Vehicle Category:
Lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports car
Target Audience:
Enthusiast drivers, DIY mechanics, restoration specialists
Key Competitors Era:
Lotus Elan, MG Midget, Triumph Spitfire, Alfa Romeo Spider
Competitive Advantage:
Reliability, affordability, excellent handling, widespread parts availability
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, precise steering, and engaging driving experience
Design Philosophy:
Simple, lightweight, and driver-focused design inspired by classic British roadsters
Convertible Experience:
Iconic open-top motoring with a simple, manually operated soft top
Primary Coverage:
Mechanical, Electrical, Bodywork, Diagnostics, Maintenance, Repair
Diagnostic Coverage:
Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic procedures, wiring diagrams
Body And Interior:
Panel removal, interior trim, convertible top operation and repair
Paint And Trim:
Exterior trim component removal and installation, some paint color information (often limited in service manuals)
Emissions Control:
Emissions system components, diagnosis, and adjustment
Estimated Pages:
Hundreds of pages (specific number varies by publication, but typically 1000+ for a full factory service manual)
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual (FSM)
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system
Engine Management:
Fuel injection system (EFI), ignition system, electronic control unit (ECU), sensors, actuators
Drivetrain:
Clutch, transmission (manual), driveshaft, differential, rear axle
Suspension:
Front suspension (double wishbone), rear suspension (multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, bushings
Steering:
Steering gear, steering column, power steering system (if applicable - NA Miata typically manual steering)
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes, hydraulic system, parking brake, ABS (if equipped)
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, interior electrical components, power windows, power mirrors
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system components and service
Safety Systems:
Seat belts, airbags (if equipped - typically not standard on early NA models)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Engine Overhaul:
Complete engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly procedures
Transmission Service:
Clutch replacement, transmission fluid change, manual transmission overhaul
Brake System Repair:
Brake pad/shoe replacement, rotor/drum replacement, brake line/hose replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder service, bleeding procedure
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Component replacement (ball joints, tie rod ends, control arms, shocks, springs), alignment specifications
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting electrical faults using wiring diagrams, component testing procedures
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Systematic approach to identifying and resolving vehicle issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Fuel System Diagnosis:
Fuel pump testing, injector servicing, fuel pressure checks
Convertible Top Service:
Adjustment, repair, and replacement of convertible top mechanisms and seals
Depth Level:
Comprehensive Factory-Level Detail
Diagnostic Accuracy:
Detailed diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation and specific repair actions
Torque Specifications:
Exact torque values for all critical fasteners
Schematics Diagrams:
Detailed wiring diagrams, vacuum diagrams, and exploded views
Measurement Tolerances:
Precise specifications for wear limits and clearances
Special Tools:
Identification of specialized tools required for specific repairs
Digital Format:
Portable Document Format (PDF)
Printability:
High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable PDF for quick information retrieval
Physical Format Potential:
If printed, typically spiral-bound for lay-flat usability
Physical Format Potential:
If printed, typically high-quality paper suitable for shop environments
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Engine Code:
BP (1.6L), B6 (early models, some variations)
Displacement:
1.6 Liters (1597cc)
Horsepower 1991-1993:
115 hp @ 6500 RPM (approx.)
Torque 1991-1993:
100 lb-ft @ 5000 RPM (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended, higher octane for optimal performance)
Fuel Pump Pressure:
Approx. 38-44 PSI (refer to manual for exact specification)
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor-based systems depending on specific market/year variations
Spark Plugs:
NGK BKR5E-11 (or equivalent - consult manual for specific gap and type)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (consult manual for specific conditions)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on plug type and condition)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles or 4 years (critical maintenance item, interference engine)
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (consult manual for exact viscosity based on temperature)
Engine Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol-based antifreeze, Mazda FL22 or equivalent (50/50 mix)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (consult manual for specific recommendation)
Power Steering Fluid:
If equipped with power steering (typically manual steering on NA Miata): ATF Dexron II or equivalent
Common Concerns:
Oil seal leaks (rear main, valve cover), coolant leaks, rust (especially rocker panels and wheel arches), cam angle sensor issues, window regulator wear, shifter bushing wear, alternator failure.
Timing Belt Risk:
Interference engine; a failed timing belt can cause catastrophic engine damage.