1997 MAZDA MX-5 ESP

OPERATION
TCM
TCM receives information from various input devices and uses this information to control solenoids on
transmission valve body for transmission shifting and torque converter clutch engagement.
TCM automatically switches from NORMAL mode to POWER mode corresponding to driving condition in
"D" range. Upshifts and downshifts are performed at a higher speed in POWER mode than in NORMAL mode.
TCM contains a self-diagnostic system, which will store Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) if a failure or
problem exists in electronic control system. DTC can be retrieved to determine problem area. See SELF-
DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM . TCM is located under left side of instrument panel, above fuse block.
TCM INPUT DEVICES & SIGNALS
4th Gear Inhibit Signal
Signal is input to TCM when cruise control is on. Signal detects when difference between target speed and
actual speed exceeds specification.
HOLD Switch
HOLD switch delivers input to TCM to indicate gears preferred by operator. Switch is located on shift lever
handle. HOLD switch is canceled when ignition switch is turned off.
Input/Turbine Speed Sensor
Sensor is a magnetic pick-up type pulse generator that monitors input shaft speed. AC waveform is input to
TCM by output speed sensor. Sensor is located on front of transmission, back of converter housing.
Throttle Position (TP) Sensor
TP sensor delivers an input signal to TCM indicating throttle valve position (opening). TP sensor is located on
side of throttle body.
Transmission Range Switch
Transmission range switch delivers an input signal to TCM indicating shift lever position. Switch is located on
side of transmission.
Transmission Fluid Temperature (TFT) Sensor
TFT sensor is threaded into cooler line banjo mounting on side of transmission case. Sensor sends signal to
TCM indicating fluid temperature.
Vehicle Speed Sensor

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
1997 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS NC4A-EL Electronic Controls
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GENERAL INFORMATION
Computer Relearn Procedures
COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES
Vehicles equipped with engine or transmission computers may require a relearn procedure after vehicle battery
is disconnected. Many vehicle computers memorize and store vehicle operation patterns for optimum
driveability and performance. When vehicle battery is disconnected, this memory is lost. The computer will use
default data until new data from each key start is stored. As computer memorizes vehicle operation for each
new key start, driveability is restored. Vehicle computers may memorize vehicles operation patterns for 40 of
more key starts.
Customers often complain of driveability problems during relearn stage because vehicle acts differently then
before being serviced. Depending on type and make of vehicle and how it is equipped, the following complaints
(driveability problems) may exist:
Harsh Or Poor Shift Quality
Rough Or Unstable Idle
Hesitation Or Stumble
Rich Or Lean Running
Poor Fuel Mileage
These symptoms and complaints should disappear after a number of drive cycles have been memorized. To
reduce the possibility of complaints, after any service which requires battery power to be disconnected, vehicle
should be road tested.
GENERIC COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES
Some manufacturers identify a specific relearn procedure which will help establish suitable driveability during
relearn stage. These procedures are especially important if vehicle is equipped with and electronically
controlled automatic transmission or transaxle. Always complete procedure before returning vehicle to
customer. The following general procedures are to be used if driveability problems are encountered after power
loss or battery has been disconnected. These procedures may provide an aid in eliminating these problems.
Automatic Transmission
Set parking brake, start engine in "P" or "N" position. Warm-up vehicle to normal operating temperature
or until cooling fan cycles.
Allow vehicle to idle for one minute in "N" position. Select "D" and allow engine to idle for one minute.
Accelerate at normal throttle position (20-50%) until vehicle shifts into top gear.
Cruise at light to medium throttle.
Decelerate to a stop, allowing vehicle to downshift, and use brakes normally.
Process may be repeated as necessary.

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
GENERAL INFORMATION Computer Relearn Procedures

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
GENERAL INFORMATION Computer Relearn Procedures
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MOTORS
MOTORS
SENDING UNITS & SENSORS
SENDING UNITS & SENSORS
Key Interlock UnitBehind left side of dash. See Fig. 2 .
SAS UnitBehind center of dash. See Fig. 2 .
Transmission Control Module (TCM)Under left side of dash, near fuse block. See Fig. 2 .
ComponentComponent Location
Blower MotorUnder right side of dash. See Fig. 2 .
Condenser Fan MotorIn front of engine compartment.
Cooling Fan MotorIn front of engine compartment.
Cruise Control ActuatorOn left side of engine compartment.
Fuel PumpIn fuel tank.
Power Antenna MotorIn right front of trunk.
Retractable Headlamp ActuatorsBehind respective headlamp.
Shift Lock ActuatorUnder center console, on base of gear selector.
Windshield Washer MotorOn bottom of washer fluid reservoir.
Windshield Wiper MotorOn right side of firewall.
ComponentComponent Location
ABS Wheel Speed Sensor (Left Front)On back of left front wheel spindle assembly. See Fig. 1 .
ABS Wheel Speed Sensor (Left Rear)On back of left rear wheel hub assembly. See Fig. 3 .
ABS Wheel Speed Sensor (Right Front)On back of right front wheel spindle assembly. See Fig. 1 .
ABS Wheel Speed Sensor (Right Rear)On back of right rear wheel hub assembly. See Fig. 3 .
Brake Fluid Level SensorIn brake fluid reservoir. See Fig. 1 .
Camshaft Position SensorIn center rear of engine compartment. See Fig. 1 .
Crankshaft Position SensorOn front of engine.
EGR Boost SensorOn right side of engine compartment.
EGR Valve Position SensorOn right side center, rear of engine compartment.
EGR Valve Position SensorOn right side center, rear of engine compartment. See Fig. 1 .
Engine Coolant Temperature SensorOn rear of engine. See Fig. 1 .
Fuel Gauge Sender UnitIn fuel tank.
Heated Oxygen Sensor (Front)In rear of engine compartment. See Fig. 1 .
Heated Oxygen Sensor (Rear)On underside of vehicle, on exhaust pipe.
Input/Turbine Speed SensorOn left side of transmission.
Mass Air Flow SensorOn top of air filter housing. See Fig. 1 .
Throttle Position (TP) SensorOn side of throttle body. See Fig. 1 .
Transmission Fluid Temperature SensorOn left side of transmission.

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
1997 MAZDA MX-5 Miata
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Fig. 29: Identifying Correct Belt Mounting
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
B2500, B3000 & B4000
To check drive belt for proper operation, with engine running, check drive belt tracking (position of drive belt
on one of the grooveless pulleys, idlers or drive belt tensioner). If edge of drive belt rides beyond edge of
pulley, noise and premature wear may result. If a drive belt tracking condition exists, visually check drive belt
tensioner for damage, especially mounting pad surface. If drive belt tensioner is not installed correctly with
locating pins in locating holes, mounting surface pad will be out of position. This will result in abnormal drive
belt tension and chirp and squeal noises.
If above procedures do not correct drive belt noise, try replacing drive belt with a known good drive belt.
However, drive belt noise may return, with mileage, if one of above conditions still exists uncorrected.
CAUTION: Incorrect drive belt installation will cause excessive drive belt wear and
may cause drive belt to come off drive pulleys.
NOTE: Replace belts if tensioner indicates belt is out of adjustment range. DO NOT
apply belt dressing to serpentine belt. Use illustration to help align serpentine
belt and to check belt routing and tension. See Fig. 15
through Fig. 17 .

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
1994-98 ENGINE COOLING Specifications & Drive Belt Routing - B2300, B2500, B3000, B4000, Millenia, MPV, MX-5
Miata & Protege

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Supplemental air bag system, seat belts and related components are warranted for 5 years or 60,000 miles,
whichever comes first, against defects in materials and workmanship.
REPLACEMENT PARTS & ACCESSORIES
Manufacturer-supplied parts and accessories are warranted against defects in material or workmanship for 12
months without regard to mileage. If installed by a Mazda dealer, part or accessory will be repaired or replaced
without charge during warranty period. If not installed by a dealer, part or accessory will be repaired or replaced
without charge for parts, but labor cost will be responsibility of owner.
EMISSION DEFECT WARRANTY (EXCEPT CALIFORNIA)
Warrants that vehicle was designed, built and equipped to conform with applicable Federal emission regulations
at time of sale and that vehicle is free of defects in materials and workmanship which may cause vehicle to fail
to conform with applicable regulations for 5 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first.
EMISSION PERFORMANCE WARRANTY (EXCEPT CALIFORNIA)
Covers all repairs, adjustments and replacements if vehicle fails to conform to applicable emission standards
and such failure results in vehicle owner bearing a penalty or other sanction under local, state or Federal law.
Warranty period is 5 years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. After 2 years or 24,000 miles, manufacturer
will make necessary adjustments, repairs and replacements at no cost to owner only when noncompliance is
caused by failure of components which have been installed in vehicle for sole or primary purpose of reducing
vehicle emissions. See copy of warranty for specific components covered.
EMISSION DEFECT WARRANTY (CALIFORNIA)
For 3 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first, any defective emission-related part on vehicle will be
repaired or replaced by manufacturer at no cost to owner. Certain emission-related parts are covered for repair
or replacement for 7 years or 70,000 miles, whichever occurs first. See copy of warranty for specific
components covered.
EMISSION PERFORMANCE WARRANTY (CALIFORNIA)
For 3 years or 50,000 miles, manufacturer will make all necessary repairs and adjustments to ensure vehicle
passes a required Smog Check inspection.
FUSES & CIRCUIT BREAKERS
FUSE PANEL LOCATION
Fuse box is located above driver's left knee, accessible through a removable cover. The main fuse block is
located at the right rear of the engine compartment.
The Trunk Mounted Fuse Panel is located on the ri
ght side of the trunk, near the trunk hinge.

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
MAINTENANCE INFORMATION 1997 MAINTENANCE Mazda Maintenance Information
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