Positioning:
The Mazda MX-5 Miata (NC generation) is a compact, rear-wheel-drive sports car renowned for its lightweight design, agile handling, and affordability, targeting enthusiasts seeking a pure driving experience.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Honda S2000, Porsche Boxster, Nissan 370Z Roadster, and BMW Z4 in the affordable sports car segment.
Handling:
Renowned for its 'Jinba Ittai' (horse and rider as one) driving philosophy, featuring near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution and responsive steering.
Convertible:
Available as a soft-top convertible and later in the generation, with a retractable hardtop (PRHT) option.
Engine:
Detailed diagnosis, removal/installation, overhaul of MZR 2.0L and 2.3L engines (LF-VE, L3-VE), including timing components, lubrication, cooling, and fuel systems.
Transmission:
Service and repair of Mazda's 5-speed and 6-speed manual transmissions (FS5W71C, MX-5 6-speed), including clutch system, driveline, axles, and differentials.
Brakes:
Comprehensive coverage of front and rear disc brake systems, ABS, EBD, brake hydraulics, parking brake, and bleeding procedures.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, and bushings.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering column, and steering gear.
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, lighting systems, starting and charging systems, instrument cluster, comfort and convenience features, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Body:
Body exterior and interior repairs, doors, windows, convertible top operation and repair, bumpers, and trim.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, heater core, blower motor, and climate controls.
Fuel:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, and evaporative emissions control (EVAP) system.
Exhaust:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, and oxygen sensors.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance procedures, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, and inspections.
Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, including troubleshooting trees and fault code interpretations.
Repair:
Detailed, illustrated repair procedures for virtually all mechanical and electrical components, from simple component replacement to complete system overhauls.
Troubleshooting:
Extensive troubleshooting guides for drivability issues, starting problems, electrical faults, and more.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, critical clearances, fluid capacities, and performance data.
Depth:
Comprehensive, dealer-level technical information suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Code Early:
LF-DE (2.0L MZR)
Engine Code Late:
L3-VE (2.3L MZR - some markets/trims), LF-VE (Revised 2.0L MZR)
Horsepower 2.0L:
170 hp @ 7000 rpm
Torque 2.0L:
140 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Horsepower 2.0L Revised:
167 hp @ 7000 rpm (slight decrease due to emissions, but broader torque curve)
Torque 2.0L Revised:
140 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Horsepower 2.3L:
160 hp @ 6000 rpm (typically for early 2.3L models in specific markets)
Torque 2.3L:
150 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (typically for early 2.3L models in specific markets)
Injection Type:
Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane (Premium recommended for optimal performance)
Displacement Liters:
2.0L (1999 cc) and 2.3L (2261 cc)
Bore X Stroke 2.0L:
87.5 mm x 83.1 mm
Compression Ratio 2.0L:
9.7:1
Valvetrain:
DOHC 16-valve with Variable Valve Timing (VVT-i)
Type Early:
5-speed Manual
Type Late:
6-speed Manual
Automatic Option:
Available 6-speed Activematic automatic transmission with paddle shifters on select models.
Clutch:
Hydraulically actuated dry single-plate clutch.
Gear Ratios 6Mt:
Specific ratios available in manual for optimal sporty driving.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Mazda GL-5 75W-90 Gear Oil or equivalent.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mazda ATF-MV or equivalent.
NHTSA Frontal Crash:
5-Star (Driver and Passenger)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models with side airbags)
Brakes:
Standard 4-wheel disc brakes, ABS, Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC).
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags, available side-impact airbags.
Rollover Protection:
Pop-up roll bars behind headrests on convertible models.
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with 6 speakers. Optional Bose premium audio system with subwoofer.
Navigation:
Optional in-dash DVD-based navigation system on select higher trims.
Stability Control:
Standard or optional Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Traction Control System (TCS) across the model range.
Cruise Control:
Standard feature on most models.
Auxiliary Input:
Standard auxiliary audio input jack for portable music players.
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free phone system available on later models.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil. Check manual for specific recommendations.
Tire Rotation:
Every 7,500 miles.
Coolant Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles or 5 years, whichever comes first. Use Mazda FL22 Long Life Coolant.
Spark Plugs:
Inspect at 7,500 miles; replace approximately every 75,000 miles (depending on plug type).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20 Synthetic Motor Oil (API SN or higher).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.7 US quarts (4.4 liters) with filter for 2.0L engine.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III Automatic Transmission Fluid or equivalent.
Oil Consumption:
Some early NC models may exhibit higher oil consumption; regular checks are recommended.
Convertible Top Latches:
Potential for wear or adjustment issues with manual convertible top latches.
Rear Wheel Bearings:
Some reports of premature rear wheel bearing wear; inspect for noise and play.
Paint Chipping:
Front end paint chipping can be common due to the vehicle's aerodynamic design and lightweight materials.
Heritage:
Mazda's legacy of producing lightweight, affordable, and fun-to-drive sports cars, tracing back to the original Miata (NA) and its successor (NB).
Nc Generation Introduction:
The NC generation debuted for the 2006 model year, representing a significant redesign with a larger chassis and more powerful engine options.
Facelift:
A significant facelift occurred for the 2009 model year, introducing revised styling, improved aerodynamics, and powertrain enhancements.
Production Years:
2006 - 2015 (NC generation)
Manufacturing Location:
Hiroshima, Japan
