2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata

Introduction:

The 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is a compact, lightweight sports car available in two trims: the base Sport and the upscale Grand Touring. Both trims come with a single engine and transmission option: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission. The engine produces 167 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque. The MX-5 Miata is praised for its nimble handling, responsive steering, and engaging driving experience. However, it also has some drawbacks, such as a cramped interior and limited cargo space.

Engine

2.0-liter Skyactiv

• Excessive Oil Consumption:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine burns oil at an excessive rate, resulting in low oil levels and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace piston rings and oil seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: #16V521000

Transmission

Six-Speed Manual

• Grinding Gears:
  • Description/Symptoms: Gears grind when shifting, particularly when engaging reverse or second gear.
  • Solution: Replace worn or damaged synchronizers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $1,800+
• Clutch Pedal Sticking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch pedal sticks or becomes difficult to depress, preventing smooth shifting.
  • Solution: Lubricate and adjust clutch system components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery fails to charge, leading to loss of electrical power while driving.
  • Solution: Replace alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
• Headlight Switch Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights fail to turn on, flicker, or dim.
  • Solution: Replace faulty headlight switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Exterior

• Rust on Exhaust System:
  • Description/Symptoms: Exhaust components, such as mufflers and pipes, develop rust and corrosion.
  • Solution: Replace or repair damaged exhaust parts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+

Interior

• HVAC System Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: Heating, ventilation, or air conditioning system fails to function properly, leading to insufficient heating or cooling.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace faulty components in the HVAC system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+

Summary:

The 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is a fun and engaging sports car with some notable issues. The excessive oil consumption issue can be costly to fix, while the transmission grinding and clutch pedal sticking can affect driving comfort and safety. Other problems, such as the electrical and interior issues, are less severe but can still be inconvenient.