Positioning:
The Mazda MX-5 Miata (ND generation) is the epitome of the affordable, lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports car, celebrated for its 'Jinba Ittai' (horse and rider as one) driving philosophy.
Key Competitors:
Toyota GR86, Subaru BRZ, Fiat 124 Spider (previous generation), Porsche 718 Cayman (premium segment).
Driving Dynamics:
Exceptional handling, precise steering, balanced chassis, and responsive acceleration.
Design:
Kodo Design language, aerodynamic styling, available soft-top or retractable fastback (RF).
Primary Focus:
Maintenance, Repair, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Specifications
Additional Coverage:
Bodywork, Electrical Systems, Climate Control, Safety Systems, Wiring Diagrams
Estimated Page Count:
2500+
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual
Powertrain:
Engine (Skyactiv-G), Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain Components, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Fuel System, Exhaust System
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (ABS, EBD), Wheel Alignment
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, Engine Control Module (ECM), Body Control Module (BCM), Infotainment System, ADAS Components
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Convertible Top Mechanism, Interior Trim, Seats, Safety Restraints (Airbags, Seatbelts)
Convertible Top:
Detailed instructions for convertible top mechanism operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Top-offs, Tire Rotation, Spark Plug Replacement, Drive Belt Inspection/Replacement
Repair Diagnostics:
Engine Component Diagnosis & Repair, Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Repair, Steering Component Replacement, Suspension Component Repair, Electrical System Troubleshooting, HVAC Repair, Body Panel Repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) Interpretation, Symptom-based Troubleshooting Guides, Component Testing Procedures
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, including connector pinouts and wire colors.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications for all fasteners and critical components.
Depth:
Comprehensive, including detailed diagrams, specifications, torques, and step-by-step repair instructions for both DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians.
PDF Quality:
High-resolution, searchable text with clear vector diagrams and photographic illustrations.
Print Recommendation:
Optimized for digital viewing, but printable for specific sections. Printing all pages recommended for robust workshop use.
Binding Type For Physical:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type For Physical:
N/A (Digital Format)
Completeness Level:
Full workshop manual, covering all major systems and components for the specified model years.
Transmission Type Standard:
6-Speed Manual (MX-5 Gearbox)
Transmission Type Optional:
6-Speed Automatic (with Paddle Shifters)
Manual Transmission Features:
Short-throw shifter, precise clutch engagement, designed for driver engagement.
Automatic Transmission Features:
Quick shift logic, Sport mode programming.
Length:
154.1 inches (3915 mm)
Width:
68.3 inches (1735 mm)
Height:
49.7 inches (1260 mm) (soft top), 49.7 inches (1260 mm) (RF)
Wheelbase:
90.9 inches (2310 mm)
Trunk Volume:
4.59 cubic feet (130 Liters)
Curb Weight Manual:
approx. 2,332 lbs (1058 kg)
Curb Weight Automatic:
approx. 2,390 lbs (1084 kg)
NHTSA Rating:
5-Star Overall Safety Rating (specific year may vary)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Often awarded Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+
Active Safety:
ABS, EBD, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), TCS (Traction Control System), HLA (Hill Launch Assist), Advanced Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Smart Brake Support (SBS - on select trims/years)
Passive Safety:
Driver and Passenger Airbags, Side Airbags, Whiplash-reducing front seats, Three-point Seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters, Roll Bar
Infotainment System:
Mazda Connect (7-inch touchscreen, rotary commander)
Infotainment Features:
AM/FM/SiriusXM radio, Bluetooth, USB/Auxiliary input, Pandora/Stitcher integration (requires smartphone connection).
Adas Features Available:
Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), Advanced Keyless Entry, Push-Button Start, Rain-sensing variable-intermittent windshield wipers, Automatic Headlights, Auto-dimming rearview mirror (on select trims).
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB ports.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Check manual for specific conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Recommended replacement around 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Cabin Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Recommended replacement around 20,000 miles (32,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 75,000 miles (120,000 km) for iridium-tipped spark plugs.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-20 API SN/SN PLUS or ILSAC GF-5 certified
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.8 US quarts (4.5 Liters) with filter change
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90
Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:
Mazda Genuine ATF FZ or equivalent
Differential Fluid Type:
GL-5 SAE 75W-90 (non-limited slip differential)
Coolant Type:
Mazda Genuine Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent blue ethylene glycol based coolant)
Common Issues 1:
Carbon buildup on intake valves (direct injection engines), potentially affecting performance.
Common Issues 2:
Convertible top mechanism wear and tear, especially on seals and motors.
Common Issues 3:
Rear differential whine (rare, but can occur).
Common Issues 4:
Infotainment system glitches (software updates often available).
Heritage:
Mazda has a long history of producing lightweight, driver-focused sports cars, dating back to the Mazda Cosmo Sport and RX-7.
First Generation Intro:
The MX-5 Miata was first introduced in 1989 (NA generation) as a spiritual successor to the Lotus Elan.
Nd Generation Intro:
The fourth generation (ND) debuted for the 2016 model year, marking a return to smaller, lighter proportions and increased driver engagement.
Manufacturing Plant:
Mazda's Ujina Plant in Hiroshima, Japan
Car And Driver 10Best:
Frequent recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best list.
World Car Of The Year:
Winner of World Car Design of the Year award in 2016.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
Nominated/shortlisted for MotorTrend Car of the Year multiple times.