🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

MX-5 Miata

Year:

2011

Generation:

3rd Generation (NC)

Chassis Code:

NC2 (Facelift)

Engine Codes Covered:

MZR LF-VE (2.0L DOHC I4)

Specific Manual Identifier:

Implied: Mazda OEM Service Manual

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Lightweight two-seater convertible sports car (roadster).

Usp:

Affordable, fun-to-drive, rear-wheel-drive sports car focused on driving dynamics and open-air motoring.

Competitors:

Primarily BMW Z4, Porsche Boxster, Audi TT Roadster, and at times, more performance-oriented models from mainstream manufacturers depending on price point.

Design:

Classic front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout; lightweight construction; near 50/50 weight distribution; agile handling.

Convertible Type:

Available with soft-top (manual or power assist) and a retractable hardtop (PRHT - Power Retractable Hardtop).

Engine Emphasis:

Naturally aspirated inline-four known for its responsiveness and rev-happy nature.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

All Models & All Repairs A-Z

Vehicle Specificity:

Vehicle Specific (Not Generic)

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by OEM publication, typically 1500-2500 pages for comprehensive coverage.

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Intended User:

Dealership Technicians

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (Implied PDF, likely searchable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete diagnosis, repair, and overhaul procedures for the 2.0L MZR LF-VE engine, including timing, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, and emissions control.

Transmission:

Detailed service and repair for both manual (MT) and automatic (AT) transmissions, including clutch, gearbox, differential, and fluid service.

Drivetrain:

Rear-wheel drive system, driveshafts, CV joints, wheel bearings, and rear axle assembly repair.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components (double wishbone front, multi-link rear), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, and alignment procedures.

Steering:

Power steering system diagnosis and repair, including pump, rack and pinion, and related components.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), ABS, EBD, brake fluid service, caliper and rotor replacement, and parking brake.

Electrical System:

Complete wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, fuses, relays, and diagnostic procedures for electrical faults.

Body And Interior:

Body panel repair, door mechanisms, convertible top operation and repair (manual and power tops), interior trim, seats, and dashboard removal/installation.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair, including refrigerant service, compressor, and climate control modules.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system diagnosis and service, SRS components, and related safety features.

Diagnostics:

OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures, and recommended tools for fault finding.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake, transmission, differential), filter replacements, spark plug service, and battery maintenance.

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic trees and fault isolation procedures for common and uncommon issues across all vehicle systems.

Repair:

Detailed repair procedures for component removal, replacement, and reassembly with torque specifications and critical adjustments.

Overhaul:

Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures, including internal component specifications and tolerances.

Installation:

Procedures for installing and setting up new or replacement components.

Specifications:

Comprehensive list of all technical specifications, torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, and electrical data.

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds and advanced electrical diagnostics.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on required or recommended diagnostic tools, including scan tools and specialized equipment.

📊 Manual Specifications

Type:

Digital (likely PDF)

Searchability:

High (typically OCRed text for searchable content)

Resolution:

High (suitable for printing individual pages or sections)

Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline-4 (DOHC, 16-valve)

Engine Code:

LF-VE (MZR)

Displacement:

1999 cc (2.0 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

87.5 mm x 83.1 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Horsepower:

167 hp @ 7,000 rpm (for US market, slight variations by region)

Torque:

140 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm (for US market)

Induction:

Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI), Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Emissions Control:

Close-coupled catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, EGR system (depending on market).

🔧 Transmission

Type:

6-Speed Manual Transmission (MX-5 '6-speed')

Type:

6-Speed Automatic Transmission with Paddle Shifters (Optional on some trims)

Manual Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios available in manual. Typically includes a close-ratio gear set for sporty driving.

Clutch Type:

Hydraulic, dry single plate clutch (for MT)

Transmission Fluid Mt:

API GL-4 or GL-5 specification, SAE 75W-90 gear oil.

Transmission Fluid At:

Mazda Genuine ATF Type-M or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon equivalent.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4015 mm (158.1 in)

Width:

1720 mm (67.7 in)

Height:

1245 mm (49.0 in) (Soft Top) / 1255 mm (49.4 in) (PRHT)

Wheelbase:

2330 mm (91.7 in)

Front Track:

1490 mm (58.7 in)

Rear Track:

1500 mm (59.1 in)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 115 mm (4.5 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1100-1180 kg (2425-2601 lbs) depending on trim and roof type.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Not typically specified for this class of vehicle, focused on payload rather than GVWR.

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 150 liters (5.3 cu ft) with roof up/down.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash:

5-Star (for 2011 model year, likely)

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for NC generation)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Ebd:

Standard Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCS)

Stability Control:

Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with advanced tuning for sporty driving.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags, side-impact airbags (in seats).

Rollover Protection:

Pop-up roll bars integrated behind headrests.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD player with auxiliary input. Optional Bose premium audio system available on select trims.

Display:

Multi-information display in the instrument cluster. Optional color LCD screen for navigation system on some models.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Keyless Entry:

Available keyless entry and ignition (Smart Key system).

Bluetooth:

Optional Bluetooth hands-free phone system and audio streaming available on higher trims.

Usb Port:

Optional USB port for audio device connection (often found with navigation packages).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

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

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.

Cabin Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.

Spark Plugs:

Platinum-tipped spark plugs recommended replacement every 75,000 miles (120,000 km).

Coolant Flush:

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

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 24 months or 30,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-20, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified. Capacity: 4.4 US quarts (4.2 liters) with filter change.

Coolant:

Mazda Genuine Super Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) antifreeze, typically ethylene glycol based. Mix 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity: Approx. 5.0 US quarts (4.7 liters).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 approved brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron III/Mercon compatible automatic transmission fluid (ATF).

Oil Consumption:

Some NC models can exhibit higher oil consumption, especially at higher mileage or when driven hard. Regular checks are advised.

Convertible Top Wear:

Wear and tear on the soft-top fabric, seals, and mechanisms are common with age and use. The PRHT mechanism can also require maintenance.

Suspension Bushings:

Front and rear suspension bushings can wear over time, leading to clunks or imprecise handling. Replacement is a common repair.

Rear Diff Whine:

Occasional reports of differential whine, particularly during deceleration, may indicate wear or fluid issues.

Ac Compressor Failure:

While not endemic, AC compressor failures can occur with age.

📚 Vehicle History

Lineage:

Direct descendant of the iconic Mazda RX-7 and the original NA/NB MX-5 Miata generations, maintaining its philosophy of affordable lightweight sports cars.

Nc Generation Intro:

The NC generation was introduced for the 2006 model year, representing a significant redesign and increase in size and refinement over the NB generation.

Nc2 Facelift:

The 2011 model year falls within the NC2 facelift period (introduced for 2009), which brought updated styling (bumper, headlights, taillights), revised suspension tuning, and some interior enhancements.

Manufacturing Location:

Mazda Hiroshima Plant, Japan

Production Years Nc:

2006-2015

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The MX-5 Miata (across all generations) has been a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' list, celebrated for its value and driving enjoyment.

World Car Of The Year:

The NC generation's predecessor (NB) and the subsequent ND generation have received 'World Car of the Year' nominations and awards, highlighting the Miata's enduring appeal.

Consumer Reports:

Consistently receives good to excellent ratings for predicted reliability and owner satisfaction, reflecting its robust engineering.