2020 Mazda MX-5

The 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata is a beloved roadster known for its agile handling, engaging driving experience, and classic styling. The 2020 model year continued this tradition, offering a fun, sporty ride. All trims came standard with the Skyactiv-G 2.0-liter inline-4 engine producing 181 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic. Owners often praise the MX-5’s responsiveness, lightweight feel, and open-top experience. However, some common dislikes include the limited cargo space, small interior, and lack of certain modern tech features found in other vehicles.

Engine

Skyactiv-G 2.0L I4

• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported engine misfires, particularly during cold starts or under heavy acceleration. This can be caused by faulty ignition coils, spark plugs, or fuel injectors. The check engine light may illuminate.
  • Solution: Diagnosis involves checking the spark plugs, ignition coils, and fuel injectors. Replacing the faulty components typically resolves the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the failed part and how many cylinders are affected
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

• Grinding during shifts
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing grinding when shifting, especially between 1st and 2nd gear or 2nd and 3rd gear. This may be caused by worn synchros or low transmission fluid.
  • Solution: Start by checking the transmission fluid level and condition. If the fluid is low or contaminated, replace it. If the grinding persists, the synchros may need to be replaced or the entire transmission rebuilt/replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 for fluid change, $1500 - $4000+ for synchro replacement or transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing harsh or jerky shifting, especially during acceleration or deceleration. This can be caused by low transmission fluid, dirty transmission fluid, or a faulty transmission control module (TCM).
  • Solution: Start by checking the transmission fluid level and condition. If the fluid is low or contaminated, replace it. If the harsh shifting persists, have the TCM inspected.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 for fluid change, $200+ for TCM inspection/replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The Mazda Connect infotainment system may freeze, crash, or become unresponsive. This can happen randomly or when using certain features like navigation or Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
  • Solution: Try restarting the infotainment system by holding down the volume knob. If the problem persists, a software update from Mazda may be required. In some cases, the infotainment unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 for software update, $500 - $1500+ for infotainment unit replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported premature battery drain, especially if the car sits for extended periods. This can be caused by parasitic draw from various electrical components.
  • Solution: Have a mechanic perform a parasitic draw test to identify the source of the drain. Common culprits include the infotainment system, alarm system, or improperly installed aftermarket accessories.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 for diagnosis, $50 - $500+ for repair depending on the cause.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Convertible Top Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks around the seals of the convertible top, particularly during heavy rain or car washes.
  • Solution: Inspect and clean the seals around the convertible top. Apply a silicone-based lubricant to the seals to improve the seal. If the leaks persist, the seals may need to be replaced or the top may need to be adjusted.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $50 for lubricant, $100 - $500+ for seal replacement or top adjustment.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata, while a fun and engaging car, can experience some common issues. The engine can experience misfires and the transmissions can experience shifting problems. The infotainment system is prone to freezing. The convertible top seals are known to leak as well. The cost to repair these issues can vary widely depending on the severity and the parts that need to be replaced, but most repairs can be addressed without excessive expense.