Market Segment:
Lightweight Sports Car / Roadster
Key Competitors:
Porsche Boxster, BMW Z3/Z4, Honda S2000, Toyota MR2 Spyder, Chevrolet Corvette (in spirit of affordability and fun)
Vehicle Philosophy:
Jinba Ittai ('Horse and Rider as One') - emphasis on driver connection and pure driving experience
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides expert-level repair and maintenance guidance for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics alike, enabling cost-effective upkeep and personalized modifications for the 2003 Mazda Miata.
Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Electrical, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes (Front & Rear), ABS, HVAC, Body Electrical, Lighting, Body Repair, Chassis, Interior Components, Exterior Components, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Wiring Diagrams, Specifications
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Maintenance, Component Diagnosis, Troubleshooting Faults, Mechanical Repairs, Electrical Repairs, Body Panel Replacement, Suspension Overhaul, Brake System Service, Engine Tune-Up, Transmission Service, HVAC System Service, Drivetrain Component Repair, Safety System Checks, Emission System Service, Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Interpretation and Resolution
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, ranging from basic maintenance tasks and fluid changes to in-depth diagnostic procedures, component overhaul, and complete system repairs. Includes detailed explanations, step-by-step instructions, torque specifications, and critical diagnostic information.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Covers On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) system, including DTC retrieval and interpretation, sensor data analysis, and actuator testing. May include specific Mazda-proprietary diagnostic procedures.
File Format:
Proprietary Software / Digital Database
Searchability:
High (typically features keyword search functionality)
Navigation:
Intuitive, chapter-based structure with hyperlinked cross-references
Illustrations:
Includes diagrams, schematics, and exploded views
Data Accuracy:
Official Manufacturer Data
Image Resolution:
High-resolution, suitable for clarity in diagrams and schematics.
Engine Code:
BP-Z3 (with VVT)
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1839 cc)
Configuration:
Inline 4-Cylinder
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 16 Valves, Variable Valve Timing (VVT)
Horsepower:
142 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque:
125 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Induction:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane Rating: 87 Minimum, 91 Recommended)
Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic
Oil Capacity:
4.0 US quarts (3.8 Liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol Based (Mazda Genuine Long Life Coolant or equivalent)
Coolant Capacity:
6.0 US quarts (5.7 Liters)
System:
Catalytic Converter, Oxygen Sensors, Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) System (where applicable).
Type:
6-Speed Manual Transmission
Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Fluid Type:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (e.g., Mazda GL-4 Gear Oil, or compatible aftermarket)
Fluid Type:
Dexron III or Mercon Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
Layout:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not explicitly rated for 2003 model year in readily available public databases, but generally considered safe for its class and era.
IIHS Small Overlap Front:
Not applicable for this model year.
ABS:
Standard (4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Optional (Traction Control System - TCS)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags
Rollover Protection:
Pop-up roll bar behind seats
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts
Standard Wheel Size:
15-inch or 16-inch alloy wheels (depending on trim)
Tire Size Examples:
195/55R15, 205/45R16
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) (Iridium-tipped spark plugs).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Not applicable; the BP-Z3 engine uses a timing chain.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III ATF or equivalent (if equipped with power steering)
Differential Fluid:
API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 (or specified by Mazda)
Common Concerns:
Oil leaks (valve cover gasket, rear main seal), clutch wear, radiator issues, soft top mechanism wear, alternator failure, differential pinion seal leaks.
Maintenance Tips:
Regularly check and top off all fluid levels. Inspect coolant hoses for cracks and replace as needed. Monitor for any unusual noises from the drivetrain or suspension.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Approx. 1.6 US quarts (1.5 Liters)
Differential Fluid:
Approx. 1.2 US quarts (1.1 Liters)
Marque Focus:
Mazda is renowned for its focus on driving dynamics, lightweight engineering, and sporty vehicles, exemplified by the Mazda MX-5 Miata lineage.
Nb Generation Introduction:
The second generation (NB) Miata was introduced for the 1999 model year, featuring a more aerodynamic and sculpted design, increased chassis rigidity, and updated powertrains.
2003 Updates:
For the 2003 model year, the NB Miata received minor cosmetic updates and interior refinements. The key mechanical components remained largely the same as preceding NB models.
Production Period:
NB generation: 1999-2005
Manufacturing Location:
Hōfu, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan
Car And Driver 10 Best:
Recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best award multiple times during its production run, including the NB generation.
Overall Reputation:
Consistently lauded for its affordability, reliability, and pure driving enjoyment, earning a reputation as the benchmark for affordable sports cars.
