
6. Turn ignition blower switch off. Backprobe Blue/White wire terminal, Blue/Red wire terminal,
Blue/Green wire terminal and Blue/Yellow wire terminal of blower switch connector If battery voltage is
not present, repair open wire(s) between blower resistor and blower switch. If battery voltage exists,
check blower motor.
BLOWER MOTOR
Disconnect blower motor 2-pin connector from bottom of blower case. Apply battery voltage across blower
motor terminals. Replace blower motor if it does not operate.
BLOWER RESISTOR
Disconnect blower resistor connectors from blower case. Check continuity, in turn, between Blue wire terminal
of 1-pin connector and each terminal of 4-pin connector. Ensure continuity exists. Replace resistor if continuity
does not exist.
BLOWER SWITCH
Disconnect blower switch connector. Place blower switch in indicated positions, and check continuity between
specified blower switch terminals. See BLOWER SWITCH TEST table. See Fig. 2
. If continuity is not as
specified, replace blower switch.
BLOWER SWITCH TEST
Switch PositionContinuity Between Terminals
Off(1)
Low"A" & "G"
Medium-Low"C", "G" & "H"
Medium-High"E", "G" & "H"
High"B", "G" & "H"
(1)There should not be continuity between any terminals.
1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
HEATER SYSTEM 1997 Heater System
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1. Check WIPER fuse (20-amp) in passenger compartment fuse block. Check AD FAN (additional fan) fuse
(20-amp) in engine compartment fuse block. If fuses are okay, go to next step. If either fuse is blown,
check for shorted wiring harness before replacing fuse.
2. Operate engine at idle. Turn A/C and blower on. Using voltmeter, backprobe Black/Red wire terminal of
compressor clutch connector. If battery voltage exists, replace compressor clutch. If battery voltage is not
present, go to next step.
3. Ensure engine is running. Ensure A/C and blower are on. Using a voltmeter, backprobe Blue/Yellow wire
terminal of the A/C relay connector. If battery voltage exists, go to next step. If battery voltage does not
exist, repair open Blue/Yellow wire between AD FAN fuse and A/C relay.
4. Backprobe Blue wire terminal of A/C relay connector. If battery voltage exists, go to next step. If battery
voltage is not present, repair open Blue wire between WIPER fuse and A/C relay.
5. Backprobe Black/Red wire terminal of A/C relay connector. If battery voltage exists, repair open
Black/Red wire between A/C relay and compressor clutch. If battery voltage is not present, go to next
step.
6. Backprobe Blue/Black wire terminal of A/C relay connector. If voltage is Zero volts, replace A/C relay. I
f
voltage is not Zero volts, repair open Blue/Black wire between A/C relay and PCM. If wire is okay, check
PCM operation.
CONDENSER (ADDITIONAL) FAN CIRCUIT
1. Check ENGINE fuse (30-amp) in passenger compartment fuse block. Check AD FAN fuse (20-amp) in
engine compartment fuse block. If fuses are okay, go to next step. If either fuse is blown, check for
shorted wiring harness before replacing fuse.
2. Start engine. Turn A/C and blower switches on. Using voltmeter, backprobe Black/Yellow wire terminal
of condenser fan motor. If battery voltage exists, go to next step. If battery voltage is not present, go to
step 4).
3. Turn ignition switch off. Disconnect condenser fan connector. Using ohmmeter, check continuity
between Black wire of condenser fan connector and ground. If continuity exists, replace condenser fan. If
continuity is not present, repair open Black wire between condenser fan and ground.
4. Turn ignition on. Ensure A/C and blower switches are on. Using voltmeter, backprobe Black/White wire
terminal of condenser fan relay connector. If battery voltage exists, go to next step. If battery voltage is
not present, repair open Black/White wire between ENGINE fuse and condenser fan relay.
5. Backprobe Blue/Yellow wire terminal of condenser fan relay connector. If battery voltage exists, go to
next step. If battery voltage is not present, repair open Blue/Yellow wire between AD FAN fuse and
condenser fan relay.
6. Backprobe Black/Yellow wire terminal of condenser fan relay connector. If battery voltage exists, repair
open Black/Yellow wire between condenser fan relay and condenser fan. If battery voltage is not present,
go to next step.
7. Backprobe Blue/White wire terminal of condenser fan relay connector. If battery voltage exists, repair
Blue/White wire between condenser fan relay and PCM. If wire is okay, check PCM operation. If battery
voltage is not present, replace condenser fan relay.
A/C SWITCH
1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
A/C-HEATER SYSTEM - MANUAL 1997 Manual A/C-Heater System
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Fig. 3: Identifying Condenser Fan Relay Terminals
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
CONDENSER FAN MOTOR
Disconnect condenser fan motor connector. Connect positive battery lead to condenser fan motor Black/Yellow
wire terminal, and ground Black wire terminal. Replace condenser fan motor if it does not operate.
EVAPORATOR THERMOSWITCH
1. Remove glove box. Operate engine at idle. Turn A/C off. Turn blower switch to 4th position (high) for a
few minutes to ensure evaporator temperature is greater than 32°F (0°C). Turn blower switch and engine
off.
2. Disconnect evaporator thermoswitch connector. Check continuity between thermoswitch terminals. If
continuity exists, go to next step. If there is no continuity, replace thermoswitch.
3. Submerge thermoswitch sensing bulb in ice cold water of less than 32°F (0°C). Ensure continuity does
not exist between thermoswitch terminals. Replace thermoswitch if continuity is not as specified.
PRESSURE SWITCH
1. Turn ignition off. Connect manifold pressure gauge set to system. If high-side pressure is 37-310 psi (2.6-
22.0 kg/cm
2 ), go to next step. If pressure is not as specified, check refrigerant level.
2. Disconnect pressure switch connector. Check continuity between switch terminals. If continuity exists,
pressure switch is okay. If there is no continuity, replace pressure switch.
REMOVAL & INSTALLATION
1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
A/C-HEATER SYSTEM - MANUAL 1997 Manual A/C-Heater System
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water when cleaning the horn pad. Solvents or cleaners could adversely affect the air bag cover and cause
improper deployment of the system.
AIR CONDITIONING SERVICING
ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM
On models equipped with anti-lock brake systems, ALWAYS observe the following cautions:
DO NOT attempt to bleed hydraulic system without first referring to the appropriate ANTI-LOCK
BRAKE SYSTEM article in the BRAKES Section.
DO NOT mix tire sizes. As long as tires remain close to the original diameter, increasing the width is
acceptable. Rolling diameter must be identical for all 4 tires. Some manufacturers recommend tires of the
same brand, style and type. Failure to follow this precaution may cause inaccurate wheel speed readings.
Use ONLY recommended brake fluids. DO NOT use silicone brake fluids in an ABS-equipped vehicle.
BATTERY WARNING WARNING:To avoid injury from accidental air bag deployment, read and carefully
follow all warnings and service precautions. See appropriate AIR BAG
RESTRAINT SYSTEM article in ACCESSORIES/SAFETY EQUIPMENT.
CAUTION: Disconnect negative battery cable before servicing any air bag system,
steering column or passenger side dash component. After any repair, turn
ignition key to the ON position from passenger's side of vehicle in case of
accidental air bag inflation
CAUTION: Avoid breathing R-134a refrigerant and PAG lubricant vapors, exposure
may irritate eyes, nose and throat. To remove R-134a from system use R-
134a recycling equipment that meets SAE J2210 specifications. If
accidental system discharge occurs, ventilate work area before resuming
service.
WARNING:R-134a service equipment or vehicle A/C systems SHOULD NOT be
pressure tested or leak tested with compressed air. Some mixtures of
air/R134a have shown to be combustible at elevated pressures. These
mixtures are dangerous and may cause fire and/or explosions. See AIR
CONDITIONING SERVICE article in GENERAL INFORMATION section.
CAUTION: The anti-lock brake system contains electronic equipment that can be
susceptible to interference caused by improperly installed or high output
radio transmitting equipment. Since this interference could cause the
possible loss of the anti-lock braking capability, such equipment should
be installed by qualified professionals.
1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
MAINTENANCE INFORMATION 1997 MAINTENANCE Mazda Maintenance Information
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REPLACING BLOWN FUSES
BRAKE PAD WEAR INDICATOR
CATALYTIC CONVERTER
ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE SENSITIVE (ESD) PARTS
ENGINE OIL
FUEL SYSTEM SERVICE WARNING:When battery is disconnected, vehicles equipped with computers may
lose memory data. When battery power is restored, driveability problems
may exist on some vehicles. These vehicles may require a relearn
procedure. See COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES article in GENERAL
INFORMATION section.
CAUTION: Before replacing a blown fuse, remove ignition key, turn off all lights and
accessories to avoid damaging the electrical system. Be sure to use fuse
with the correct indicated amperage rating. The use of an incorrect
amperage rating fuse may result in a dangerous electrical system
overload.
CAUTION: Indicator will cause a squealing or scraping noise, warning that brake
pads need replacement.
CAUTION: Continued operation of vehicle with a severe malfunction could cause
converter to overheat, resulting in possible damage to converter and
vehicle.
CAUTION: Any modification to the exhaust system on turbo models, which reduces
exhaust backpressure, will lead to lean fuel mixtures and excessive spark
advance. This could cause serious engine damage.
WARNING:Many solid state electrical components can be damaged by static
electricity (ESD). Some will display a warning label, but many will not.
Discharge personal static electricity by touching a metal ground point on
the vehicle prior to servicing any ESD sensitive component.
CAUTION: Never use non-detergent or straight mineral oil.
1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
MAINTENANCE INFORMATION 1997 MAINTENANCE Mazda Maintenance Information
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HALOGEN BULBS
HEADLIGHT RETRACTOR
RADIATOR CAP
RADIATOR FAN
WARRANTY INFORMATION
BASIC NEW CAR WARRANTY
Basic components are warranted against defects in materials and workmanship for 36 months or 50,000 miles,
whichever occurs first. Tires are covered by a separate warranty offered by tire manufacturer.
ANTI-PERFORATION WARRANTY
Covers body sheet metal panels for 60 months, regardless of mileage, against perforation due to corrosion.
SAFETY RESTRAINT SYSTEM WARRANTY WARNING:Relieve fuel system pressure prior to servicing any fuel system
component (fuel injection models).
WARNING:Halogen bulbs contain pressurized gas which may explode if overheated.
DO NOT touch glass portion of bulb with bare hands. Eye protection
should be worn when handling or working around halogen bulbs.
CAUTION: If headlight retractor freezes during cold weather operation, DO NOT
attempt to force mechanism. Headlights should be kept raised at all times
in cold weather. To raise them, use only headlight retractor switch. DO
NOT use headlight switch.
CAUTION: Always disconnect the fan motor when working near the radiator fan. The
fan is temperature controlled and could start at any time even when the
ignition key is in the OFF position. DO NOT loosen or remove radiator cap
when cooling system is hot.
WARNING:Keep hands away from radiator fan. Fan is controlled by a thermostatic
switch which may come on or run for up to 15 minutes even after engine
is turned off.
CAUTION: Always refer to customer's copy of warranty information for specific
model application and/or coverage limitations.
1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
MAINTENANCE INFORMATION 1997 MAINTENANCE Mazda Maintenance Information
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LUBRICATION
FLUID CAPACITY
POWER STEERING FLUID CAPACITY
FLUID TYPE
Dexron-II or Mazda M-III fluid is recommended for all models.
FLUID LEVEL CHECK
Check fluid level on oil pump dipstick (if equipped) or reservoir. Fluid should be between marks on level gauge
dipstick (if equipped) or reservoir. If fluid level is low, fill as necessary. Recheck fluid level. DO NOT overfill.
HYDRAULIC SYSTEM BLEEDING
1. Raise and support front of vehicle. With ignition off, turn steering wheel from lock to lock several times.
Check fluid level. Add fluid as necessary. Repeat procedure until fluid level no longer decreases.
2. Start engine and operate at idle. Turn steering wheel from lock to lock 5 times. Check fluid level. Add
fluid as necessary. Continue procedure until fluid is clear of air bubbles and does not decrease in level.
ADJUSTMENTS
PINION PRELOAD
Miata & Protege
1. Ensure steering rack is in center position. Using Protractor (49-D032-316 ) and a torque wrench, tighten
adjusting cover to 43 INCH lbs. (4.9 N.m), then loosen adjusting cover. See Fig. 2
. Repeat loosening and
ti
ghtening procedure 3 times. After tightening adjusting cover the third time, loosen adjusting cover 25
ApplicationQts. (L)
Miata & Protege.85 (.80)
MPV.95 (.90)
MX-3
4-Cylinder.85 (.80)
V61.27 (1.20)
Millenia, MX-6 & 6261.32 (1.25)
RX71.01 (.96)
9291.80 (1.70)
NOTE: Pinion preload should be checked when steering gear assembly has been
disassembled or overhauled. Check preload after steering gear assembly has
been reassembled, but tie rods have not yet been installed.
1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
STEERING SYSTEM - POWER RACK & PINION 1997 STEERING Mazda Power Rack & Pinion
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STARTER - DIRECT DRIVE
1997 STARTING & CHARGING SYSTEMS Mazda - Starters - Direct Drive
DESCRIPTION & OPERATION
Direct drive starter is a conventional 12-volt, 4-pole, brush-type starter. The integral solenoid is attached to the
drive housing. The overrunning clutch pinion drive is mounted directly on end of armature shaft drive.
TROUBLE SHOOTING
ON-VEHICLE TESTING
* PLEASE READ FIRST *
CIRCUIT TESTING
If starter does not operate, check voltage at starter "S" terminal with ignition switch in START position (and
clutch depressed on M/T). See Fig. 1
. If voltage is greater than 8 volts, repair or replace starter as required. If
volta
ge is 8 volts or less, check ignition switch, park/neutral switch (A/T), interlock switch (M/T) and wiring. NOTE: See TROUBLE SHOOTING article in GENERAL INFORMATION.
NOTE: On all models with anti-theft system, obtain code number and deactivate audio
anti-theft system before disconnecting battery.
NOTE: Before testing, ensure battery is fully charged, battery cables and terminals are
clean and tight, and engine grounds are good.
1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
STARTER - DIRECT DRIVE 1997 STARTING & CHARGING SYSTEMS Mazda - Starters - Direct Drive
1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
STARTER - DIRECT DRIVE 1997 STARTING & CHARGING SYSTEMS Mazda - Starters - Direct Drive
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