Positioning:
The Mazda Miata (MX-5) established itself as a benchmark for affordable, lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports cars, offering pure driving engagement. This manual caters to owners and technicians seeking in-depth knowledge to maintain and repair these iconic vehicles.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Toyota MR2, Honda S2000 (later years), and various European roadsters, but its unique combination of affordability, reliability, and driving feel set it apart.
Appeal:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, responsive steering, and the 'Jinba Ittai' (horse and rider as one) driving philosophy. This manual provides the technical backbone to preserve these characteristics.
Years Covered:
1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005
Estimated Page Count:
Thousands (indicative of comprehensive factory documentation)
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Engine:
Complete service, repair, and diagnostics for all engine variants within the covered years.
Transmission:
Detailed information on manual and automatic transmissions, including overhaul and repair procedures.
Brake System:
Comprehensive coverage of ABS, disc brakes, parking brake, fluid replacement, and component repair.
Electrical System:
Extensive wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnostic procedures, and repair for all electrical systems.
Suspension:
Detailed repair and alignment procedures for front and rear suspension components, including springs, shocks, and bushings.
Steering:
Service and repair of the power steering system, steering column, and steering rack.
Cooling System:
Diagnosis, repair, and maintenance of the radiator, water pump, thermostat, and cooling fans.
Fuel System:
Information on fuel pumps, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel filter replacement, and EFI system diagnostics.
Emission System:
Details on emissions control devices, catalytic converters, oxygen sensors, and diagnostic procedures for emission-related faults.
HVAC System:
Service and repair of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, including refrigerant handling.
Chassis And Body:
Repair procedures for body panels, frame components, doors, and interior trim.
Restraint System:
Information on airbags, seatbelts, and related safety systems.
Interior Systems:
Procedures for interior component removal, installation, and repair.
Differential And Drive Axles:
Service and repair of the differential, drive shafts, and CV joints.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, and inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex issues.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems and components.
Overhaul:
Complete overhaul procedures for engine, transmission, and other major mechanical assemblies.
Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, trouble codes, and diagnostic charts for electrical and electronic systems.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and other critical technical data.
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and electrical system diagnostics.
Engine Code Na:
BP (1.8L)
Displacement Na:
1.8 Liters (1839 cc)
Configuration Na:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Horsepower Na:
Approx. 128-133 hp (depending on year and market)
Torque Na:
Approx. 110-115 lb-ft (depending on year and market)
Engine Code Nb:
BP-Z3 (1.8L), MSR-E (2.0L)
Displacement Nb:
1.8 Liters (1839 cc) / 2.0 Liters (1998 cc)
Configuration Nb:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Horsepower Nb:
Approx. 140-146 hp (1.8L), 170 hp (2.0L)
Torque Nb:
Approx. 118-120 lb-ft (1.8L), 140 lb-ft (2.0L)
Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Length Na:
Approx. 155.7 inches (3955 mm)
Width Na:
Approx. 66.1 inches (1680 mm)
Height Na:
Approx. 48.2 inches (1225 mm)
Length Nb:
Approx. 157.3 inches (4000 mm)
Width Nb:
Approx. 67.7 inches (1720 mm)
Height Nb:
Approx. 49.4 inches (1255 mm)
Curb Weight Na:
Approx. 2150-2300 lbs (975-1043 kg)
Curb Weight Nb:
Approx. 2300-2500 lbs (1043-1134 kg)
Crash Test Availability Na:
Limited official crash test data from the era for this niche vehicle segment, but generally considered safe for its class.
Features:
Four-wheel disc brakes (standard on most models), optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) on later NA and NB models.
Features:
Reinforced A-pillars, driver and passenger airbags (standard from late NA/early NB onwards), seatbelt pretensioners.
Features Na:
Primarily basic audio systems (AM/FM radio, cassette player, optional CD player), manual climate controls. Focus is on driving experience, not advanced tech.
Features Nb:
Improved audio options, optional in-dash CD players, and more integrated HVAC controls. Later models may feature better speaker systems.
Features:
Limited driver assistance systems by modern standards. Key safety features include ABS (optional) and airbags.
Features:
No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity in these model years. Aftermarket solutions are common for modern connectivity.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, using synthetic oil for optimal protection. Consult manual for specific grade.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 - 90,000 miles (96,000 - 144,000 km). Crucial due to interference engine design.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (48,000 - 80,000 km) or 2-3 years.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Engine Oil Grade:
5W-30 or 10W-30 (depending on climate), API SN or newer, ILSAC GF-5 or newer recommended. Consult manual for specific requirements.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, Mazda long-life coolant (or equivalent green or blue coolant). 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Rust:
Common issue, particularly on older NA models, in areas prone to road salt. Check sills, wheel arches, and rocker panels.
Oil Consumption:
Some engines, especially with high mileage, may exhibit increased oil consumption. Regular checks are advised.
Clutch Wear:
Clutch assemblies can wear over time, especially with spirited driving. Symptoms include slipping or difficulty engaging gears.
Cooling System Leaks:
Hoses, radiator, and water pump can develop leaks over time. Monitor coolant levels and for any signs of coolant on the ground.
Power Window Motors:
Can be a failure point, particularly on higher mileage vehicles.
Heritage:
Mazda has a long history of producing reliable and enjoyable-to-drive vehicles, often emphasizing lightweight design and driver engagement, exemplified by cars like the Cosmo Sport and RX-7.
Na Generation:
First generation (NA, 1989-1997): Introduced the iconic lightweight roadster formula, powered by a 1.6L and later a 1.8L engine, known for its pop-up headlights and simple, pure driving experience.
Nb Generation:
Second generation (NB, 1998-2005): Featured a more aerodynamic and refined design, improved chassis rigidity, fixed headlights, and engine upgrades including a 1.8L and a 2.0L engine. It maintained the core driving dynamics.
Manufacturing Location:
Hofū, Yamaguchi, Japan
Production Period:
1989-2005 (for NA and NB generations)
