Segment:
Lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports car, roadster.
Philosophy:
Jinba Ittai - 'horse and rider as one,' emphasizing driver connection and agile handling.
Key Competitors:
Nissan 370Z, Porsche Boxster, BMW Z4, Honda S2000 (though S2000 was ending production around this time).
Handling:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, precise steering, and engaging driving dynamics.
Powertrain Layout:
Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive.
Body Styles:
Soft-top convertible and retractable fastback (PRHT).
Primary Coverage:
All Models and Trim Levels
Repair Scope:
A-Z Comprehensive Repairs
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (Specific count not provided, but implied to be comprehensive)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Origin:
Dealership Technician Level
Format:
Likely Printed (as is common for dealership manuals, or potentially a high-quality digital reproduction)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanicals, fuel system, ignition system, lubrication, cooling, exhaust, engine management (ECU, sensors).
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission service, repair, diagnostics, clutch service, driveline.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, EBD, DSC), wheel alignment.
Electrical:
Body electrical systems, lighting, power accessories, instrument cluster, charging system, starting system, infotainment wiring, ECU diagnostics, wiring diagrams.
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, convertible top mechanism (if applicable), chassis and frame.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, spark plug replacement.
Component Repair:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component repair/replacement, steering rack repair.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, symptom-based diagnostics, scan tool procedures.
Electrical System Repair:
Component testing, wiring harness repair, sensor replacement, module programming (where applicable).
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.
Depth:
In-depth, technician-level detail covering diagnostics, disassembly, assembly, repair, and reassembly of all major vehicle systems.
Accuracy:
Vehicle-specific, not generic; providing exact procedures, specifications, and torque values as used by authorized Mazda dealerships.
Format Details:
Typically a comprehensive printed document, potentially bound for durability. Digital versions (PDF) are also common for technician access.
Quality:
High-quality printing, clear diagrams, schematics, and photographic illustrations where applicable.
Binding:
Likely robust binding (e.g., spiral-bound, perfect bound) to withstand frequent use in a workshop environment.
Paper Quality:
Durable paper stock, often glossy or semi-gloss for diagrams and illustrations, designed for workshop conditions.
Engine Code:
MZR LF-DE (North America), LF-VE (Global)
Engine Type:
2.0L Inline 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated DOHC.
Horsepower:
167 hp @ 7,000 rpm (North American spec)
Torque:
140 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm (North American spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
ECU:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) with integrated diagnostics (OBD-II).
Transmission Type Standard:
6-speed Manual Transmission (Mazda 'MX-5 Gearbox')
Transmission Type Optional:
6-speed Automatic Transmission (with paddle shifters on certain trims)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated diaphragm spring clutch.
Differential:
Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) often standard or optional, depending on trim level.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (e.g., Mazda Genuine Transmission Oil JWS3309 or equivalent)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mazda ATF-Type T-IV or equivalent (check VIN for specific requirement).
Length:
Approx. 167.7 inches (4260 mm)
Width:
Approx. 68.7 inches (1745 mm)
Height:
Approx. 49.4 inches (1255 mm) (soft top)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 91.8 inches (2330 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2,400 - 2,600 lbs (1089 - 1179 kg), varies by trim and transmission.
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 4.4 cubic feet (125 liters)
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-Star (typically for models with side airbags)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good (for models tested)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard.
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) standard.
Electronic Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) standard on most models, often including DSC Sport mode.
Airbags:
Front airbags, side-impact airbags (often standard or optional).
Rollover Protection:
Pop-up rollover hoops behind the headrests.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (severe driving may require more frequent changes).
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles or 48,000 km).
Cabin Air Filter:
Inspect annually, replace every 15,000-20,000 miles (24,000-32,000 km) or as needed.
Spark Plugs:
Replace at 75,000 miles (120,000 km) (Iridium type).
Engine Oil Specification:
API SN or ILSAC GF-5, SAE 5W-20.
Coolant Specification:
Mazda Genuine Super Long Life Coolant (FL22) or equivalent HOAT coolant (Green).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Oil Consumption:
Some NC models may exhibit higher than expected oil consumption, especially at higher mileage. Regular checks are recommended.
Soft Top Wear:
Wear on the fabric of the soft top, stitching issues, or failure of the mechanism (though generally robust).
Suspension Bushings:
Wear in suspension bushings can lead to knocking noises or imprecise handling over time.
Mazda Philosophy:
Mazda's long history of producing engaging and affordable sports cars dating back to the Mazda Cosmo Sport and RX-series.
Mx5 Lineage:
The MX-5 (Miata) is the best-selling two-seater convertible sports car in history, known for its continuous refinement of the original concept.
Nc Generation Introduction:
The NC generation, introduced for the 2006 model year, marked a significant redesign with a larger chassis, more powerful engine, and increased refinement.
Production Period:
2006-2015 (NC Generation).
Manufacturing Plants:
Mazda's Hofu Plant in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan.
Car And Driver 10Best:
The MX-5 has a long history of being named to Car and Driver's 10Best lists, though specific years for the NC generation should be verified.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
While the MX-5 hasn't won the overall award, it consistently receives praise for its driving experience from automotive publications.
