🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

MX-5 Miata

Product Name:

Mazda MX5 MX-5 Miata Service Repair Manual 99-02

Platform Code:

NB

Internal Model Code:

NB8A (early NB)

👋 Introduction

Market Niche:

Lightweight, affordable two-seater sports car renowned for its driving dynamics and pure, unfiltered driving experience.

Key Competitors:

Toyota MR2 Spyder, Honda S2000 (higher performance), Porsche Boxster (premium segment).

Driving Experience:

Rear-wheel drive, balanced chassis, responsive steering, excellent weight distribution, open-top motoring.

Design Philosophy:

Jinba Ittai (horse and rider as one), emphasizing driver-car connection and intuitive control.

📋 Manual Details

Model Years Covered:

1999, 2000, 2001, 2002

Trim Levels Covered:

All trims, including Base, SE, LS, etc. (specific trim differences often detailed in relation to features)

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 1500-2500+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory-level manuals)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, intake system, exhaust system, ignition system, engine management systems, timing belt/chain, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, camshafts, cylinder heads, valve train.

Transmission Drivetrain:

Manual transmission (5-speed and 6-speed depending on year/market), clutch system, driveshafts, differential, axles, transmission fluid specifications.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components (double wishbone), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, steering system (power steering), steering rack, tie rods, wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, brake pads, rotors, calipers, brake lines, master cylinder, ABS system (if equipped), parking brake, brake fluid specifications.

Electrical Electronics:

Wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, lighting system, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, instrument cluster, power windows, power locks, remote keyless entry, SRS airbag system, immobilizer, ECU diagnostic connectors (OBD-II).

Body Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, hood, trunk lid, convertible top (manual and power assist), interior trim, chassis components, corrosion protection.

Preventative Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush.

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Systematic troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues, diagnostic codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, electrical troubleshooting flowcharts.

Major Repairs:

Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, clutch replacement, suspension component replacement, brake caliper overhaul, differential service.

Component Replacement:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for replacing individual components like alternators, starters, radiators, fuel pumps, fuel injectors, power steering pumps, master cylinders, wheel bearings, etc.

Special Tools Procedures:

Identification of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures, torque specifications for critical fasteners.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

PDF (Portable Document Format), typically searchable text, allowing easy navigation and printing.

Print Quality Description:

High resolution, suitable for professional printing, includes clear diagrams, schematics, and photographs (if applicable to original source).

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

BP-Z3 (also referred to as BP-5A or similar variations for specific markets/years)

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline 4-Cylinder DOHC

Displacement:

1.8 Liters (1839 cc)

Horsepower 1999-2000:

140 hp @ 6500 RPM

Torque 1999-2000:

119 lb-ft @ 5000 RPM

Horsepower 2001-2002:

142 hp @ 6500 RPM (minor update)

Torque 2001-2002:

125 lb-ft @ 5000 RPM (minor update)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection (SMPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating specified in manual, typically 91+ RON / 87+ AKI)

Engine Control Unit ECU:

Engine Control Unit (ECU) with diagnostic capabilities (OBD-II)

Timing Belt Replacement Interval:

Refer to manual; typically around 60,000-90,000 miles or 5-7 years, critical due to interference engine design.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (less common, but available)

Manual Transmission Details:

Lightweight, precise shift feel, close gear ratios for sporty driving.

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (specific Mazda recommendations in manual)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron III or equivalent (check manual for exact specification)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated dry single-plate clutch

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 157.3 inches (4000 mm)

Width:

Approximately 67.7 inches (1720 mm)

Height:

Approximately 49.4 inches (1255 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 89.2 inches (2265 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 2300-2400 lbs (1043-1089 kg) depending on transmission and options

Trunk Volume:

Approximately 4.7 cubic feet (133 liters) - small but functional for a sports car

Standard Tire Size:

205/40R17 (common for higher trims/late models), 185/55R15 (earlier/base models)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

4x100

Wheel Offset Approximate:

ET40-ET45

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Specific ratings may vary by year and testing methodology; generally performed well for its class during its era.

ABS:

Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on most models, typically 4-wheel disc brakes.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags.

Rollover Protection:

Reinforced A-pillars and behind-seat roll hoops for occupant protection in rollover incidents.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted AM/FM/CD player, typically with 4-6 speakers. Optional Bose premium audio available on some trims.

Climate Control:

Manual or automatic climate control depending on trim level.

Cruise Control:

Available cruise control system.

Auxiliary Input:

Not typically standard; aftermarket solutions often used for modern device connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil recommended for best performance and longevity).

Engine Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000 miles or 2 years (using Mazda's recommended coolant).

Brake Fluid Flush Interval:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (DOT 3 or DOT 4, as specified in manual).

Engine Oil Type Capacity:

5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for ambient temperature applicability), approximately 4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Mazda long-life antifreeze coolant (red) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity approx. 6.0 US quarts (5.7 liters).

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Dexron III ATF or Mazda Genuine ATF-FS.

Common Issues Nb:

Oil seal leaks (rear main seal, valve cover gasket), radiator leaks (plastic tanks), clutch wear, differential whine (especially on early NB models), power window regulator issues, subframe rust (in corrosive climates), ABS sensor failures.

Engine Oil Consumption:

Some engines may exhibit increased oil consumption with age; regular checks are vital. The manual provides guidance on acceptable levels.

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 60,000 miles. Use NGK or Denso Iridium plugs (e.g., NGK BKR6EIX-11 or equivalent) for optimal performance.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Sports Car Legacy:

Builds on the heritage of lightweight, driver-focused sports cars like the Cosmo Sport and RX-7.

Nb Generation Introduction:

The NB generation (1999-2005) was a significant redesign of the original NA Miata, featuring a more aerodynamic and aggressive design, improved chassis rigidity, and updated powertrains.

Updates 1999-2002:

The 2001 model year saw a facelift (often referred to as NB2) with revised front and rear fascias, improved headlights, and a slight power increase for the 1.8L engine.

Manufacturing Location:

Mazda's Hiroshima, Japan plant.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The Miata (across generations, including NB) has been a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' list for its exceptional value and driving enjoyment.

Driving Dynamics Appreciation:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists and enthusiasts for its handling, steering feel, and engaging driving experience.