Category: blog

Using bug spray to clear plastic headlight lenses is a popular DIY method, but it’s important to understand both the benefits and potential drawbacks. Here’s a detailed guide on how to do it safely and effectively.

How to Clear Plastic Headlight Lenses with Bug Spray

Materials Needed:

• Bug spray containing DEET
• Microfiber cloth
• Water
• Soap

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Preparation:

• Park your car in a shaded area to prevent the bug spray from drying too quickly.
• Clean the headlights with soap and water to remove any surface dirt and grime. Dry them thoroughly with a microfiber cloth.

1. Application:

• Spray a small amount of bug spray onto a clean microfiber cloth. Avoid spraying directly onto the headlight to prevent overspray on the car’s paint and trim.
• Gently rub the cloth over the headlight lens in a circular motion. The DEET in the bug spray will help dissolve the oxidation and haze on the plastic surface.

1. Cleaning:

• After rubbing the headlight for a few minutes, rinse it with clean water to remove any residue from the bug spray.
• Dry the headlight with a clean microfiber cloth.

1. Final Touch:

• For a longer-lasting effect, consider applying a UV sealant or headlight protectant to prevent future oxidation.

Important Considerations:

• Temporary Solution: Using bug spray is a quick fix and may not provide long-lasting results. The headlights might become hazy again after a few weeks¹.
• Potential Damage: DEET can damage the plastic, paint, and rubber components of your car if not used carefully¹. Always apply the spray to a cloth first and avoid direct contact with other parts of the vehicle.

For a more permanent solution, you might want to consider using a headlight restoration kit, which is specifically designed for this purpose and provides more durable results.

Affiliate Link:
If you’re looking for a reliable headlight restoration kit, check out this Headlight Restoration Kit on Amazon. It’s highly rated and provides a more permanent solution to foggy headlights.

By following these steps, you can improve the clarity of your headlights and enhance your vehicle’s appearance and safety. Just remember to handle the bug spray with care to avoid any potential damage.

¹: ChrisFix YouTube Video

Sure! Here’s a blog article based on the common Miata upgrades:

Top 10 Upgrades for Your Mazda Miata

The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a beloved roadster known for its lightweight design, nimble handling, and pure driving pleasure. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a new owner, upgrading your Miata can take your driving experience to the next level. Here are ten popular upgrades that can enhance your Miata’s performance, handling, and aesthetics.

1. Tires

One of the most impactful upgrades you can make is to your tires. High-performance tires can significantly improve grip and handling, allowing you to take corners with confidence and enjoy a smoother ride.

2. Air Intake

A cold air intake system helps your engine breathe better by drawing in cooler, denser air. This can lead to a noticeable increase in horsepower and a more responsive throttle.

3. Sway Bars

Upgrading your sway bars can reduce body roll and improve cornering stability. This is especially beneficial for spirited driving and track days, giving you more control and confidence behind the wheel.

4. Exhaust System

A performance exhaust system not only enhances the sound of your Miata but can also improve engine performance. Look for systems that offer a balance between sound and power gains.

5. Suspension

Investing in coilovers or upgraded shocks and springs can transform your Miata’s ride quality and handling. Whether you prefer a comfortable daily driver or a track-ready setup, there are suspension options to suit your needs.

6. Brakes

High-performance brake pads and rotors can provide better stopping power and fade resistance. This is a crucial upgrade for those who enjoy spirited driving or track events.

7. Wheels

Lightweight wheels can reduce unsprung weight, improving handling and acceleration. Plus, they can give your Miata a fresh, stylish look.

8. Flywheel

An aluminum flywheel reduces rotational mass, allowing the engine to rev more freely. This can lead to quicker acceleration and a more responsive driving experience.

9. ECU Tuning

Tuning the engine control unit (ECU) can optimize your Miata’s performance and efficiency. Custom tunes can unlock additional horsepower and torque, tailored to your specific modifications.

10. Aesthetic Mods

Personalize your Miata with aesthetic modifications like body kits, spoilers, and custom paint jobs. These upgrades can make your Miata stand out and reflect your unique style.

Upgrading your Miata is a rewarding experience that can enhance your connection with the car. Whether you’re focused on performance, handling, or aesthetics, there’s a wide range of options to explore. Happy driving!

Feel free to customize this article further to match your style or add any personal experiences with your Miata upgrades! If you need more detailed information on any specific upgrade, just let me know.

Miata could possibly stand for “Miata Is Always The Answer”. When pondering life’s mysteries, one might be tempted to seek profound answers in philosophy, science, or ancient texts. But what if I told you that the answer to everything lies not in esoteric wisdom, but in a small, unassuming sports car? Enter the Mazda Miata—a roadster that defies expectations and embodies the essence of driving pleasure.

The Miata Manifesto

1. Simplicity as a Virtue: The Miata adheres to the KISS principle: Keep It Simple, Stupid. Its lightweight chassis, minimalist design, and rear-wheel-drive layout hark back to classic British roadsters. No fancy gadgets, no unnecessary frills—just pure driving joy.
2. Balance and Harmony: Like a Zen master, the Miata achieves balance. Its 50:50 weight distribution ensures predictable handling. Whether you’re carving through mountain roads or navigating rush-hour traffic, the Miata dances with grace.
3. The Joy of Revs: The Miata’s naturally aspirated engine begs to be revved. As the tachometer needle climbs, so does your spirit. It’s a symphony of mechanical harmony—a reminder that life’s pleasures often lie in the details.

Practical Applications

1. Midlife Crisis Antidote: Forget buying a motorcycle or getting a questionable tattoo. The Miata is the ultimate midlife crisis remedy. Roof down, wind in your hair, and a twisty road ahead—suddenly, existential angst dissipates.
2. Relationship Therapy: Couples seeking rekindled passion should take a Miata road trip. The shared experience of navigating hairpin turns and laughing at each other’s helmet hair can mend even the most fractured relationships.
3. Career Advice: Stuck in a dead-end job? Consider the Miata. Its manual transmission teaches patience, persistence, and the art of timing. Plus, nothing says “I’m in control” like heel-and-toe downshifts.

Miata Mantras

1. “Top Down, Troubles Out”: Lower the soft top, and suddenly, life’s worries seem trivial. Bills? Traffic? Existential dread? Not when the sun kisses your forehead and the exhaust note sings.
2. “Miata Is Always the Answer”: Forget complex equations or philosophical debates. When faced with a dilemma, ask yourself: “What would the Miata do?” The answer: Take the scenic route and enjoy the journey.

Conclusion

In a world of chaos, the Mazda Miata stands as a beacon of simplicity, joy, and unadulterated fun. So next time you seek enlightenment, skip the meditation app and hop into a Miata. Because sometimes, the answer to everything is a winding road and a spirited drive by giving it ‘da beans’.

Disclaimer: The author acknowledges that the Miata may not solve all of life’s problems, but it sure makes them more enjoyable.

The name miata derives from Old High German for “reward”. The Mazda MX-5 Miata is known by different names in various markets around the world. In many international markets, the car is simply called the MX-5, which is a designation used globally. In Japan, the car was originally sold under the Eunos brand as the Eunos Roadster but is also known as the Mazda Roadster. These names reflect regional branding and marketing strategies, but they all refer to the same beloved sports car.

The fourth-generation Mazda MX-5, also known as the ND Miata, weighs approximately 2,332 pounds (about 1,058 kilograms) for the manual transmission version and 2,381 pounds (around 1,080 kilograms) for the automatic transmission version¹². It’s impressively lightweight, contributing to its agile and spirited driving experience! 🚗💨

The NC Miata, part of the third generation, weighs approximately 2,542 lbs¹². With its 16-valve 2.0L inline 4-cylinder engine producing 170 hp and a 6-speed manual or optional 6-speed automatic transmission, it’s a spirited roadster that delivers a thrilling driving experience! 🚗💨

The NA Miata, also known as the first-generation Miata, is a lightweight sports car that has captured enthusiasts’ hearts. Its weight varies slightly by year, but on average, it tips the scales at a minuscule 2,180 lbs (990 kg)¹². This featherweight design, combined with its responsive engine, makes it an agile and nimble performer on the road! 🚗💨

Engine

• Spark Plugs: 11-17 ft-lbs
• Oil Drain Plug: 22-30 ft-lbs
• Valve Cover Bolts: 43-78 in-lbs
• Water Pump Bolts: 14-19 ft-lbs

Transmission

• Flywheel Bolts: 71-75 ft-lbs
• Pressure Plate Bolts: 14-19 ft-lbs
• Bellhousing Bolts: 48-65 ft-lbs

Suspension

• Wheel Lug Nuts: 66-86 ft-lbs
• Upper Shock Mount Plate Bolts: 22-27 ft-lbs
• Lower Control Arm Bolts: 54-69 ft-lbs

Brakes

• Caliper Bolts (Front): 58-65 ft-lbs
• Caliper Bolts (Rear): 25-29 ft-lbs
• Bracket Bolts (Front/Rear): 36-51 ft-lbs

Engine

• Crankshaft Pulley Bolt: 116-122 ft-lbs
• Camshaft Gear Bolt: 37-44 ft-lbs
• Valve Cover Bolts: 43-78 in-lbs
• Spark Plugs: 11-17 ft-lbs
• Oil Drain Plug: 22-30 ft-lbs

Transmission

• Flywheel Bolts: 71-75 ft-lbs
• Pressure Plate Bolts: 14-19 ft-lbs
• Bellhousing Bolts: 48-65 ft-lbs
• Transmission Drain Plug: 29-43 ft-lbs

Suspension

• Wheel Lug Nuts: 66-86 ft-lbs
• Lower Control Arm Bolts: 54-69 ft-lbs
• Upper Shock Mount Plate Bolts: 22-27 ft-lbs

Brakes

• Caliper Bolts (Front): 58-65 ft-lbs
• Caliper Bolts (Rear): 25-29 ft-lbs
• Brake Bracket Bolts: 36-51 ft-lbs

Sure! Here is a comprehensive list of torque specifications for the Mazda Miata NC (2006-2015):

General Torque Specifications

• Engine Oil Drain Plug: 22-30 ft-lbs (31-41 N-m)
• Wheel Lug Nuts: 66-86 ft-lbs (89-117 N-m)
• Spark Plugs: 11-17 ft-lbs (132-204 in-lbs)
• Differential Fill Plug: 29-40 ft-lbs (39-54 N-m)
• Gearbox Drain Plug: 29-43 ft-lbs (39-59 N-m)
• Gearbox Fill Plug: 18-29 ft-lbs (25-39 N-m)
• Differential Drain Plug: 29-40 ft-lbs (39-54 N-m)

Suspension Torque Specifications

• Lower Control Arm Bolt, Front: 54-69 ft-lbs (73-93 N-m)
• ABS Wheel Speed Sensor: 15-18 ft-lbs (19-25 N-m)
• Upper Shock Nuts: 23-34 ft-lbs (31-46 N-m)
• Swaybar Bushing Bolts, Rear: 14-21 ft-lbs (20-28 N-m)
• Axle Lock Nut: 123-159 ft-lbs (167-216 N-m)
• Swaybar Bushing Bolts, Front: 13-20 ft-lbs (18-26 N-m)
• Spindle (Vertical) Bolt: 54-69 ft-lbs (73-93 N-m)
• Swaybar End Link Bolts, Both Ends: 27-40 ft-lbs (36-54 N-m)
• Upper Shock Mount Plate Bolts: 22-27 ft-lbs (29-36 N-m)
• Lower Shock Bolt: 54-69 ft-lbs (73-93 N-m)
• Camber Adjustment Bolts, Rear: 54-70 ft-lbs (73-95 N-m)
• Camber Adjustment Bolts, Front: 69-83 ft-lbs (94-112 N-m)

Brakes Torque Specifications

• Caliper Bolts, Front: 58-65 ft-lbs (78-88 N-m)
• Front/Rear Bracket Bolts: 36-51 ft-lbs (49-69 N-m)
• Rear Adjuster Plug Bolt: 9-12 ft-lbs (12-16 N-m)
• Front/Rear Banjo Bolts: 16-22 ft-lbs (22-29 N-m)
• Caliper Bolts, Rear: 25-29 ft-lbs (34-39 N-m)

Engine & Cooling Torque Specifications

• Water Pump – 4 Bolts to Block: 14-19 ft-lbs (19-25 N-m)
• Crank Pulley Bolts – 4: 109-151 in-lbs
• Crank Pulley Main Bolt: 80-87 ft-lbs (108-118 N-m) (plus Loctite 242-blue)
• Cam Cover Bolts: 43-78 in-lbs
• Alternator Tension Adjustment Bolt: 14-19 ft-lbs (19-25 N-m)
• Alternator Mounting Bolt: 27-38 ft-lbs (37-52 N-m)
• Timing Belt Cover Bolts: 69-95 in-lbs
• Radiator – Upper Bolts: 14-19 ft-lbs (19-25 N-m)
• Timing Belt Tensioner Bolt & Idler Pulley Bolt: 28-38 ft-lbs (38-52 N-m)
• Crank Pulley Main Bolt: 116-122 ft-lbs (157-165 N-m) (plus Loctite 242-blue)
• Water Pump Pulley – 3 Bolts: 69-151 in-lbs
• Water Inlet Pipe – 2 Bolts to Water Pump: 14-19 ft-lbs (19-25 N-m)
• Thermostat Cover – 2 Bolts: 14-19 ft-lbs (19-25 N-m)
• Cylinder Head Bolts: 56-60 ft-lbs (76-81 N-m)
• Fuel Rail: 14-19 ft-lbs (19-25 N-m)

Intake / Exhaust Torque Specifications

• Airflow Meter Bolts: 69-95 in-lbs
• Intake Manifold Bracket: 27-40 ft-lbs (36-54 N-m)
• O2 Sensor: By feel, as close to 22-36 ft-lbs as possible
• Exhaust Header Nuts: 28-34 ft-lbs (38-46 N-m)
• Exhaust Pipe Clamp Bolt (to Bell Housing): 15-20 ft-lbs (21-27 N-m)

Clutch Torque Specifications

• Flywheel: 71-75 ft-lbs
• Pressure Plate: 14-19 ft-lbs
• Transmission Input Cover: 14-18 ft-lbs
• Transmission Drain: 29-43 ft-lbs
• Transmission Fill: 18-29 ft-lbs
• Starter: 28-38 ft-lbs
• Slave Cylinder: 12-16 ft-lbs
• Driveshaft: 20-22 ft-lbs
• Power Plant Frame: 77-91 ft-lbs
• Differential Mount (Center): 69-75 ft-lbs
• Differential Mount (2-12mm): 18-22 ft-lbs
• Differential Drain: 29-40 ft-lbs
• Differential Fill: 29-40 ft-lbs

Sure! Here are some additional torque specifications for the Mazda Miata NC (2006-2015) that might not be listed on the page you mentioned:

Engine & Cooling

• Oil Pan Bolts: 69-95 in-lbs (8-11 N-m)
• Oil Pickup Tube Bolts: 70-95 in-lbs (8-11 N-m)
• Valve Cover Bolts: 43-78 in-lbs (5-9 N-m)
• Cam Gear Bolts: 37-44 ft-lbs (50-60 N-m)
• Cam Gear (VVT Intake) Bolts: 47-61 ft-lbs (64-83 N-m)
• Engine Mount Bracket to Block: 27-38 ft-lbs (37-52 N-m)
• Engine Mount to Bracket/Subframe: 42-58 ft-lbs (57-79 N-m)

Transmission & Differential

• Bellhousing Bolts: 48-65 ft-lbs (65-88 N-m)
• Transmission Input Cover Bolts: 14-18 ft-lbs (19-24 N-m)
• Starter Bolts: 28-38 ft-lbs (38-52 N-m)
• Slave Cylinder Bolts: 12-16 ft-lbs (16-22 N-m)
• Driveshaft Bolts: 20-22 ft-lbs (27-30 N-m)
• Power Plant Frame Bolts: 77-91 ft-lbs (104-123 N-m)
• Differential Mount (Center) Bolts: 69-75 ft-lbs (94-102 N-m)
• Differential Mount (2-12mm) Bolts: 18-22 ft-lbs (24-30 N-m)

Engine Accessories

• Alternator Pivot Bolt: 27-38 ft-lbs (37-52 N-m)
• Power Steering Pump Bracket Bolts: 28-38 ft-lbs (38-52 N-m)
• Power Steering Pump Pivot Bolt: 27-40 ft-lbs (37-54 N-m)
• Power Steering Tensioner Bolt: 14-18 ft-lbs (19-24 N-m)
• AC Compressor Bracket (4 Side) Bolts: 27-38 ft-lbs (37-52 N-m)
• AC Compressor Bracket (1 Front) Bolts: 14-19 ft-lbs (19-25 N-m)
• AC Compressor Mounting Bolts: 10-15 ft-lbs (14-20 N-m)

This should cover most of the critical torque specifications for your Mazda Miata NC. If you need more specific details or additional specs, or have suggestions feel free to Contact Us!