IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2015 Mazda MX-5 (NC)

The final year of NC MX-5 production. These late cars are the most refined and reliable, though all NC MX-5s now need careful inspection for rust due to their age.

What changed for 2015

  • •Last year of third-generation production
  • •All mechanical improvements incorporated
  • •Strong used values reflecting desirability
  • •Rust-free examples becoming increasingly rare

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Structural corrosion in UK climate
  • !Rear sill and arch inspection essential
  • !Soft-top window hazing and water ingress
3
Known Issues
0
Serious
2
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

Ignition Coil and Spark Plug Misfire

ModerateEngine

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.

Est. Repair Cost: £150–£350
Warning Signs:

Misfire at idle or under load, Engine management light flashing, Rough running or hesitation

What to Inspect:
  • Listen for a smooth idle from cold
  • Check for stored misfire codes
  • Ask when the coils and plugs were last replaced
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Soft-Top Window Hazing and Water Ingress

ModerateBodywork & Rust

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.

Est. Repair Cost: £0–£400
Warning Signs:

Hazy or opaque rear window, Damp carpets behind the seats, Musty smell after rain

What to Inspect:
  • Check rear visibility through the plastic window
  • Feel the carpets and rear shelf area for damp
  • Inspect the rain rail and roof drain exits for blockages
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Hydraulic Valve Lifter Tick

MinorEngine

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.

Est. Repair Cost: £200–£500
Warning Signs:

Ticking noise from engine on cold start, Noise reduces or disappears once warm, Persistent tick at idle

What to Inspect:
  • Listen to the engine from cold
  • Ask about oil change intervals
  • Check if the noise worsens after the car has been sitting for a few days
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2015 Mazda MX-5 (NC)

  • ✓Check the chassis rails and rear wheel arches for rust. This is the #1 killer of NCs.
  • ✓Ensure the drains are clear (water in the footwells usually means clogged drains).
  • ✓Check the oil level frequently; the 1.8 engine is known to consume oil if driven hard.
2013–2014
Check a 2015 Mazda MX-5 (NC) by Registration