🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

MX-5 Miata

Generation:

NC (Third Generation)

Model Year:

2006

Chassis Code:

NC1

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2006 MX-5 Miata (NC generation) represented Mazda's re-imagining of the iconic lightweight sports car, emphasizing a more mature and sophisticated driving experience while retaining its core agile handling and convertible appeal. It competed in the affordable sports car segment against vehicles like the Honda S2000 (though at a lower price point), Nissan 350Z, and potentially higher-trim models of the Toyota MR2 Spyder.

Competitive Analysis:

The NC Miata offered a blend of comfort, performance, and everyday usability that distinguished it from more raw, track-focused competitors. Its introduction marked a shift towards a larger platform and a more refined interior compared to previous generations.

Key Features:

Lightweight construction, rear-wheel drive, balanced chassis, powerful engine for its class, convertible top (manual or power retractable hardtop available), distinctive styling, driver-focused cockpit.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Comprehensive service, repair, maintenance, and diagnostics for the 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.

Page Count:

Extensive (Digital format, equivalent to several thousand printed pages due to searchability and interactive diagrams).

Manual Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software (Digital, likely searchable PDF or proprietary application).

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Electrical, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission (if applicable to specific trims), Driveshaft, Axles, Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Front and Rear), ABS, Stability Control, Body Electrical (Lighting, Wipers, Horns, Power Accessories), Climate Control, Restraints (Airbags), Body Panels, Chassis, Interior Trim, Diagnostics (OBD-II).

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs), inspections, troubleshooting guides, component removal and installation, diagnostic procedures, electrical system testing, brake system bleeding and repair, suspension alignment and repair, engine tuning and adjustments, clutch replacement, transmission service, body repair and adjustment, HVAC system service, airbag system inspection and replacement.

Technical Depth:

In-depth. Covers everything from basic maintenance checks to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed wiring diagrams, exploded views, torque specifications, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) with recommended repair procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Likely PDF or executable software with searchable content and interactive diagrams.

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital format, resolution dependent on source).

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital format).

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

LF-DE (MZR Engine)

Displacement:

2.0 Liters (1999 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

87.5 mm x 83.1 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.7:1

Horsepower:

170 hp @ 6700 rpm

Torque:

140 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm

Fuel System Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection (SFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane minimum recommended, 91 octane for optimal performance)

Valvetrain Type:

DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 16 Valves (4 per cylinder)

Timing:

Variable Valve Timing (VVT) on intake camshaft

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

6-Speed Manual Transmission (Type: Mazda Type 'G')

Optional Transmission:

6-Speed Sport Automatic Transmission (with Paddle Shifters on some trims)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulic Actuated Dry Single Plate

Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:

Mazda GL-4 75W-90 or equivalent synthetic API GL-4.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:

Mazda ATF-SP III or equivalent. Capacity approx. 8.4 quarts (7.9 liters) for complete fill.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

94.5 inches (2400 mm)

Overall Length:

167.7 inches (4260 mm)

Overall Width:

68.7 inches (1745 mm)

Overall Height:

50.5 inches (1285 mm) (Soft Top) / 51.1 inches (1298 mm) (Hardtop)

Front Headroom:

37.4 inches (950 mm)

Front Legroom:

42.7 inches (1085 mm)

Trunk Volume:

4.4 - 5.1 cubic feet (124 - 144 liters) depending on top position and hardtop fitment.

Curb Weight:

Approximately 2500 - 2700 lbs (1134 - 1225 kg) depending on trim and options.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating:

5-Star (Driver and Passenger)

NHTSA Side Impact Rating:

5-Star (Front and Rear Passengers)

IIHS Small Overlap Front Rating:

Good (for comparable vehicles in its class at the time)

Active Features:

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

Passive Features:

Front Dual-Stage Airbags, Side-Impact Airbags (door mounted), Three-Point Seatbelts with Pretensioners, Roll-Over Protection (pop-up hoops behind headrests), Crumple Zones.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Base models featured a CD player with AM/FM radio. Higher trims offered an optional Bose premium audio system with an in-dash 6-disc CD changer and auxiliary input. Navigation systems were also available on select models.

Driver Assistance:

Standard features included ABS, DSC, and TCS. Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane departure warning were not typically available on this generation.

Connectivity:

Auxiliary audio input jack was available on premium sound systems. Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling was generally not standard but might have been an aftermarket option or available on later production runs of the NC generation.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).

Engine Oil Filter Replacement:

Replace with oil change.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 75,000 miles (120,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs.

Coolant Replacement:

Initial 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 10 years, then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 5 years thereafter.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-20, API SN or higher, ILSAC GF-5 compliant.

Engine Oil Capacity:

5.0 US quarts (4.7 liters) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Mazda Genuine FL-22 Long Life Antifreeze (Green) or equivalent HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Dexron III/VI ATF or equivalent.

Known Issues:

Premature wear on convertible top fabric (for soft tops), potential for clutch slave cylinder leaks, water pump leaks (especially on higher mileage vehicles), oil pressure sender unit failures, occasional electrical gremlins related to body control modules.

Common Repairs:

Clutch replacement, brake pad and rotor replacement, suspension component replacement (bushings, ball joints), cooling system hose replacement, power steering hose replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mazda has a rich history of producing lightweight, agile sports cars, with the Miata lineage dating back to the iconic NA generation launched in 1989. The Miata is credited with revitalizing the affordable roadster market.

Model Evolution:

The 2006 model year marked the introduction of the third-generation (NC) Miata. This generation saw a significant redesign, with a larger chassis, more powerful engine, and a more contemporary aesthetic. It offered both a soft-top and a power-retractable hardtop (PRHT) variant.

Production Location:

Hiroshima, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

Car and Driver's 10Best list for 2006 and 2007. Consistently praised for its handling and value in automotive publications.

Ratings:

High scores from consumer satisfaction surveys for its reliability and driving pleasure.

Certifications:

Officially licensed product, indicating compliance with Mazda's intellectual property and technical data standards.