Mazda MX-5 Miata / Grand Touring. Manual - part 171

Fig. 7: Energizing Starter S Terminal 
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP. 

Return test 

1. Disconnect the motor wire from terminal M.  

2. Connect battery positive voltage to terminal M and ground the starter body. 

 

2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring 

2008 ENGINE Starting System - MX-5 Miata

  

Fig. 8: Connecting Battery Positive Voltage To Terminal M & Ground Starter Body 
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP. 

3. Pull out the drive pinion with a screwdriver. Verify that it returns to its original position when released. 



If it does not return, repair or replace the starter.  

PINION GAP INSPECTION 

1. Pull out the drive pinion with the battery positive voltage connected to terminal S and the starter body 

grounded. 

CAUTION:



Applying power for more than 10 s can damage the starter. Do 
not apply power for more than 10s.  

 

2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring 

2008 ENGINE Starting System - MX-5 Miata

  

Fig. 9: Energizing Starter S Terminal 
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP. 

2. Measure the pinion gap while the drive pinion is extended. 



If not as specified, adjust with an adjustment washer (between drive housing front cover and 
magnetic switch).  

Starter pinion gap  

0.5-2.0 mm {0.02-0.07 in}  

 

2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring 

2008 ENGINE Starting System - MX-5 Miata

  

Fig. 10: Measuring Pinion Gap While Drive Pinion Is Extended 
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP. 

STARTER INNER PARTS INSPECTION 

Armature 

1. Verify that there is no continuity between the commutator and the core at each segment using a tester. 



If there is continuity, replace the armature. 

 

2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring 

2008 ENGINE Starting System - MX-5 Miata