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Mazda · Convertible / Roadster · 1998–2005

Mazda MX-5 NB

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
3.0 / 5.0 · Based on 2 engine variants

Generations

Engine Overview

The Mazda MX-5 NB is available with 2 engine variants — from 110 to 145 hp.

1.6L 16V · Benziner· 110 PS
1998 2005
Be Careful 9 weaknesses
1.8L 16V · Benziner· 139–145 PS
1998 2000
Be Careful 9 weaknesses

The Mazda 1.6L 16V (Benziner, 110 PS) has the B6-ZE (1.6L 16V) — rated: "Be Careful", 9 known weaknesses.

The Mazda 1.8L 16V (Benziner, 139–145 PS) has the BP-ZE (1.8L 16V) — rated: "Be Careful", 9 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
✖Longitudinal members and sills rust through

Front longitudinal members and sills rust from the inside out through unsealed panel flanges. Structural concern: the sills can lose their jacking points and strut tower attachment. Repair costs €1,500–3,500.

Symptoms: Rust visible on the bottom edge of sills and around the front axle; vehicle can no longer be safely jacked up; MOT defects
from 80,000 km
Ad Längsträger Mazda MX-5 NB repairrocker panel NB repair panelFahrzeugschweller NB NBFL
 High
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Average
127 complaints · 1998–2005
Brakes
23
Hydraulic
23
Engine & Cooling
16
Powertrain
15 ⚠ 2
Electrical
14

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Brakes (23 complaints)
⚠ Hydraulic (23 complaints)
⚠ Engine & Cooling (16 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 27 weaknesses have been documented for the Mazda MX-5 NB (1998–2005) — 18 engine-related and 9 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Rust, Body, Electronics, Brakes.

MX-5 (B6-ZE, 1998–2005) — Be Careful: Short-Nose Crankshaft — Pulley Damage from Incorrect Torque, Valve Clearance Check Required, Thermostat Stuck Open — Engine Fails to Warm Up. Power: 110 PS.

MX-5 (BP-ZE, 1998–2000) — Be Careful: Crankshaft Thrust Bearing — Wrong Part in 1999/2000 Build Year, Valve Clearance Check Required, Water Pump Leaking. Power: 139–145 PS.

What to watch out for with the Mazda MX-5? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Mazda MX-5 NB have? +
The Mazda MX-5 NB has 18 known engine weaknesses and 9 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Mazda MX-5 NB? +
faq.watch_a_none
Which engine is recommended? +
Be careful: B6-ZE (1.6L 16V), BP-ZE (1.8L 16V). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the BP-ZE (1.8L 16V).
Which Mazda MX-5 NB engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Mazda MX-5 NB — rated: "Legendary!". {description} NB2 with VVT (from 2001): 146 hp and dramatically better mid-range. Strongest factory engine of the NA/NB era. In an NA/NB/NC shootout, the NB sets the fastest lap. More capable than the 1.6 without losing the NA feel. Rust on the sill rails is more dangerous than any engine problem.
Is the Mazda MX-5 NB worth buying used? +
The Mazda MX-5 NB requires careful consideration — choosing the right engine variant is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Mazda MX-5 NB? +
The Mazda MX-5 NB is available with engine variants from 110 to 145 hp. Petrol: B6-ZE (1.6L 16V), BP-ZE (1.8L 16V).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee