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Used Mazda Mx-5 Fault Guides

Used Car Expert Fault Guides tell you the common Mazda Mx-5 faults and wear items that can become problems and big bills for their owner.

Independent research indicated that using our fault guides to check a car before you buy it can save you an average of £300 in surprise bills and hidden problems.

That's because our Mazda Mx-5 fault guides are written so that anyone can understand them – even if you know nothing about cars and have no tools. For every common fault, we tell you what to look for, what it means and what it costs.

Select your Mazda Mx-5 fault guide:

Mazda Mx5 (1990 - 2005) Fault Guide
Mazda Mazda Mx-5 (2005-) Fault Guide


Mazda Mx5 (1990 - 2005) Fault Guide

View Mazda Mx5 (1990 - 2005) Fault Guide

We know of 15 MAZDA MX5 (1990 - 2005) faults which our fault check guide makes it easy for you to spot and avoid.

  • 5 engine faults
  • 2 suspension wear items or faults
  • 3 interior problems
  • 2 bodywork issues
  • 3 recalls

Here's an example fault on the MAZDA MX5 (1990 - 2005)

What to look for:

Check the paperwork to see if the cam belt has been changed on schedule. On most engines the cam belt must be changed within 6 years or 56,000 miles.

What it means:

If the cam belt fails on the MX-5, unlike many engines, it is rare for there to be any other resultant damage.

What to do

Budget to have the cam belt changed every 56,000 miles or 6 years.


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Mazda Mazda Mx-5 (2005-) Fault Guide

View Mazda Mazda Mx-5 (2005-) Fault Guide

We know of 8 MAZDA Mazda MX-5 (2005-) faults which our fault check guide makes it easy for you to spot and avoid.

  • 1 engine faults
  • 3 suspension wear items or faults
  • 1 interior problems
  • 2 bodywork issues
  • 1 recalls

Here's an example fault on the MAZDA Mazda MX-5 (2005-)

What to look for:

Be aware that the MX5 has a digital service book. There is no physical book.

What it means:

If you wish to make sure the car has a complete history then you will need to call a dealer with the number plate.

What to do

If you are going to purchase a 2005’ MX5 then make sure you get a full picture of the service history by calling a main dealer with the registration number.


Register to have full access to the MAZDA Mazda MX-5 (2005-) fault guide.

Registered users also get access to our regional price guides, cars for sale email alerts, and many other benefits to help you buy a safe, reliable used car at a great price.


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