Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, Mazda enthusiasts
Value Proposition:
Empowers users to perform repairs and maintenance accurately and efficiently, saving time and money.
Uniqueness:
Factory-sourced data provides the highest level of accuracy and detail compared to aftermarket alternatives.
Key Feature 1:
Comprehensive diagnostic procedures for all major systems.
Key Feature 2:
Detailed exploded diagrams for parts identification and assembly.
Key Feature 3:
Step-by-step repair instructions with supporting visuals.
Key Feature 4:
Essential technical specifications and data.
Engine:
Yes (including diagnosis, repair, rebuild)
Transmission:
Yes (manual and automatic variants)
Drivetrain:
Yes (clutch, driveshaft, differential)
Suspension:
Yes (front and rear, shock absorbers, springs, control arms)
Steering:
Yes (power steering system, steering column)
Brakes:
Yes (ABS, hydraulic components, pad/rotor replacement)
Electrical System:
Yes (wiring diagrams, component testing, ECM/PCM diagnostics)
HVAC:
Yes (air conditioning, heating, ventilation)
Fuel System:
Yes (fuel pump, injectors, tank, lines)
Exhaust System:
Yes (catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes)
Cooling System:
Yes (radiator, thermostat, water pump)
Body And Frame:
Yes (panels, doors, interior trim, chassis)
Lighting And Signals:
Yes
Safety Systems:
Yes (airbags, seatbelts)
Scheduled Maintenance:
Yes
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Yes (OBD-II codes, component testing)
Routine Repairs:
Yes (oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs)
Major Component Rebuilds:
Yes (engine, transmission)
Component Replacement:
Yes (alternator, starter, fuel pump)
Electrical Component Repair:
Yes
Wheel Alignment:
Yes (specifications)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Yes (if applicable to specific engine variants)
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds)
Torque Specifications:
Yes (for all critical fasteners)
Clearances And Tolerances:
Yes
Wiring Diagrams:
Yes (detailed and clearly labeled)
Special Tool Requirements:
Yes (where applicable)
Engine Codes:
BP-Z3 (1.8L), YF-VE (2.0L)
Displacement 1.8L:
1839 cc
Displacement 2.0L:
1998 cc
Horsepower 1.8L Nb1:
140 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 1.8L Nb1:
119 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Horsepower 1.8L Nb2:
142 hp @ 6000 rpm (slight increase)
Torque 1.8L Nb2:
125 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (slight increase)
Horsepower 2.0L Nb2:
170 hp @ 7000 rpm
Torque 2.0L Nb2:
140 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Octane Rating Recommended:
91 (premium)
Standard Transmission:
5-speed manual
Optional Transmission:
4-speed automatic (NB1), 6-speed manual (NB2 with 2.0L engine)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated, dry single plate
Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:
Mazda GL-4 API (or equivalent) recommended
Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:
Mazda ATF JWS3317 (or equivalent)
NHTSA Front Driver Side Impact Rating:
4/5 stars (1999-2005 models)
NHTSA Front Passenger Side Impact Rating:
5/5 stars (1999-2005 models)
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Good (Good/Acceptable/Marginal/Poor rating system)
ABS:
Standard on most models, optional on some early NB1
Traction Control:
Optional on some NB2 models
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger airbags standard
Roll Bar:
Integrated into A-pillar structure, reinforced behind seats
Seatbelts:
Three-point retractable seatbelts
Infotainment System:
Basic factory audio system with cassette/CD player
Speaker Configuration:
Typically 4 or 6 speakers
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited (ABS, optional traction control on later models)
Connectivity Options:
No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity (aftermarket options available)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (standard plugs) or 60,000 miles (iridium plugs)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Transmission Fluid Change Auto:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Engine Oil Spec:
API SG, SH, SJ or ILSAC GF-II or GF-III; SAE 5W-30 recommended
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.0 US quarts (3.8 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with deionized water)
Power Steering Fluid:
Mazda Genuine Power Steering Fluid (or Dexron III/Mercon)
Common Issue 1:
Oil consumption in some 1.8L engines (especially higher mileage)
Common Issue 2:
Rattling noise from exhaust heat shields
Common Issue 3:
Soft top leaks or wear (due to age and material)
Common Issue 4:
Worn shifter bushings or clutch pedal assembly wear leading to vague shifting
Common Issue 5:
ABS sensor failures
Common Issue 6:
Radiator neck cracking on some early models
Brand Focus:
Mazda's heritage of lightweight, driver-focused sports cars
Generation Name:
Second Generation (NB)
Design Philosophy:
Evolutionary design retaining the spirit of the NA generation, with improved aerodynamics and chassis rigidity.
Key Changes Nb1:
Introduction of fixed headlights (replacing pop-ups), updated interior, revised suspension tuning.
Key Changes Nb2:
Introduction of the 2.0L engine (170hp), 6-speed manual transmission option, stiffer chassis, revised aerodynamics, interior upgrades.
Manufacturing Location:
Hofuku Plant, Japan
Production Period:
1998-2005
Car And Driver 10Best:
Included in Car and Driver's 10Best list multiple times during its production run (representing the NB generation's success).
Auto Express Best Convertible:
Often cited as a benchmark for affordable, fun convertibles by automotive publications.
Owner Satisfaction:
Generally high owner satisfaction due to driving dynamics and reliability.
Manual Certification:
Factory authorized documentation
