Question 1

What is Rear Sill and Arch Corrosion on the Mazda Mazda MX-5 (NC)?

Accepted Answer

Road salt and trapped moisture cause the metal to rot from the inside out.

Question 2

What is Ignition Coil and Spark Plug Misfire on the Mazda Mazda MX-5 (NC)?

Accepted Answer

The NC MX-5 is prone to misfires caused by deterioration of the thin wiring to the ignition coils, which leads to coil failure. Symptoms include rough idle, hesitation under acceleration and the engine management light. The fix is typically new coils and plugs.

Question 3

What is Hydraulic Valve Lifter Tick on the Mazda Mazda MX-5 (NC)?

Accepted Answer

A loud ticking noise from the engine, especially when cold, is often caused by sticking hydraulic valve lash adjusters. This is more common on higher-mileage cars or those that have not had regular oil changes. Replacing the adjusters resolves the noise.

Question 4

What is Soft-Top Window Hazing and Water Ingress on the Mazda Mazda MX-5 (NC)?

Accepted Answer

The plastic rear window on the soft-top can haze or craze with age, reducing rear visibility. More seriously, the roof seals and rain rails can fail, letting water into the cabin and accelerating sill corrosion from the inside.

Question 5

What should I check when buying a used Mazda Mazda MX-5 (NC)?

Accepted Answer

Check the chassis rails and rear wheel arches for rust. This is the #1 killer of NCs.

Question 6

What should I check when buying a used Mazda Mazda MX-5 (NC)?

Accepted Answer

Ensure the drains are clear (water in the footwells usually means clogged drains).

Question 7

What should I check when buying a used Mazda Mazda MX-5 (NC)?

Accepted Answer

Check the oil level frequently; the 1.8 engine is known to consume oil if driven hard.

Question 8

What years was the Mazda Mazda MX-5 (NC) made?

Accepted Answer

The Mazda Mazda MX-5 (NC) was produced from 2005 to 2015.

Mazda Mazda MX-5 (NC)

Mazda MX-5 (NC) Reliability & Common Faults

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