2015-present · 1.5L/2.0L Skyactiv-G petrol (131-184 hp)
The iconic lightweight roadster, now in its most refined form. The ND is one of the most reliable sports cars available - the Skyactiv engines are robust and well-proven. Main concerns: early 2.0L models (ND1, 2016-2018) had gearbox synchro issues on 2nd/3rd gear, now addressed with revised V5 gearbox. Soft top on early cars may rub against roll hoops (warranty fix available). Check for i-ELOOP recall (fire risk) on 2015-2017 cars. The 1.5L and post-2019 ND2 2.0L models have excellent reliability records. Infotainment screen delamination affects some ND1 models.
Early 2.0L models had defective 2nd/3rd gear synchros causing grinding · more· less
Mazda revised the gearbox at least 4 times (now on V5) to address synchro failures. The issue primarily affects 2016-2018 2.0L models, especially those driven hard or used for track days. Symptoms include difficulty engaging 1st, 2nd, or 3rd gear, grinding when shifting, and gear popping out. The ND2 (2019+) received a dual-mass flywheel and revised engine tune that dramatically reduced failures. The 1.5L models are much less affected. If repair is needed, expect €2,000-2,500 for a rebuild or €4,000-4,500 for full replacement including labor. Some owners have had Mazda contribute to costs even outside warranty.
Soft top rubbing on roll hoops€0 - €1,800
Early production cars had roof fabric wearing against roll bar covers · more· less
A known issue on first-year ND models (2015-2016 production). The soft top would rub against the roll hoop covers when operating, causing wear to both the fabric and interior trim. Mazda acknowledged the problem and offered two fixes under warranty: a shim kit that moves the roll hoop section forward, or complete replacement of the soft top assembly. Cars built after late 2016 have a revised design. If your car is out of warranty and affected, a full soft top replacement costs €1,500-1,800 for parts and labor.
Infotainment screen delamination€150 - €1,500
Touchscreen adhesive fails from heat cycles, causing cracks and ghost touches · more· less
Many ND1 models show visible cracks in the corners of the infotainment screen. This is caused by repeated hot/cold cycles degrading the adhesive between the touchscreen cover and digitizer - a manufacturing defect that newer production runs have corrected. The issue can cause ghost touch problems making the system difficult to use. DIY screen replacement is possible for €15-25 using aftermarket parts. Dealer replacement of the entire CMU (central media unit) costs €1,200-1,500. If under warranty, full replacement is covered.
Hydraulic valve lash adjuster tick€200 - €1,800
Cold start ticking noise from lifters, worse on high-mileage or infrequently driven cars · more· less
A ticking noise on cold start is relatively common with Skyactiv engines and usually harmless - Mazda states it's from timing retard during warm-up causing fuel to burn in the headers. However, persistent ticking (lasting more than 30-60 seconds) can indicate hydraulic lash adjusters (HLAs) that are gummed up or worn. Regular oil changes with quality oil help prevent this. If HLA replacement is needed, parts alone cost €800-900 for all lifters, with labor adding another €800-1,000 due to 8+ hours of work. Using 5W-30 oil (approved by Mazda outside US/Canada) may reduce valve train noise.
RF models can develop roof motor, sensor, or connector issues over time · more· less
The RF (Retractable Fastback) hardtop mechanism is complex and can develop issues including motor control module failure, position sensor faults, and wiring connector corrosion. Symptoms include the roof stopping mid-operation, "retractable hard top system malfunction" warnings, and windows not syncing properly. Often the fix is simply reseating connectors or cleaning corrosion - try this first before expensive repairs. More serious failures requiring motor or module replacement can cost €1,500-2,000. The soft top model has none of these concerns.
Brake caliper sticking€150 - €400
Caliper slider pins and pistons can seize if car sits unused or brakes not serviced · more· less
A common MX-5 issue across all generations, especially for cars driven infrequently or stored for periods. The floating caliper design relies on slider pins that can corrode and stick. Symptoms include the car pulling to one side when braking, excessive brake dust on one wheel, and one wheel running hot. Prevention: service brakes annually with cleaning and re-greasing of slider pins and pistons. Repair is straightforward - reconditioned calipers cost around €100-120 each and take a couple of hours to fit. Factor in €50-100 per caliper for professional fitting.
Subframe and underbody corrosion€300 - €1,500
Factory rust protection is minimal; subframes and wheel arches can corrode · more· less
Despite being a modern car, the MX-5 ND has somewhat basic factory rust protection. Subframes have only thin black paint and can show surface rust within 18 months. The inner edge of rear wheel arches is particularly vulnerable due to spot-welded construction. Cars in areas with road salt are most at risk. Preventive rustproofing (Dinitrol, Waxoyl) costs €300-500 and is highly recommended, especially for year-round drivers. Repair of corroded panels costs €1,000+ per arch. Check underneath carefully when buying - this is the MX-5's traditional weak point across all generations.
Clutch wear€1,200 - €1,800
Normal wear item, typically lasts 120,000-200,000 km depending on driving style · more· less
The clutch is a wear item rather than a defect. On the lightweight MX-5, clutches typically last 120,000-200,000 km with normal driving. Track use or heavy traffic significantly reduce lifespan. Parts cost €300-500 for a quality clutch kit; labor adds €800-1,200 as the gearbox must be removed. When replacing the clutch, it's worth also changing the gearbox oil and considering flywheel condition. Budget for this around 150,000 km on a used car purchase.
One of the most reliable sports cars available
The MX-5 ND has an excellent reliability record. Consumer Reports rates it "much more reliable than average" and RepairPal gives it 4.0/5.0. The main concerns are gearbox issues on early 2.0L ND1 models (buy ND2 or 1.5L to avoid), and typical MX-5 rust vulnerability. With proper maintenance, high-mileage ownership is entirely realistic.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete service records essential. Verify oil changes at proper intervals (12 months/12,500 km).
Cold start
Must start engine completely cold. Listen for valve tick - brief ticking is normal, extended rattling is not.
Body condition
Check for accident damage, paint mismatch. Inspect front bumper and side skirts for scrapes.
Test drive
Minimum 20 minutes including varied speeds. Use all gears, especially 1st through 3rd.
Specific for this vehicle
Gearbox operation (2.0L ND1 especially)
Test all gear changes when cold and warm. Feel for notchiness or grinding in 2nd and 3rd gear. Downshift from 3rd to 2nd at low speed - this reveals synchro wear.
Soft top condition and operation
Open and close roof several times. Check for wear marks where fabric meets roll hoops. Inspect rear window seams for wear or leaks.
Infotainment screen
Look for cracks in screen corners, especially on ND1 models. Test touchscreen for ghost touches or unresponsive areas.
Underbody inspection
Get underneath and check subframes for rust. Look at inner wheel arches for bubbling paint or corrosion. This is critical for cars from salted road areas.
Brake check
Feel for pulling to one side when braking. After test drive, carefully feel each wheel for uneven heat - indicates sticking caliper.
RF roof mechanism (RF models only)
Operate roof multiple times. Listen for unusual noises, watch for hesitation or error messages.
Verify recall status
Check VIN for i-ELOOP recall (2015-2017), fuel pump recall (2018-2019), and transmission control module recall (2016-2019).
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
i-ELOOP fire risk (May 2015 - Apr 2017)Verify completed
Fuel pump failure (2018-2019)Verify completed
TCM software - unexpected downshift (Oct 2016 - Nov 2018, auto only)Verify completed
TSB: Soft top rubbing (early production)Check condition
Contact Mazda with VIN to verify all recalls completed. The i-ELOOP recall is particularly important as it addresses a potential fire risk from DC-DC converter overheating.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (Europe, pre-Sept 2025)3 years / 100,000 km
Factory warranty (UK, from Sept 2025)6 years / 160,000 km
Anti-perforation warranty12 years, unlimited km
Paintwork warranty3 years
Warranty terms vary by country. Most used ND models (2015-2022) will be outside factory warranty. The warranty transfers to new owners if servicing requirements have been met. Extended warranties are available through Mazda dealers.
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.