The more powerful ND MX-5, using a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated Skyactiv-G four-cylinder producing 160 hp (ND1) or 184 hp (ND2, from 2019). A genuine lightweight sports car that rewards skilful driving. The engine itself is robust and well-proven across the Mazda range, but the six-speed manual gearbox has been through multiple factory revisions due to synchro and gear selection issues, particularly on the higher-torque 2.0-litre variant.
Robust naturally aspirated engine
Low weight, excellent handling
Gearbox synchro issues (especially ND1)
Poor factory corrosion protection
Buy if: You want a reliable, engaging roadster and can verify the gearbox shifts cleanly through all gears when cold.
Avoid if: You plan regular track days (the gearbox is fragile under abuse) or live in a salt-heavy climate without applying aftermarket rustproofing.
Expected Annual Maintenance Costs
Common Problems
Notchy or stiff 1st-to-2nd and 2nd-to-3rd shifts, especially when cold, affecting the 2.0 more than the 1.5 · more· less
The ND's SkyActiv-MT six-speed gearbox was adapted from a transverse design for longitudinal use, and the 2.0-litre's higher torque has exposed weaknesses in synchro rings and shift forks. Mazda has issued at least five gearbox revisions since 2015, and early ND1 cars (2015-2018) are most affected. Symptoms include stiff or crunchy engagement into 2nd and 3rd gear, particularly when cold. A quick test during a purchase inspection: between 2,000 and 4,000 rpm, the shift from 2nd to 3rd should be possible with one finger — if it requires force, the gearbox likely has an early revision. Gearbox oil changes with high-quality GL-4 fluid (such as Redline MT-90) can improve shift feel but will not fix worn synchros. A synchro repair costs around €500-1,200 at a specialist, while a complete gearbox replacement runs €1,500-3,000 for the unit plus labour. The ND2 (2019+) received further gearbox improvements and warranty claims dropped significantly. Track use and aggressive shifting dramatically accelerate wear.
Under-engineered rear hub bearings wear prematurely, causing knocking over bumps · more· less
The rear hub carrier uses spherical bearings (rose joints) that are under-engineered for rough road surfaces. Some owners report failures as early as 25,000-30,000 km, though most cases appear between 50,000 and 100,000 km. Symptoms include a distinct knocking sound from the rear when driving over uneven surfaces. Mazda does not sell the bearings separately — the factory solution is replacing the entire rear hub assembly at approximately €400-500 per side including labour. However, aftermarket polyurethane bush kits from Polybush or Whiteline offer a durable and more affordable alternative at around €180-200 per axle for parts, plus approximately €100-150 for fitting. Mazda has covered a portion of hub replacement costs for some owners within or shortly beyond warranty, so it is worth requesting goodwill assistance from the dealer.
Steel cables inside the window mechanism rust and snap, preventing window operation · more· less
Mazda issued a technical service bulletin in 2018 regarding water ingress into the window regulator cables. Moisture enters the door cavity and corrodes the steel cables, eventually causing them to fray and break. Symptoms include slow or jerky window operation followed by complete failure. The entire regulator assembly must be replaced as a unit, costing approximately €100-150 for the part and €100-150 for labour. Both sides can be affected, though the driver's side usually fails first due to more frequent use. Preventive maintenance includes periodically greasing the cables and pulleys, and operating the windows regularly to redistribute lubricant. Later ND models (2018+) received a revised glass profile to reduce water reaching the mechanism.
Thin factory coatings allow surface rust on subframes and suspension components within a few years · more· less
The MX-5 ND has notoriously thin factory corrosion protection on the underbody, subframes, and suspension mounting points. Surface rust can appear within the first two to three years in salt-treated climates. Subframes have only a minimal flash of black paint that begins corroding almost immediately upon exposure. While this surface rust is primarily cosmetic initially, it can eventually affect structural integrity and complicates later suspension work (seized bolts, corroded mounting points). Professional underbody treatment with cavity wax and underbody sealant (such as Dinitrol products) costs approximately €300-500 and should be applied as soon as possible after purchase, with retreatment every five years. Neglected cars in wet or salted climates may need more extensive remedial work (€500-800) to treat advanced corrosion.
Front edge of the fabric roof wears against the roll hoop plastic covers when stowed · more· less
Early ND models (2015-2017) are most affected by an issue where the soft top's front edge rubs against the roll hoop plastic covers when folded down. Over time this can wear a visible mark or even a hole through the fabric. Mazda acknowledged the problem and offers a shim kit that repositions the roll hoop slightly forward to create more clearance. Some dealers have replaced affected roofs under warranty. However, even with the shims fitted, careful operation helps: lowering the roof from outside the car while guiding it away from the hoops reduces friction. A complete soft top replacement costs approximately €1,500-2,000 fitted (OEM), though the shim kit or careful use can prevent the issue entirely on many cars. RF (retractable fastback) models are not affected.
Direct injection means no fuel wash over intake valves, allowing gradual carbon deposits · more· less
As a direct-injection engine, the 2.0 Skyactiv-G does not spray fuel over the intake valves, so carbon deposits from PCV blow-by gases can accumulate over time. The severity varies significantly between individual engines and driving patterns — regular spirited driving at higher rpm tends to keep valves cleaner, while predominantly gentle urban driving accelerates buildup. Symptoms appear gradually: slight roughness at idle, minor hesitation, and marginally reduced power. Mazda designed the Skyactiv-G with controlled valve temperatures to mitigate this, and many MX-5s reach high mileage without symptoms. If cleaning becomes necessary, walnut blasting is the standard remedy, costing approximately €300-500 at a specialist. This is typically only needed after 80,000-120,000 km, if at all.
Reliable sports car, but the gearbox needs careful assessment before purchase
The 2.0 Skyactiv-G engine is robust and can comfortably exceed 200,000 km without major issues. The main area of concern is the six-speed gearbox, particularly on pre-2019 cars, which has been through multiple factory revisions. Early ND1 gearboxes are the weakest, and any car with track history should be inspected with extra caution. Beyond the gearbox, issues are mostly minor: corroding window cables, surface rust on underbody components, and rear hub bush wear. Apply aftermarket rustproofing promptly and budget for occasional small repairs rather than major mechanical failures.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
i-ELOOP DCDC converter control logic failure — risk of overheating or fire (May 2015-April 2017 production)
Critical - verify completed
Airbag calibration error — front airbags may deploy with excessive force in minor collisions (2016-2023 models)
Verify completed
Fuel pipe bracket insufficiently tightened — risk of fuel leak at high engine speeds (2015 production)
Verify completed
Undershield metal bracket separation — bracket securing undershield may detach (2015 production)
Verify completed
DSC/TCS indicator lamp may fail to illuminate (2024-2025 models)
Verify completed
Contact Mazda with the VIN to verify all recalls have been completed. The i-ELOOP recall (2015-2017 builds) is particularly important due to the fire risk.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (3 years / 100,000 km)
Expired on most used ND models
Corrosion perforation warranty
12 years from first registration
Extended warranty
Available through Mazda dealers, typically up to 6 years
Most used MX-5 ND models will be outside the original 3-year factory warranty. The 12-year perforation warranty only covers rust-through from inside out, not surface corrosion. Check whether any remaining factory or extended warranty is transferable to you as the new owner.
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.