🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

Miata

Year:

1997

Platform:

NA (First Generation)

Generation Code:

NA6/NA8

Generation Years:

1989-1997

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 1997 Mazda Miata (NB generation launch year) is a highly sought-after modern classic sports car, known for its affordability, reliability, and pure driving experience. This manual targets owners and enthusiasts seeking in-depth technical knowledge for maintenance and repair.

Competitors Covered:

While not directly comparing models, the manual provides the essential technical data for maintaining a vehicle that competed with cars like the Toyota MR2, Porsche Boxster (later), and various European roadsters.

Manual Highlights:

Provides direct manufacturer information, covers all major systems, includes detailed diagrams, and offers step-by-step repair procedures, enabling users to perform a wide range of maintenance and repairs.

📋 Manual Details

Engine:

Included

Transmission:

Included

Drivetrain:

Included

Suspension:

Included

Brakes:

Included

Steering:

Included

Electrical System:

Included

Body And Chassis:

Included

Interior:

Included

HVAC:

Included

Paint And Cosmetics:

Included

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Included

Estimated Pages:

Approx. 1500-2000 (typical for a comprehensive factory service manual)

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed disassembly, inspection, and reassembly of the 1.8L engine (BP-ZE).

Engine Management:

Fuel injection system, ignition system, sensor diagnostics, ECU operation.

Transmission Manual:

Type R15M-4 gearbox service, clutch system, driveshafts.

Transmission Automatic:

Not Applicable (1997 Miata was exclusively manual transmission)

Suspension Front:

Double wishbone system, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment procedures.

Suspension Rear:

Multi-link rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment procedures.

Braking System:

Front disc brakes (ventilated), rear disc brakes, ABS system (if equipped), hydraulic lines, bleeding procedures.

Steering System:

Rack and pinion steering, power steering system (if equipped), tie rod ends, steering column.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator.

Cooling System:

Radiator, cooling fan, thermostat, water pump, coolant specifications.

Exhaust System:

Catalytic converter, muffler, exhaust manifold.

Electrical Components:

Starter motor, alternator, battery, lighting system, wipers, horn.

Body Exterior:

Panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, convertible top service, body repairs.

Interior Trim:

Dashboard removal, seat removal, door panel removal, carpet replacement.

HVAC System:

Air conditioning service, heater core replacement, climate control operation.

Paint And Finishes:

Color codes, touch-up procedures, minor paint repair guidance.

Preventive Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for common and complex issues, using a OBD-I system.

Repair Procedures:

Detailed guides for component replacement, system overhauls, and component-level repairs.

Assembly Disassembly:

Comprehensive instructions for taking apart and reassembling all major vehicle systems and components.

Cleaning Procedures:

Specific instructions for cleaning various components (e.g., injectors, throttle body).

Alignment Adjustment:

Wheel alignment specifications and adjustment procedures.

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete electrical wiring diagrams for all circuits.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all fasteners across all systems.

Depth:

Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

Diagnostics Level:

In-depth diagnostic procedures, including reading fault codes (OBD-I), pinpoint testing, and sensor data interpretation.

Rebuild Procedures:

Detailed procedures for engine and transmission rebuilds.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF for efficient information retrieval.

Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.

Printable:

Yes, individual sections or the entire manual can be printed.

Binding:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

BP-ZE

Engine Type:

DOHC Inline 4-cylinder

Displacement:

1839 cc (1.8 Liters)

Horsepower:

133 hp @ 6500 rpm

Torque:

114 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Coolant Type:

Mazda FL22 Long Life Coolant or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission (R15M-4)

Type:

Not Applicable for 1997 Model Year

Fluid Type:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil

Clutch Type:

Hydraulic Dry Single Plate

📐 Dimensions

Length:

3955 mm (155.7 in)

Width:

1675 mm (66.0 in)

Height:

1235 mm (48.6 in)

Wheelbase:

2265 mm (89.2 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1050 kg (2315 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Driver Front Impact:

4-star (for vehicles of this era, representing good protection)

NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:

4-star (for vehicles of this era, representing good protection)

ABS:

Available (Standard on some trims, optional on others)

Traction Control:

Not typically available on 1997 models

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags

Rollover Protection:

Reinforced A-pillar and behind-seat roll bar structure

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

Factory AM/FM/Cassette Player, optional CD player

Speakers:

Typically 4-speaker system

Cruise Control:

Available on most models

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 miles or 2 years

Coolant Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or 2 years

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000 miles

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 60,000 miles (critical maintenance item for interference engine)

Engine Oil Viscosity:

10W-30 (preferred), 5W-30 or 10W-40 as alternatives based on climate

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.2 US quarts (4.0 liters) with filter change

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Common Problems:

Oil leaks (camshaft seals, rear main seal), radiator leaks, window regulator issues, differential leaks, clutch master cylinder failure, subframe rust (depending on climate).

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage Focus:

Mazda has a long history of producing reliable and engaging driver's cars, with the Miata (MX-5) being a modern interpretation of the classic British roadster experience.

Generation Change Context:

The 1997 model year represents the final year of the first generation (NA) Miata. It transitioned to the slightly updated engine (BP-ZE) and minor cosmetic refinements before the introduction of the second generation (NB) in 1998.

Manufacturing Location:

Hiroshima, Japan

Production Period Na:

1989-1997

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10 Best:

Consistently named to Car and Driver's '10Best' list for many of its production years, highlighting its driving dynamics and value.