For years, the MX-5 has been famous for delivering reliability in a market segment started by some pretty unreliable European convertibles. In effect, the MX-5 offers the same nostalgic fun-to-drive factor without all the oil leaks and catching fire. It’s a car largely celebrated for top-notch reliability-- but shoppers are still advised to scrutinize any used model they’re considering.
Start off with a walk around the body. Look up at the bottom of the doors and inside the wheel wells for signs of rust. You’ll want to have a good look beneath the car for excessive rust, too.
Bring a floor-mat, flashlight and jack or ramp to get the car’s body elevated slightly for a look around beneath. While you’re there, look for oil leaks from beneath the engine and driveline-- paying special attention to the area where the driveshaft connects to the transmission, and where the axles and driveshaft connect to the differential. If you’re unsure, take the MX-5 in question to your favourite mechanic for a check over.
Back up top, inspect the convertible roof mechanism for smooth operation, checking closely for signs of rips or excessive wear. Does the roof or its storage area smell like mildew? If so, there may be a leak. A duct tape patch job is a bad sign, too.
You’ll also want to check for signs of mildew, moisture or rust in the foot wells and under the carpeting in the trunk area.
Under the hood, check for signs of oil leakage down the side of the block, which could indicate a bad gasket. If you’re unsure of the service history of the model you’re considering, be sure to budget for a full tune up and fluid change.
Sports cars are likely to have been driven hard-- so be sure to check the condition of the clutch, brakes and tires before agreeing to purchase. Assume the vehicle’s last owner is trying to pass off replacement of these items onto you. If that’s the case, negotiate for a lower price.
Be wary of upgrades, too. Though many used MX-5s will have relatively safe intake and exhaust modifications, shoppers unfamiliar with the vehicle should avoid models with turbocharger upgrades, nitrous, engine management modifications or extreme suspension or chassis upgrades. Remember, if in doubt, a mechanical check-over by a technician is a good idea.
Finally, ask if the vehicle has ever been raced or involved in competition. If the seller is an experienced driver who properly maintains his or her vehicle, this should be no cause for worry. Just remember that motorsports can shorten the life of a vehicle if special maintenance considerations aren’t adhered to.
Find a good deal on a clean used Miata, and you’ll join a proud and happy community of thousands of loyal owners.
Start off with a walk around the body. Look up at the bottom of the doors and inside the wheel wells for signs of rust. You’ll want to have a good look beneath the car for excessive rust, too.
Bring a floor-mat, flashlight and jack or ramp to get the car’s body elevated slightly for a look around beneath. While you’re there, look for oil leaks from beneath the engine and driveline-- paying special attention to the area where the driveshaft connects to the transmission, and where the axles and driveshaft connect to the differential. If you’re unsure, take the MX-5 in question to your favourite mechanic for a check over.
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| 2005 Mazda Miata (Photo: Mazda) |
Back up top, inspect the convertible roof mechanism for smooth operation, checking closely for signs of rips or excessive wear. Does the roof or its storage area smell like mildew? If so, there may be a leak. A duct tape patch job is a bad sign, too.
You’ll also want to check for signs of mildew, moisture or rust in the foot wells and under the carpeting in the trunk area.
Under the hood, check for signs of oil leakage down the side of the block, which could indicate a bad gasket. If you’re unsure of the service history of the model you’re considering, be sure to budget for a full tune up and fluid change.
Sports cars are likely to have been driven hard-- so be sure to check the condition of the clutch, brakes and tires before agreeing to purchase. Assume the vehicle’s last owner is trying to pass off replacement of these items onto you. If that’s the case, negotiate for a lower price.
Be wary of upgrades, too. Though many used MX-5s will have relatively safe intake and exhaust modifications, shoppers unfamiliar with the vehicle should avoid models with turbocharger upgrades, nitrous, engine management modifications or extreme suspension or chassis upgrades. Remember, if in doubt, a mechanical check-over by a technician is a good idea.
Finally, ask if the vehicle has ever been raced or involved in competition. If the seller is an experienced driver who properly maintains his or her vehicle, this should be no cause for worry. Just remember that motorsports can shorten the life of a vehicle if special maintenance considerations aren’t adhered to.
Find a good deal on a clean used Miata, and you’ll join a proud and happy community of thousands of loyal owners.
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