Mazda MX-5 Miata (1997+). Manual - part 101

2. Disconnect diagnostic module connectors located at base of steering column and connect Short Circuit 

Connectors (49-H066-004 ) to diagnostic module harness connectors. See Fig. 3 .  

ACTIVATING SYSTEM (MX-3, RX7 & 929) 

1. Ensure negative battery cable is still disconnected. Remove short circuit connectors from diagnostic 

module harness connectors. See Fig. 3 . Reconnect diagnostic module harness connectors to diagnostic 
module.  

2. Reconnect negative battery cable. Turn ignition on. Check AIR BAG warning light to ensure air bag 

system is operating properly. See SYSTEM OPERATION CHECK . Activate audio anti-theft function 
(if equipped).  

Fig. 1: Disconnecting Clockspring Connectors (Typical) 
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP. 

 

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata 

STEERING COLUMN 1995-97 STEERING Mazda Motors Corp. - Steering Columns

  

Fig. 2: Disconnecting Passenger Air Bag Module Connectors (Typical) 
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP. 

 

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata 

STEERING COLUMN 1995-97 STEERING Mazda Motors Corp. - Steering Columns

  

Fig. 3: Connecting Short Circuit Connectors (Typical) 
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP. 

ADJUSTMENTS 

CLOCKSPRING CENTERING 

Set front wheels in straight-ahead position. Rotate clockspring clockwise until it stops (DO NOT force). Rotate 
clockspring 2 3/4 turns counterclockwise. Rotate clockspring further, if necessary, to align arrows on 
clockspring and outer housing. See Fig. 4 . 

 

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata 

STEERING COLUMN 1995-97 STEERING Mazda Motors Corp. - Steering Columns

  

Fig. 4: Centering Clockspring 
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP. 

REMOVAL & INSTALLATION 

DRIVER AIR BAG MODULE 

Removal 

Before proceeding, follow air bag service precautions. See SERVICE PRECAUTIONS . Disable air bag 
system. Refer to AIR BAG DISABLING & ACTIVATING . Remove air bag module bolts or nuts from back 
of steering wheel. Disconnect driver air bag module harness connector(s) and support rope. Remove driver air 
bag module. 

Installation 

WARNING:

To avoid injury from accidental air bag deployment, read and carefully 
follow all WARNINGS and SERVICE PRECAUTIONS .

 

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata 

STEERING COLUMN 1995-97 STEERING Mazda Motors Corp. - Steering Columns