing Capacity:

Not recommended or specified by manufacturer

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

4 stars (1999-2000 models)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

4 stars (1999-2000 models)

IIHS Side Impact:

Acceptable (2000 models)

ABS:

Standard on most NB8B models, optional on earlier NB variants.

Traction Control:

Optional on some higher-trim NB models.

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger front airbags standard.

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia reel seatbelts with pretensioners.

Roll Bar:

Integrated roll bar structure behind seats for occupant protection.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional Bose premium audio system. Basic functionality, prioritizing driving experience over complex infotainment.

Cruise Control:

Available on higher trim levels, typically a mechanical/vacuum-based system.

Keyless Entry:

Optional on some models.

Connectivity Features:

Very limited by modern standards. Primarily focused on basic vehicle functions, no integrated Bluetooth or USB ports from factory.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

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

Air Filter Replacement Interval:

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

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for platinum-tipped plugs, or 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard plugs.

Timing Belt Replacement Interval:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years, whichever comes first. Critical maintenance item to prevent catastrophic engine damage.

Brake Fluid Flush Interval:

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

Coolant Flush Interval:

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

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron II or equivalent ATF (check manual for specific spec)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Common Issues:

Radiator leaks, alternator failure, window regulator issues, oil pressure sender faults, clutch slave cylinder leaks, occasional rough idle due to vacuum leaks or dirty throttle body.

Preventative Maintenance:

Regular inspection and replacement of hoses and belts, proactive timing belt replacement, keeping intake system clean.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Mazda has a long history of producing lightweight, driver-focused sports cars, beginning with the iconic Mazda Cosmo Sport and continuing with the RX series and the highly successful MX-5 Miata.

Nb Generation:

The NB generation (1998-2005) was a significant evolution from the NA generation, featuring a more aerodynamic and modern design, a stiffer chassis, and an updated 1.8-liter engine. Key updates included pop-up headlight deletion, a retractable hardtop option (PRHT), and a 6-speed manual transmission becoming standard on many models.

Production Period:

1998-2005

Manufacturing Location:

Hofu, Yamaguchi, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10 Best:

Named to Car and Driver's 10Best list multiple times during its production run, a testament to its outstanding driving dynamics.

Driving Enthusiast Magazine:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its affordability, reliability, and pure sports car feel.