Vehicle Segment:
Lightweight, two-seater, rear-wheel-drive sports car
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, owners seeking comprehensive repair information.
Key Competitors Era:
Porsche Boxster, BMW Z3, Honda S2000, Toyota MR2 Spyder
Vehicle Philosophy:
Jinba Ittai ('horse and rider as one') - driver connection to the vehicle.
Manual Value Proposition:
Factory-level repair and maintenance data for cost-effective ownership and DIY capabilities. Eliminates guesswork and reliance on incomplete online resources.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine management (ECU), fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, manual transmission, automatic transmission, driveline (driveshafts, differential).
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brakes (hydraulic, ABS), wheels, tires.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, infotainment, power accessories, body control module (BCM), chassis electrical, engine control wiring diagrams.
Body:
Body exterior (panels, doors, hood, trunk), interior trim, seats, glass, convertible top mechanism, HVAC system.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation, component testing procedures.
Repair:
Component removal and installation, engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, brake caliper/rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair/replacement.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, technical data for engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, and electrical systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced diagnostics, and detailed electrical schematics.
File Type:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchability:
Text-searchable (OCR enabled where applicable)
Print Quality:
High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or sections.
Binding:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Paper Quality:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 4-Cylinder (DOHC, 16-valve)
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1839 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
83.0 mm x 85.1 mm
Engine Management:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Sequential Ignition
Horsepower Usdm:
140 hp @ 6500 rpm (early models), 142 hp @ 6500 rpm (later models)
Torque Usdm:
119 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (early models), 125 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (later models)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Fuel Pump Pressure:
Approx. 44 psi (3 bar)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated, dry single plate
Differential Type:
Open differential (Limited Slip Differential - LSD optional on certain trims/markets)
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (check manual for specific Mazda fluid PN)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:
Dexron III/Mercon compatible (check manual for specific Mazda fluid PN)
Length:
3955 mm (155.7 in)
Height:
1245 mm (49.0 in)
Wheelbase:
2265 mm (89.2 in)
Front Track:
1460 mm (57.5 in)
Rear Track:
1470 mm (57.9 in)
Ground Clearance:
120 mm (4.7 in)
Curb Weight Manual:
Approx. 1080 kg (2380 lbs)
Curb Weight Automatic:
Approx. 1110 kg (2450 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 1330 kg (2930 lbs)
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 145 Liters (5.1 cu ft)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4/5 Stars (2001 Model Year)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4/5 Stars (2001 Model Year)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good (2001 Model Year)
ABS:
Standard (4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Optional (TCS)
Stability Control:
Not widely available during this generation.
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger front airbags
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and pop-up roll bar behind seats.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts with pre-tensioners
Audio System:
Factory fitted AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional Bose premium audio.
Speaker Configuration:
Typically 4 speakers (door mounted and dashboard tweeters), optional 6 speakers with Bose system.
Cruise Control:
Available on most models.
Keyless Entry:
Available on higher trims or as an option.
Bluetooth:
Not factory integrated in this generation; aftermarket solutions are common.
Aux Input:
Not factory integrated; aftermarket solutions are common.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (NGK Platinum or Iridium recommended).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months (using Mazda FL22 or equivalent coolant).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 24,000 miles or 24 months (DOT 4 recommended).
Engine Oil Spec:
API SN/SP, ILSAC GF-5/GF-6A, SAE 5W-30 recommended. (Check manual for specific Mazda PNs like K001-W0-5W30 or equivalent).
Engine Oil Capacity W Filter:
Approx. 4.4 US quarts (4.2 Liters)
Coolant Spec:
Mazda FL22 Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Green) or equivalent. Mix 50/50 with distilled water.
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III/Mercon compatible or Mazda genuine power steering fluid.
Windshield Washer Fluid:
Automotive windshield washer fluid concentrate (diluted with distilled water).
Common Issue Oil Consumption:
Some NB Miatas, particularly later models, can exhibit increased oil consumption due to piston ring wear or PCV system issues. Manual covers inspection and potential solutions.
Common Issue Coolant Leaks:
Radiator end tanks, hoses, and thermostat housing can be prone to leaks. Manual details replacement procedures.
Common Issue Soft Top Leaks:
Weatherstripping degradation can lead to water ingress. Manual provides guidance on seal inspection and replacement.
Common Issue Window Regulators:
Power window regulators can fail over time. Manual covers diagnosis and replacement.
Common Issue Evap System Codes:
EVAP system leaks (e.g., vent valve, charcoal canister) can trigger check engine lights. Manual provides diagnostic trees.
Common Issue Clutch Wear:
Clutch wear is normal, but manual covers inspection, adjustment, and replacement of clutch components.
Brand Focus:
Mazda's heritage includes a focus on lightweight, engaging driving dynamics and sporty vehicles, exemplified by the Cosmo, RX series, and early Miatas.
Nb Generation Introduction:
The NB generation debuted for the 1999 model year, succeeding the NA generation.
Nb Facelift:
A significant facelift occurred for the 2001 model year, featuring revised styling (pop-up headlights removed), updated interior, and mechanical improvements.
Performance Variants:
Mazdaspeed MX-5 Miata (NB8C, 2004-2005) offered a turbocharged engine and enhanced suspension, though this manual primarily covers naturally aspirated models.
Manufacturing Plant:
Hiroshima, Japan
Production Years Nb:
1999-2005
Car And Driver 10Best:
Car and Driver's 10Best list multiple times during its production run, including the NB generation.
Auto Express Reviews:
Consistently praised by automotive publications for its handling and driving experience.
World Car Of The Year:
Nominee for World Car of the Year in 2000.
Emissions Compliance:
Meets US EPA and CARB emissions standards for its model years.
