2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata

The 2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata is a two-seater sports car powered by a 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G engine that produces 155 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque. It comes with a six-speed manual transmission or an optional six-speed automatic transmission. The Miata is praised for its handling, performance, and affordability, but it is criticized for its lack of practicality and cramped interior.

Engine

• 2.0L Skyactiv-G

  • Accelerated Cam and Crank Bearing Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: This issue causes premature wear on the camshaft and crankshaft bearings, leading to engine noise, loss of power, and potential engine failure.
    • Solution: Replacement of the affected bearings is necessary, which involves removing the engine and disassembling it.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000+
    • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign ID: 21V536000
  • Oil Pump Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The oil pump may fail, leading to a loss of oil pressure and subsequent engine damage.
    • Solution: Replacement of the oil pump is necessary, which involves removing and disassembling the engine.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• Six-Speed Manual
  • Transmission Grinding
    • Description/Symptoms: This issue causes grinding noises and difficulty shifting into certain gears, especially during downshifting.
    • Solution: Replacement of the affected transmission components, such as synchronizers or gears, is necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
• Six-Speed Automatic
  • Transmission Jerking
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may jerk or hesitate during gear changes, causing an uncomfortable driving experience.
    • Solution: Reprogramming the transmission control module or replacing transmission components may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Failure * Description/Symptoms: The strut assemblies may fail, resulting in excessive bouncing, noise, and reduced handling capabilities. * Solution: Replacement of the affected struts is necessary. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+ * Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Discharge * Description/Symptoms: The battery may discharge prematurely, causing the vehicle to fail to start or experience electrical malfunctions. * Solution: Diagnosis of the electrical system and replacement of the battery or other faulty components is necessary. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500 * Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Paint Issues * Description/Symptoms: The paint may develop chips, scratches, or peeling, affecting the vehicle’s appearance. * Solution: Repair or replacement of the affected panels is necessary. * Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the extent of the damage * Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Infotainment System Glitches * Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may experience glitches, such as freezing or not responding to inputs. * Solution: Software updates or replacement of the infotainment unit may be necessary. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500 * Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata is generally a reliable vehicle, but it is not without its potential issues. The most severe and costly issues involve the engine and transmission, such as cam and crank bearing wear or oil pump failure. However, these issues are not common and most MX-5 owners experience minimal problems.