BodyLow
Soft-top wear, seams and rear-window fit.
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Cycle the roof and inspect seams and the rear window.
2016–2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata · common problems & known faults
The ND MX-5 is a reliable, lightweight roadster; soft-top wear and clutch condition are the main checks.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed July 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2016–2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata are Second or third gear failure and whining noises, particularly on early 2016-2018 2.0-litre models, Clutch wear on hard-driven / tracked cars and Clunking noises from the rear end or a feeling of instability caused by worn rear hub spherical bushes. 1 of the documented issues are rated high severity · inspect these first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
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Build the inspection planReliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Mazda MX-5 Miata.
6.4/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 1
- Medium
- 3
- Low
- 4
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Known faults to check
DrivetrainMedium
Clutch wear on hard-driven / tracked cars.
- Typically appears
- Varies
- What to inspect
- Check the clutch bite point and feel for slip.
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Build the inspection planEngineLow
Minor oil consumption on some Skyactiv units.
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check oil level between changes.
ElectricalLow
Infotainment lag on early cars.
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Test the screen and Bluetooth.
DrivetrainHigh
Second or third gear failure and whining noises, particularly on early 2016-2018 2.0-litre models.
- Typically appears
- 20,000-50,000 miles
- What to inspect
- During a brief yard drive, shift firmly into second and third gears. Listen for whining noises and feel for unusual resistance, crunching, or the gear stick popping out.
BodyLow
Vertical scratches on the door glass due to worn or misaligned internal window guides.
- Typically appears
- 30,000-60,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Roll both door windows completely down and back up. Inspect the outer glass surfaces under good lighting for distinct vertical scoring lines.
SuspensionMedium
Clunking noises from the rear end or a feeling of instability caused by worn rear hub spherical bushes.
- Typically appears
- 40,000-70,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Grip the top of the rear tyres at the 12 o'clock position and push and pull vigorously. Listen for a metallic clunk and feel for excessive lateral play.
ElectricalMedium
Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) system failure due to water ingress and corrosion in the rear bumper sensors.
- Typically appears
- 4-6 years
- What to inspect
- Turn the ignition on and watch the instrument cluster for a flashing BSM warning light. Ensure the amber warning icons in both wing mirrors illuminate during the startup self-test.
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Build my inspection planFrequently asked questions
Is the MX-5 reliable?
Yes — the ND is dependable; roof and clutch wear are the main checks.
Has this MX-5 been tracked?
Look for worn tyres, brakes and clutch indicating spirited use.
Is the folding hardtop (RF) better?
The RF adds refinement; check the roof mechanism cycles smoothly.
Which engine is better to stock, the 1.5-litre or the 2.0-litre?
Both are highly desirable but cater to different buyers. The 1.5-litre is praised for its eagerness to rev and lighter front end, appealing to purists. The 2.0-litre offers more torque and often comes with a limited-slip differential and Bilstein dampers, making it preferable for buyers wanting higher performance.
What are the main differences between the ND1 and ND2 models?
The ND2, introduced in late 2018, features a revised 2.0-litre engine with a higher redline and an output increase from 160 PS to 184 PS. It also introduced a dual-mass flywheel, a telescopic steering column, and a standard reversing camera, significantly improving overall drivability and cabin ergonomics.
Do ND-generation MX-5s suffer from the same rust issues as older models?
While the ND is significantly better protected than previous generations, the factory underseal remains relatively thin. Surface corrosion can appear on the subframes and suspension components of cars driven year-round on salted UK roads. It is highly recommended to check the chassis rails and rear arches on older examples.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.
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