Why Upgrade to a Mazdaspeed Short Shifter?

For many Miata owners, the factory shifter is perfectly adequate for daily driving. It delivers a satisfying, notchy feel that enthusiasts love. However, if you are looking to reduce shift throw, improve precision, and bring the shifter closer to your reach, a short shifter is one of the most rewarding upgrades you can make. The Mazdaspeed short shifter is a genuine OEM part originally fitted to the Mazdaspeed Miata (NB Miata with turbo), but it bolts directly into NA and NB models with the five-speed transmission (the six-speed requires a different part). This guide covers the installation on a five-speed Miata, typically found in 1990–2005 models.

By reducing the lever height and altering the pivot geometry, the Mazdaspeed shifter shortens shift throws by roughly 30 percent compared to the stock unit. The result is faster, more confident gear changes that make the car feel more connected and race-ready. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step installation process along with a full cost breakdown so you can budget accordingly. We also include tips from experienced owners and links to further resources.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before beginning, gather all required items. Having everything within reach prevents mid-job frustration and keeps you from reintroducing dirt into the transmission.

  • Mazdaspeed short shifter kit – OEM part number M506-17-490A (includes shifter lever, lower ball, spring, and new bushings). Aftermarket alternatives exist but this article focuses on the genuine Mazdaspeed piece.
  • Socket set – 10mm, 12mm, 14mm sockets; a 14mm deep socket is helpful for the shifter turret bolts.
  • Wrench set – Combination wrenches in 10mm and 12mm.
  • Screwdriver set – Phillips #2 and flathead for prying clips.
  • Torque wrench – ¼-inch drive with a range of 5–20 ft-lb is ideal for transmission bolts.
  • Rags or shop towels – For wiping down old grease and catching spills.
  • Grease – A synthetic high-temperature grease such as Honda Shin-Etsu or Mobil 1 synthetic grease for transmission bushings.
  • Silicone spray or WD-40 – Helps free stubborn shift boot clips.
  • Safety glasses – Protect your eyes when working under the car and disconnecting the battery.
  • Jack stands (optional) – Some steps may be easier if the car is raised slightly, though the shifter is accessible from the cabin.
  • Trim removal tool (optional) – Avoids scratching plastic panels when prying the console.

Preparation Steps

1. Gather Your Tools and Verify the Kit

Open the Mazdaspeed short shifter box and confirm all pieces are present: the shifter lever, lower ball cup, wave spring, and new plastic bushings. The original Mazdaspeed kit for the NB also includes a smaller dust boot; if missing, you can reuse the old one. Lay the tools on a clean surface near the driver’s seat.

2. Prepare Your Miata

Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the rear wheels. Disconnect the negative battery terminal (10mm socket). This step is crucial for NB models with a flashing airbag indicator or for any electrical work near the center console. Wait a few minutes for the airbag capacitor to discharge.

If you have a power seat, slide it fully back to access the rear bolts of the center console. Remove any loose items from the cup holders or storage bin.

3. Evaluate Your Current Shifter

If your Miata has over 50,000 miles, the factory shifter bushings are likely worn. The foam bushing at the bottom of the turret degrades over time, leading to a sloppy feel. Replacing it with a bronze or brass bushing (often sold alongside the Mazdaspeed shifter) is a common upgrade. We’ll cover that in the installation section.

Step-by-Step Installation Process

1. Remove the Center Console

Start by removing the shift knob. On most Miatas, the knob unscrews counterclockwise. If it’s stuck, wrap it with a rag and twist firmly, or use a knob remover tool if available. Then remove the two screws at the front of the console (under the ashtray or cubby) and the two screws at the rear (inside the storage compartment or under the parking brake boot). For NA models, also remove the plastic trim around the radio. Gently lift the console upward, unclipping any wiring connectors for window switches or hazard lights. Set the console aside in a safe place.

2. Detach the Shift Boot

With the console removed, you’ll see the leather or vinyl shift boot secured by four plastic clips. Carefully pull the boot upward; the clips will pop free. If they are stubborn, work a trim tool between the boot and the tunnel. Remove the boot completely, then peel back the black rubber sound-deadening sheet if present. Underneath is the lower foam dust boot (tied to the shifter). Some owners replace this at the same time; you can reuse it if it’s intact.

3. Remove the Factory Shifter

Using a 10mm or 12mm socket (depending on year), remove the two bolts that hold the shifter to the transmission turret. Typically a 12mm bolt for NA/NB five-speeds. With both bolts out, lift the shifter straight up and out. It will come out with the lower ball and spring. Set it on a clean rag. Now you can see the turret oil – a small amount is normal. If the oil is dark or low, consider replacing the turret oil with a lightweight gear oil like Red Line MT-90. This is an inexpensive maintenance step while you’re in there.

4. Prepare the Turret for the New Shifter

Wipe out any old grease and debris from the turret. Inspect the bottom of the turret for the white plastic bushing. If it’s worn or cracked, remove it with a pick or small screwdriver. Clean the turret bore with a rag. If you are installing a bronze/brass bushing (strongly recommended for durability), press it into place now. Otherwise, install the new OEM plastic bushing included in the Mazdaspeed kit. Apply a thin layer of grease to the inside of the bushing.

5. Install the Mazdaspeed Short Shifter

Identify the orientation of the shifter: the lower ball should point downward, and the flat spot on the lower shaft should face the driver’s side. Before inserting, apply grease to the ball and the shaft where it contacts the dust boot. Lower the shifter into the turret, making sure the ball seats into the bronze/plastic bushing. Press down until you feel a slight resistance from the wave spring. Then install the two retaining bolts. Torque them to 14–18 ft-lb; overtightening can strip the aluminum turret threads. Use a torque wrench for precision.

6. Reattach the Shift Boot

Slide the lower foam dust boot over the shifter rod, pressing it down onto the turret ring. Then reinstall the leather/vinyl upper boot by aligning the clips and pressing down until they snap. Make sure the boot is not twisted and that it seals around the shifter lever.

7. Reinstall the Center Console

Place the console back in position, carefully tucking any wires. Tighten the four screws – do not overtighten plastic. Reconnect any electrical connectors. Replace the shift knob and tighten snugly by hand.

8. Reconnect the Battery

Reattach the negative battery terminal. Turn the ignition to ON (do not start) and check that the airbag light goes through its self-test. Start the engine and listen for any unusual transmission noises.

Testing the Installation

With the engine running, depress the clutch and move the shifter through all gears: 1-2-3-4-5 and Reverse. The shifts should feel shorter, with a positive engagement. There should be no binding or grinding. If the shifter feels notchy in a bad way, you may have insufficient grease or a misaligned bushing. If Reverse is difficult, check that the reverse lockout ring on the shifter is functioning. A short road test is advisable – listen for rattles from the shift boot area. If you hear a metallic click, tighten the lower boot or apply a small piece of foam.

Many owners report that the Mazdaspeed shifter becomes smoother after a few hundred miles as the bushings wear in. If you experience excessive vibration, consider adding a weighted shift knob (such as a 400g aftermarket knob) to dampen oscillation.

Cost Breakdown

Below is an estimated cost breakdown for installing a Mazdaspeed short shifter. Prices vary by region and source (new vs. used).

  • Mazdaspeed short shifter kit (genuine) – $180–$280 (available from Mazda Motorsports development accounts or online Mazda parts dealers).
  • Optional bronze bushing kit – $30–$50 (e.g., from 5x Racing or Moss Miata).
  • Tools (if not owned) – Socket set and torque wrench can be acquired for $60–$120. Borrowing from a friend or renting is cheaper.
  • Turret gear oil (MT-90, 0.5 liter) – $15–$20.
  • Labor (if hiring a mechanic) – $100–$200 for about one hour of work.
  • Miscellaneous – Grease, rags, safety glasses (under $15).

Total cost if DIY with existing tools: $200–$350. This is significantly less than aftermarket full replacement shifters like the MiataRoadster or Coolerworx.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Mazdaspeed short shifter fit all Miatas?

It fits NA (1990–1997) and NB (1999–2005) five-speed manual transmissions. For the six-speed (2001–2005 NB models with six-speed option, and NC), a different part is needed. Check your transmission type beforehand.

Will it fit my 1990 Miata with the short nose crank?

Yes, the shifter works regardless of engine variant. The short nose crank issue is unrelated to the shifter installation.

Is the throw shorter than aftermarket shifters?

The Mazdaspeed shifter offers about a 30% reduction in throw. Aftermarket units like the MiataRoadster kit can achieve up to 50% reduction. However, the Mazdaspeed unit is known for its more refined feel and lack of harshness.

Do I need to replace the turret oil?

It’s highly recommended. Old turret oil can be gritty and cause wear. Replacing it with fresh gear oil extends the life of your bushings.

Can I install this without removing the transmission?

Absolutely. All work is done from inside the cabin. The transmission remains in place.

Will the short shifter make the transmission louder?

Some increase in gear noise is possible due to reduced insulation but it’s minimal. If you are sensitive, you can add extra foam around the shifter boots or use a heavier shift knob.

Additional Tips for a Perfect Installation

  • Use anti-seize on the retaining bolts – aluminum threads can gall. A tiny amount of anti-seize compound prevents future headaches.
  • Consider a leather shift boot upgrade – The OEM boot is durable but a custom leather boot from Redline Goods or similar can enhance interior aesthetics.
  • Pair with a stainless steel clutch line – For a complete upgrade of the driveline feel, a braided clutch line and extended turret bleed are popular.
  • Check for shifter rattle – If the shifter vibrates at high RPM, the lower dust boot may not be seated correctly. Also ensure the wave spring is present and not compressed.
  • Document the process – Take photos as you disassemble; this helps during reassembly, especially for wiring harness routing.

Conclusion

Installing a Mazdaspeed short shifter in your Miata is one of the most rewarding DIY upgrades you can do. The process is straightforward, taking approximately an hour for a first-timer, and the result is immediate: tighter gear changes, a more direct connection to the transmission, and an enhanced driving experience. With this comprehensive guide and a modest budget, you can enjoy the same shifter used on the factory-tuned Mazdaspeed model.

For further reading and to source the parts, check out Miata.net’s Garage section for additional technical articles, or purchase the genuine Mazdaspeed kit from MazdaStuff or Flyin’ Miata. For community support, the Miata.net Forums have thousands of threads on shifter upgrades where you can ask questions and share your experience.