🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

MX-5 Miata

Generation:

NB

Chassis Codes:

NB1, NB2

Engine Codes:

BP-Z3 (1.8L)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Mazda MX-5 Miata (NB generation) is renowned as a pure, affordable sports car, emphasizing driving pleasure, lightweight design, and exceptional handling. It competes in the compact roadster segment.

Competitors:

Primary competitors include the Porsche Boxster, BMW Z3, Honda S2000, and Toyota MR2 Spyder, though the MX-5 is often positioned as a more accessible entry point into the sports car market.

Manual Benefits:

Provides a cost-effective solution for maintaining and repairing the vehicle, empowers DIY mechanics, offers detailed technical guidance, and ensures accurate repairs with factory-level information.

Vehicle Philosophy:

Jinba Ittai (Horse and Rider as One) – Mazda's design philosophy focused on creating a seamless connection between the driver and the car, emphasizing agility, responsiveness, and feedback.

📋 Manual Details

Model Years:

1999, 2000, 2001, 2002

Regions Covered:

Global (North American specifications likely primary)

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (typical workshop manuals for this era are 1000+ pages, exact count not specified but implied by 'complete service manual')

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual (Factory Equivalent)

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting, torque specifications, timing belt replacement, oil pump, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starter system, charging system, fuel injection system (ECU, sensors, injectors), engine control module (ECM) diagnostics, wiring diagrams.

Emission Control:

Catalytic converter, evaporative emission control (EVAP) system, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system (if applicable), oxygen sensors, emission control related diagnostics.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, throttle body.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, sway bars, bushings, alignment procedures, specifications.

Clutch System:

Clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing, slave cylinder, master cylinder, clutch pedal adjustment, bleeding procedures.

Manual Transaxle:

Gearbox disassembly, assembly, gear ratios, shift linkage, clutch operation, transaxle fluid specifications and replacement.

Automatic Transaxle:

Automatic transmission unit (if applicable to specific trims), torque converter, valve body, hydraulic system, transmission fluid specifications and replacement, shift control.

Driveshaft Axle:

Driveshaft, CV joints, wheel bearings, differential (if separate), lubrication, inspection, and replacement.

Steering System:

Steering rack, power steering pump (if applicable), steering column, tie rod ends, power steering fluid, alignment procedures.

Brake System:

Front and rear brakes (discs), calipers, pads, rotors, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS system (if equipped), brake fluid specifications and bleeding.

Body Interior Exterior:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, hood, trunk, bumpers, trim pieces, interior panels, seats, carpeting.

Body Electrical:

Lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior lights), power windows, power locks, mirrors, wiper system, horn, fuse box locations, wiring diagrams.

Restraint System:

Airbag system (SRS), seat belts, seat belt pre-tensioners, airbag sensor locations, SRS warning light troubleshooting.

Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, transmission fluid change, differential fluid change.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues across all systems, fault code interpretation (OBD-II), symptom-based troubleshooting.

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair, including major overhauls and minor adjustments.

Diagnostics:

Detailed diagnostic procedures for electrical and mechanical systems, including use of diagnostic tools and interpretation of readings.

Wiring Schematics:

Comprehensive color-coded wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, including component locations and connector pinouts.

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.

Illustration Quality:

Detailed illustrations, diagrams, and photos.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Printability:

Fully Printable

Zoom Functionality:

Yes (Zoom IN/OUT)

Binding:

Digital Download (printable pages)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Delivery Method:

Instant Download

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip (for extraction)

Operating Systems:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve

Displacement:

1.8 Liters (1839 cc)

Engine Code Nb1:

BP-Z3 (typically 140 hp)

Engine Code Nb2:

BP-Z3 (later models received revisions, potentially higher output or different tuning)

Horsepower Nb1:

Approximately 140 hp @ 6,500 rpm

Torque Nb1:

Approximately 118 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm

Horsepower Nb2:

Approximately 145 hp (US Spec, may vary by year and market)

Torque Nb2:

Approximately 125 lb-ft (US Spec, may vary by year and market)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Premium recommended for optimal performance)

Cooling System Type:

Liquid-cooled

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 5.5 Liters (5.8 US Quarts)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (refer to manual for specific Mazda part numbers and exact specifications)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III or equivalent (refer to manual for specific Mazda part numbers and exact specifications)

Clutch Type:

Dry, single-plate, diaphragm spring type

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 3,955 mm (155.7 inches)

Width:

Approx. 1,680 mm (66.1 inches)

Height:

Approx. 1,235 mm (48.6 inches)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,265 mm (89.2 inches)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,050 - 1,150 kg (2,315 - 2,535 lbs), varies by transmission and options

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 150 Liters (5.3 cubic feet)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Likely 4-star (based on general safety trends for this era and vehicle type)

IIHS Side Impact:

Likely Acceptable or Good (depending on specific test and year, small sports cars can be challenging)

ABS:

Available (standard on some trims, optional on others)

Traction Control:

Available on some higher-trim or later models

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags standard.

Seat Belts:

3-point seat belts with pre-tensioners.

Rollover Protection:

Reinforced A-pillars and behind-seat pop-up roll bars.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted AM/FM/CD player with optional premium sound system and subwoofer.

Dashboard Controls:

Standard analog gauges for speed, tachometer, fuel, and temperature. Manual climate controls.

Cruise Control:

Available on higher trim levels.

Auxiliary Input:

Not standard; aftermarket solutions typically required.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years, due to interference engine design.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 API SG or higher (refer to manual for specific Mazda recommendations and certifications)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 3.8 Liters (4.0 US Quarts) with filter change.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific recommendations)

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Dexron II or equivalent (if equipped with power steering)

Common Issues:

Radiator leaks, soft top seal wear, window regulator issues, ignition coil failures, variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid issues (later NB models), oil pressure sensor failures.

Common Issues Nb:

Rear main seal leaks, differential mount bushings wear, early NB models may have less robust cooling system components.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Mazda has a long history of producing enjoyable, driver-focused vehicles. The MX-5 lineage began with the iconic NA generation in 1989, setting the standard for modern lightweight roadsters.

Nb Generation:

The NB generation (1999-2005) built upon the success of the NA, featuring a more modern design, improved aerodynamics, enhanced safety features, and a more powerful engine. It retained the core philosophy of the original.

Updates Within Generation:

The NB generation received a significant refresh for the 2001 model year (often referred to as NB2), which included revised styling (headlights, bumpers, taillights), a more potent 1.8L engine, and chassis enhancements.

Manufacturing Location:

Hiroshima, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Best:

Car and Driver's 10 Best list for multiple years (NA and NB generations).

Motor Trend Awards:

Often praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics and affordability.