2001 Mazda Miata

Introduction

The 2001 Mazda Miata is a compact sports car that is offered with two engine options: a 1.8L 4-cylinder engine with 140 horsepower and 119 lb-ft of torque, and a 1.6L 4-cylinder engine with 116 horsepower and 100 lb-ft of torque. The 1.8L engine is paired with a 6-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission, while the 1.6L engine is paired with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. The Miata is known for its handling, performance, and affordability. However, it is not without its problems.

Engine

1.8L 4-Cylinder Engine

• VVT System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The variable valve timing (VVT) system can fail, causing the engine to run rough and lose power.
  • Solution: Replace the VVT solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V234000
• Intake Valve Carbon Buildup
  • Description/Symptoms: Carbon buildup on the intake valves can cause the engine to idle rough and stall.
  • Solution: Clean the intake valves.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found 1.6L 4-Cylinder Engine
• No Issues Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual Transmission

• Shift Linkage Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The shift linkage can fail, making it difficult to shift gears.
  • Solution: Replace the shift linkage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found 4-Speed Automatic Transmission
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The torque converter can fail, causing the transmission to slip and lose power.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found 5-Speed Manual Transmission
• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The strut mounts can fail, causing the suspension to make noise and the car to handle poorly.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery can drain quickly, leaving the car unable to start.
  • Solution: Test the electrical system for a parasitic draw and replace any faulty components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Heater Core Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The heater core can fail, causing the heater to not work and the car to overheat.
  • Solution: Replace the heater core.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2001 Mazda Miata is a reliable and fun-to-drive sports car, but it is not without its issues. The most common problems include the VVT system failure, intake valve carbon buildup, and torque converter failure. The severity of these issues can range from minor to major, and the cost to fix them can be significant. However, the Miata remains a popular choice for enthusiasts who are willing to overlook its flaws.