Target Audience:
Enthusiast owners, independent repair shops, DIY mechanics
Value Proposition:
Offers factory-level diagnostic and repair information at a fraction of the cost of official manuals.
Competitor Alternatives:
Haynes, Chilton (often less detailed), official Mazda FSMs (more expensive and harder to find).
Unique Selling Point:
Claimed completeness and quality mirroring factory publications.
Comprehensiveness:
Covers all aspects of the vehicle's operation and repair.
Detail Level:
Extremely detailed, aiming for factory-level information.
Usability:
Structured for efficient troubleshooting and repair.
Primary Coverage:
Comprehensive service, repair, and maintenance
Secondary Coverage:
Diagnostics, troubleshooting, specifications
Estimated Page Count:
1000+
Manual Classification:
Factory-style Service & Repair Manual
Comparison To Official:
Equivalent to official Mazda Factory Workshop Manuals (FSM) or CDROMs
Format Description:
Digital (likely PDF, but not explicitly stated, implying electronic delivery)
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Lubrication System, Cooling System
Drivetrain:
Transmission (Manual), Clutch, Driveshaft, Differential, Axles
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Front & Rear), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Lighting System, Starting System, Charging System, Ignition System, Audio System, Wiper System, Power Accessories
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Seats, Interior Trim, Convertible Top Mechanism
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tune-ups
Repair:
Component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom analysis, diagnostic charts, electrical circuit diagrams
Adjustments:
Wheel alignment, clutch adjustment, idle speed adjustment, brake adjustments
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: From basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission overhauls
Detail Level:
Detailed step-by-step instructions, torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic parameters
Engine Code:
B6ZE (often referred to as 1.6L)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Displacement:
1597 cc (1.6 Liters)
Horsepower 1991:
116 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque 1991:
100 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Horsepower 1992:
116 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque 1992:
100 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane or higher recommended)
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition (Distributorless Ignition System - DIS on later models, but likely distributor on these early ones - manual will clarify)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Oil Type Recommendation:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30
Timing Drive:
Timing Belt
Transmission Type Std:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Opt:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (less common)
Clutch Type:
Dry, Single Plate Clutch
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90, specific Mazda recommendation in manual)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II or equivalent
NHTSA Ratings:
NCAP ratings from this era are limited, but generally considered safe for its class.
ABS:
Available as an option on later 1991 and standard on some 1992 models.
Traction Control:
Not typically available on these early models.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard for 1992 models. Passenger airbag not available.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia reel seatbelts
Rollover Protection:
Pop-up roll bar integrated behind seats (design feature for safety).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Typically recommended every 60,000 - 70,000 miles or 5-7 years. Critical to follow manual's guidance.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 30,000 miles for standard plugs, potentially longer for platinum.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific recommendation).
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron II or equivalent (if equipped with power steering, some early models were manual).
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 5.0 Liters (5.3 US Quarts)
Rust Prone Areas:
Rocker panels, rear wheel arches, sills, and subframes. Inspection is critical.
Engine Oil Consumption:
Some engines may consume oil, especially at higher mileage. Monitor oil levels.
Timing Belt Tensioner:
Potential for failure if not replaced at recommended intervals.
Window Regulators:
Can become stiff or fail due to age and use.
Cooling Fan Relay:
Can fail, leading to overheating.
Fuel Pump Reliability:
May require replacement with age.
Mazda Sportscar Legacy:
The Miata (MX-5) revived the concept of the affordable, lightweight, pure sports car, building on Mazda's history of reliable vehicles.
Na Generation Introduction:
Launched in 1989 for the 1990 model year, it was an immediate success worldwide.
1991 Updates:
Minor updates, often cosmetic; engine remained largely the same.
1992 Updates:
Introduction of driver's side airbag, potential ABS availability, other minor refinements.
Manufacturing Plant:
Mazda Hiroshima Plant, Japan
Production Volume Na:
Significant, contributing to its status as the best-selling two-seat convertible sports car.
Car And Driver 10Best:
Consistently recognized by Car and Driver as one of the 10Best cars for several consecutive years (including its debut).
Automotive Journalism Praise:
Universally praised for its driving dynamics, affordability, and reliability.
Jdm Heritage Recognition:
Considered a modern classic and an icon of Japanese automotive engineering.