2017 Mazda MX-5

Introduction:

The 2017 Mazda MX-5 is a compact sports car available with a 2.0L naturally aspirated engine paired with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. It delivers 155 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque. The MX-5 is praised for its handling, lightweight chassis, and affordability. However, it has some drawbacks, such as a small interior and limited cargo space.

Engine

2.0L Engine

• Excessive Oil Consumption:
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine consumes an excessive amount of oil, requiring frequent top-ups.
  • Solution: Replacing the piston rings and oil seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2000+
• Timing Chain Rattle:
  • Description/Symptoms: A rattling sound coming from the engine when starting or accelerating.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain and related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000
• Intake Valve Carbon Buildup:
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, especially at higher RPMs.
  • Solution: Cleaning the intake valves using specialized tools or chemicals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Transmission

6-Speed Manual Transmission

• Stiff Shifting:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears smoothly, especially when the transmission is cold.
  • Solution: Replacing the transmission fluid or clutch master cylinder.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
• Grinding Noise:
  • Description/Symptoms: A grinding noise when shifting gears, especially from first to second.
  • Solution: Replacing the synchronizers or damaged gears.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500

6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Slipping Gears:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission fails to engage gears properly, causing the car to hesitate or jerk.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000
• Delayed Shifting:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission hesitates to shift gears, especially when accelerating.
  • Solution: Updating the transmission software or replacing the transmission control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500

Suspension

• Front Strut Noise:
  • Description/Symptoms: A clunking or rattling noise from the front suspension when driving over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacing the front struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
• Rear Shock Absorber Leakage:
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the rear shock absorbers, causing a loss of suspension damping.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, even when the car is not being used.
  • Solution: Identifying and replacing the faulty component, such as the alternator or parasitic drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
• Headlight Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: One or both headlights fail to illuminate or flicker.
  • Solution: Replacing the headlight assembly or electrical harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500

Exterior

• Trunk Lid Misalignment:
  • Description/Symptoms: The trunk lid does not close properly or sits unevenly.
  • Solution: Adjusting the trunk hinges or replacing the trunk lid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Broken Antenna Mast:
  • Description/Symptoms: The antenna mast is damaged or missing, affecting radio reception.
  • Solution: Replacing the antenna mast.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100

Interior

• Climate Control Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: The climate control system fails to operate or produce cold or hot air.
  • Solution: Replacing the climate control module or related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000
• Rear View Camera Distortion:
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear view camera displays a distorted or fuzzy image.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear view camera.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200

Summary:

The 2017 Mazda MX-5 has some common issues that can affect the engine, transmission, and suspension. Engine issues can be costly to fix, while transmission problems are less severe but still require attention. Electrical and exterior issues are relatively minor and affordable to resolve. While the interior has limited serious issues, the climate control and rear view camera can be problematic. Overall, the MX-5 is a reliable and fun-to-drive car, but potential owners should be aware of these potential issues before purchasing.