🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

Miata

Generation:

NC (Second Generation)

Model Years Covered:

2008-2009

Chassis Codes:

NC1 (2006-2008), NC2 (2009-2014)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Mazda Miata (MX-5) NC generation is a popular lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports car known for its engaging driving dynamics and affordability. This manual caters to owners and independent repair shops servicing these vehicles.

Competitors:

Manuals for vehicles like the Toyota MR2 Spyder, Honda S2000, and Nissan 350Z (though a generation older) would be considered in the sports car segment.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides comprehensive factory-level repair and maintenance information, enabling cost savings on repairs and empowering owners with detailed knowledge. Facilitates efficient troubleshooting and accurate service procedures.

Vehicle Appeal:

The 2008-2009 Miata represents a sweet spot in the NC generation, offering refined styling and performance before the 2009 facelift.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

2008-2009 Mazda Miata (MX-5)

Engine Options Covered:

2.0L MZR (LF-VE)

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific content, but factory service manuals are typically extensive, often 1000+ pages

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual (FSM)

Synonymous Terms:

Shop Manual, Repair Manual, Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, emission control, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system

Drivetrain:

Transmission (manual & automatic), clutch, driveline, axles, differential

Chassis:

Suspension system (front & rear), steering system, braking system (hydraulic, ABS, DSC)

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, HVAC controls, power windows, mirrors, audio system, body control modules

Body:

Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, doors, hood, trunk, seats, glass, weatherstripping

Diagnostics:

On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), troubleshooting procedures

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, belt inspections and replacement, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush

Repair:

Engine component replacement (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump), transmission repair, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair, body panel repair

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic guides for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based troubleshooting trees

Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, electrical component resistance values, alignment specifications

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems

Depth:

Detailed, factory-level technical information suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

Digital (PDF)

Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip (for potential compression)

Compatibility:

All versions of Windows & Mac

Printability:

Printable pages

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

LF-VE

Engine Type:

2.0L Inline 4-Cylinder, DOHC, 16-Valve

Displacement:

1999 cc (2.0 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

87.5 mm x 83.1 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.8:1

Horsepower Hp:

170 hp @ 7000 rpm (approximate)

Torque Lb Ft:

140 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (approximate)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (91 octane recommended for optimal performance)

Emission Controls:

Catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, evaporative emission control system (EVAP)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

6-speed Manual Transmission (MX-5 Sport, Grand Touring)

Type:

6-speed Automatic Transmission (MX-5 Touring, optional on Grand Touring)

Manual Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios available in manual, typically close-ratio for sporty feel

Automatic Features:

Paddle shifters (optional), Sport mode

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific Mazda GL-4 or equivalent synthetic gear oil (e.g., 75W-90)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Mazda Genuine ATF MV (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

167.7 inches (4259 mm)

Width:

67.7 inches (1720 mm)

Height:

49.4 inches (1255 mm) (soft top)

Wheelbase:

91.8 inches (2330 mm)

Curb Weight Lbs:

Approximately 2500-2600 lbs (1134-1179 kg), varies by trim and options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Lbs:

Refer to vehicle placard

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5 Stars (2008 Model Year)

IIHS Front Offset Impact:

Good (2008 Model Year)

Dynamic Stability Control Dsc:

Standard on all models

Traction Control System TCS:

Standard on all models

Anti Lock Braking System ABS:

Standard on all models

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags, side airbags

Rollover Protection:

Pop-up roll bars (behind seats)

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD player with 6 speakers. Optional Bose premium audio system with subwoofer.

Connectivity Options:

Auxiliary audio input jack (standard). Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming became more common in later NC models or as dealer-installed options. Navigation system was available on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims

Keyless Entry:

Standard

Remote Keyless Entry:

Standard

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions)

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 10,000 miles or 12 months

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000 miles

Coolant Flush:

Every 5 years or 60,000 miles

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years or 24,000 miles

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30, API SN/ILSAC GF-5 or equivalent

Engine Oil Capacity Quarts:

Approximately 4.8 quarts (4.5 liters) with filter change

Coolant Type:

Mazda Genuine FL22 Long Life Coolant (or equivalent HOAT - Hybrid Organic Acid Technology)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Common Wear Items:

Clutch wear, suspension bushings, wheel bearings, brake pad and rotor wear

Engine Specific Notes:

The MZR engine is generally robust. Some owners report oil consumption at higher mileages, but this is not a widespread defect. Regular maintenance is key.

Electrical Notes:

Concerns about window motor failures and convertible top motor issues have been reported by some owners, though not universal.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Mazda's history in creating lightweight, fun-to-drive sports cars dates back to the original Lotus Elan-inspired Mazda Cosmo Sport, but prominently with the introduction of the Mazda RX-7 and later the MX-5 Miata.

Nc Generation Intro:

The NC generation (2006-2014) was introduced as a complete redesign, growing slightly in size and weight compared to the NB generation, while retaining its core lightweight roadster philosophy. The 2008-2009 models represent the early phase of this generation before the 'NC2' facelift.

Production Location:

Hofumi, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan

Significant Updates 2008 2009:

The 2009 model year saw minor revisions (NC2 facelift) including updated front and rear styling, revised suspension tuning, and optional power retractable hardtop (PRHT) availability on more trims. The 2008 model is part of the initial NC1 run.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

While the NC generation as a whole has been a consistent recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best award in previous iterations, the 2008 model year was part of that successful lineage, recognized for its pure driving experience.