2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata

The 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata is a beloved roadster known for its exceptional handling, lightweight design, and engaging driving experience. The 2020 model year continued to offer the 2.0-liter inline-4 engine, producing 181 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. This engine could be paired with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally praise the Miata for its agility, fuel efficiency, and open-air fun. Common complaints often revolve around the limited interior space, road noise, and relatively basic infotainment system.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4

• Valve train ticking noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise emanating from the valve train area of the engine, more pronounced at idle or low RPM.
  • Solution: Often attributed to the direct injection system or valve lash adjustment. Sometimes, adjusting the valve lash can alleviate the noise.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the valve cover gasket
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual Transmission

• Gear Grinding/Difficulty Shifting into 2nd Gear When Cold
  • Description/Symptoms: When the transmission is cold, there is a notable grinding noise, or difficulty engaging second gear.
  • Solution: Often attributed to the synchros going bad in the transmission. Replacing the transmission can resolve the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Hesitation/Jerky Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners report occasional hesitation or jerky shifting, particularly when the transmission is cold or during quick acceleration.
  • Solution: Some cases have been resolved with a transmission fluid flush and software update. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or transmission overhaul may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

No Issues Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Rebooting
  • Description/Symptoms: The Mazda Connect infotainment system can occasionally freeze, become unresponsive, or spontaneously reboot while driving.
  • Solution: Software updates are often released to address these issues. In some cases, a complete infotainment system replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (if software update) - $1000+ (if hardware replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain, especially if the car sits for extended periods.
  • Solution: Check for parasitic draws. Some owners have found aftermarket accessories or improperly installed electronics to be the cause. A new battery or battery management system reset might also be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Convertible Top Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks around the convertible top seals, particularly during heavy rain or car washes.
  • Solution: Seal replacement or adjustment may be necessary. In some cases, the entire convertible top may need to be replaced or adjusted.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Discomfort
  • Description/Symptoms: Some drivers, especially taller individuals, find the seats uncomfortable for long drives due to limited adjustability and bolstering.
  • Solution: Aftermarket seat replacements or modifications.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Center Console Rattling
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noises emanating from the center console area, especially on rough roads.
  • Solution: Tightening loose screws or adding foam padding to dampen vibrations.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (DIY) - $200+ (Professional Repair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata, while a fun and engaging vehicle, does have some common issues. The engine valve train noise is a relatively minor concern. The transmission issues, particularly with the manual gearbox’s gear grinding/shifting issues, can be a more significant expense. Electrical glitches with the infotainment system and battery drain are also recurring problems. Overall, while some repairs can be costly (especially transmission-related), many issues are relatively minor and can be addressed with simple fixes. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and thoroughly inspect any used Miata before purchase.