What reliability score does the Mazda MX-5 Miata get?

6.4 out of 10, scored from the 8 faults we document for this model and how severe each one is.

Is the 2016–2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata reliable?

Scored from 8 documented faults · reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team

Quick answer

6.4/ 10

Mixed

On our documented-fault scoring the Mazda MX-5 Miata rates 6.4 out of 10 · mixed. We hold 8 known faults for it and 1 are rated high severity, so the risk is real but contained. The weak points cluster around body, drivetrain and electrical. A well-serviced example with evidence for the big-ticket items is usually a safe buy; the score describes the model, not the specific car in front of you.

Verdict · Negotiate · budget for the known faults

What the score is built from

Critical: 0
High: 1
Medium: 3
Low: 4

Weak points cluster around body, drivetrain, electrical, engine.

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The faults that decide it

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.
Typical repair: Significant repair · £400–£1,400

DrivetrainMedium

Clutch wear on hard-driven / tracked cars.

Typically appears: Varies
What to inspect: Check the clutch bite point and feel for slip.
Typical repair: Clutch & dual-mass flywheel · £700–£1,600

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.
Typical repair: Suspension refresh (per axle) · £250–£1,100

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.
Typical repair: Electrical diagnosis & module repair · £120–£900

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.
Typical repair: Door / window mechanism · £130–£600

Costs are indicative UK independent-garage bands for budgeting and negotiation · never a quote.

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Quick answer

What the score is built from

The faults that decide it

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