🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

MX-5 Miata Roadster Coupe

Model Generation:

NC (Third Generation)

Model Years Covered:

2009, 2010, 2011, 2012

Chassis Code:

NC1 (for models with 2.0L MZR-L engine)

Engine Codes:

LF-VE (2.0L)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports convertible/roadster.

Reputation:

Known for its affordability, fun-to-drive dynamics, and reliable performance.

Key Competitors:

BMW Z4, Audi TT, Porsche Boxster (higher end), Honda S2000 (discontinued but direct competitor), Nissan 370Z Roadster.

Driving Dynamics:

Balanced chassis, near 50/50 weight distribution, responsive steering, engaging handling.

Body Styles:

Offered in soft-top convertible and the innovative Power Retractable Hardtop (PRHT) coupe-cabriolet body styles.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Markets:

Global (North America, Europe, Asia)

Specific Trim Levels:

Sport, Touring, Grand Touring, Club, Special Editions (e.g., 20th Anniversary Edition)

Estimated Page Count:

1500-2000+ (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)

Type:

Full Service & Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

2.0L MZR-L (LF-VE), including assembly, disassembly, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, emissions, and troubleshooting.

Transmission:

6-Speed Manual Transmission (Mazda), 6-Speed Automatic Transmission (optional), including overhaul, service, and troubleshooting.

Drivetrain:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) system, differential, axles, driveshafts, and hub assemblies.

Suspension:

Front independent double wishbone, Rear independent multi-link, shocks, springs, control arms, bushings, sway bars, and alignment procedures.

Brakes:

Front ventilated discs, Rear solid discs (or ventilated depending on market/trim), ABS, EBD, brake fluid service, caliper and rotor replacement, parking brake.

Steering:

Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS), steering column, tie rods, and power steering fluid (if applicable, though EPAS is prevalent).

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, body control module (BCM).

HVAC:

Air conditioning system (R134a refrigerant), heating system, climate control modules, blower motor, and cabin air filter replacement.

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk lid, convertible top mechanism (soft top and power retractable hardtop - PRHT), interior trim, chassis components.

Infotainment And Audio:

Audio system, speakers, navigation system (if equipped), Bluetooth connectivity.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system, seatbelts, ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control).

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin, fuel), spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid service, transmission fluid change.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting for all major systems, component testing.

Repair And Rebuild:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, electrical component replacement.

Diagnostics:

Use of scan tools, sensor data interpretation, wiring harness testing, ECU (Engine Control Unit) and TCM (Transmission Control Module) diagnostics.

Adjustments:

Wheel alignment, clutch adjustment, parking brake adjustment.

Installation And Replacement:

Component replacement for engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, electrical parts, body panels, convertible top components.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed specifications, torque values, diagnostic procedures, and wiring diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

Searchability:

Searchable PDF text for quick access to information.

Printable:

Printable pages for convenient workshop use.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution diagrams, illustrations, and photographs.

Binding For Physical:

N/A (digital format)

Paper Type For Physical:

N/A (digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally aspirated inline-4 cylinder, DOHC, 16 valves

Displacement:

2.0 Liters (1999 cc)

Engine Code:

LF-VE (Mazda MZR-L)

Horsepower Approx:

167 hp @ 7000 rpm (North American spec), 158 hp @ 7000 rpm (European spec)

Torque Approx:

140 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (North American spec), 135 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (European spec)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline, 91 Octane (Premium Unleaded Recommended)

Coolant Type:

Mazda FL22 Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Blue) or equivalent.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-20 API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.9 US quarts (4.6 Liters) with filter change.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

6-Speed Manual Transmission (MZ6)

Type:

6-Speed Automatic Transmission with Paddle Shifters (optional)

Manual Gear Ratios:

Typically around: 1st: 3.76, 2nd: 2.13, 3rd: 1.54, 4th: 1.22, 5th: 1.00, 6th: 0.85, Reverse: 3.96

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Mazda GL-4 75W-90 Gear Oil (or equivalent high-quality synthetic GL-4)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Mazda ATF-FZ (or equivalent JASO 1-A certified ATF)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 154.1 inches (3915 mm)

Width:

Approx. 67.7 inches (1720 mm)

Height:

Approx. 49.8 inches (1265 mm) for soft top, 50.2 inches (1275 mm) for PRHT

Wheelbase:

Approx. 90.9 inches (2310 mm)

Curb Weight Approx:

2600-2700 lbs (1180-1225 kg) depending on trim and top type.

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 4.4 cu ft (125 Liters) for soft top, slightly less for PRHT (due to top storage).

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)

Standard Tire Size:

205/50R16 or 205/45R17 depending on trim level.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test:

5-Star (typically for driver and passenger in NC generation)

IIHS Side Impact Test:

Good (typically for NC generation)

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCS)

Stability Control:

Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with emergency brake assist.

Braking System:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger front airbags, Seat-mounted side-impact airbags.

Seatbelts:

3-point pretensioner seatbelts with load limiters.

Rollover Protection:

Reinforced A-pillars and pop-up rollover hoops (hidden behind seats) for PRHT and reinforced structure for soft-top.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Bose premium audio system with 6-disc CD changer and auxiliary input (standard on higher trims).

Navigation:

Optional in-dash DVD-based navigation system.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Bluetooth:

Optional Bluetooth hands-free phone system and audio streaming on some models/trims.

Keyless Entry:

Standard keyless entry and ignition (push-button start).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 75,000 miles (120,000 km) (Iridium spark plugs).

Coolant Replacement:

First replacement at 10 years or 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 5 years or 50,000 miles (80,000 km).

Brake Fluid Replacement:

Every 3 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km), or when indicated by brake fluid moisture test.

Transmission Fluid Change Manual:

Refer to manual; typically 50,000-75,000 miles (80,000-120,000 km) or inspection.

Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:

Refer to manual; typically 50,000-75,000 miles (80,000-120,000 km) or inspection.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check owner's manual for specific recommendation).

Power Steering Fluid:

N/A (uses Electric Power Assist Steering - EPAS, no hydraulic fluid).

Engine Oil Consumption:

Some early NC models experienced higher than expected oil consumption, especially when driven hard. Checking oil level regularly is advised.

Convertible Top Mechanism:

Soft top fabric wear, water leaks (especially around seals), and potential issues with the PRHT motor or latches if not maintained.

Radiator:

Some reports of radiator leaks or premature failure, especially in warmer climates.

Clutch Wear:

As with any manual transmission sports car, clutch life is dependent on driving style.

Suspension Bushings:

Wear in suspension bushings can lead to squeaks or imprecise handling over time.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

Mazda has a long history of producing engaging, driver-focused vehicles, with the MX-5 Miata being its most iconic sports car.

Generation Name:

NC Generation (Third Generation)

Nc Introduction Year:

Introduced for the 2006 model year, with updates for 2009 (facelift).

Nc Facelift Year:

Significant facelift for the 2009 model year, featuring revised front and rear styling, updated interior, and minor mechanical enhancements.

Production Period For This Manual:

2009-2012

Manufacturing Locations:

Hiroshima, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10 Best:

Frequently recognized by Car and Driver as one of its '10Best' lists in its earlier generations; the NC continued this legacy of critical acclaim for its driving purity.

What Car Best Convertible:

Often praised in UK publications like What Car? for value and driving fun.

Overall Consumer Satisfaction:

Generally high consumer satisfaction ratings for reliability and driving enjoyment.