Positioning:
The Mazda MX-5 (Miata) redefined the affordable sports car segment, offering pure driving enjoyment and exceptional handling. This manual serves owners and enthusiasts who wish to maintain, repair, and understand their iconic vehicle.
Competition:
Competed against vehicles like the Toyota MR2, Nissan 240SX, and Fiat X1/9, but stood out with its balanced chassis, reliable drivetrain, and open-top motoring experience.
Vehicle Focus:
Lightweight construction, rear-wheel drive, near-perfect weight distribution, precise steering, convertible top functionality, reliable mechanicals.
Years Covered:
1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998
Estimated Pages:
Over 1500 (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
PDF (Downloadable)
Engine:
1.6L (B6ZE) and 1.8L (BP-ZE) engines, including diagnosis, repair, overhaul, timing belt replacement, fuel injection, cooling, lubrication, and emissions control.
Transmission:
5-speed manual transmission (M5, J-spec variants), clutch system, driveline, propeller shaft, differential, and axles.
Suspension:
Front independent double wishbone, rear independent multi-link suspension, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, steering linkage, wheel bearings.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes (vented for later models), rear disc brakes, ABS system (if equipped), brake hydraulic system, parking brake.
Electrical:
Engine control unit (ECU), ignition system, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), instruments and gauges, power windows, mirrors, convertible top operation.
Bodywork:
Chassis structure, body panels, doors, hood, trunk, convertible top mechanism, interior trim, bumpers.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system operation, refrigerant handling, component replacement.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, drive belt inspection and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems. Includes symptom-based troubleshooting.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment across all major systems. Includes torque specifications.
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-I) for engine management, including trouble codes and their meanings.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks and filter changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, detailed electrical system diagnostics, and bodywork repairs.
Engine 1 6L:
1.6L DOHC 16-valve inline-4 (B6ZE). Horsepower: 113-118 hp @ 6500 rpm. Torque: 100-103 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm. Compression Ratio: 9.0:1 or 9.2:1.
Engine 1 8L:
1.8L DOHC 16-valve inline-4 (BP-ZE). Horsepower: 128-133 hp @ 6500 rpm. Torque: 114-122 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm. Compression Ratio: 9.0:1. Available from 1994 onwards.
Acceleration 0 60:
Approximately 7.5 - 8.5 seconds (varies by engine and transmission).
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with multi-point injection.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane or higher recommended).
Transmission Type:
5-speed manual transmission (Mazda's own design, highly regarded for feel).
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed automatic transmission (available on certain trims/markets).
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios available in the manual for detailed comparison across models and engine options. E.g., 1st gear ~3.307, 2nd ~1.987, 3rd ~1.323, 4th ~1.000, 5th ~0.755 (typical ratios, specific values vary).
Clutch Type:
Dry, single-plate diaphragm spring type.
Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil. Capacity approximately 2.0 - 2.2 liters.
Length:
Approx. 3955 mm (155.7 in)
Width:
Approx. 1675 mm (65.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1235 mm (48.6 in) (top up)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2265 mm (89.2 in)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 130 mm (5.1 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 950-1050 kg (2100-2315 lbs), depending on equipment and engine.
Gross Weight:
Approx. 1200-1300 kg (2645-2866 lbs)
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 150 liters (5.3 cu ft)
NHTSA Ratings:
No formal NHTSA ratings available for this era. However, known for robust chassis for its size.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was optional on earlier models and standard on later ones, particularly with the 1.8L engine.
Traction Control:
Traction control was not a standard or widely available option during the NA generation.
Airbags:
Driver's airbag was introduced as standard equipment from 1994 onwards. Passenger airbag was generally not offered.
Roll Bar:
Reinforced A-pillars and a standard roll hoop behind the seats for rollover protection.
Audio System:
Factory units typically included AM/FM radio, cassette player, and sometimes a CD player in later years. Speaker count usually 2 or 4.
Gauge Cluster:
Comprehensive analog gauges including tachometer, speedometer, fuel level, and coolant temperature. Oil pressure gauge was typically absent on base models.
Cruise Control:
Optional on many models, particularly those equipped with the automatic transmission or higher trim levels.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by modern standards. Primarily focused on analogue systems. Aftermarket upgrades for Bluetooth/USB connectivity are common.
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Using high-quality synthetic oil is recommended.
Engine Oil Filter:
Replace with oil change. Recommended part: Mazda B6Y1-14-302 or equivalent (e.g., Fram PH3600, Wix 51515).
Timing Belt:
Replace every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years. Crucial for B6ZE and BP-ZE engines to prevent catastrophic failure.
Spark Plugs:
Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), replace as needed. Recommended: NGK BKR5E-11 (or equivalent).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years. Use Mazda FL22 coolant or equivalent. Capacity: Approx. 7.2 liters (7.6 US quarts).
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 recommended for most climates. Capacity: Approx. 4.2 liters (4.4 US quarts) with filter.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4. Check and top off as needed, flush every 2-3 years. Capacity: Approx. 0.5 liters.
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron II or equivalent ATF. Check and top off as needed.
Rust:
Common areas include rocker panels, rear quarter panels, and subframes due to age and exposure.
Oil Leaks:
Rear main seal, valve cover gasket, and oil pan gasket are common leak points.
Cooling System:
Radiator leaks, hose degradation, and thermostat issues can occur. Overheating is a risk if not maintained.
Window Regulators:
Manual window regulators can become stiff or fail over time.
Convertible Top:
Seals can degrade, leading to leaks. Frame mechanisms may require lubrication or adjustment.
Mazda Motorsports:
Mazda has a long history of producing lightweight, sporty cars, dating back to models like the Cosmo Sport and RX-7. The MX-5 built upon this legacy.
Generation Na:
Launched in 1989 for the 1990 model year as the 'NA' generation. Characterized by pop-up headlights, simple and pure driving dynamics. Received minor updates throughout its production, including engine upgrades (1.8L from 1994) and cosmetic tweaks.
Production Years:
1989-1997 (for the 1990-1997 model years), with this manual covering up to the 1998 model year which often included some carryover elements or specific market introductions of the later NA specs.
Manufacturing Location:
Hiroshima, Japan
Car Of The Year:
Car and Driver recognized it as one of the Ten Best Cars multiple times during its production run.
Driving Dynamics:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its handling, steering feel, and overall driving engagement.
Manual Utility:
Essential resource for owners, mechanics, and enthusiasts aiming to preserve the classic driving experience and maintain the vehicle's integrity.
