Sat MAZDA MODEL MX-5 MIATA 2008 Owners Manual

Black plate (3,1)
Thank you for choosing a Mazda. We at Mazda design and build vehicles with complete
customer satisfaction in mind.
To help ensure enjoyable and trouble-free operation of your Mazda, read this manual
carefully and follow its recommendations.
An Authorized Mazda Dealer knows your vehicle best. So when maintenance or service is
necessary, that's the place to go.
Our nationwide network of Mazda professionals is dedicated to providing you with the best
possible service.
We assure you that all of us at Mazda have an ongoing interest in your motoring pleasure
and in your full satisfaction with your Mazda product.Mazda Motor CorporationHIROSHIMA, JAPAN
Important Notes About This Manual
Keep this manual in the glove box as a handy reference for the safe and enjoyable use of your Mazda. Should you
resell the vehicle, leave this manual with it for the next owner.
All specifications and descriptions are accurate at the time of printing. Because improvement is a constant goal at
Mazda, we reserve the right to make changes in specifications at any time without notice and without obligation.
Event Data Recorder
This vehicle is equipped with an event data recorder. In the event of a crash, this device records data related to
vehicle dynamics and safety systems for a short period of time. These data can help provide a better
understanding of the circumstances in which crashes and injuries occur and lead to the designing of safer
vehicles.
Air Conditioning and the Environment
Your Mazda's genuine air conditioner is filled with HFC134a (R134a), a refrigerant that has been found not to
damage the earth's ozone layer. If the air conditioner does not operate properly, consult an Authorized Mazda
Dealer.
Perchlorate
Certain components of this vehicle such as [air bag modules, seat belt pretensioners, lithium batteries, ...] may
contain Perchlorate Material –Special handling may apply for service or vehicle end of life disposal. See
www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/perchlorate.
Please be aware that this manual applies to all models, equipment and options. As a result, you may find
some explanations for equipment not installed on your vehicle.
©2007 Mazda Motor Corporation
Printed in Japan Apr. 2008(Print5)
A Word to Mazda Owners
MX-5_8X49-EA-07F_Edition5 Page3
Thursday, February 21 2008 12:50 AM
Form No.8X49-EA-07F

Black plate (114,1)
lBefore opening or closing the hardtop, stop in a safe place off the right-of-way and park
on a level surface.
lWhen opening the hardtop, make sure objects inside the vehicle are not blown away by
the wind.
lSecure all loose objects inside before driving with the hardtop down.lTo help prevent burglary or vandalism and to ensure that the passenger compartment
stays dry, close the hardtop securely and lock both doors when leaving the vehicle.
lDo not drive through an automatic car wash as it may damage the hardtop.lDo not open or close the hardtop when the temperature is below 5 °C (41 °F) as it this
will damage the hardtop material.
lOpening the hardtop while it is wet can also cause water to drip into the passenger
compartment.
lDo not open or close the hardtop in a strong wind as it could damage the hardtop.
qOperation Indicator Light
When illuminated
This notifies the driver that the hardtop is
only partially open.
When flashing
This indicates that the hardtop is being
open/closed. (During button operation)
When not illuminated
This indicates that the hardtop is open/
closed fully.
NOTE
If the operation indicator light flashes quickly,
there may be a system malfunction. Consult an
Authorized Mazda Dealer.
qOperation Conditions
If the following conditions have been
satisfied, the hardtop can be opened/
closed.
lThe vehicle is parked on a level surface
off the right-of-way and the parking
brake is firmly set.
lThe ignition switch is in the ON
position.
lPut a vehicle with an automatic
transmission in Park (P) or Neutral (N),
a manual transmission in Neutral.
lThe trunk lid is closed.
NOTE
If the power retractable hardtop cannot be
closed even after the operation conditions are
all met, have it checked at an Authorized
Mazda Dealer.
The hardtop can be closed manually as an
emergency measure.
Refer to The Power Retractable Hardtop Does
not Close on page 3-58.
3-54
Knowing Your Mazda
Doors and Locks
MX-5_8X49-EA-07F_Edition5 Page114
Thursday, February 21 2008 12:50 AM
Form No.8X49-EA-07F

Black plate (143,1)
Hazardous Driving
WARNING
Be extremely careful if it is necessary to
downshift on slippery surfaces:Downshifting into lower gear while
driving on slippery surfaces is
dangerous. The sudden change in tire
speed could cause the tires to skid.
This could lead to loss of vehicle
control and an accident.
Do not rely on ABS as a substitute for
safe driving: The ABS cannot compensate for
unsafe and reckless driving, excessive
speed, tailgating (following another
vehicle too closely), driving on ice and
snow, and hydroplaning (reduced tire
friction and road contact because of
water on the road surface). You can
still have an accident.
When driving on ice or in water, snow,
mud, sand, or similar hazard:
lBe cautious and allow extra distance
for braking.
lAvoid sudden braking and quick
steering.
lIf your vehicle is not equipped with
ABS, brake with the pedal by using a
light up-down motion. Do not hold the
pedal down constantly.
If your vehicle is equipped with ABS,
do not pump the brakes. Continue to
press down on the brake pedal.
lIf you get stuck, select a lower gear and
accelerate slowly. Do not spin the rear
wheels.
lFor more traction in starting on
slippery surfaces such as ice or packed
snow, use sand, rock salt, chains,
carpeting, or other nonslip material
under the rear wheels. NOTE
Use snow chains only on the rear wheels.
Before Driving Your Mazda
Driving Tips
4-7
MX-5_8X49-EA-07F_Edition5 Page143
Thursday, February 21 2008 12:51 AM
Form No.8X49-EA-07F

Black plate (156,1)
qAnti-Lock Brake System (ABS)í
The ABS control unit continuously
monitors the speed of each wheel. If one
is about to lock up, the ABS responds by
automatically releasing and reapplying
that wheel's brake.
The driver will feel a slight vibration in
the brake pedal and may hear a chattering
noise from the brake system. This is
normal when the ABS operates. Don't
pump the brakes, continue to press down
on the brake pedal.
WARNING
Do not rely on ABS as a substitute for
safe driving:
The ABS cannot compensate for
unsafe and reckless driving, excessive
speed, tailgating (following another
vehicle too closely), driving on ice and
snow, and hydroplaning (reduced tire
friction and road contact because of
water on the road surface). You can
still have an accident.
NOTE
lBraking distances may be longer on loose
surfaces (snow or gravel, for example)
which usually have a hard foundation. A
vehicle with a normal braking system may
require less distance to stop under these
conditions because the tires will build up a
wedge of surface layer when the wheels
skid.
lThe sound of the ABS operating may be
heard when starting the engine or
immediately after starting the vehicle.
However, it does not indicate a malfunction.
q ABS Warning Lightí
The warning light stays on for a few
seconds when the ignition switch is turned
to the ON position.
If the ABS warning light stays on while
you're driving, the ABS control unit has
detected a system malfunction. If this
occurs, your brakes will function normally
as if the vehicle had no ABS.
Should this happen, consult an Authorized
Mazda Dealer as soon as possible.
NOTE
When the engine is jump-started to charge the
battery, uneven rpm occurs and the ABS
warning light comes on. This is due to a weak
battery, not a malfunction.
Recharge the battery.
5-8
Driving Your Mazda
íSome models.
Starting and Driving
MX-5_8X49-EA-07F_Edition5 Page156
Thursday, February 21 2008 12:51 AM
Form No.8X49-EA-07F

Black plate (171,1)
Traction Control System
(TCS)
í
The Traction Control System (TCS)
enhances traction and safety by
controlling engine torque. When the TCS
detects driving wheel slippage, it lowers
engine torque to prevent loss of traction.
This means that on a slick surface, the
engine adjusts automatically to provide
optimum power to the drive wheels
without causing them to spin and lose
traction.
WARNING
Do not rely on the traction control
system as a substitute for safe driving:The traction control system (TCS)
cannot compensate for unsafe and
reckless driving, excessive speed,
tailgating (following another vehicle
too closely), and hydroplaning
(reduced tire friction and road
contact because of water on the road
surface). You can still have an
accident.
Use snow tires or tire chains and drive
at reduced speeds when roads are
covered with ice and/or snow: Driving without proper traction
devices on snow and/or ice-covered
roads is dangerous. The traction
control system (TCS) alone cannot
provide adequate traction and you
could still have an accident.
NOTE
To turn off the TCS, press the DSC OFF switch
(page 5-25).
q TCS/DSC Indicator Light
This indicator light stays on for a few
seconds when the ignition switch is turned
to the ON position. If the TCS or DSC is
operating, the indicator light flashes.
If the light stays on, the TCS or DSC may
have a malfunction and they may not
operate correctly. Take your vehicle to an
Authorized Mazda Dealer.
NOTE
lIn addition to the indicator light flashing, a
slight lugging sound will come from the
engine. This indicates that the TCS is
operating properly.
lOn slippery surfaces, such as fresh snow, it
will be impossible to achieve high rpm
when the TCS is on.
Driving Your Mazda
Starting and Driving
5-23íSome models.
MX-5_8X49-EA-07F_Edition5 Page171
Thursday, February 21 2008 12:51 AM
Form No.8X49-EA-07F

Black plate (172,1)
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC)
í
The Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
automatically controls braking and engine
torque in conjunction with systems such
as ABS and TCS to help control side slip
when driving on slippery surfaces, or
during sudden or evasive maneuvering,
enhancing vehicle safety.
Refer to ABS (page 5-8) and TCS (page
5-23).
WARNING
Do not rely on the dynamic stability
control as a substitute for safe driving:The dynamic stability control (DSC)
cannot compensate for unsafe and
reckless driving, excessive speed,
tailgating (following another vehicle
too closely), and hydroplaning
(reduced tire friction and road
contact because of water on the road
surface). You can still have an
accident.
CAUTION
ØThe DSC may not operate correctly
unless the following are observed:
ØUse tires of the correct size
specified for your Mazda on all
four wheels.
ØUse tires of the same
manufacturer, brand and tread
pattern on all four wheels.
ØDo not mix worn tires.
Ø The DSC may not operate correctly
when tire chains are used or a
temporary spare tire is installed
because the tire diameter changes.
Ø If repair or replacement of the
steering or other surrounding
equipment is necessary, have it
done at an Authorized Mazda
Dealer. If the center position of the
steering deviates, the DSC may not
operate correctly because there is
a sensor in the steering which
detects driving conditions.
qTCS/DSC Indicator Light
This indicator light stays on for a few
seconds when the ignition switch is turned
to the ON position. If the TCS or DSC is
operating, the indicator light flashes.
If the light stays on, the TCS or DSC may
have a malfunction and they may not
operate correctly. Take your vehicle to an
Authorized Mazda Dealer.
5-24
Driving Your Mazda
íSome models.
Starting and Driving
MX-5_8X49-EA-07F_Edition5 Page172
Thursday, February 21 2008 12:51 AM
Form No.8X49-EA-07F

Black plate (220,1)
qOperating Tips for CD Player/In-
Dash CD Changer
Condensation phenomenon
Immediately after turning on the heater
when the vehicle is cold, the CD or
optical components (prism and lens) in the
CD player/In-dash CD changer may
become clouded with condensation. At
this time, the CD will eject immediately
when placed in the unit. A clouded CD
can be corrected simply by wiping it with
a soft cloth. Clouded optical components
will clear naturally in about an hour. Wait
for normal operation to return before
attempting to use the unit.
Handling the CD player/In-dash CD
changer
The following precautions should be
observed.
lDo not spill any liquid on the audio
system.
lDo not insert any objects, other than
CDs, into the slot.
lThe CD revolves at high speed within
the unit. Defective (cracked or badly
bent) CDs should never be used.
lDo not use non-conventional discs
such as heart-shaped, octagonal discs,
etc. The disc may not eject resulting in
a malfunction.
lIf the memory portion of the CD is
transparent or translucent, do not use
the disc.
Transparent
6-12
Interior Comfort
Audio System
MX-5_8X49-EA-07F_Edition5 Page220
Thursday, February 21 2008 12:51 AM
Form No.8X49-EA-07F

Black plate (222,1)
lDo not use record sprays, antistatic
agents, or household spray cleaners.
Volatile chemicals such as benzine and
thinner can also damage the surface of
the CD and must not be used. Anything
that can damage, warp, or fog plastic
should never be used to clean CDs.
lInsert discs one by one. If two discs are
inserted at the same time, the system
may not operate properly.
lCD TEXT textual information cannot
be displayed by audio units other than
the In-dash CD changer (MP3
compatible type only). (Only playback
is possible.)
lThe following player can play MP3
files recorded in CD-ROM, CD-R, and
CD-RW.
· In-dash CD changer (MP3compatible type only)
lThe CD player/In-dash CD changer
ejects the CD if the CD is inserted
upside down. Also dirty and/or
defective CDs may be ejected.
lAn 8 cm (3 in) CD can be played in the
CD player.
The In-dash CD changer is specially
made for 12 cm (5 in) CDs.
An 8 cm (3 in) CD can be played in the
In-dash CD changer (MP3 compatible
type only) if an 8 cm (3 in) CD adapter
is used.
If an 8 cm (3 in) CD adapter is not
used, the In-dash CD changer (MP3
compatible type only) may be
damaged. Always use a CD adapter.
An 8 cm (3 in) CD cannot be played in
the In-dash CD changer (MP3 non-
compatible type only) even if an 8 cm
(3 in) CD adapter is used.
lDo not insert cleaning discs in the CD
player/In-dash CD changer.
lDo not insert any disc with a peel-off
seal affixed to it.
Handling the In-dash CD changer
lThis unit may not be able to play
certain CD-R/CD-RWs made using a
computer or music CD recorder due to
disc characteristics, scratches,
smudges, dirt, etc., or due to dust or
condensation on the lens inside the
unit.
lStoring CDs in the vehicle exposed to
direct sunlight or high temperature may
damage the CD-R/CD-RWs, and make
them unplayable.
lCD-R/CD-RW exceeding 700 MB
cannot be played.
lThis unit may not be able to play
certain discs made using a computer
due to the application (writing
software) setting used. (For details,
consult the store where the application
was purchased.)
lIt is possible that certain text data, such
as titles, recorded on a CD-R/CD-RW
may not be displayed when musical
data (CD-DA) is playing.
lThe period from when a CD-RW is
inserted to when it begins playing is
longer than a normal CD or CD-R.
lCompletely read the instruction manual
and cautions for CD-R/CD-RWs.
lDo not use discs with cellophane tape
adhering, partially peeled off labels, or
adhesive material exuding from the
edges of the CD label. Also, do not use
discs with a commercially-available
CD-R label affixed. The disc may not
eject resulting in a malfunction.
6-14
Interior Comfort
Audio System
MX-5_8X49-EA-07F_Edition5 Page222
Thursday, February 21 2008 12:51 AM
Form No.8X49-EA-07F

Black plate (223,1)
qOperating tips for MP3
NOTE
Supply of this product only conveys a license
for private, non-commercial use and does not
convey a license nor imply any right to use this
product in any commercial (i.e. revenue-
generating) real time broadcasting (terrestrial,
satellite, cable and/or any other media),
broadcasting/streaming via the Internet,
intranets and/or other networks or in other
electronic content distribution systems, such as
pay-audio or audio-on-demand applications.
An independent license for such use is
required. For details, please visit
http://www.mp3licensing.com.
lThis audio system handles MP3 files
that have been recorded on CD-R/CD-
RW/CD-ROMs. Discs that have been
recorded using the following formats
can be played:
lISO 9660 level 1lISO 9660 level 2lJoliet extended formatlRomeo extended formatlThis unit handles MP3 files
conforming to the MP3 format
containing both header frames and data
frames.
lThis unit can play multi-session
recorded discs that have up to 40
sessions.
lThis unit can play MP3s with sampling
frequencies of 16/22.05/24/32/44.1/48
kHz.
lThis unit can play MP3 files that have
been recorded in bit rates of 8 kbps to
320 kbps. Nonetheless, to insure
enjoyment of music with consistent
sound quality, it is recommended to use
discs that have been recorded at a bit
rate of 128 kbps or more.
lIf a disc has both music data (CD-DA)
and MP3 files, playback of the two file
types differs depending on how the
disc was recorded.
lPacket written discs cannot be played
on this unit.
lThis unit does not play CDs recorded
using MP3i (MP3 interactive), MP3
PRO and RIFF MP3 formats.
Interior Comfort
Audio System
6-15
MX-5_8X49-EA-07F_Edition5 Page223
Thursday, February 21 2008 12:51 AM
Form No.8X49-EA-07F

Black plate (234,1)
qOperating the Radio
Band selector button Satellite button Display Manual tuning dial
Seek tuning/APC switch Electric serial number switch Scan/Auto memory switch
Channel preset switches
Radio ON
Press a band selector button (
)to
turn the radio on.
Band selection
Successively pressing the band selector
button (
) switches the bands as
follows: FM1 →FM2 →AM.
The selected mode will be indicated. If
FM stereo is being received, “ST ”will be
displayed.
NOTE
If the FM broadcast signal becomes weak,
reception automatically changes from
STEREO to MONO for reduced noise, and the
“ ST ”indicator will go out.
Tuning
The radio has the following tuning
methods: Manual, Seek, Scan, Preset
channel, and Auto memory tuning. The
easiest way to tune stations is to set them
on preset channels.
NOTE
If the power supply is interrupted (fuse blows
or the battery is disconnected), the preset
channels will be canceled.
Manual tuning
Turning the manual tuning dial will
change the frequency higher or lower.
Seek tuning
Pulling up or pressing down the seek
tuning/APC switch will cause the tuner to
seek a higher or lower frequency
automatically.
6-26
Interior Comfort
Audio System
MX-5_8X49-EA-07F_Edition5 Page234
Thursday, February 21 2008 12:51 AM
Form No.8X49-EA-07F