Segment:
Affordable Lightweight Sports Car
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY Mechanics, Owners seeking to maintain or restore their MX-5
Competitors:
Porsche Boxster (higher end), Honda S2000 (later), Toyota MR2, Fiat Spider
Driving Experience:
Rear-wheel drive, balanced chassis, communicative steering, open-top motoring.
Manual Value:
Essential for preserving the longevity and performance of a driver-focused vehicle.
Primary Coverage:
Full Service and Repair
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Rebuilding, Refurbishing, Restoration
Estimated Page Count:
Approx. 1500-2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain (Clutch, Driveshafts, Differential)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (Front & Rear, ABS), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Engine Control Unit (ECU), Ignition System, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Audio System, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks), HVAC Controls, Body Control Module (BCM)
Body And Trim:
Exterior Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Interior Trim, Seats, Convertible Top System
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Changes, Tune-ups
Repair Rebuild:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Flowcharts, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) Interpretation
Special Procedures:
Convertible Top Mechanism Repair, Convertible Top Seal Replacement, Alignment Procedures, Torque Specifications for Critical Fasteners
Depth:
Comprehensive; from basic fluid level checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Searchability:
Likely searchable text (depending on scan quality of original document)
Quality:
High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.
Binding:
Not Applicable (Digital PDF)
Paper:
Not Applicable (Digital PDF)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
1839 cc (1.8 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
83.0 mm x 85.0 mm
Horsepower Peak:
140 hp @ 6000 rpm (US Spec)
Torque Peak:
119 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (US Spec)
Induction:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane Recommended)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 5.6 Liters (with heater)
Recommended Coolant:
Mazda FL22 Coolant or equivalent (50/50 mix of ethylene glycol and distilled water)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual (Type-A / Type-B M5X)
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic (430LE)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic, Dry Single Plate
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Mazda GL-5 75W-90 (or equivalent)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mazda ATF-MV (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4 Stars (Driver) / 4 Stars (Passenger) - 1999 Model Year (for NB generation)
ABS:
Available on certain trims (standard on higher trims)
Traction Control:
Not typically available on the 1999 MX-5 NB
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger front airbags
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and pop-up roll bar behind headrests
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player with optional Bose premium sound system.
Instrumentation:
Analog gauges including tachometer, speedometer, fuel level, and coolant temperature. Warning lights for various systems.
Cruise Control:
Available on select trims.
Connectivity Features:
Basic; primarily focused on vehicle operation and driver feedback, not modern infotainment connectivity.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific conditions)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Platinum plugs: 100,000 miles. Standard plugs: 30,000 miles (check manual for original spec).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 Liters (4.2 US Quarts) with filter change (API SG/SH/SJ or ILSAC GF-2, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Mazda Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III ATF
Common Problems:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket and rear main seal, radiator leaks, wear in front suspension bushings, soft top leaks/wear, clutch slave cylinder issues.
Timing Belt:
Non-interference engine, but timing belt replacement is critical every 60,000 miles or 5 years. Manual will detail procedure.
Mazda Heritage:
Mazda has a long history of producing reliable and engaging vehicles, with the MX-5 being a cornerstone of its sports car lineage.
Na To Nb:
The 1999 model marks the introduction of the second generation (NB) MX-5, replacing the original NA generation. Key changes include updated styling, a more rigid chassis, and revised suspension geometry.
Manufacturing Plant:
Mazda Hiroshima Plant, Japan
Production Years Nb:
1998-2005
Car And Driver Best:
Car and Driver's 10Best list for multiple years during its production run, including the NB generation.
Popular Mechanics Honoree:
Often recognized for its engineering and driving dynamics.
Driving Dynamics Rating:
Universally praised for exceptional handling and driver engagement.
