Mazda MX-5 Miata (1997+). Manual - part 44

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

  

Manual Transmission 



Place transmission in Neutral position.  



Ensure emergency brake has been set and all accessories are turned off.  



Start engine and bring to normal operating temperature.  



Allow vehicle to idle in Neutral for one minute.  



Initial relearn is complete, and process will be completed during normal driving.  

 

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata 

GENERAL INFORMATION Computer Relearn Procedures

  

1997-98 DRIVE AXLES

Differentials & Drive Axles - MPV & MX-5 Miata 

AXLE RATIO & IDENTIFICATION 

See AXLE RATIO SPECIFICATIONS table. To determine axle ratio, divide number of ring gear teeth by 
number of pinion teeth. 

AXLE RATIO SPECIFICATIONS 

DESCRIPTION 

A Limited Slip Differential (LSD) is optional on Miata. On MPV, rear axle bearings are held in place by a 
pressed-on collar. Front axle on MPV 4WD and rear axle on Miata use CV joints to connect differential to axle 
hubs. 

LUBRICATION 

CAPACITY 

DIFFERENTIAL CAPACITY SPECIFICATIONS 

FLUID TYPE 

Application

Number Of Teeth Pinion/Ring 

Gear

Ratio

Miata

A/T

N/A

4.10:1

M/T

N/A

4.30:1

MPV

2WD

11/43

3.91:1

4WD (Front & Rear)

10/41

4.10:1

NOTE:

For models with independent suspension, see AXLE SHAFTS - REAR or AXLE 
SHAFTS - FRONT article for axle shaft overhaul.

Application

(1)

 Qts. (L)

Miata

1.06 (1.00)

MPV 2WD

1.60 (1.50)

MPV 4WD

Front

1.80 (1.70)

Rear

1.60 (1.50)

(1)

Fill to lower edge of filler plug hole.

 

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata 

1997-98 DRIVE AXLES Differentials & Drive Axles - MPV & MX-5 Miata

  

 

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata 

1997-98 DRIVE AXLES Differentials & Drive Axles - MPV & MX-5 Miata

  

DIFFERENTIAL LUBRICATION SPECIFICATIONS

TROUBLE SHOOTING 

REMOVAL & INSTALLATION 

FRONT DIFFERENTIAL OIL SEAL REPLACEMENT (MPV) 

1. Jack up the vehicle and support it on safety stands.  

2. Drain the differential oil.  

3. Mark front drive shaft flange for reassembly reference. Remove drive shaft.  

4. Before loosening the locknut, measure the rotation starting torque of the drive pinion (within the range of 

the drive pinion and ring gear backlash). 

Application

(1)

 Specification

Warmer Than 0°F (-18°C)

GL-5/SAE 90W

Cooler Than 0°F (-18°C)

GL-5/SAE 80W

(1)

Fill to lower edge of filler plug hole.

NOTE:

See TROUBLE SHOOTING article in GENERAL INFORMATION.

 

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata 

1997-98 DRIVE AXLES Differentials & Drive Axles - MPV & MX-5 Miata