🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

MX-5

Year:

2018

Generation:

ND

Body Style:

Roadster (Convertible)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2018 Mazda MX-5 (ND generation) occupies a strong position in the compact, affordable sports car segment, known for its engaging driving dynamics, lightweight design, and refined aesthetics. It competes with vehicles like the Toyota 86/Subaru BRZ and the Fiat 124 Spider.

Competitive Analysis:

The ND MX-5 is celebrated for its 'Jinba Ittai' (horse and rider as one) philosophy, offering superior handling and driver feedback. Its reliability and build quality, supported by precise service documentation, are key selling points.

Key Features:

This manual provides the critical technical data necessary for owners and independent repair shops to maintain and repair the 2018 MX-5 to OEM standards, ensuring the longevity and performance of this iconic roadster. Its direct lineage from dealership service information is a significant advantage.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All models and all repairs A-Z

Page Count:

Extensive (specific count not provided in product info, but implied to be comprehensive for dealership use)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely digital (PDF) or high-quality bound print, consistent with dealership technical manuals

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical, engine performance, fuel system, emission control, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system, starting system, charging system, transmission (manual and automatic), drivetrain, suspension, steering, brakes (hydraulic and parking), body electrical system, HVAC, chassis, body, interior, infotainment, diagnostics, and troubleshooting.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, scheduled service, detailed repair procedures, component removal and installation, diagnostics, troubleshooting guides, electrical wiring diagrams, specifications, tightening torques, fluid capacities, and recommended service intervals.

Technical Depth:

Dealership-level technical accuracy, covering everything from basic fluid changes and filter replacements to complex engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnostics, and body panel repair. Includes specific diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their resolution.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Detailed diagnostic procedures for all major vehicle systems, including on-board diagnostics (OBD-II) interpretation, specific fault codes, and troubleshooting trees.

Electrical System Coverage:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all electrical circuits, including power distribution, lighting, engine controls, infotainment, safety systems, and accessory circuits.

Body Repair Procedures:

Procedures for body panel removal, installation, alignment, collision repair techniques, and interior trim component replacement.

Suspension And Steering Details:

Detailed specifications and procedures for front and rear suspension components (double wishbone front, multi-link rear), steering rack, power steering system, and alignment specifications.

Brake System Details:

Information on front vented disc brakes and rear solid disc brakes, ABS, EBD, and brake system bleeding procedures.

HVAC Coverage:

Procedures for air conditioning system service, refrigerant handling, heater core replacement, and blower motor service.

Technical Data Points:

Includes specific values for engine compression, ignition timing, fuel pressure, valve clearances (if applicable), and various component tolerances critical for accurate repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

If digital, typically PDF with searchable text. If printed, high-resolution pages.

Print Quality:

High-resolution images, diagrams, and text, mirroring original manufacturer specifications.

Binding Type:

For print: Professional binding (e.g., coil-bound, perfect bound) for durability in workshop environments. For digital: Accessible PDF reader required.

Paper Type:

If printed: Durable, high-quality paper suitable for workshop conditions.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline-4

Engine Displacement:

2.0 Liters (1998 cc)

Horsepower:

181 hp @ 7,000 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

151 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm (approx.)

Engine Code:

PE-VPS

Bore X Stroke:

83.5 mm x 91.2 mm (approx.)

Compression Ratio:

13.0:1 (approx.)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Cooling System:

Pressurized liquid cooling system with electric cooling fan.

ECU Type:

ECU-controlled ignition and fuel injection (specific ECU part numbers found within the manual).

🔧 Transmission

Type:

6-Speed Manual Transmission (MX-5 Sport, Club, Grand Touring)

Type:

6-Speed Automatic Transmission (Optional on some trims)

Gear Ratios Manual:

Specific gear ratios for each gear are detailed in the manual. Typically optimized for sporty performance.

Automatic Transmission Features:

Paddle shifters for manual control, Sport mode.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Mazda GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., MAZDA ATF JWS3309 for automatic, specific manual gearbox oil detailed in manual).

Manual Transmission Capacity:

Approximately 1.8 - 2.0 liters (refer to manual for exact quantity).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

154.1 inches (3,915 mm)

Width:

68.3 inches (1,735 mm)

Height:

49.7 inches (1,260 mm)

Wheelbase:

91.3 inches (2,315 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 2,332 - 2,420 lbs (1,058 - 1,100 kg) depending on transmission and trim.

Seating Capacity:

2

Trunk Volume:

4.59 cubic feet (0.13 cubic meters)

Wheel Size:

17-inch alloy wheels (standard on most trims)

Tire Size:

205/45R17 (standard)

Bolt Pattern:

5x114.3 mm

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating:

5-Star Overall Safety Rating (typical for this generation, specific report to be consulted within manual if available).

IIHS Rating:

Good in most categories (typical for this generation).

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control System (TCS), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Passive Safety Features:

Advanced front airbags, side-impact airbags, knee airbags, reinforced passenger safety cell, three-point seat belts with pre-tensioners and load limiters.

Available Driver Assistance:

Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Smart City Brake Support (SCBS) - optional or standard on higher trims.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen display. Features voice command, Bluetooth, Pandora, Stitcher, and Aha integration.

Audio System:

Bose premium audio system with 9 speakers (including headrest speakers) available on higher trims.

Adaptive Headlights:

Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS) available on some trims, enhancing visibility during cornering.

Connectivity Features:

USB ports, auxiliary audio input, Bluetooth for hands-free phone and audio streaming.

Instrument Cluster:

Analog tachometer and speedometer with integrated digital multi-information display.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first. The vehicle's maintenance monitor will also prompt for service.

Air Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as per manual inspection.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically around 75,000 miles (120,000 km).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 0W-20 synthetic engine oil meeting Mazda specifications (e.g., Mazda Genuine Oil or API SN, ILSAC GF-5 certified).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4.8 US quarts (4.6 liters) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Mazda FL22 Long Life Coolant (pre-mixed blue coolant) or equivalent.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

Not applicable; the 2018 MX-5 uses Electric Power Steering (EPS).

Common Issues:

While generally reliable, potential issues can include minor oil consumption in some units, soft top mechanism adjustments, and occasional infotainment system glitches. The manual would provide specific diagnostic procedures for these.

Oil Filter Part Number:

Mazda Genuine Part Number: B6Y1-14-302 (example, verify in manual for exact fitment).

Air Filter Part Number:

Mazda Genuine Part Number: KD45-13-215 (example, verify in manual for exact fitment).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mazda has a long and storied history in producing lightweight, driver-focused sports cars, with the MX-5 Miata being its most iconic model, dating back to the original NA generation introduced in 1989.

Model Evolution:

The ND generation, introduced for the 2016 model year, marked a significant redesign, focusing on further weight reduction and a more compact, sportier aesthetic. The 2018 model represents a refinement of this platform.

Production Location:

Hiroshima, Japan

Production Years:

ND generation: 2015 - present.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10 Best:

Frequently named to Car and Driver's 10 Best list (ND generation including 2018 model).

World Car Of The Year:

Winner of World Car Design of the Year in 2016 for the ND generation.

Automotive Journalist Awards:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its handling, steering, and overall driving enjoyment.