Segment:
Lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports car, iconic roadster.
Key Competitors:
Honda S2000, BMW Z4, Porsche Boxster, Nissan 350Z (and similar roadsters/coupes of the era).
Driving Experience:
Renowned for its pure driving pleasure, balanced handling, and communicative steering, often referred to as 'Jinba Ittai' (horse and rider as one).
Owner Profile:
Enthusiast drivers, individuals seeking an engaging and affordable sports car experience, DIY mechanics.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, engine control system (ECU/PCM).
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual transmission (MTX), automatic transmission (ATX), clutch, driveshafts, differentials, axles.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (hydraulic, ABS, EBD), wheels, tires.
Electrical:
12V battery system, charging system, starting system, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), ignition system, instrument cluster, body electricals, power windows, power locks, mirrors, wipers, horn.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heating system, ventilation system, climate control.
Body Interior:
Exterior body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, seats, airbags, seat belts, convertible top mechanism (if applicable).
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, fluid checks and top-offs, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, brake pad replacement, tire rotation.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
System-specific diagnostic flowcharts, fault code interpretation (OBD-II), symptom-based troubleshooting.
Component Repair Replacement:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for engine, transmission, suspension, steering, brakes, electrical components, and bodywork repairs.
Engine Overhaul:
Engine disassembly, inspection, reassembly, torque specifications, timing belt/chain procedures.
Transmission Service:
Transmission fluid changes, clutch replacement, seal replacement, internal component repair.
Electrical System Repair:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, module diagnosis and replacement, sensor troubleshooting.
Bodywork Cosmetic:
Panel removal and installation, dent repair, paint touch-up guidance, convertible top servicing.
Depth:
In-depth technical information suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Includes specifications, tolerances, and diagnostic procedures.
Digital Format:
Portable Document Format (PDF)
Readability:
High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, ensuring clear text and legible diagrams.
Binding:
Not applicable (Digital Download)
Paper Quality:
Not applicable (Digital Download)
Text Search:
Searchable text allows for quick retrieval of specific information, part numbers, and procedures.
Visual Aid Quality:
Includes detailed diagrams, schematics, exploded views, and illustrations for clarity.
Engine Code:
LF-VE (Japan), L3-VE (North America)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve, VVT (Variable Valve Timing).
Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1999 cc)
Horsepower:
Approximately 167 hp @ 6700 rpm (US models, may vary slightly by market).
Torque:
Approximately 140 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (US models, may vary slightly by market).
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with sequential multiport injection.
Octane Requirement:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended).
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (typically for the era, specific data may vary).
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (typically for the era, specific data may vary).
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS) on some models.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags, side airbags (optional on some trims).
Rollover Protection:
Pop-up rollover hoops behind the headrests for convertible models.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed.
Spark Plugs:
Typically every 60,000 - 100,000 miles, depending on plug type (iridium recommended).
Brake Fluid:
Flush and replace every 3 years or 30,000 miles (DOT 4 recommended).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.8 US quarts (4.6 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Mazda Genuine Super Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Mtx:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90.
Transmission Fluid Atx:
Mazda Genuine ATF-FW or equivalent.
Differential Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90.
Oil Consumption:
Some owners report higher-than-average oil consumption, especially at higher mileage. Regular monitoring is advised.
Soft Top Latches:
Potential wear or difficulty in latching for the manual soft top.
Ac Compressor Clutch:
Occasional reports of AC compressor clutch failure.
Power Steering Pump:
Early NC models had a recall/TSB for a power steering hose, leading to potential leaks. Later models are generally improved.
Mazda Philosophy:
Mazda's long history of producing engaging and driver-focused vehicles, tracing back to the original Mazda Cosmo Sport and the iconic RX-7.
Nc Generation:
The NC generation (2005-2015) marked a significant redesign, moving to a larger platform with a focus on refinement and modern features while retaining the core Miata driving ethos.
2008 Updates:
For the 2008 model year, the NC Miata received a mid-cycle refresh, often referred to as NC2, featuring revised front and rear styling, updated interior trim, and suspension tuning enhancements.
Manufacturing Location:
Hiroshima, Japan.
