Positioning:
The Mazda MX-5 Miata is the best-selling two-seater convertible sports car of all time, renowned for its 'Jinba Ittai' (horse and rider as one) driving philosophy and accessible performance.
Competitors:
Competes with vehicles like the Toyota MR2 Spyder (discontinued), Porsche Boxster, BMW Z4, and similar compact roadsters, but typically at a more affordable price point.
Driving Dynamics:
Rear-wheel drive, lightweight chassis, balanced weight distribution, responsive handling, and a driver-focused cockpit.
Convertible:
Available with a soft top or a power retractable hardtop (PRHT).
Utility:
Essential for owners and independent mechanics to maintain, diagnose, and repair the MX-5 Miata effectively, ensuring longevity and optimal performance.
Applicable Years:
2006, 2007, 2008, 2009
Coverage Areas:
All mechanical and electrical systems, bodywork, maintenance, troubleshooting, diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures.
Estimated Page Count:
Over 3000 pages (typical for a complete workshop manual of this scope)
Type:
Complete Workshop Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable Digital Format (PDF)
Engine:
Engine mechanical (disassembly, assembly, inspection, timing, cooling, lubrication), fuel system, ignition system, emissions control, engine management (ECU diagnostics).
Transmission:
Manual transmission (MT) and automatic transmission (AT) service, clutch system, drivetrain components (axles, driveshafts, differentials).
Brakes:
Brake system (hydraulic components, ABS, EBD, DSC), brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, bleeding procedures.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components (shocks, springs, control arms, bushings), steering system (rack and pinion, power steering), wheel alignment specifications.
Electrical:
Full electrical system diagnostics, wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument panel, audio system, power accessories, body control module (BCM).
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hoods, trunk, convertible top mechanisms, interior trim, chassis lubrication, corrosion protection.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups, belt and hose replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, error code interpretation.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major and minor components, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, bodywork repairs, and electrical component replacement.
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-II) information, scan tool usage, sensor testing, actuator testing, troubleshooting specific modules.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed specifications, tolerances, and torque values.
File Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchability:
Fully searchable text for quick information retrieval
Printability:
Printable pages for on-the-job reference
Digital Rights:
Downloadable for personal use, not for resale or distribution
Quality:
High-resolution digital reproduction of original factory documentation
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper:
N/A (Digital Download)
Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1999 cc)
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16 valves with Variable Valve Timing (VVT)
Horsepower 2006-2008:
170 hp @ 7000 rpm (US spec)
Torque 2006-2008:
141 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (US spec)
Horsepower 2009:
167 hp @ 7000 rpm (US spec, minor revisions for NC2)
Torque 2009:
140 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (US spec, minor revisions for NC2)
Induction:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-Port Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane (91 recommended for optimal performance)
Bore X Stroke:
87.5 mm x 83.5 mm
Type:
6-speed Manual Transmission (6MT)
Type:
6-speed Automatic Transmission (6AT) with Sequential Sport Shift (optional on some trims)
Clutch:
Hydraulic actuated, single dry plate (MT)
Gear Ratios Mt Typical:
1st: 3.76, 2nd: 2.14, 3rd: 1.54, 4th: 1.23, 5th: 1.00, 6th: 0.84, Rev: 3.50
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 (e.g., Mazda Genuine Gear Oil) or equivalent
Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:
Mazda ATF JWS3309 or equivalent
Length:
Approx. 167.5 inches (4255 mm)
Width:
Approx. 67.7 inches (1720 mm)
Height Soft Top:
Approx. 49.4 inches (1255 mm)
Height Prht:
Approx. 49.6 inches (1260 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 91.1 inches (2315 mm)
Front Track:
Approx. 58.3 inches (1480 mm)
Rear Track:
Approx. 58.7 inches (1490 mm)
Curb Weight Mt:
Approx. 2470-2515 lbs (1120-1140 kg), depending on trim and options
Curb Weight Prht:
Approx. 2570-2610 lbs (1165-1185 kg), depending on trim and options
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 4.4 cubic feet (124 Liters) with soft top; slightly less with PRHT retracted
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5 x 114.3 mm (5 x 4.5 inches)
Tire Size Standard:
205/50R16 or 205/45R17, depending on trim level
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-Star (for applicable model years)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-Star (for applicable model years)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
5-Star (for applicable model years)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
4-Star (for applicable model years)
IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal:
Good (for applicable model years)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags, side-impact airbags
Rollover Protection:
Pop-up rollover hoops behind the headrests (NC generation)
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player with 6 speakers. Optional Bose premium audio system available on higher trims.
Display:
Multi-information display in the instrument cluster. Some trims may feature a small LCD screen for audio and climate control.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Auxiliary Input:
Standard auxiliary audio input jack.
Gauges:
Tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, coolant temperature gauge, odometer, trip meter, and warning lights.
Service Intervals General
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (or 7,500 miles/12 months with synthetic oil, refer to owner's manual).
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 7,500 miles, replace as needed (typically every 15,000-30,000 miles).
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 7,500 miles, replace as needed (typically every 15,000 miles).
Spark Plugs Replacement:
Inspect around 30,000-45,000 miles, replace as needed (NGK Iridium recommended).
Coolant Flush:
First flush at 60,000 miles or 5 years, then every 45,000 miles or 3 years thereafter.
Engine Oil Capacity W Filter:
Approx. 4.7 US quarts (4.4 liters) with filter change
Engine Oil Viscosity Recommendation:
5W-30 (preferred for most climates), 5W-20 or 10W-30 also acceptable based on temperature extremes.
Coolant Type:
Mazda FL22 Coolant (Long Life Green) or equivalent silicate-free, OAT-type coolant.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Oil Consumption:
Some early NC models (particularly 2006-2007) can exhibit higher than normal oil consumption. Regular checks are advised.
Soft Top Leaks:
Potential for water leaks around door seals and window seals, especially after years of use. Check and reseal as necessary.
Clutch Throwout Bearing:
Occasional reports of noisy or failing throwout bearings, manifesting as whining or chirping sounds when the clutch pedal is depressed.
Power Steering Pump:
Rare instances of power steering pump failure or noisy operation. Check fluid levels and pump condition.
Mazda Roadsters:
Mazda has a long lineage of lightweight, affordable sports cars, dating back to the Mazda Cosmo Sport and famously the Mazda RX-7.
Na Generation:
First generation (NA, 1989-1997) established the Miata's core identity.
Nb Generation:
Second generation (NB, 1998-2005) refined the design and introduced more power.
Nc Generation Launch:
The NC generation (2006-2015) was a significant redesign, growing slightly in size and power, and adopting the 'Kodo' design language principles.
Manufacturing Location:
Hiroshima, Japan
Nc Facelift:
The 2009 model year represents the NC2 facelift, featuring revised styling (new front bumper, headlights, taillights) and minor mechanical updates.
Car And Driver 10Best:
The Mazda MX-5 Miata (including the NC generation) has been a perennial recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best list for its exceptional driving experience.
World Car Of The Year Nominee:
The NC generation was a finalist for the World Car of the Year award in 2006.
Autotrader Best Car For The Money:
Often cited for its value and long-term ownership satisfaction.