Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Mazda Miata

HTML Version 1.04 April 1995

Last updated April 19, 1995 9:25 CDT

(C) Copyright 1994, 1995 Brian K. Dore' bkd@usl.edu

This document may be freely distributed to any Mazda Miata owner or enthusiast. Publication or redistribution for profit, especially through sale of media containing this document, is prohibited.

Table of Contents

I. The Miata Mailing List, this FAQ, and other electronic forums

1) What is a FAQ? What is this document for?

1A) FAQ = Frequently Asked Questions

This FAQ list is to help Miata Owners and Enthusiasts in the Internet community by providing the answers for some common questions. While every attempt has been made to provide accurate and dependable information, mistakes are inevitable. Not all questions have a simple straightforward answer, and in some cases, such as selecting the right tire, the answer will obviously be an opinion. What works for some people may not be the right thing for you. Use this information at your own risk.

Send suggestions, questions, and comments to:

Brian K. Dore' < bkd@usl.edu >

2) Id like to join the Miata Mailing List, how does it work?

2A) The Miata Mailing list is administrated by Andy Poling < andy@jhunix.hcf.jhu.edu > at John Hopkins University. Access to the archives of past messages is available via gopher and anonymous FTP.

3) Where is Miataville? How do I get there?

3A) Miataville is a forum on CompuServe similar to the Internet Miata Mailing List. For information on Compuserve, call them at (800) 848-8199.

II. General Information

1) I'm interested in buying a Miata, where can I find more information?

1A) The first place for you to go is to your nearest Mazda dealer and see one in person. If this isn't an option then you can call Mazda at 1-800-639-1000 (USA) and get a free brochure on the Miata mailed to you. As with any car, you should make yourself familiar with the options and the dealer cost of those options (new car) or the NADA book value (used car) from one of the many sources of such information. One of the best places to meet other owners/enthusiasts is the Miata Mailing List.

2) What factory colors are available, and what model years were they available?

2A) The Miata was available in the following colors in the following model years in the United States:

Cars normally have black soft-tops and interior, however both tan and red leather are factory options on specific cars.

The 1995 M-Edition Features:

Over the years, Mazda has produced several Special and Limited Edition Miatas . Special thanks to John Emerson emerson@middlebury.edu for compiling and contributing this information.

3) What is the Miata Club of America? Should I join?

3A) The Miata Club of America was started my the Miata's American layout engineer on November 1, 1987 as a way to share his entusiasim for the Miata philosophy. Miata Magazine is the official club magazine. It is published quarterly and is well worth the $25 annual dues. See the Appendix for the address and phone numbers of the club.

4) What other Miata resources are available on the net?

4A) Alex M. Postpischil <<>albabe@wam.umd.edu<>> keeps an online list of local Miata Club Chapters as well as a list of Miata toys, models and replicas that are curently available. Eric T. Sylvain <<>sylvain@express.ctron.com<>> has a collection of Miata images in electronic form available by request. Jaime C. Villacotre <<>Jaimev@netcom.com<>> keeps a list of Miata people on the net and their license plates. All welcome contributions.

5) What are the different packages/options available for the Miata?

5A) The A package included power steering, alloy wheels, leather wrapped steering wheel, and a factory AM/FM cassette. The B package added power windows, power antenna and cruise control. A/C was an option on any car. ABS and the removable hardtop were available only with package B. (The hardtop is now available for any model) An automatic transmission was available for any model, and an optional limited slip differential was available for cars with a manual transmission. Packages were all or none decisions, and the individual items were not available individually. (Though you can buy most items and retrofit them yourself)

In 1993 power mirrors became standard and a new C package which included tan leather interior and a tan top became available on all cars.

In 1994 the car was extensively changed. [engine, wheels, airbag, side intrusion, standard features, etc.] [I need more info on the M and R packages: the following is from memory... ]

The 1994 R package is a Base 1994 Miata with higher rate springs, special shocks, [different sized] anti-sway bars, torsen limited slip, and spoilers on the chin and trunklid. Air conditioning is the only available option.

The 1994 M Edition is a Laguna Blue 1994 B Package Miata with chrome wheels.

In 1995 The A,B and C package designations were dropped in favor of prefered equipment packages. Little change was made from the 1994 Model. The R model continues.

see also: Special and Limited Editions

III. General Care, Maintenance and Repair

1) I need new street tires for my Miata, what kind should I get?

1A) This depends upon the type of driving you do and the type of weather you do it in. Yokohama AVS Intermediates and Dunlop D40M2 tires have been mentioned as good high performance tires. Other Yokohama models have received high recommendations from other Miata owners on the list for everyday driving. Yes some people drive their Miatas in the snow, but I don't know what type of tires they use. [tell me!] The factory tire size for the Miata is 185/60/14. The factory wheels (both steel wheels and alloys) are 14" x 5.5". A high performance tire option for the factory wheels is a 205/55/14 sized tire. This will give about a 1" increase in width and a negligable increase in height.

2) What kind of oil/filters should I use in my Miata? How often should I change them?

2A) The Miata Owners Manual recommends 3,000 mile oil changes. It also recommends a good quality 10W30 motor oil. Since then Mazda has recommended that Miata owners who notice a tapping noise when starting a cold engine switch to 5W30 motor oil. Synthetics are just fine, but engine treatments and other oil additives are NOT recommended. If you live in an area with extreme temperatures, consult your owners manual for oil and other fluid recommendations. Using genuine Mazda filters is highly recommended. If you change your own oil, you probably noticed the little washer on the drain plug. This washer should be replaced EVERY time you remove the plug because it bends when you tighten the plug and may leak if reused.

The 1994 owners maunal recomends 10W30 for the 1.8L engine.

3) What should I use on my soft top to keep it looking new?

3A) Miata Magazine recommends nothing other than keeping it clean. Be sure it is dry before putting it down, and if the car is new, take care to be sure the fabric folds correctly. Some people use Convertible top treatments, and some swear by Armor All. Any mild cleaner or protectant should be safe to use. Test an inconspicuous spot to be sure!

4) What about my plastic rear window?

4A) ALWAYS!! ALWAYS!! unzip it before lowering the top. Use a soft, clean towel on either side of the window to protect it from scratches when it is down. Use a good quality plastic cleaner and/or plastic polish to remove scratches and keep the window looking new. Meguiar's #17 Plastic Cleaner and #10 Plastic Polish are highly recommended. There are several aftermarket suppliers for cleaning supplies and 'rear window protectors' See the Appendix for a list of supplier names and addresses.

5) My Miata didn't come with a hardtop, can I get one?

5A) Yes, Mazda now markets the hardtop as an accessory. For no package and A package cars there are new interior panels that need to be added. B and C package cars already have the required mounting hardware. There are also other hardtops available from sources other than Mazda, often quite a bit less expensive with little or no difference in quality. Expect to pay around $1,500 (US) for a new hardtop.

6) Can I add to or improve my stereo?

6A) Obviously yes. The possibilities are almost limitless. Any Mazda dealer will sell the factory radio and CD player as an add-on unit. These units are of good quality (for factory units anyway) and are much less prone to theft than other brands. (Especially important in a Convertible!) The Clearwater company is well known for their high quality amplifier and speaker upgrades specifically for the Miata. If you don't have headrest speakers, give them serious consideration. They really make a big difference when driving at speed with the top down.

7) My battery is dead. Do I have to buy a new one from the dealer?

7A) The small gel cell battery is manufactured exclusively for the Miata and should be replaced with the factory part. If you decide to use a different sized battery, (which many people have done with success) be sure to modify the hold down bracket so that the battery is mounted securely. Mazda supposedly has a kit to mount a 'normal' battery in the Miata, but nobody seems to have ever needed one. The original battery lists for about US$120 and has a life expectancy of about 4-5 years. Before you install a normal battery, be aware of the following: All batteries produce dangerous gases. In most cars, the battery is located under the hood where it can escape to the outside. In the Miata, with the battery located in the trunk, there is no place for the gases from a normal battery to vent. On the factory battery, there is a rubber hose leading from the battery to the outside, presumably so that gas does not accumulate the trunk and explode. If you decide not to use a factory battery, you should consider using a container to enclose it that attaches to the factory vent hose. Failure to do so could possibly cause caustic gasses to rust the metal of the trunk, cause an explosion when exposed to heat, cause an explosion in an accident, or worse.

8) What type of gasoline should I use in my Miata?

8A) See your owners manual. In general, 87 octane unleaded fuel is fine. If you have altered your engine timing from factory specifications or made other performance enhancements, you may notice pinging and benefit from a higher octane fuel. Oxygenated fuels and gasahol may cause trouble and the owners manual recommends that they be avoided. Miata Magazine reports that the Miata will loose four horsepower when running on oxygenated fuel.

9) How do I remove the sun visors?

9A) Just pull firmly and twist.

10)How do I stop squeaks, rattles and other noises?

[from the hood latch, grease?]

[from the catalytic converter heat shield]

[from the transmission?]

Grease the shift fork.

[from the windows]

[from the top]

11)How do I stop leaks?

There are two common places a Miata will leak water into the interior, where the top meets the windshield frame, around the windows where they contact the moudings. Leaks at the windshield frame are usually caused by dirty or damaged mouldings or the latches not being tight enough. Usually you will notice the top will squeak and rattle if it isn't latched down tight.

If your convertable top dosen't latch securely, or the latches seem to be difficult to close, they may be adjusted improperly. Open the latch and examine the inside. There is a small plastic 'cover' that keeps the latch adjustment screw from moving. Pop the cover off and adjust the screw as needed to get the latches to close smoothly, yet tight enough to keep the top from rattling or leaking. If the latches become difficult to open or close, a small amount of oil on the moving parts should help. Don't overtighten, as this will make the top difficult to close.

There are three mouldings that fit around the window, and water can leak either between them and the window, or between them and the top. Each of these mouldings is attached to a metal 'track' that is secured to the top frame with two screws. NOTE: The window moulding that is closest to the windshield header is held on by two screws, the others have nothing holding them. [more as I figure out what to say] 12) My reverse lights don't work, what's the problem?

12A) See your dealer, early (1990) Miatas had problems with the switch that detects when you are in reverse. This is a recall item, and should be replaced by your dealer at no charge. The part is cheap, and you can do it yourself, but it does require getting under the car and the switch is located on the transmission in a place you can reach, but can't see... :^( Miata Magazine (Winter 1994) has details on changing this switch.

13) How/Why Should I remove the tie-down hooks on my Miata?

13A) On both the front and back of the Miata are a pair of (ugly) hooks. These hooks are used when Miatas are transported on ships from Japan to the States. The cars are secured by the suspension, and these hooks are used as backups to prevent the car from bouncing around a cargo ship should the primary hold downs fail. These are NOT tow hooks, and using them to hold the car down, or to tow the car with will very likely damage the bodywork/frame of your car. It is adviseable to remove them as soon as possible. The car will look a lot beter for it, and you will minimize the chance that your car will be seriously damaged should somebody ever try to tow it with the hooks. The mounting holes for the rear tie down hooks are frequently used for mounting a trailer hitch or bicycle carrier. Some competition sanctioning bodies (SCCA) consider the tie down hooks standard equipment and may not allow their removal in Stock classes. (Unless you trophy at a National Event, this probably isn't a big problem. Keep them just in case though!) NEVER use these hooks as the primary hold downs when transporting a Miata.

Removing the front tow hooks: 

There are 3 bolts per side.
Need 14mm open wrench.
No need to lift car - most bolts can be accessed from the front
or from underneath.
Approximately 10 minutes per side for Miatas without ABS or A/C.
The hooks should wiggle free, or drop out through the back.

On Miatas with ABS, access to two of the bolts on the drivers side
is partially obstructed by the windshield wiper fluid reservoir 
(I used a 14mm nutdriver to start the back bolt from under the car,
and removed the other difficult front bolt with a 14mm open wrench 
between the two prongs of the hook.)

On Miatas with ABS and A/C, WARNING!  There may be difficulty 
removing the driver's side tiedown hook once all the bolts have
been removed if it cannot drop out the back because of copper A/C 
tubing.  It may be worth having the dealer remove this hook (one 
list member was able to have this done for no cost), but for very 
patient and persistent DIY-types, manipulate or remove enough of 
the plastic around the hook until there is enough room to pull 
the hook out. 

Contributed by:

Cindy Paloma 
White 92B
San Diego, CA
14) How do I remove road tar from my Miata.

14A) Try WD-40. It will remove tar and other petroleum based products from your car without damaging the paint. It also does a good job of removing wax, so remember to wash and wax the area after.

15) Are there any recalls or secret waranty items on the Miata?

1990 Miatas with serial numbers from 351_L000054 to 351_L118586 were recalled for catalytic converter problems.

IV. Performance and Competition

1) I'm interested in autocrossing my Miata, where can I get help?

1A) Try the autocross mailing list. To join, send mail to autox-request@team.net This is a large and busy list, and it is available in direct mail or daily digest form. Remember to include your name, home state/providence/country, and tell them you drive a Miata.

The Miata is classified in the C-Stock class of the Sports Car Club of America Solo II (Autocross) rules. Other popular C-Stock cars are the Porsche 914 2.0 and 944 8V, non-turbo RX-7's, V6 Pontiac Fieros, and the normaly aspirated Toyota MR-2. Miatas dominated the field at the 1994 Solo II championships in Salina, Kansas with Bob Klinger of Colorado Springs claiming the national championship. Eight of the top ten cars were Miatas. Also, most dealers of performance parts and accessories are familiar with autocross and will be more than happy to give you advice (and sell you parts) to make you Miata quicker on the autocross track. See the Index of Miata parts and accessory suppliers at the end of this FAQ.

2) How can I improve the performance of my Miata?

2A) K&N makes a reusable air filter for the Miata that some vendors claim can improve your engine performance by as much as 2hp. In any case, investing in the reusable filter is probably cheaper for you in the long run than buying paper filters. This filter is the same for all Miatas (1.6 and 1.8L engines through 1995)

In the 1990-1993 1.6L DOHC engine, Bumping the timing from the stock ~10 degree setting to 14 degrees has been found to increase HP and torque a tiny bit. Some people who have made this adjustment find that they must use higher octane fuel to prevent the car from pinging. Some people don't notice any difference. Some people complain that this modification makes their car run rough, kill, or just generally unacceptable. It's cheap to try, and if you know what you are doing, it's hard to hurt anything. Note that you must short two terminals in the diagnostic connector to properly check/set the Miata timing. The crank angle sensor is located between the cam cover and the firewall on the passenger side of the car. Check your factory service manual for detailed information on checking and setting spark timing. This is not legal to do in Stock class autocrossing.

3)What size/brand tires should I use for Autocrossing?

3A) Probably the most popular tires for Autocrossing the Miata are the BF Goodrich Comp T/A R1 (Autocross) and the Yokohama A008RSII (Autocross) Tires. Both are available in 205/55/14 and 185/60/14. Expert autocrossers feel that the 205/55/14 offers a slight advantage over the 185/60/14, but the larger size tire is more expensive. If cost is of no concern, and/or you need every hundredth of a second go with the 205/55/14. Otherwise, get the 185/60/14 and spend the money you save on practice.

NOTE: Many people have mentioned that the 205/55/14 will last a lot longer than a similar 185/60/14. This means they are probably a lot more cost effective than I previously thought.

[Exhaust System/Intake] [Turbo/Superchargers] [Nitrous Kits?] [Monster Miata]

The Monster Miata is a Miata fitted with a Ford 302 V8, Ford 5-speed transmission, RX-7 (or sometimes Ford Thunderbird) rear suspension and other upgraded components. A supercharged 302 is also available. (300+ Horsepower)

[15" Wheels, widths and tire sizes] [Suspension, adjustable shocks, strut braces, track bar, etc.] [Alignment suggestions]

With an otherwise stock suspension, for autocross and normal road use you probably want to align your car.

Several net.people have reccomened the following alignment for autocross without compromising street use. My car is now aligned to these settings also.

.7 degrees negative camber front, 0 toe

1.0-1.2 degrees negative camber rear, 0 toe.

I have noticed no unusual tire wear with this alignment, and the car does feel a lot better than it did with the stock alignment. The car does wander a bit on the interstate, and it wants to follow grooves in grooved pavement more, but nothing I'd consider dangerous or excessive.

** Questions on common aftermarket accessories

) Any problems with a grill?

Some types of grills seem to impede airflow enough to cause the engine to run hot. Select a grill carefully and ask for advice from other owners.

) Suggestions on car covers?

) Tonneau Cover

) Do door sills work? Sure, they hide the scratches that almost certainly will show up eventually. There are many different kinds; plastic, metal, stick-on, screw on, etc.

) I'm considering a base model to save money, can I add stuff later?

[Wheels, leather, radio, power steering, air conditioning, power locks and windows, cruise, fog lights, etc.]

***************************************************************

Appendix A - Names and Addresses of Miata Related Organizations

***************************************************************

(This will probably become a separately maintained list.)

Advantage Miata (Miata Accessories)

1800 North Camino Altar

Tucson, AZ 85743

(800) 234-8991

B.B.R (Miata turbocharger kits)

Oxford Road, Brackley

Northants. NN13 5DY.

England.

011-44-280-702389

011-44-280-705339 (Fax)

Bob Mandal Mazda (Discount factory parts)

1017 Beltline Highway

Mobile, AL 36606

(800) 277-2378

(205) 478-0941

(205) 470-5071

Cartech (Miata turbocharger kits)

11723 Warfield

San Antonio, TX 78216

(210) 308-846

(210) 308-6147 (Fax)

Honey Mazda

[address & phone]

Miata Club of America

P.O. Box 920428

Norcross, GA, 30092

Phone: (404) 368-8002

FAX: (404)368-0601

Motorsport Auto (All types of Miata Accessories)

1139 W. Collins Avenue

Orange, CA 92667

(800) 633-6331

(714) 639-2620

(714) 639-7460 (Fax)

Racing Beat (Miata performance parts and accessories)

1291 Hancock St.

Anaheim, CA 92807

(714) 779-8677

(714) 779-2902 (Fax)

Rod Millen Motorsport (Miata performance parts and accessories)

7575 Reynolds Circle

Huntington Beach, CA 92647

(714) 847-2158 Phone

(714) 848-6821 (Fax)

Snugtop (Aftermarket Hardtops)

Long Beach, CA

(800) 359-6373

Technosports (Track Bar Suspension Modification)

34005 Autry

Livonia, MI 48150

(800) 521-4704

Tire Rack (Performance Tires)

South Bend, Indiana

(800) 428-8355

Appendix B - Miata Related Books, Videos and Literature

Lamm, Jay William, Miata MX-5 5 Guide, Motorbooks International 1990 Pasini, Stefano, Mazda MX-5, La Collection 1992