Positioning:
The Mazda MX-5 Miata (NA generation) revitalized the affordable, lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports car market, offering pure driving enjoyment and exceptional handling at an accessible price point.
Competitors:
Primarily competed against other affordable roadsters and sports coupes of its era, such as the Toyota MR2, Fiat Spider, and Alfa Romeo Spider, but distinguished itself with its unparalleled reliability and user-friendly design.
Vehicle Strengths:
Lightweight construction, balanced chassis, rear-wheel-drive, pop-up headlights, direct steering feel, affordable maintenance, excellent handling, high degree of driver engagement.
Usefulness:
An indispensable resource for owners and enthusiasts of the NA generation MX-5 Miata, providing the detailed technical information required for accurate diagnosis, maintenance, and repair, ensuring longevity and optimal performance of this iconic sports car.
Covered Years:
1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000
Engine Coverage:
All engines from 1990 to 2000 model years.
Estimated Page Count:
This is a comprehensive workshop manual, likely exceeding 1000 pages when compiled from its constituent files.
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
File Format:
Digital (Zipped archive containing multiple files, likely PDF or similar document formats)
Mechanical Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, clutch, transmission (manual and automatic), driveline, suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (hydraulic and parking), wheels and tires.
Electrical Systems:
Ignition system, starting and charging system, lighting system, instrumentation, body electrical, power windows, power mirrors, audio system, climate control electronics, ECU, sensors, wiring diagrams.
Body And Chassis:
Body exterior, interior trim, seats, convertible top mechanism, chassis frame, safety systems (airbags, seatbelts).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-ups, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement.
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper and master cylinder replacement, suspension component replacement, steering rack repair, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides, component testing.
Diagnostics:
Fault finding procedures, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation (where applicable for later models), electrical system diagnostics, mechanical component testing.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from routine maintenance and adjustments to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Code Common:
1.6L DOHC (B6-ZE), 1.8L DOHC (BP-ZE)
1.6L Horsepower:
116-127 hp (depending on year and market)
1.6L Torque:
100-106 lb-ft (depending on year and market)
1.8L Horsepower:
127-133 hp (depending on year and market)
1.8L Torque:
117-123 lb-ft (depending on year and market)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
ECM Type:
Electronic Control Module (ECM) / Engine Control Unit (ECU) with various designations depending on year and emissions standards.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., Mazda FL22 or equivalent).
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (less common)
Manual Fluid Spec:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 Gear Oil (refer to specific manual for exact fill level and type).
Automatic Fluid Spec:
Dexron III/Mercon equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF).
Clutch Type:
Dry, single-plate diaphragm spring clutch.
Length:
Approx. 3945 mm (155.3 in)
Width:
Approx. 1675 mm (66.0 in)
Height:
Approx. 1235 mm (48.6 in) (soft top)
Curb Weight Start:
Approx. 955 kg (2105 lbs) (1.6L)
Curb Weight End:
Approx. 1070 kg (2359 lbs) (1.8L)
NHTSA Ratings:
Variable by model year and specific testing; generally considered a safe vehicle for its class and era, but frontal impact performance can be a concern compared to modern vehicles.
Active Safety Features:
Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes, optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on some models (typically 1.8L and later).
Passive Safety Features:
Three-point seat belts, driver and passenger airbags (introduced on later models/trims), reinforced A-pillars and chassis.
Infotainment Features:
Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player standard. Optional CD player available on later models or as an aftermarket upgrade. Simple climate control system.
Driver Assistance Systems:
Limited by era; ABS was an option on higher trims. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assist.
Connectivity Features:
No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity from the factory. Aftermarket head unit upgrades are common.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using conventional oil).
Timing Belt Interval:
Every 60,000 miles or 5 years (for 1.8L engine). The 1.6L engine uses a timing chain, which is generally maintenance-free.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30, 5W-40, or 10W-30 (depending on climate). Check manual for specific viscosity recommendations.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
Dexron II/III or equivalent ATF.
Common Faults Engine:
Oil leaks from cam seals and crankshaft seals, coolant leaks from hoses and radiator, sticky throttle bodies, occasional oil consumption.
Common Faults Chassis Suspension:
Rusted sills and rocker panels, worn bushings (control arms, sway bars), front wheel bearing noise, differential whine.
Common Faults Electrical:
Window motor failure, faulty door lock actuators, corroded wiring in engine bay or trunk, failing gauge clusters (older models).
Common Faults Body:
Convertible top seal degradation, worn seat fabric, brittle plastic interior trim, pop-up headlight motor issues.
Heritage:
Mazda's heritage in sports cars includes legendary models like the Cosmo Sport and RX-7. The MX-5 Miata was conceived to recapture the spirit of the classic British roadsters of the 1960s.
Evolution Na:
The NA generation (1989-1997) saw minor updates, including the introduction of the 1.8L engine in 1994 (NB generation started in 1998, but this manual covers later NA variants and early NB models).
Production Era:
NA generation: 1989-1997. This manual extends coverage to include the early years of the second generation (NB), specifically up to 2000.
Manufacturing:
Hiroshima, Japan
