Vehicle Segment:
Lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports car (roadster/convertible).
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional automotive technicians.
Key Competitors:
Porsche Boxster, BMW Z4, Audi TT Roadster, Honda S2000 (previous generation), Fiat 124 Spider.
Driver Focused:
Emphasis on driving dynamics, handling, and driver engagement.
Convertible Experience:
Iconic convertible design with a focus on open-top driving.
Reliability:
Generally known for its robust mechanicals and good reliability.
Engine:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (ECU), Fuel System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Ignition System, Emission Control System
Transmission:
Manual Transmission (MT), Automatic Transmission (AT) (if applicable for the years covered), Clutch System, Drivetrain, Driveshafts, Differentials
Brakes:
Brake System Components (Calipers, Rotors, Pads), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), Brake Lines and Hoses, Parking Brake
Suspension Steering:
Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Shock Absorbers, Springs, Control Arms, Bushings, Steering Gearbox, Power Steering System, Wheel Alignment
Electrical:
Battery, Alternator, Starter Motor, Lighting System (Headlights, Taillights, Interior), Wiring Diagrams, Fuses and Relays, Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
Body Chassis:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Frame and Chassis Components, Convertible Top Mechanism, Interior Trim, Upholstery
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) System, Refrigerant, Compressor, Evaporator, Condenser, Blower Motor
Safety Restraints:
Airbag System, Seatbelts, Pre-tensioners
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspections and Replacements
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures, Fault Code Interpretation, Symptom-based Troubleshooting Guides
Repair:
Component Removal and Installation, Engine Rebuilding, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repairs, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair
Diagnostics:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) Procedures, Scan Tool Usage, Sensor Testing, Actuator Testing
Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Tightening Sequences, Component Clearances, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Resistances
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 4-Cylinder
Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1999 cc)
Horsepower:
Approximately 167 hp @ 7000 rpm (for 2009-2012 models)
Torque:
Approximately 140 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (for 2009-2012 models)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane recommended)
ECU Type:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) / Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
Variable Valve Timing:
Yes (VIS - Variable Intake System and VVT-i equivalent mechanism on intake camshaft)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for relevant model years)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for relevant model years)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Airbags:
Front Airbags, Side Airbags (often seat-mounted)
Roll Bar:
Integral Roll Bar Structure behind seats
Seatbelts:
Three-point Seatbelts with Pre-tensioners
Audio System:
Bose premium audio system often available, standard 6-speaker system.
Connectivity:
Auxiliary audio input jack, optional Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming on later models.
Navigation:
Optional HDD-based or DVD-based navigation system available on higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard Cruise Control.
Keyless Entry:
Standard Keyless Entry, optional Smart Keyless Entry and Start.
Climate Control Type:
Manual Air Conditioning or optional Automatic Climate Control.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km).
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 20,000 miles (24,000 - 32,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), change as needed or at higher intervals. Automatic: Typically 45,000 - 60,000 miles (72,000 - 96,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil (API SN or ILSAC GF-5 compliant)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.8 US quarts (4.5 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Mazda FL22 Long Life Antifreeze (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Synthetic Brake Fluid.
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (specific Mazda specification recommended).
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Mazda ATF-Type M-V or equivalent.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Dexron III/Mercon or equivalent ATF (check specific vehicle requirements).
Common Maintenance Items:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket, clutch wear (especially if abused), coolant leaks from hoses/radiator, potential for caliper sticking due to infrequent use or environmental factors.
Common Mechanical Issues:
Transmission synchro wear (especially 2nd gear), differential bearing noise at higher mileage, exhaust system corrosion.
Common Electrical Issues:
Window motor failure, convertible top motor or sensor issues, occasional infotainment system glitches.
