🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

MX-5 Miata

Chassis Code:

NB

Generation Name:

Second Generation (NB)

Generation Years:

1998-2005

Covered Years:

1999, 2000, 2001

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Lightweight, rear-wheel-drive, two-seater sports car.

Philosophy:

Zen-Noh-Engi (The unity of car and driver), prioritizing driving pleasure, handling, and affordability.

Key Competitors:

Lotus Elise (higher price point), Toyota MR2 Spyder, Honda S2000 (higher performance).

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for its balanced chassis, near 50/50 weight distribution, and communicative steering.

Design:

Iconic minimalist roadster design, evolved from the NA generation with updated aerodynamics and styling cues.

Reliability:

Generally considered a reliable vehicle with a robust powertrain and chassis.

Bang For Buck:

Offers a pure sports car experience at an accessible price point, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive repair and service for the specified model years.

Estimated Page Count:

Approx. 1500-2000 pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals in PDF format)

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Adobe PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valve train, timing belt/chain replacement, oil pump, oil pan, lubrication system.

Engine Performance:

Fuel injection system (EFI), ignition system, emission control systems (EVAP, EGR), turbocharger/supercharger diagnostics (if applicable to specific trims/markets, though less common for this generation MX-5), cooling system, intake and exhaust systems.

Transmission Drivetrain:

Manual transmission (M/T) repair and overhaul, clutch system, driveshafts, differential, axles, wheel bearings.

Brakes:

Brake system components (calipers, pads, rotors, master cylinder, brake lines), ABS system diagnostics and repair, parking brake.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components (shocks, springs, control arms, bushings), power steering system, steering rack, alignment specifications.

Electrical Electronic:

Wiring diagrams, fuse box layout, relays, battery, charging system (alternator, starter), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), horn, power windows, power mirrors, central locking.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant handling, A/C compressor, evaporator, condenser, climate control unit.

Body Interior:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, convertible top mechanism, interior trim, seats, dashboard, body repair procedures, collision repair information.

Diagnostics:

On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), scan tool usage, troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics.

Preventative Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, brake pad inspection, tire rotation, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon vehicle problems across all major systems.

Repair Rebuild:

Detailed instructions for component removal, installation, repair, and overhaul for nearly every part of the vehicle.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners during assembly and disassembly.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical circuit diagrams for all vehicle systems, including color codes and connector pinouts.

Alignment Specifications:

Front and rear wheel alignment angles (camber, caster, toe) and adjustment procedures.

Technical Bulletins:

Often includes reference to manufacturer's Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for known issues and updated procedures.

Depth:

Complete workshop-level detail, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers basic maintenance to complex engine rebuilds and diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable, allowing for quick information retrieval.

Resolution:

High resolution, designed for clarity of diagrams and text when printed.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

BP-Z3 (post 1998 update of BP-E6)

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline 4-Cylinder DOHC

Displacement Cc:

1839 cc

Bore X Stroke:

83.0 mm x 85.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.5:1

Horsepower Hp:

140 hp @ 6500 rpm (1999-2000), 142 hp @ 6500 rpm (2001-2005 - slight increase)

Torque Lb-Ft:

119 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (1999-2000), 125 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (2001-2005)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline, 87 Octane minimum (91 recommended for optimal performance)

Timing Belt:

Yes, recommended replacement interval typically 60,000-75,000 miles or 5 years.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed Manual Transmission (MT)

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (AT)

Manual Gears:

1st: 3.757, 2nd: 2.157, 3rd: 1.500, 4th: 1.257, 5th: 1.000, 6th: 0.870 (typical for 6-speed)

Manual Final Drive Ratio:

4.300:1

Automatic Gears:

4-speed

Automatic Final Drive Ratio:

3.636:1

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil. Capacity approx. 2.1 liters.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Mazda ATF M-III or equivalent. Capacity approx. 2.7 liters (dry fill)

📐 Dimensions

Length Mm:

3995 mm

Width Mm:

1690 mm

Height Mm:

1245 mm (soft top)

Wheelbase Mm:

2265 mm

Ground Clearance Mm:

135 mm

Curb Weight Kg:

1050-1100 kg (depending on transmission and options)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Kg:

1350 kg

Trunk Volume Liters:

150 liters (approx.)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

4 stars (for 2000 model year)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

4 stars (for 2000 model year)

IIHS Front Offset:

Acceptable (for 2000 model year)

Traction Control:

Available on some higher trims or as an option.

Antilock Brakes:

Standard on all models for these years.

Airbags Driver:

Standard frontal driver airbag.

Airbags Passenger:

Standard frontal passenger airbag.

Roll Bar:

Integrated behind seats for occupant protection.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia reel seatbelts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with CD player. Optional Bose premium sound system. Speaker locations typically in dash and doors.

Climate Control:

Manual or optional automatic climate control systems.

Cruise Control:

Available on most models.

Auxiliary Input:

Typically not standard, but aftermarket integration for AUX or Bluetooth is common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for specific conditions.

Timing Belt Replacement Interval:

60,000 - 75,000 miles or 5 years. Crucial due to interference engine design.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Approx. 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on spark plug type (copper vs. platinum/iridium).

Brake Fluid Change Interval:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles to prevent moisture contamination.

Engine Oil Type:

API SN or SP, SAE 5W-30 synthetic or synthetic blend. Capacity: 4.0 liters (4.2 US quarts) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, pre-mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity: approx. 6.0 liters.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (DOT 4 recommended for higher boiling point).

Oil Consumption:

Some early NB models (especially those with higher mileage) might exhibit increased oil consumption due to piston ring wear. Regular checks are vital.

Clutch Release Bearing:

The clutch release bearing can sometimes develop a squealing noise or fail prematurely. Replacement often involves clutch assembly service.

Radiator:

Plastic end tanks on the radiator can become brittle and crack over time, leading to coolant leaks. Inspection and replacement as needed.

Soft Top Leaks:

The fabric soft top can degrade, leading to leaks, especially around seams and the rear window. Proper maintenance and sealing are important.

ABS Sensors:

ABS wheel speed sensors can fail, triggering ABS warning lights. Cleaning or replacement is typically required.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Legacy:

Mazda has a long history of producing innovative and driver-focused vehicles, particularly known for its rotary engines and sports cars like the Cosmo Sport and RX-7.

Nb Generation Launch:

The second generation (NB) was launched in 1998 for the 1999 model year, a significant redesign from the original NA generation.

Nb Design Philosophy:

While retaining the spirit of the original, the NB featured a more aerodynamic body, pop-up headlights were removed in favor of fixed units, and the chassis was significantly refined for improved rigidity and handling.

Facelift Introduction:

A minor facelift occurred for the 2001 model year, bringing subtle styling changes, a slight power increase, and revised suspension tuning.

Manufacturing Location:

Hofu, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan

Production Run Nb:

1998-2005

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The MX-5 Miata (across generations) has been a perennial recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best award, highlighting its enduring appeal and excellence in the sports car segment.

Popular Mechanics Editor Choice:

Frequently cited by automotive publications for its driving dynamics and value.

Jdp Power Initial Quality:

Mazda often ranks well in J.D. Power Initial Quality Studies, reflecting good build quality.