Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata Base, AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Idle Speed & Ignition Timing
Ensure idle speed and base ignition timing are set to specification. See IDLE SPEED SPECIFICATIONS and IGNITION TIMING SPECIFICATIONS tables. If necessary, see ADJUSTMENTS article.
IDLE SPEED SPECIFICATIONS
| Application (1) | RPM | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| M/T | 850 | ||||
| A/T (2) | 800 | ||||
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IGNITION TIMING SPECIFICATIONS
| Application (1) | Degrees BTDC @ RPM | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| M/T | 10 @ 850 | ||||
| A/T (2) | 10 @ 800 | ||||
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Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.