Our "new" 97 Miata

[Yaristeve]

Originally Posted by CtrlAltDefeat

Thanx as far as the filter goes, it's like under the header on the side of the engine. The manual says it has to be done by a special tool so to take it to the dealership. I suppose i could have tried it, but I wasn't sure if Id be able to get it off then back on... guess I should have done research first, but I had no idea it would be any different than the other filters I've changed...

I have a 1999 NB Miata. And yeah, the difference between a Miata and a Yaris are night and day; I need to get my timing belt changed on mine so I can drive it...

As noted above, Miata.net is a great resource for this and many other issues.

The oil filter is actually buried under the intake manifold. The "special tool" is just a cup-style oil filter "socket" you can buy for $10 at any autoparts store. There are a few ways Miata.netters use to remove the filter. My technique is to use a 2 foot extension and universal joint on the filter "socket" and go in from the top. Oil will pour out when you unscrew it and get all over the crossmember so you should put something (I use a small size bed absorbent pad) under the filter before you remove it.