Segment:
Lightweight Two-Seater Sports Car
Description:
The Mazda MX-5 (NB) is celebrated for its pure driving experience, offering a balance of performance, handling, and affordability, making it a benchmark in its class.
Key Competitors:
Toyota MR2 Spyder, Honda S2000 (though higher performance segment), Porsche Boxster (premium segment)
Driving Dynamics:
Rear-wheel drive, near 50/50 weight distribution, excellent steering feel, and responsive chassis.
Convertibility:
Available with a soft-top or optional power-retractable hardtop (PRHT) for enhanced versatility.
Target Audience:
Enthusiast owners, independent repair shops, DIY mechanics, and anyone seeking factory-level repair and maintenance data.
General Coverage:
All Models & All Repairs A-Z
Specificity:
Vehicle Specific
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 1500-2000 (typical for comprehensive service manuals)
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF), printable
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain (Differentials, Axles, Driveshafts)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System (Hydraulic, ABS), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Body Electrical, Lighting, Instruments & Gauges, Power Accessories, Audio System, HVAC Controls, Engine Control Module (ECM) Diagnostics, Body Control Module (BCM) Diagnostics, SRS (Airbag) System
Body And Trim:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Convertible Top Mechanism, Glass
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks & Replenishments, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspections & Replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Component Testing Procedures, Wiring Diagrams
Repair:
Engine Rebuilding, Transmission Overhaul, Brake Pad/Rotor Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Repair/Replacement, Body Panel Repair
Assembly Disassembly:
Step-by-step disassembly and reassembly instructions for all major components and systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications used by dealership technicians.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-4 DOHC
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1839 cc)
Horsepower:
140 hp @ 6500 rpm (US Market spec)
Torque:
119 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (US Market spec)
Induction:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane recommended)
Coolant Type:
Mazda FL22 Long Life Coolant or equivalent silicate-free, ethylene glycol-based coolant.
Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 API SG or higher.
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-Star (Driver), 4-Star (Passenger)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
Braking System:
Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Solid Discs. Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Traction Control:
Optional on some trims.
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger front airbags. Optional side-impact airbags.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and integrated roll bar behind seats.
Audio System:
Factory equipped with AM/FM stereo, CD player, and 4-6 speakers depending on trim. Cassette player also common.
Navigation:
Not typically available from the factory for this model year.
Cruise Control:
Available as standard or optional equipment on most models.
Bluetooth:
Not available from the factory. Aftermarket solutions common.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months (if equipped).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for platinum-tipped plugs.
Timing Belt Replacement:
This engine uses a timing chain, not a belt. No periodic replacement required.
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.8 US quarts (4.5 Liters) with filter change.
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 5.3 US quarts (5.0 Liters).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Engine:
Oil consumption (can be exacerbated by worn piston rings or valve seals), occasional coolant leaks from heater core or hoses.
Chassis:
Rust issues, particularly in rocker panels, rear fender lips, and subframes. Worn bushings and ball joints leading to suspension noise.
Electrical:
Window motor failures, convertible top switch issues, sometimes gauge cluster problems.
Oil Filter:
Mazda OEM: B6Y1-14-302 (or equivalent such as Purolator L14459)
Cabin Air Filter:
Mazda OEM: NF79-61-J6X (or equivalent)
Manufacturer:
Mazda Motor Corporation
Heritage Focus:
Known for 'Jinba Ittai' (horse and rider as one) driving philosophy, emphasis on lightweight and agile vehicles.
Previous Generation:
NA generation (1989-1997)
Nb Generation Intro:
Introduced for the 1999 model year, the NB generation featured a redesigned chassis and body, updated engines, and improved aerodynamics.
Nb Facelift:
The 2000 model year represents the early NB phase. A significant facelift occurred for the 2001/2002 model year (NB2).
Production Location:
Hofu, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan
Production Years Nb:
1998-2005
