1992 Mazda Miata

Introduction

The 1992 Mazda Miata is a lightweight, rear-wheel drive sports car. It is powered by a 1.6L inline-four engine that produces 116 horsepower and 100 lb-ft of torque. The Miata is available with a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission.

People like the Miata for its handling, affordability, and classic styling. However, some people find the interior to be cramped and the engine to be underpowered.

Engine

1.6L I4 Manual Transmission

• Timing belt failure: The timing belt can fail prematurely, causing catastrophic engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing belt and water pump every 60,000 miles.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Head gasket failure: The head gasket can fail, causing coolant and oil to mix.
  • Solution: Replace the head gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

1.6L I4 Automatic Transmission

• Transmission failure: The automatic transmission can fail, causing the vehicle to lose power.
  • Solution: Replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Five-Speed Manual Transmission

• Clutch failure: The clutch can wear out prematurely, causing the vehicle to slip out of gear.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Four-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Shift solenoid failure: The shift solenoid can fail, causing the transmission to shift erratically.
  • Solution: Replace the shift solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front strut failure: The front struts can fail, causing the vehicle to handle poorly.
  • Solution: Replace the front struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure: The alternator can fail, causing the vehicle to lose power.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust: The Miata is prone to rust, especially in the rear fenders and rocker panels.
  • Solution: Preventative measures include regular washing, waxing, and rustproofing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies

Interior

• Cracked dashboard: The dashboard can crack over time.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

Overall, the 1992 Mazda Miata is a reliable and affordable sports car. However, it is not without its issues. The most common problems include timing belt failure, head gasket failure, and transmission failure. The severity of these issues can vary, and the cost to fix them can be significant.