Segment:
Lightweight two-seater sports car.
Philosophy:
Jinba Ittai (Horse and Rider as One) - emphasizing driver connection and agile handling.
Primary Competitors:
Lotus Elise, Nissan 350Z/370Z, Honda S2000 (previous generation), Porsche Boxster (higher end).
Unique Selling Proposition:
Affordable, reliable, and accessible pure sports car experience with exceptional handling dynamics.
Handling Focus:
Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, near 50/50 weight distribution, responsive steering, independent suspension.
Powertrain Config:
Naturally aspirated inline-four engine, available with manual or automatic transmission.
Body Styles:
Roadster (soft-top) and Retractable Hardtop (PRHT) variants.
Target Audience:
Enthusiast drivers seeking an engaging, pure driving experience.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel injection, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system.
Drivetrain:
Manual transmission (MX-5 standard), automatic transmission (optional), clutch system, driveshaft, differential, axles.
Chassis & Suspension:
Front suspension (double wishbone), rear suspension (multi-link), steering system, wheels, tires, wheel alignment specifications.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, multiplex communication systems.
Body & Interior:
Body structure, exterior panels, doors, hood, trunk, convertible top mechanism (manual and power soft-top, and retractable hardtop variants), interior trim, seats, dashboard, HVAC system.
HVAC & Climate Control:
Air conditioning system (refrigerant type, charging), heater, ventilation, blower motor, climate control modules.
Safety Systems:
Airbags (SRS), seatbelts, pretensioners, occupant restraint systems.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, brake inspections, spark plug replacement.
Engine Repair:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head removal/installation, piston/ring replacement, valve timing, component replacement (e.g., water pump, oil pump).
Transmission Service:
Transmission fluid change, clutch replacement, transmission disassembly and reassembly, torque converter service (for automatics).
Brake System Service:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, brake line replacement, ABS diagnostics and repair, brake bleeding.
Suspension & Steering:
Component replacement (shocks, struts, control arms, bushings), steering rack service, power steering system diagnostics.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common electrical faults, wiring harness repair, component testing (sensors, actuators, modules), use of diagnostic tools.
Bodywork & Trim:
Panel alignment, door and latch repair, convertible top adjustment and repair, interior trim installation/removal.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs):
Identification of DTCs, interpretation of codes, and guided troubleshooting procedures.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds and complex diagnostics).
Diagnostics Focus:
In-depth diagnostic procedures for all major systems, including electrical, engine control, and chassis modules.
Troubleshooting Charts:
Detailed troubleshooting flowcharts and symptom-based repair guides.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all fasteners and critical components.
Schematics:
Complete electrical and vacuum schematics with detailed component identification.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Bore X Stroke Mm:
87.5 mm x 94.0 mm
Horsepower Hp At Rpm:
170 hp @ 6,500 rpm (for 2006-2008), 167 hp @ 7,000 rpm (for 2009, slight detune for emissions).
Torque Lb-Ft At Rpm:
162 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm (for 2006-2008), 158 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm (for 2009).
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), sequential multi-port fuel injection.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended for optimal performance).
Emissions Control:
Catalytic converter, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) system.
Transmission Type Standard:
6-speed manual transmission.
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated, dry single-plate.
Transmission Type Optional:
6-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters (optional on some trims).
Gear Ratios Manual:
1st: 3.167, 2nd: 2.000, 3rd: 1.379, 4th: 1.097, 5th: 0.919, 6th: 0.778, Reverse: 3.615 (Approximate ratios, refer to manual for exact specifications per model year/trim).
Transmission Fluid Type:
Mazda GL-5 75W-90 API SG or equivalent (Manual), ATF Type T-IV or Mazda MV 2053 (Automatic). Consult manual for exact part numbers and specifications.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-Star (for applicable model years and configurations).
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-Star (for applicable model years and configurations).
IIHS Front Offset Small Overlap:
Good (for applicable model years and configurations, testing varied over the period).
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System.
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution.
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS) on some trims/later models.
Stability Control:
Available Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) on most models, often integrated with TCS.
Airbags Front:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Airbags Side:
Optional side-impact airbags, or standard on higher trims.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and pop-up roll hoops behind headrests (on convertible models).
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player, optional Bose premium audio system, available aux input or SiriusXM satellite radio.
Display:
Small LCD display for audio and climate information, typically integrated into the dashboard. Higher trims may have a basic color display.
Navigation:
Optional dealer-installed or factory-integrated navigation system on some higher-trim models.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control on most models.
Keyless Entry Start:
Available keyless entry and push-button start on select trims.
Bluetooth:
Available Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming on later models or as an option.
Usb Port:
Available USB input for media playback on later models or as an option.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for severe driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Cabin Air Filter:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plugs:
Platinum or Iridium plugs: 60,000 miles (96,000 km). Refer to manual for exact type and gap.
Coolant Flush:
First at 60,000 miles (96,000 km), then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Recommended every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or as per inspection.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Recommended every 45,000-60,000 miles (72,000-96,000 km) or as per inspection.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic or Synthetic Blend (API SN or ILSAC GF-5 compliant). Consult manual for specific API classification required.
Engine Oil Capacity Liters:
4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent phosphate-free, ethylene glycol based coolant).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mazda Genuine PSF or equivalent (ATF Dexron III recommended if Mazda PSF is unavailable).
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, wheel bearings, front sway bar end links, convertible top fabric wear and seals.
Engine Specifics:
Some early NC models experienced oil consumption issues which were addressed via TSBs. Intake manifold runner control (IMRC) issues can sometimes cause performance irregularities.
Electrical Quirks:
Occasional issues with window regulators, power mirror motors, or keyless entry systems. Wiring harness corrosion in certain climates.
Convertible Top Mechanism:
Potential for stiff operation or minor leaks on older units if not maintained; PRHT mechanism requires regular lubrication.
Brand Legacy:
Mazda's long history of producing affordable, fun-to-drive sports cars dating back to the original Cosmo Sport and the iconic RX-7.
Generation Intro:
The NC generation of the MX-5 Miata debuted for the 2006 model year, replacing the NB generation.
Key Changes Nc:
Larger chassis, more powerful 2.3L engine (later 2.0L for most markets), improved aerodynamics, introduction of the Retractable Hardtop (PRHT) for the 2007 model year. A minor facelift occurred for the 2009 model year, including minor styling updates and power adjustments.
Production Period Nc:
2005 (for 2006 model year) through 2015.
Manufacturing Location:
Mazda's Hofu Plant, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan.