2000 Mazda Miata

The 2000 Mazda Miata (NB) is a beloved roadster known for its nimble handling, affordability, and simple, reliable design. It features a 1.8L inline-four engine producing around 140 horsepower and 119 lb-ft of torque. All trims are only available with a 1.8L engine. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual, and a 4-speed automatic. People love the Miata for its fun-to-drive nature and classic sports car feel. Common dislikes include its small size, limited cargo space, and road noise.

Engine

1.8L Inline-Four

• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the valve cover onto the engine block, leading to a burning smell, smoke, and potential oil loss.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, misfiring, or failure to start. The check engine light may illuminate with a code related to the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss. Engine overheating.
  • Solution: Check all coolant hoses, thermostat housing, water pump, and radiator for leaks. Replace the affected parts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Synchro Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or difficulty shifting into gears, especially 2nd or 3rd.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual

• Synchro Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or difficulty shifting into gears, especially 2nd or 3rd.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic

• Slipping or Erratic Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping between gears, harsh or delayed shifting, or failure to shift altogether.
  • Solution: Fluid change, valve body repair, or transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Bushings Worn Out
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, especially over bumps. Loose handling, poor alignment.
  • Solution: Replace worn bushings (control arms, sway bar, etc.).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sits lopsided or lower than usual. Excessive bouncing or rough ride.
  • Solution: Replace broken springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window does not go up or down, or moves very slowly.
  • Solution: Replace the window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights do not turn on, flicker, or stay on even when switched off.
  • Solution: Replace the headlight switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Convertible Top Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into the cabin during rain or washing the car.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the convertible top seals. Repair or replace the convertible top.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Broken Door Handles (Interior)
  • Description/Symptoms: The interior door handle breaks or becomes detached, making it difficult or impossible to open the door from the inside.
  • Solution: Replace the door handle mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2000 Mazda Miata is generally a reliable car, but like any vehicle of its age, it’s prone to certain issues. The most common problems relate to leaks (valve cover, coolant, convertible top), worn suspension components, and synchro wear in the manual transmissions. Electrical issues are less frequent but can occur. Repair costs can vary significantly depending on the issue and whether you do the work yourself or take it to a professional. The overall severity of these issues is moderate, with most being repairable without excessive expense. However, neglecting these issues can lead to more significant problems down the road.