Vehicle Segment:
Lightweight sports car, roadster
Reputation:
Renowned for its pure driving experience, handling, and affordability.
Competitors:
Porsche Boxster (later models), BMW Z3, Triumph TR series, MG MGB (earlier heritage)
Driving Dynamics:
Near 50/50 weight distribution, rear-wheel drive, agile chassis.
Design:
Classic two-seater roadster styling, retractable soft-top or optional hardtop.
Benefit For Owner:
Enables owners to perform essential maintenance and repairs, saving money and extending vehicle life.
Benefit For Technician:
Provides factory-level detail for accurate diagnostics and efficient repairs, ensuring quality workmanship.
Primary Coverage:
Repair, Service, Maintenance
Target Audience:
Professional Technicians and DIY Enthusiasts with Basic Mechanical/Electrical Knowledge
Estimated Page Count:
Varies (Factory manuals can range from 1000-3000+ pages for comprehensive coverage)
Type:
Repair Service Manual / Workshop Manual
File Format:
PDF Download
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip
Operating Systems:
All Versions of Windows & Mac
Engine:
Engine mechanical, engine management, lubrication, cooling, fuel, exhaust, emission control
Transmission:
Manual transmission (type B series), clutch, drivetrain, driveshafts, differentials
Suspension:
Front suspension (double wishbone), rear suspension (multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, control arms
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, steering rack
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes, ABS (if equipped), brake lines, master cylinder, calipers
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, instruments, body electrical, wiring diagrams
Body:
Exterior panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, body sealing, chassis components
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant, controls
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Disassembly:
Component removal and disassembly for repair
Assembly:
Component reassembly and installation
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major systems
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault finding, common problem identification
Specifications:
Critical technical specifications, torque values, tolerances, clearances
Illustrations:
Diagrams, schematics, and photographic aids
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical system diagnostics and bodywork.
Engine Code:
BP-Z3 (derived from BP-VE)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 4-cylinder
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1839 cc)
Horsepower:
Approx. 140 hp @ 6500 rpm (US Spec)
Torque:
Approx. 118 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (US Spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Recommended)
ECU Type:
ECU controlled ignition and fuel injection
NHTSA Front Impact:
4/5 stars (for similar period vehicles)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable (for similar period vehicles)
ABS:
Available (standard on some trims/markets)
Traction Control:
Not typically standard on this model
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Airbags (standard)
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and headrest hoops
Oil Change:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (iridium type)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Not applicable (all NB MX-5s use a timing chain)
Engine Oil:
API SG or SH, ACEA A2-96 or B2-96, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for climate-specific recommendations)
Coolant:
Mazda Genuine Antifreeze/Coolant (Green) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (manual)
Differential Fluid:
API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil
Common Wear Item:
Clutch wear, throw-out bearing noise.
Common Repair:
Radiator leaks, AC system issues, oil seal leaks (rear main seal).
Electrical Quirks:
Window regulator issues, headlight switch problems.
Mazda Philosophy:
Jinba-Ittai ('horse and rider as one') driving philosophy.
Generation:
Second Generation (NB) - Introduced for the 1999 model year, but 1998 production refers to the end of the first generation (NA).
Predecessor:
Mazda MX-5 (NA generation, 1989-1997)
Manufacturing Plant:
Mazda's Hofu Plant, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan