What should I look for in a cheap Mazda MX-5?

I wish to buy a Mazda MX-5, spending £1000-£1500. Obviously, for that amount, the car's going to be relatively old with a high mileage, etc. I should be pleased if you would let me know what "important" engine parts should have been replaced or renewed over the years. I understand spare parts are easily obtainable and not too expensive.

Asked on 12 October 2013 by RN, Macclesfield,

Answered by Honest John

In this price range you run a very high risk of buying a dangerous heap of seriously corroded junk. Eunos roadsters were not rustproofed. All MX-5s can rust quite badly and the sort of car that your budget buys will be at least 20 years old. So the body is the most important thing. Engines, gearboxes, axles: everything else can be fixed and if the timing belt has not been replaced in the past 40,000 miles, it needs to be.

Tags: rust corrosion cheap cars known defect high mileage

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