How to Modify Your Miata

Have your Miata moving like a race car with a simple upgrade.

The Mazda Miata debuted in 1990 with a great deal of fan fare and has since become one of the best-selling two-seat roadsters in the world. The car was designed to be fast and nimble while offering a unique sense of style. Based on the fact that the car was designed as a sports car, it ships to showrooms tuned for performance, but more performance can be had rather easily. Add an aftermarket computer chip to you Miata to increase horsepower, boost torque and improve fuel economy.

Things You'll Need

• Aftermarket performance-rated computer chip
• Flathead screwdriver
• Flashlight or shop light
• Battery terminal wrench

Instructions

1. Read any literature that shipped with your new performance chip before you attempt to install it. This is important even if you have already done this sort of upgrade before. Different chip builders will have different instructions, tips and warnings and you should become familiar with them to protect yourself and your Miata.

2. Open the hood of your car and locate the battery. Use a battery terminal wrench to disconnect the black negative cable from the car battery. This will disable power to the engine so that you do not short out the electrical system when installing the performance chip in your vehicle.

3. Search the engine compartment of your Miata for a black or silver box that is attached to the engine well. Look for the box to be rectangular in shape and topped with a flat lid. Pry the lid from the box with a flathead screwdriver to expose the current computer chip. Remove the stock chip slowly and carefully. Do not bend the prongs on the chip.

4. Install the new computer chip into the empty socket. Line up all of the prongs of the chip carefully and use a minimal amount of force being careful not to damage the chip or socket. Attach the top of the box back on the box securely.

5. Reattach the black negative battery cable, close the hood and attempt to start the car. Listen closely for unusual noises. If you experience unexpected performance issues or sounds, contact the company that manufactured the computer chip that you installed.

Tips & Warnings

• Be aware of state laws regarding car engine modification.

References

• Your Hot Car: Miata Surge Performance Chip Information