2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata

The 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is a beloved roadster known for its nimble handling, engaging driving experience, and affordability. It comes equipped with a 2.0-liter inline-4 engine producing 170 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual, a 6-speed manual, and a 6-speed automatic. Owners often praise the Miata for its fun-to-drive nature, simple mechanics, and reliability, while some common complaints include limited cargo space, a somewhat noisy ride, and susceptibility to rust in certain climates.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4

• Camshaft Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise upon cold start, especially noticeable in the first few seconds after the engine is started. Can lead to poor engine performance and decreased fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacement of the camshaft actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the valve cover, visible oil on the engine block, burning smell, and potentially low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Needing to add oil more frequently than expected, blue smoke from the exhaust pipe, especially during acceleration.
  • Solution: In some cases, piston rings may need replacement or engine rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

• Difficulty Shifting into Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or difficulty engaging certain gears, especially when cold. This can be due to worn synchros or a worn clutch.
  • Solution: Replacement of synchros or the entire transmission, or replacement of the clutch assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ depending on the parts to replace
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

No Issues Found

6-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky gear changes, especially between 1st and 2nd gear.
  • Solution: Replacing the automatic transmission fluid. If problems persist, the valve body could be failing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Broken Coil Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from the suspension, uneven ride height, poor handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the broken coil spring. It’s recommended to replace springs in pairs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Suspension Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or creaking noises from the suspension, loose handling, excessive body roll.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows not operating correctly, sticking, slow movement, or not moving at all.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges malfunctioning, flickering lights, or complete failure of the instrument cluster.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust on body panels, especially around wheel wells, rocker panels, and undercarriage. Can cause structural damage if left untreated.
  • Solution: Rust repair, body panel replacement, and rustproofing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found
• Convertible Top Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin during rain or car washes, especially around the seams and edges of the convertible top.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the convertible top. Can be caused by wear and tear or weather damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Center Console Latch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The center console lid latch breaks, preventing the console from latching closed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the center console lid or the latch mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata, while a fun and reliable car overall, can experience a range of issues as it ages. The most concerning problems revolve around engine oil consumption, potential rust issues, and convertible top leaks, which can lead to moderate to high repair costs. Issues such as suspension wear, electrical glitches, and transmission problems are also reported, but these tend to be less frequent and costly to address. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the vehicle’s history, look for signs of rust and leaks, and have a mechanic inspect the car for potential engine and transmission issues before purchasing.