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2021 Mazda MX-5 Miata

Introduction to the 2021 Mazda MX-5 Miata

The 2021 Mazda MX-5 Miata is a two-seater roadster that offers a thrilling driving experience. It is available with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 181 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic transmission. The MX-5 Miata is praised for its sharp handling, responsive steering, and balanced weight distribution. However, it is criticized for its cramped interior and lack of cargo space.

Engine

2.0-Liter Four-Cylinder Engine

  • Oil Leaks: Oil may leak from various points in the engine, including the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and camshaft seals. Symptoms include low oil levels, visible oil leaks, and an oily engine bay. The solution involves replacing the leaking gaskets or seals. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Carbon Buildup on Intake Valves: Carbon deposits can accumulate on the intake valves, reducing airflow and engine performance. Symptoms include reduced power, misfiring, and rough idling. The solution involves cleaning the intake valves. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $500+

Transmission

Six-Speed Manual Transmission

  • Grinding Noises: Grinding noises may occur when shifting gears, especially into reverse. The issue can be caused by worn synchronizers or other transmission components. The solution involves rebuilding or replacing the transmission. Estimated cost to fix: $1000 - $2000+
  • Difficulty Shifting: Difficulty shifting gears may be caused by worn or damaged shift cables or linkage. Symptoms include not being able to shift into gear or grinding noises when shifting. The solution involves replacing the shift cables or linkage. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $500+

Six-Speed Automatic Transmission

  • Slipping Gears: The automatic transmission may slip gears, causing a loss of power or acceleration. The issue can be caused by a worn torque converter or other transmission components. The solution involves rebuilding or replacing the transmission. Estimated cost to fix: $1500 - $2500+
  • Delayed Shifting: The automatic transmission may hesitate or delay when shifting gears. The issue can be caused by a software glitch or a problem with the transmission control module. The solution involves updating the software or replacing the transmission control module. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $500+

Suspension

  • No Issues Found

Electrical

  • Battery Drain: The battery may drain prematurely, especially when the vehicle is not in use. The issue can be caused by a parasitic draw on the electrical system, such as a faulty alternator or a short circuit. The solution involves identifying and repairing the source of the drain. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $500+

Exterior

  • No Issues Found

Interior

  • Dashboard Squeaks and Rattles: The dashboard may squeak or rattle over rough roads or bumps. The issue can be caused by loose Befestigungselemente or trim pieces. The solution involves tightening loose components or adding sound dampening material. Estimated cost to fix: $50 - $200+

Recalls

  • NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V945000
    • Issue: Takata Airbag Inflator Rupture Risk
    • Solution: Replace airbag inflator
  • NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V498000
    • Issue: Door Latch Failure
    • Solution: Replace door latch

Summary

The 2021 Mazda MX-5 Miata is a reliable and fun-to-drive sports car with some minor issues. The most common issues are oil leaks, carbon buildup on intake valves, and grinding noises in the manual transmission. These issues can be expensive to fix, with some repairs costing over $1000. However, the MX-5 Miata’s overall reliability is still above average, and most owners are satisfied with the vehicle’s performance and handling.

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