Mazda MX-5 1.5 Skyactiv-G ND

The ND's 6-speed manual gearbox has a documented weakness in the synchromesh rings for 2nd and 3rd gear. Mazda redesigned these gears from late 2016 production onwards to increase rigidity, and further improved the driveline with the 2019 facelift (ND2) which added a dual-mass flywheel. The 1.5-litre is less affected than the 2.0 due to lower torque, but early 2015-2016 cars are still at risk, especially if they have been driven hard or used for track days. Symptoms include crunchy or resistant gear changes, particularly when cold or when shifting quickly. Test by shifting between 2nd and 3rd at 2,000-4,000 rpm with light finger pressure - it should be effortless. A gearbox rebuild at a specialist costs around €1,200-1,800, while a full replacement runs €2,000-2,500.

The window regulator in the ND uses braided steel cables that are prone to corrosion, particularly in damp or salt-heavy climates. 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 and typically appears after 4-6 years. The window regulator assembly costs approximately €100-150 for the part, with around €100-150 for fitting. Some owners report being able to replace just the cable rather than the full assembly, reducing costs. Both sides can be affected, though it typically starts with the driver's side due to more frequent use.

The ND MX-5 is well-documented for having very thin corrosion protection on its subframes and underbody components. Cars as young as 18 months old have been found with 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, especially in countries where roads are salted. Professional underbody treatment with products like Dinitrol costs €300-500 and is strongly recommended for any ND that has not already been treated. If corrosion has progressed to the point of needing repair, costs can reach €600-800 for localised treatment. This is primarily a cosmetic and preventive concern rather than a safety issue for cars under 10 years old.

Some ND owners report a noticeable judder or shudder through the clutch when pulling away from cold, particularly in first gear. This is caused by deposits forming on the flywheel surface. The issue tends to improve as the clutch warms up and is more pronounced in cars that do frequent short trips. Using slightly higher revs (around 2,000 rpm) when pulling away helps manage it. If the judder becomes persistent and does not clear after warming up, clutch replacement is needed. A clutch kit with flywheel for the 1.5 costs approximately €300-500 for parts, with €300-700 in labour depending on the workshop.

The 1.5 Skyactiv-G engine uses hydraulic valve lash adjusters that can develop a ticking noise on cold start, typically lasting 5-30 seconds before oil pressure builds and quiets them. This is more common in higher-mileage cars (80,000+ km) or those with extended oil change intervals. Using the correct 0W-20 Skyactiv-specification oil and maintaining strict oil change intervals (every 12 months or 15,000 km) helps prevent this. If ticking persists beyond initial startup, the lifters may need replacement. Parts cost approximately €150-300 for a full set, with labour adding €250-700 depending on access.

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 implemented a production change to address this with spacers. The fabric roof also degrades naturally over 8-10 years of UV exposure, eventually requiring replacement. A complete soft top replacement costs approximately €1,200-1,800 including fitting. Minor scuffing can be managed for €200-400 with local repair or protective strips.