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Mazda · Convertible / Roadster · 2015–2026

Mazda MX-5 ND

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

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

Generations

Engine Overview

The Mazda MX-5 ND is available with 2 engine variants — from 131 to 184 hp. 1 variants had engine changes — the model year is crucial.

1.5L SkyActiv-G · Benziner· 131–132 PS
2015 2018
Be Careful 5 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →
2.0L SkyActiv-G · Benziner· 160–184 PS Engine Change
2015 2018
Be Careful 8 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →
2018 2026
Be Careful 8 weaknesses

The Mazda 1.5L SkyActiv-G (Benziner, 131–132 PS) has the P5-VPR (1.5L SkyActiv-G) — rated: "Be Careful", 5 known weaknesses.

The Mazda 2.0L SkyActiv-G (Benziner, 160–184 PS) comes with 2 different engines: PE-VPR (2015–2018, Be Careful) und PE-VPR (2018–2026, Be Careful). Pay attention to the model year for the 2.0L SkyActiv-G!

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
!Hood chafes due to manufacturing tolerances

The MX-5 ND's soft top chafes against the mechanism arms on many cars and damages the fabric. The cause is excessive manufacturing tolerances. Repair by shimming the arm forward with spacers is possible.

Symptoms: Chafing marks on the hood, fabric worn through, squeaking or rubbing when operating, possible water ingress
from 30,000 km
Ad convertible top Mazda MX-5 NDconvertible topbezug ND StoffDistanzscheibe convertible top MX5 ND
 Medium
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Average
78 complaints · 2015–2026
Powertrain
25 ⚠ 2
Electrical
12 ⚠ 2
Other
9
Airbags
8 ⚠ 4
Body Structure
7 ⚠ 1

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Powertrain (25 complaints)
⚠ Electrical (12 complaints)
⚠ Other (9 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 22 weaknesses have been documented for the Mazda MX-5 ND (2015–2026) — 13 engine-related and 9 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Body, Rust, Gearbox, Interior.

MX-5 (P5-VPR, 2015–2018) — Be Careful: Recall: fuel pipe cracking at high revs, Carbon build-up on intake valves, Defective coolant control valve (thermostat). Power: 131–132 PS.

MX-5 (PE-VPR, 2015–2018) — Be Careful: Recall: cylinder deactivation valve lash adjustment, Hairline cracks in the cylinder head, Oil consumption from piston rings at high mileage. Power: 160 PS.

MX-5 (PE-VPR, 2018–2026) — Be Careful: Recall: cylinder deactivation valve lash adjustment, Hairline cracks in the cylinder head, Oil consumption from piston rings at high mileage. Power: 184 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 ND have? +
The Mazda MX-5 ND has 13 known engine weaknesses and 9 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Mazda MX-5 ND? +
faq.watch_a_none
Which engine is recommended? +
Be careful: P5-VPR (1.5L SkyActiv-G), PE-VPR (2.0L SkyActiv-G). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the PE-VPR (2.0L SkyActiv-G).
Which Mazda MX-5 ND engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Mazda MX-5 ND — rated: "Legendary!". {description} Get the ND2 (from 2019) with 184 hp and its own gearbox — not the ND1 2.0 saddled with the 1.5's transmission. More torque for motorway and overtaking, still under 1,050 kg. On country roads almost as playful as the 1.5, on the motorway far more relaxed. RF or soft top? Open is better. The safer bet.
Is the Mazda MX-5 ND worth buying used? +
The Mazda MX-5 ND requires careful consideration — choosing the right engine variant is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Mazda MX-5 ND? +
The Mazda MX-5 ND is available with engine variants from 131 to 184 hp. Petrol: P5-VPR (1.5L SkyActiv-G), PE-VPR (2.0L SkyActiv-G).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee