The definitive lightweight roadster, now in its fourth generation. The 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G engine is naturally aspirated, uses a timing chain, and has proven itself beyond 300,000 km with proper care. The ND1 (2015-2018) produces 160 hp while the revised ND2 (2019+) makes 184 hp with a higher 7,500 rpm redline. Main ownership concern is the manual gearbox, which Mazda revised five times before the ND2's dual-mass flywheel finally resolved the worst failures.
Robust naturally aspirated engine
Low running costs for a sports car
Gearbox fragile under hard use (ND1)
Subframe corrosion from thin factory coating
Buy if: You want a pure, engaging roadster with a proven engine and can verify the gearbox shifts cleanly on early cars.
Avoid if: You plan regular track days (gearbox is marginal for abuse) or live in a salt-heavy climate without rustproofing.
Expected Annual Maintenance Costs
Common Problems
Synchromesh wears prematurely and gear teeth can fracture under load, especially on ND1 2.0 models · more· less
The ND's 6-speed manual gearbox is the car's main weakness. The 2.0-litre produces more torque than the 1.5 and puts significantly more stress on the synchros and gear teeth. Mazda revised the gearbox build combination five times (V1 through V5) during ND1 production, addressing synchromesh rings, thrust washers, and oil guides. Despite these revisions, failures persisted on V5 boxes when driven hard. The 2019 ND2 update introduced a dual-mass flywheel and revised engine tune, which dropped warranty claims to normal levels. Early ND1 cars (2015-2017) are most at risk. Symptoms include crunchy or resistant shifts into 2nd and 3rd gear, especially when cold. A gearbox rebuild at a specialist costs around €1,500-2,000, while a full replacement runs €2,500-3,000. Test by shifting between 2nd and 3rd at 2,000-4,000 rpm with light finger pressure.
Spherical bushes in the rear hub carriers wear out, causing clunking and poor rear-end stability · more· less
The rear hub carrier uses spherical bushes that wear faster than expected. Failures have been documented from as early as 80,000 km, with clunking over bumps and vague rear-end behaviour as the main symptoms. Mazda has redesigned the component within the last few years to improve durability. OEM replacement requires the entire rear hub assembly at approximately €600-800 per side. However, aftermarket solutions from Polybush and Whiteline now offer replacement bushes for around €150-180 for a full set, with labour at approximately €150-250. This is the most cost-effective repair option. Both 1.5 and 2.0 variants are equally affected.
Braided steel cables in the window mechanism corrode and snap, causing the window to jam · more· less
The window regulator in the ND uses braided steel cables that are prone to corrosion, particularly in damp or salt-heavy climates. Mazda issued a Technical Service Bulletin in 2018 regarding water ingress into the cables. When the cable corrodes and frays, the window either sticks partway or drops into the door. This is one of the more common ND issues, typically appearing after 4-6 years or 60,000-80,000 km. The window regulator assembly costs approximately €100-150 for the part, with around €100-150 for fitting. Both sides can be affected, though the driver's side fails first due to more frequent use. Owners who regularly drive with the roof down report earlier failures.
Minimal factory corrosion protection causes premature surface rust on subframes and suspension components · more· less
The ND MX-5 is well-documented for having very thin corrosion protection on its subframes and underbody components. Specialists report that NDs are effectively rusting from new, with subframes coated only in thin black paint. Cars as young as 18 months old have shown surface rust forming on subframe welds. While this typically remains surface-level and is not structurally threatening in the short term, it progresses over time in countries with salted roads. Professional underbody treatment with Dinitrol costs €300-500 and is strongly recommended for any ND that has not already been treated. Retreatment is needed every few years. If corrosion has progressed to needing repair, costs can reach €600-800 for localised treatment.
Touchscreen digitizer delaminates from temperature cycling, causing spider cracks and ghost touches · more· less
The Mazda Connect infotainment screen on 2015-2018 ND models is known for developing spider-web cracks and delamination. The issue is caused by repeated hot and cold temperature cycles degrading the adhesive between the touchscreen cover and digitizer. Mazda has acknowledged this as a known defect. The screen and digitizer are separate components, and it is the digitizer that fails. DIY repair using an AliExpress replacement digitizer costs only €15-25. A full screen assembly replacement is around €150-200. Dealer CMU replacement runs €800-1,200. Post-2019 models use updated hardware and are rarely affected.
Roof fabric scuffs against roll-hoop covers when folded, and degrades with UV exposure over time · more· less
Early ND production cars (2015-2016) had an issue where the soft top fabric rubbed against the roll-hoop plastic covers when folded, causing visible scuffing marks. Mazda addressed this with a shim kit that moves the roll-hoop section forward to create more clearance, or in some cases replaced the entire top assembly under warranty. The fabric roof also degrades naturally over 8-10 years of UV exposure. A complete soft top replacement costs approximately €1,200-1,800 including fitting. Minor scuffing can be managed for €200-400 with protective strips or local repair.
Reliable sports car with one key weakness: the gearbox
The MX-5 ND 2.0 Skyactiv-G is mechanically simple and fundamentally robust. The engine is proven beyond 300,000 km, uses a timing chain, has no turbocharger, and requires only basic maintenance. The gearbox is the car's Achilles heel, particularly on ND1 models (2015-2018) where the 2.0's higher torque stresses the synchros and gear teeth. Mazda's multiple revisions and the ND2 dual-mass flywheel have largely resolved this. Other concerns are minor: window regulators, underbody corrosion, and rear hub bushes are well-documented and inexpensive to address.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
i-ELOOP DC-DC converter fire risk (2015-2017 models with i-ELOOP)
Critical - verify completed
Airbag control module software error (2016-2023 models)
Verify completed
Fuel pump impeller deformation (selected 2018-2019 production dates)
Verify completed
Underbody aluminium cover detachment
Verify completed
Contact a Mazda dealer with the VIN to verify all recalls have been completed. The i-ELOOP recall is particularly important for 2015-2017 models with the braking energy recovery system as it addresses a potential fire risk from the DC-DC converter.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (3 years / 100,000 km)
Expired on most used ND models
Rust perforation warranty (12 years)
May still apply on newer cars
Extended warranty
Available through Mazda dealers
Most used MX-5 ND models with 100,000 km are outside their original 3-year factory warranty. Mazda offers a 12-year rust perforation warranty which may still apply to newer examples. Note that surface corrosion on subframes is not covered by the perforation warranty, only full rust-through of body panels.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.