Positioning:
The Mazda MX-5 Miata (NC generation) is renowned as a pure, affordable sports car, celebrated for its lightweight design, rear-wheel-drive platform, and engaging driving dynamics. This manual caters to owners and enthusiasts who value DIY maintenance and wish to preserve or enhance their vehicle's performance and longevity.
Competitors:
Competes with vehicles like the Toyota MR2 Spyder (earlier models), Nissan 350Z/370Z (more powerful segment), Subaru BRZ/Toyota GT86 (later direct competitors), and other roadsters.
Vehicle Highlights:
Lightweight construction, excellent handling, rear-wheel-drive, available soft-top and power retractable hardtop (PRHT), powerful yet efficient engines.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides the same level of detail as official dealership service manuals, enabling users to perform complex repairs and diagnostics accurately, saving time and money.
Powertrain:
Engine (LF-VE, L3-VDT if applicable), Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain (Differential, Axles).
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (ABS, DSC), Wheels & Tires.
Electrical:
Body Electrical System, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Instrument Cluster, Lighting, Audio, HVAC Controls, Keyless Entry, SRS Airbag System.
Body And Trim:
Exterior Panels, Interior Trim, Seats, Convertible Top Mechanism (Soft Top & Power Retractable Hardtop), Doors, Windows.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), brake pad/rotor replacement, spark plug service, belt replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting charts, electrical circuit diagnostics, fuel system diagnosis.
Repair:
Engine component overhaul (pistons, rings, valves), transmission rebuild, clutch replacement, brake caliper service, suspension component replacement, power steering rack replacement, electrical component repair/replacement.
Installation:
Component replacement procedures for all major systems, including torque specifications and alignment procedures.
Level:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed wiring diagrams, diagnostic procedures, and specifications.
PDF Quality:
High-resolution, searchable text for easy navigation and printing.
Printability:
Printable pages, allowing users to create a physical copy.
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper:
N/A (Digital Download)
Usage Rights:
Unlimited use on user's devices, no expiry dates.
Engine Code:
LF-VE (2.0L DOHC 16-Valve I4)
Displacement:
1999 cc (2.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
87.5 mm x 83.1 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Horsepower Hp:
167 hp @ 7000 rpm (US models, varies slightly by year)
Torque Lb Ft:
140 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (US models, varies slightly by year)
Induction:
Naturally Aspirated
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
ECU Type:
ECM (Engine Control Module) / PCM (Powertrain Control Module) with OBD-II diagnostics.
Coolant Type:
Mazda FL22 Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant with silicate inhibitors).
Oil Capacity Quarts:
Approx. 4.5 US quarts (with filter)
Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 API SN/ILSAC GF-5 (or newer specifications)
Type:
6-Speed Manual Transmission (MX-T560)
Type:
6-Speed Automatic Transmission with Sequential Sport Shift
Manual Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated, dry single plate clutch.
Automatic Features:
Paddle shifters (on some trims/years), Adaptive Shift Logic.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Mazda GL-5 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (or equivalent API GL-5 specification)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mazda ATF-FW (or equivalent MERCON V compatible fluid)
Length:
Approx. 167.5 inches (4255 mm)
Width:
Approx. 67.7 inches (1720 mm)
Height:
Approx. 49.8 inches (1265 mm) (Soft Top) / 50.1 inches (1273 mm) (PRHT)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 91.1 inches (2315 mm)
Front Track:
Approx. 58.7 inches (1490 mm)
Rear Track:
Approx. 59.1 inches (1500 mm)
Curb Weight Lbs:
Approx. 2500-2650 lbs (1134-1202 kg), depending on transmission and body style.
Gvw Lbs:
Approx. 3300-3400 lbs (1497-1542 kg)
Trunk Volume Cubic Feet:
Approx. 4.4-4.6 cu ft (125-130 Liters)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
Generally good ratings, typically 4 or 5 stars depending on year and specific tests.
IIHS Ratings:
Good ratings in most crashworthiness categories, often earning Top Safety Pick awards for its class.
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Traction Control System (TCS) standard.
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA).
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags, side-impact airbags.
Body Structure:
Advanced impact-absorbing body structure, reinforced A-pillars and side sills.
Seatbelts:
Pretensioner and load-limiting front seatbelts, three-point rear seatbelts (if applicable to seating configuration).
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with 6 speakers. Optional premium Bose audio system available on higher trims. Bluetooth connectivity, USB input common on later models.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on select trims/years.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Keyless Entry:
Standard on most models, keyless ignition available on higher trims.
Bluetooth:
Available for hands-free calling and audio streaming on later models or via aftermarket integration.
Oil And Filter:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles).
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 75,000 miles (Iridium type).
Coolant Flush:
Replace every 100,000 miles or 10 years, then every 50,000 miles or 5 years.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Replace every 24 months or 30,000 miles.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mazda Genuine PSF or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible ATF.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Common Problems:
Oil consumption (especially older/harder-driven models), potential clutch wear, convertible top mechanism issues (PRHT seals/motors), water pump leaks, potential for rust on older chassis components.
Diagnostic Tips:
Use of this manual's diagnostic flowcharts is crucial for accurate identification of issues like misfires, starting problems, or electrical faults.
Heritage:
Mazda's commitment to Jinba-Ittai ('horse and rider as one') driving philosophy, continuing the legacy of the iconic Miatas.
Nc Generation:
Introduced for the 2006 model year, the NC generation represented a significant redesign with a larger chassis, improved safety, and enhanced comfort while retaining the core Miata driving experience. It featured both a soft-top and the innovative Power Retractable Hardtop (PRHT).
Nc Facelift:
Received a facelift for the 2009 model year, featuring updated styling (front bumper, headlights, grille), suspension tweaks for improved ride comfort, and revised interior trim. Power output also saw a slight increase in later models.
Manufacturing Location:
Ujina Plant No. 1, Hiroshima, Japan.
Production Years:
2006-2015 (NC Generation)
