01-01-0001:
6-speed box of 2009 upgrade can transmit 'chattering' noises to the cabin due to a lighter flywheel having been fitted to make the car more responsive. There is a modification to new boxes which improves but does not cure the problem.
Grinding noise from front brakes may be caused by worn calliper pins/bolts, costing about £125 to replace. The car may not need new discs and pads.
Wet carpets are usually the result of the drain holes in the sills becoming blocked with water and dirt running off the hood then filling up the sills and finding its way into the car. Sometimes it can be heard sloshing around. Almost certainly the car will be rusting around the base of the rear wheel arches and sills too. There is no simple cure for the rust, but a preventative measure on all MX5s (apart from the RC) is to use something like a wooden kebab stick to poke the drain holes clear on a regular basis from new.
11-08-2011:
VVT timing gear and timing chain can be prone to failure in as little as 4 years and 54,000 miles despite frequent oil services. £1,000 job.
22-03-2012:
Another case of 2.0i VVT timing gear and timing chain failure notified (Ask HJ.)
09-05-2012:
6-speed gearbox can regularly jump out of 3rd or 4th gear into neutral when cold first thing on a cold morning. Replacement of the baulk ring cures this.
11-08-2012:
Seems to be an engine management problem with 2012 2.0i engines resulting in need for a new oxygen sensor and cat converter, but parts are on 'back order'. Apparently caused by an ECU glitch that has to be cured by a travelling engineer physically visiting the car.
19-12-2012:
Incidence of limited slip diff failure on 2009/59 MX-5 2.0 sport-tech at just over 3 years old and 25k miles. Repair cost £3,000.
07-01-2013:
Report of water is getting into (behind the seats and into the boot) of 2006 MX5.
26-06-2013:
Apparently this generation of Mazda MX-5 has very little rustproofing, so check carefully when buying.
20-04-2014:
90k mile 2007 Mazda MX-5 with full Mazda service history suffered con-rod failure.
05-07-2014:
2012 Mazda MX5 suffering water leak into boot on driver's side when parked on an incline. See 7-1-2013.
27-02-2015:
Brake callipers are prone to seizing due to build up of corrosive brake dust on them. Good idea to clean the calliper pins with an airline and apply Copperease grease to them every 6 months or so. See note at the beginning of this section.
29-08-2015:
A rattle from the trunk area could be spring from the hinge mechanism having sprung and dangling about.
27-11-2016:
Report of 2012 Mazda MX-5 developing problem with the drivers seatbelt alarm light staying on. Dealer says this is a known fault but not a recall fault. Suggests a new under seat pressure pad is required at the cost of £500. The usual reason is that the cable from the seat occupancy sensor has been pulled out of its connector under the seat by the seat being moved backwards and forwards.
15-01-2017:
Report of radio of 2013 MX-5 (now at 35k miles) not staying on station. Mazda won't replace it. Owner downloaded a message only to find that the previous downloads were all dated May 2016 and earlier. Cannot access the messages that are listed under downloads due to this. Is told that the car's technology is 3 year old compared to his Samsung S5 Neo only a year old.
30-03-2017:
Report of momentary hesitation of 38k mile 2006 Mazda MX-5 2.0i Sport in 6th gear when driving at constant speed. The rev counter remains steady, even when the fault is present and there is no shudder - just a slight hesitation lasting for no more than 1-2 seconds. On rare occasions, the car behaves perfectly in 6th gear and the fault does not appear to be evident in 5th gear. The fault is there when driving at any constant speed between 40 and 80mph. Tried Mazda dealer 3 times - first time they could find no fault, second time, the fault showed up and they suggested changing from supermarket petrol to BP Ultimate and also changed the plugs but still no cure. They also downloaded an update for the ECU but to no avail. Third time they still had no answers - even when driven with the diagnostics computer plugged in. I thoughy might be a fault with the mass aiflow sensor, so small that it does not register a fault code. Then later, the ABS warning light on the dash began to come on intermittently. Owner booked the car into a small local garage and had a new sensor fitted to the rear drivers wheel. Problem solved. The ABS had been playing up, but the problem was not identified because previously the dash light had not come on.
21-11-2017:
Report that Mazda MX-5 Mk III failed MoT becuse front springs were broken. These were replaced but with longer springs that jack the car up at the front by about two inches. Mechanic told owner he had a really difficult time fitting the new springs to the struts. Wrong springs suspected that tend to confirm the Internet myth.
28-01-2018:
Complaint of water leaking into the boot of a 2014 Mazda MX-5: Initial fault developed after about 12 months. The leaks are noticeably worse in the winter. Car returned to dealer on 10-12 occasions and still the boot leaks (even when washing the car). After about 6 months of ownership the car was returned at the manufacturers request to have an ‘insert’ to the deck seal. Owner has since had a whole new deck seal but the leaks persist.
27-03-2018:
Further report of intermitent leaks into the boot of three successive Mazda MX-5s. All parked on a slight incline and up to 2 pints of water gets in. Dealer showered it for 2 days on an incline and no water ingress. No permanent fix.
07-06-2018:
Report of grating sound from area of rear offiside wheel of 2011 Mazda MX-5 when slowing down to stop at, for instance, lights, roundabout, junction as brake pedal is applied. Possibly rust eaten into the inner sides of the rear discs. Maybe the brake calliper problem as in 27-2-2015.
21-05-2019:
Tapping/rattle noise reported from engine of 2005 MX-5 2.0i. Starts around 2,500 revs and seems to disappear over 3,500/4,000. Owner can only hear it when he throttles off or at the point when he is not accelerating or decelerating around this rev range. Also noticeable when blipping the throttle in neutral when stationary at a similar rev range. Owner wonders timing chain, tensioner or sprockets, oil pump drive chain, camshaft, VVT actuator or oil control valve.
24-08-2019:
Report of rainwater getting into the boot of a 2011 Mazda MX-5. See: 27-3-2018; 28-1-2018; 5-7-2014; and general intro to this section.
30-08-2019:
Report of clunking from rear of 68k mile 2008 Mazda MX-5 when cornering right or left. Drop linkes replaced but clunking continues. Possibly CV joints.
20-01-2020:
Report of screenwasher jets becoming detached and going missing from 2011 Mazda MX-5 RC.
10-02-2020:
Report that if windscreen is replaced this can result in a leak into the footwells because the scuttle cover securing bolts require sealant or rainwater gets past them.
May 2005
Production started
UK deliveries from October 2005. Prices, from a very reasonable £15,600 to £19,995 (less than expected). Entry level £15,600 car has a 126PS 1.8 engine. 2.0 litre models with 160PS start at £16,600. The top model 160PS Sport is £18,900, £900 more than list for the old model Sport. Also collector's 2.0 Special Edition Launch Model priced £19,995, originally only available to MX5 Owners Club members from 1st August 2005 (but sold out by November 2005)
May 2007
875 MX-5 1.8i Icon and 375 MX-5 2.0i Icon available in the UK, based on the MX-5 1.8i and 2.0i Option Pack models in red white or blue with up to £1,500 worth of additional features 1.8i Icon £16,825 on-the-road. 2.0i Icon £17,825. Special features of the Icon include climate control air-conditioning, Icon-branded black Medici leather seats and unique Icon-branded luxury interior mats.
December 2007
‘Niseko’ edition announced
Named after Japan’s most prestigious skiing resort. Available from £17,995 on-the-road, the Niseko offers up to £2,000 worth of additional or exclusive extras over and above the equivalent standard models. On sale from 1 January 2008, both the ‘entry-level’ 1.8i Niseko soft-top (126ps, five-speed) and the £19,995 2.0i Niseko roadster coupe (160ps, six-speed) are available in an exclusive new bespoke colour ‘Icy Blue’ metallic, as well as Sunlight Silver metallic – for no additional charge.
October 2008
Mazda’s roadster gets updates that will make it even more popular with European sportscar fans. Remaking certain powertrain components allowed engineers to raise the rev limit and to optimise how the engine sounds when accelerating, which makes driving even more fun than before, and a new six-speed transmission is introduced for the first time. The roadster’s front roll centre has been lowered as well, which makes MX-5’s acclaimed one-with-the-car Jinba Ittai handlingeven stronger than before. And the Roadster Coupe cabin is now quieter and there are new equipment features for the whole line-up.
February 2010
20th Anniversary Limited Edition Mazda MX-5
Limited production run of just 2,000 units, only be available in Europe. Based on 1.8-litre SE soft-top roadster, has a special exterior styling package with chrome grille, door handles and headlight fascia; along with silver-look fog lamp surrounds, unique 17-inch alloy wheels and 20th Anniversary logos. Three colours: True Red, Crystal White Pearl and, specific for this Anniversary, a new Aurora Blue – with matching body-colour painted decorative elements in the interior. A front suspension bracing bar is also added to ensure an even more sporty and exhilarating drive.
June 2010
Continuing to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the world’s best-selling roadster, Mazda has introduced a new ‘summer special edition’ version of its iconic sportscar, named the Mazda MX-5 Miyako.
The new model, which is on sale from 1 July, is available in two versions – the 1.8i Miyako soft-top priced at £18,385 (on-the-road) and the more powerful 2.0i Miyako roadster coupe with the world’s fastest folding powered roof (up or down in 12 seconds), priced at £20,885 (on-the-road). The name ‘Miyako’ is taken from the idyllic Japanese holiday island of Miyako-jima, considered by many to be one of the most beautiful spots in Japan and the perfect location for open-top motoring.
The new Miyako is generously equipped with the interior benefitting from unique Medici premium perforated black leather trim with a red underlay and stitching, special badging, floor mats and climate control air-conditioning. The exterior includes front fog lamps, larger 17-inch alloy wheels, a front suspension strut brace (for improved steering response), and free metallic paint.
The 1.8i 126ps Miyako soft-top accelerates to 62mph in a brisk 9.9 seconds, while the 2.0i Miyako roadster coupe with its 160ps engine undercuts that time by two seconds. Combined mpg and CO2 ratings are 40.4/38.2mpg and 167/177g/km, respectively.
Both Miyako models carry generous equipment levels with many features as standard including: remote central locking, a leather steering wheel with audio controls, an MP3 compatible audio system with six speakers and auxiliary (AUX) jack input, as well as heated electric mirrors and electric front windows, a Thatcham Category 1 alarm and immobiliser. In addition, Limited Slip Differential (LSD), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Traction Control System (TCS) are included on the 2.0i.
Both versions of the MX-5 Miyako are available in Aluminium Silver Metallic, while the soft-top will also be available in Velocity Red Mica – free of charge. Just 500 examples of each version will be manufactured for the UK market.
New Mazda MX-5 Miyako / Performance & Economy
|
0-62mph
(sec)
|
Top speed
(mph)
|
Combined
(mpg)
|
Urban
(mpg)
|
Extra-Urban
(mpg)
|
1.8 Miyako Soft Top |
9.9 |
121 |
40.4 |
29.7 |
51.4 |
2.0 Miyako Roadster Coupe |
7.9 |
132 |
38.2 |
28.0 |
48.7 |
New Mazda MX-5 Miyako / Price List – July 2010
|
Power
(ps)
|
'On the road'
Retail
|
Emissions
CO 2 (g/km)
|
Road Fund
Licence Band
|
Insurance
Group
|
1.8 Miyako Soft Top |
126 |
£18,385 |
167 |
H |
21E |
2.0 Miyako Roadster Coupe |
160 |
£20,885 |
177 |
I |
27E |
February 2011
To celebrate global production of the Mazda MX-5 passing 900,000 units, UK sales of the world’s most popular roadster reaching more than 100,000 cars and the approach of spring – Mazda introduced a new special edition.
The MX-5 ‘Kendo Special Edition’, is named after “The way of the Sword” – a modern Japanese martial art renowned for its fighting spirit, eye-catching dynamic movement and refinement. Two versions will be available from 1 March 2011. The Mazda MX-5 1.8i Kendo soft-top costs £19,255 (OTR) and the more powerful Mazda MX-5 2.0i Kendo roadster coupe has a £22,320 (OTR) price tag.
The Kendo models are designed to appeal to both the traditional soft-top roadster customer and those is in search of a more premium product with the Roadster Coupe. Based on the ‘SE’ derivatives, both Kendo models feature a unique Stone Leather interior (with Stone coloured stitching on the steering wheel, gear knob and handbrake), unique 17-inch alloy wheels, exterior badging and floor mats, plus front fog lamps, heated seats, brushed aluminium style-bar trim and aluminium pedals.
The Kendo Roadster Coupe boasts three additional items of equipment – a premium BOSE audio system, Bluetooth hands-free and cruise control. Both versions offer a choice of Sparkling Black or Dolphin Grey mica paint finish – free of charge.
Mechanically the Kendo twins are identical with their regular siblings, delivering the same unique driving pleasure. The Kendo soft-top is powered by a 126ps 1.8-litre engine, the Roadster Coupe by a 160ps 2.0-litre unit.
February 2012
Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition announced
Available in Soft-top or Roadster Coupe with upgraded luxurious specification, advanced technology, premium interior trim and exclusive exterior colours.
Based on the Mazda MX-5 SE and Sport Tech models, the Venture is available as a 1.8 MZR Soft‑top (SE) and a 2.0 MZR Roadster Coupe (Sport Tech) - with the world's fastest powered retractable hard top, up or down in just 12 seconds - with a dozen items of additional equipment over the donor car and priced at £18,995 and £22,285 (OTR).
Specification features light gun metal 17-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights, chrome front grille, piano black fashion bars and special ‘Venture Edition' badging. Inside, stylish Havana Brown heated leather seats, leather steering wheel and hand brake with contrasting grey stitching, matching door trim, climate control air-conditioning, piano black dashboard accents, alloy pedals, cruise control (a first on 1.8 models) and, for the first time on MX-5, a satellite navigation system. Supplied by Sanyo TomTom, the sat-nav features a fully integrated 5.8-inch touch screen monitor, 4GB SD card based map (45 countries), live services, iPod and Bluetooth connectivity and complete multi-media functionality.
The Mazda MX-5 Venture will be available in three colours, the popular Metropolitan Grey Mica and two exclusive colours to this MX-5 special edition - Radiant Ebony Mica and Crystal White Pearlescent - free of charge. A genuine special edition, only 250 examples of the Venture Edition Soft-top and 550 of the Venture Edition Roadster Coupe will be available in the UK.
Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition customers have a choice of two powertrains - the 126ps 1.8 MZR with a five-speed gearbox (Soft-top) and the 160ps 2.0 MZR with a smooth-shifting six-speed manual transmission (Roadster Coupe). Like other MX-5 models, the Venture Edition combines razor sharp handling with lively performance - sprinting to 60mph in 9.9sec (1.8 Soft-top) and 7.9sec (2.0 Roadster Coupe), and capable of going on to reach top speeds of 121mph and 136mph respectively.
For optimum handling stability, the MX-5 Venture Edition features Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and a Traction Control System (TCS) on both Soft-top and Roadster Coupe models. While the two-litre Roadster Coupe model is also equipped with a Limited Slip Differential (LSD) for enhanced handling precision and side airbags for added protection.
June 2012
After its successful race programme with its MX-5 GT, Mazda showed a 205PS street legal version of tne MX-5 GT at the 2012 Goodwood Festival of Speed 27th-30th June 2012.
Suspension of the Mazda MX-5 GT has been uprated to improve handling and is adjustable for different track conditions. Aerodynamics are courtesy of a carbon front splitter, a rear diffuser and boot spoiler. The exhaust note has been enhanced with a central tailpipe sports exhaust system. Recaro seats keep the driver iand passenger in place and some parts of the interior trim are carbon fibre to help reduce weight. For drivers who want to acquire the car for track-day use, it comes equipped with street legal semi 'slick' tyres and body-coloured roll hoops behind the seats.
July 2012
Mazda MX-5 Kuro Special Editions announced
The name Kuro, means Black in Japanese, appearing in a Brilliant Black roof, Brilliant Black door mirrors and dark gunmetal 17-inch alloy wheels, that contrast dramatically with the exterior colours of Velocity Red Mica, Crystal White Pearlescent or Brilliant Black.
Based on the MX-5 SE and Sport Tech models, the Kuro came as a 1.8i Soft-top or a 2.0i Roadster Coupe with additional spec that include: a diffuser-style rear sports bumper, larger diameter sports exhaust, unique race car inspired exterior graphics, Black detailing around the front grille and front fog lights, plus unique ‘Kuro Edition' badging.
Inside, MX-5 Kuro has unique Stone and Black heated leather seats, Stone leather door inserts, with contrasting red stitching, a silver interior deco panel with red accents, alloy pedals, premium floor mats with race inspired logo and climate control air-conditioning.
Prices were MX-5 1.8i Kuro Soft-top £18,495 and MX-5 2.0i Kuro Roadster Coupe £21,995. Only 200 examples of the Kuro (Soft-top) and 400 of the Kuro (Roadster Coupe) available in the UK.
Choice of two powertrains - the 126ps 1.8i with a five-speed gearbox (Soft-top) and the 160ps 2.0i with a smooth-shifting six-speed manual transmission (Roadster Coupe). Like other MX-5 models, the Kuro duo combines beautifully balanced handling with lively performance - sprinting to 60mph in 9.9sec (Soft-top) and 7.9sec (Roadster Coupe), and capable of going on to reach top speeds of 121mph and 136mph respectively.
For optimum handling stability, all MX-5 models feature Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and a Traction Control System (TCS). Two-litre models are also equipped with a Limited Slip Differential (LSD) for enhanced handling precision and side airbags for added protection.
July 2012
A new, upgraded version of the world’s best-selling open-top sportscar, the Mazda MX-5, is now rolling off the assembly line in Hiroshima, Japan, on sale in the UK later in 2012. The upgraded MX-5 has enhanced safety features and refined driving attributes, together with exterior and interior improvements to make the Roadster Coupe and the classic Soft-top models even more attractive.
Exterior changes include a new, more aggressive front bumper design that also improves aerodynamic performance, and the availability of a striking new Dolphin Grey Mica paint finish. Inside, the panel décor and matching steering wheel spokes have been upgraded for an improved cabin ambience.
The MX-5 has always delivered one of the world’s most enjoyable drives, and the upgraded version was now even more responsive to driver inputs. Throttle pedal actuation has been modified on manual transmission models, increasing the feeling of linear acceleration and giving the driver even more control when accelerating from lower speeds, on winding country roads, for example.
The characteristics of the vacuum brake-booster have been revised to optimise brake return control, which is especially beneficial when the driver brakes while entering a curve. The new acceleration control then kicks-in when the driver backs off the brake and steps on the accelerator again.
Taken together, these two new upgrades make braking more controllable and acceleration after braking both smoother and faster. Consequently, the upgraded MX-5 takes Mazda’s legendary Jinba Ittai ‘horse and rider as one’ driving experience to a whole new level – and make the new model even more fun to drive.
Not only is the upgraded MX-5 more aggressive-looking, aerodynamically more efficient and better handling around corners, pedestrian safety is also greatly improved. This model introduces Mazda’s new ‘active bonnet’ pedestrian protection system which automatically raises the trailing edge of the bonnet if a pedestrian impact is detected. This action provides immediate space under the bonnet to absorb impact energy and soften the blow. Complementing the new bonnet, the new front bumper design also enhances pedestrian leg protection.
November 2012
Facelifted Mazda MX-5 announced with more responsive acceleration and braking, but also an aggressive front-end design as well as enhanced pedestrian safety. Mazda’s technology specialists fine-tuned the acceleration management program (on manual shift models) to improve acceleration control and with it the linear response to throttle input, especially at lower speeds. By optimising the vacuum brake booster, meanwhile, they also enhanced brake return control.
The upshot is better handling thanks to superior front-rear load distribution. The facelifted MX-5 is ahead of the curve in other ways, too. The new active bonnet system automatically raises the hood during an impact with a pedestrian, enlarging the crumple zone to prevent or at least diminish the severity of injuries, particularly to the head. The lower section of the front bumper has also been reinforced to better protect people’s legs.
The MX-5 was thus ready for stricter EU pedestrian safety standards. When adding these safety features, designers also reworked the front-end of Mazda’s legendary two-seater. The deeper grille and new bumper design express a lower, wider stance and a more assertive face, while the new fog lamp bezels and chin spoiler improve aerodynamics.
Available as a retractable hardtop coupe or classic soft-top convertible, the 2013 MX-5 came in a choice of eight body colours including one stunning new option: Dolphin Grey. Inside, the glossy dark grey steering wheel spokes and panel décor provide a refined sporty optic. Powered either by a 126 PS MZR 1.8-litre coupled to a five-speed manual or the 160 PS MZR 2.0-litre with a choice of automatic or manual six-speed transmissions .
November 2012
Upgraded for 2013
Mazda revised the line-up for the MX-5 by introducing upgraded models with a fresh face, new pedestrian-friendly bonnet, satellite navigation system, side airbags, climate control air-conditioning and an even more rewarding driving experience.
The new seven-strong range of upgraded Mazda MX-5 sportscars included the 2.0-litre MX-5 Sport Tech Nav models, with integrated satellite navigation as standard - a Mazda first on the MX-5 range, is on sale from 1 December priced from £18,495 to £23,595 on-the road (OTR).
As well as giving upgraded Mazda MX-5 a fresh appearance, the new front-end design simultaneously improved pedestrian safety. Keeping ahead of tougher EU regulations, the MX-5 was the first Mazda to be equipped with the company's newly-developed active bonnet system. If a collision with a pedestrian is detected, the trailing edge of the bonnet instantly ‘pops-up' to increase the crumple zone between the bonnet and engine, reducing the severity of pedestrian injuries.
Every upgraded Mazda MX-5 continued to offer the Japanese marque's unique ‘Jinba Ittai' handling finesse with a rear-wheel drive chassis that delivers perfectly balanced handling and pure driving exhilaration. Now, the six manual transmission models feature a modifiedthrottle to improve responsiveness and give more linear, nimble acceleration, especially when manoeuvring out of corners. At the same time, Mazda engineers optimised the vacuum brake booster to improve brake return control and thus front-rear load distribution, particularly when braking into bends.
The upgraded Mazda MX-5 benefited from enhanced equipment with climate control air-conditioning and glossy dark grey dashboard panel and steering wheel inserts on every model. Upgraded Mazda MX-5 Sport Tech and PowerShift models also gain an auto-dimming interior mirror, while Sport Tech models also boast an alloy pedal set.
New to the Mazda MX-5 line-up, the Sport Tech Nav model featured a TomTom satellite-navigation system with a fully integrated 5.8-inch touch screen monitor, 4GB SD card based map (45 countries), Live Services, iPod and Bluetooth connectivity, and complete multi-media functionality.
The upgraded Mazda MX-5 range also benefited from a refreshed palette of colours and new to the Mazda MX-5 range, Sparkling Black Mica, Dolphin Grey Mica and Crystal White Pearlescent. Also available is the popular True Red Solid, Aluminium Silver Metallic, Copper Red Mica and Stormy Blue Mica.
Choice of three powertrains, all fine-tuned to maximise thrills and minimise fuel consumption - the 126ps 1.8i MZR with a five-speed gearbox, and the 160ps 2.0i MZR with a smooth-shifting six-speed manual transmission or ‘PowerShift‘ six-speed sequential paddle-shift transmission that allows manual control or a fully automatic mode.
February 2013
Mazda MX-5 Venture Editions announced
Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition upgrades include: new design 17-inch Bright Finish alloy wheels, heated tan leather sports seats, tan leather door inserts and (on the soft-top model) a tan fabric roof. A choice of four exterior colours was offered - Brilliant Black, Copper Red Mica, Meteor Grey Mica and Stormy Blue Mica - plus Venture Edition badges. Prices started at £18,895 (OTR) for the 126ps, 1.8-litre Venture Edition soft-top with five-speed manual transmission and peak at £22,295 for the 160ps, 2.0-litre Venture Edition Roadster Coupe with powered folding roof. The 1.8-litre Roadster Coupe sits in the middle of the range.
February 2014
MX-5 Sport Venture models introduced
The Mazda MX-5 Sport Venture was available as a ‘Special Edition’ in three versions, the 1.8-litre 126PS soft-top or Roadster Coupe with 1.8-litre 126PS or 2.0-litre 160PS engines. They were offered with two new exterior colours and feature stone leather sports heated seats. Prices start at £18,995, with free of charge Mica paint. All come with a new 6.1-inch Mazda Navigation System with integrated Bluetooth.