Used Mazda MX-5 2015-present reliability
Category: Sports car
The Mazda MX-5 is a fantastic two-seat convertible that's great to drive and doesn’t cost the Earth to buy or run
What should I look for in a used Mazda MX-5 sports?
When viewing a used car, always follow our used car buying checklist.
The Mazda MX-5 was praised when it came out for having a leak-free roof – something that sports cars haven't always been able to boast about over the years. If you test drive an MX-5 and want to check the roof for leaks, head to an automatic car wash and put the car through a cycle.
Being small, it should be easy to park. But, because the driver sits quite low, low bollards or walls can be overlooked, and rear parking sensors aren’t standard unless you get the Sport Nav. Check the bumpers for scrapes because it can be costly to put paint damage right.
What are the most common problems with a used Mazda MX-5 sports?
Under shield bracket
Some examples built between 26 May and 6 July 2015 could have an issue with a metal bracket used to keep the under shield in place failing. A dealer will be able to check if your car is affected by this and arrange to have a replacement bracket installed free of charge.
Automatic gearbox
If your MX-5 has an automatic gearbox and was built between 5 October 2016 and 22 November 2018, it might downshift into a lower gear when you didn't ask it to. A technician at your local Mazda dealer will need to update the software for the gearbox if it is affected by this recall to prevent this from happening.
Stop/start (i-ELOOP)
In issue with the start/stop (called i-ELOOP) of vehicles manufactured between 15 May 2015 and 13 April 2017 could lead to the system overheating and in extreme circumstances, catch fire. Ask a Mazda dealer to check whether or not your car is affected; if it is, it'll need to have the software updated by a technician and the whole system inspected because certain parts may need to be replaced.
Click here for more information. Contact your local Mazda dealer if you believe your vehicle is involved in a recall.
Is a used Mazda MX-5 sports reliable?
The Mazda MX-5 is a generally reliable car. In our 2024 What Car? Reliability Survey, the MX-5 came ninth out of 13 cars in the coupé, convertible and sports car class. It scored a respectable 91.4% and ranked higher than the Jaguar F-Type but lower than the Porsche 718 Boxster.
Mazda performed well in our manufacturer table, too. With a 91.1% rating, it was our 18th most reliable used car brand out of a total of 34 manufacturers. It ranked above VW and Fiat but below BMW and Ford.
Used Mazda MX-5: owners' reliability data
As part of our 2023 Reliability Survey, What Car? readers said the Mazda MX-5 is highly regarded for its reliability. Most owners reported few issues, with many praising the car’s dependable performance and minimal need for repairs. However, a few mentioned occasional electrical problems, particularly with the infotainment system, including unresponsive screens and connectivity issues. Despite these minor faults, mechanical reliability was largely seen as a strength of the MX-5.
When it comes to dealer service, feedback was generally positive. Many readers praised the efficiency and helpfulness of Mazda dealerships, noting that repairs were handled swiftly and professionally. A few owners mentioned higher-than-expected service costs, but these were not widespread concerns. Some did suggest that communication around repair progress could be improved.
