It's difficult to believe that it's been almost a quarter of a century since we first began to fall in love with the Mazda Mx5, but it has. Despite our sometimes rubbish climate, open-topped sports cars have always been a weak spot for us, but in the late 1980s, there wasn't much to choose from that was affordable or practical.
Enter the Mazda Mx5. It was was the modern equivalent of cars like the MG Midget and the Lotus Elan, but it look better, drove better, and was built properly. It has since become one of the most popular sports cars in the word. In fact, it even made Guinness world record status in 2000.
The Mx5 can now boast that it has developed three generations of cars, with another on the way, and despite a few tweaks here and there, the overall design and quality hasn't changed from day one.
Regardless, if you're thinking of purchasing a used Mx5, there are some things you should consider, especially when it comes to problem car parts.
Common Problems With Older Model Mazda Mx5 Parts
Older cars aren't necessarily prone to more issues, but more issues can be found simply because of the age of the car, and the fact that drivers have been able to evaluate and see how they work over a longer period of time. Being able to learn from the experience of others and understand what may happen with your car is actually one of the perks of buying a used Mx5.
Here are a few Mx5 car parts you may need to repair or replace if you decide to purchase a used Mx5.
- Brake Callipers- These Euro car parts are known to seize, often as a result of clogged handbrake linkage and time. Over the years, the linkage can gather mud and grime, which can stick to the linkage and prevent it from doing its job correctly. Preventing this is easy; each time you remove the back tyres, clean the linkage and spray them with oil. Otherwise, you may have to replace the brake callipers and the linkage.
- Corrosion- MK1 and MK2 models are known to experience a lot of corrosion, especially near the front chassis rails, rear wheel arches, and rear sill sections. Rust perforation can occur, and will require a top quality rust remover to take care of this issue. Prevention is key, but isn't always possible when buying a used vehicle.
- Sticky Windows- In older models of the Mx5, electronic windows that suddenly decide no to go up and down can be a problem. This problem is often due to a clip inside the door that holds the cable. If this clip is broken, it can prevent the window from starting and stopping and must be replaced.
- Noisy Tappets- It's normal for drivers to hear a tappet noise when they first start their older Mx5, but this noise should only last a few minutes. If it lasts longer, it could indicate that the car needs an oil change or that certain Mx5 parts, like the HLAs, are worn down or damaged.
Is Buying New Better?
With all the problem Mazda parts that come with purchasing a used Mx5, you may believe that buying new is better. Newer Mazdas aren't immune to problems, however. Many drivers have experienced issues like:
- Erratic Idling- This often occurs in new Mx5 models and can be accompanied by misfiring. The problem is often due to the mass air flow sensor. Cleaning this sensor can sometimes solve the problem, but in many cases it will need to be replaced.
- Water Leaks- Newer Mx5s have been prone to water leaking in the footwells and behind the seats. This issues is caused by blocked drainage valves. While the problem can be fixed under warranty, if the issues happens after the warranty expires, you will need to unblock the drainage valves yourself or with the help of a professional. If the carpets in the car became wet, these will need to be dried in order to prevent mould from developing.
- Rattling Noises- Rattling noises coming from under the middle of the car are often caused by the heat shield coming loose. The loose bolt will need to be tightened to keep the heat shield from coming off and becoming damaged and to prevent the rattling noise from reoccurring.
Buying a Used Mx5: What to Expect and Look for
Purchasing a used Mx5 is different than buying new. There may have been multiple owners. Those owners may not have taken care of the vehicle, repaired necessary Mazda parts, or performed regular maintenance. It's for these reasons that buying a used car can be so tricky, and it's important for every buyer to take the proper steps to fine a Mazda that is exceptional.
- As the Right Questions- Find out how many owners the car has had, how many miles are on the car, and what type of maintenance the car has seen.
- Read up- Ask to see key documents that can help you learn more about the past and the condition of the Mx5. The owner should have a V5C logbook, a record of the service history, and MOT certifications that can help you determine what car parts have been repaired, how well the previous owner took car of the car, and whether regular maintenance was completed. Pay attention to whether these documents match the mileage on the car. Any discrepancy could indicate that the Mx5 has been clocked, meaning the mileage was turned back. If the mileage seems off and no MOT certificate is provided, go to www.gov.uk to see the MOT history.
- Inspect the Mx5- Always inspect the Mazda thoroughly, in the daylight when conditions are dry. Look for gaps between body panels that seem uneven, mismatched paint, and rust. See if all of the features on the car work.
- Inspect the VIN- The VIN, or vehicle identification number, of the Mazda Mx5 should be stamped at the windscreen's base, just under the bonnet. It should also be stamped into the chassis beneath the driver's seat and under the carpet. Make sure this number matches all the documents and doesn't appear to be tampered with.
- History Check- Get a car history check to determine if the car is stolen, written off, or has outstanding finance. You can obtain a history check from the DVLA.
Are you trying to decide whether to purchase a used Mx5? While there are plenty of Euro car parts you'll need to keep an eye on, buying a used Mazda may be a great option for you. Just make sure you take the time to thoroughly evaluate the car and ensure it has been well taken care of.
