2004 Mazda Mx-5 problems

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The Mazda MX-5 is a lightweight two-person sports car manufactured and marketed by Mazda with a front mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout. The convertible is marketed as the Mazda Roadster (マツダ・ロードスター, Matsuda Rōdosutā) or Eunos Roadster (ユーノス・ロードスター, Yūnosu Rōdosutā) in Japan, and as the Mazda Miata (/miˈɑːtə/) in the United States, and formerly in Canada, where it is now marketed as the MX-5 but is still commonly referred to as Miata.

Manufactured at Mazda's Hiroshima plant, the MX-5 debuted in 1989 at the Chicago Auto Show and was conceived and executed under a tightly focused design credo, Jinba ittai (人馬一体), meaning "oneness of horse and rider". Widely noted for its small, light, technologically modern, dynamically balanced and minimally complex design, the MX-5 has frequently been called a spiritual successor to 1950s and '60s Italian and British roadster sports cars. The Lotus Elan was used as a design benchmark.

Generations were internally designated with a two-letter code, beginning with the first generation, the NA. The second generation (NB) launched in 1998 for MY 1999; followed by the third generation (NC) in 2005 for MY 2006, and the fourth generation (ND) in 2015 for MY 2016.

As the best-selling two-seat convertible sports car in history, the MX-5 has been marketed globally, with production exceeding one million, as of early 2016. The name miata derives from Old High German for "reward".

2004 Mazda Mx-5

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Common 2004 Mazda Mx-5 problems

Based on the complaints from owners of the Mazda MX-5 2004, several common problems have been reported. Here is a detailed list of these issues:

  • Soft Top Problems:
    • The soft top of the Mazda MX-5 can be prone to wear and tear, especially if not maintained properly. Issues like zipper malfunctions, scratches on the plastic window, and brown spots indicating window opacity are common. Regular inspection and maintenance of the soft top are essential to avoid costly replacements.
  • Front End Damage:
    • Front-end collisions can be a concern for Mazda MX-5 owners. It is crucial to check for any signs of bent metal, overspray in wheel wells, or other indications of front-end damage. Severe collisions can lead to irreparable structural damage, making a thorough inspection vital before purchasing a used Mazda MX-5.
  • Interior Wear and Tear:
    • While the interior of the Mazda MX-5 is generally durable, certain areas like fabric seats, driver-side seat bolsters, and pedal wear should be checked for signs of excessive use. Faded seats, worn-out pedals, and unusual wear patterns should be inspected to assess the overall condition of the car's interior.
  • Suspension Wear:
    • The suspension system of the Mazda MX-5, including shocks, shock mounts, and bump stops, can experience wear over time. Replacing these components is essential to maintain the car's handling and ride quality. Regular maintenance and inspection of the suspension system can help prevent major issues down the line.

These common problems reported by owners of the Mazda MX-5 2004 highlight the importance of thorough inspections and regular maintenance to ensure the longevity and performance of this iconic sports car.

2004 Mazda Mx-5 engine

What is the most common problem with the Mazda MX-5?

Rust. This is by far the miata's. Biggest enemy especially the older ones the most common places where rust may form are in the rocker panels. And fender arches. Front frame rail rust may also be

Is the Mazda MX-5 a reliable car?

Is a used Mazda MX-5 sports reliable? In our 2023 used car reliability survey, the Mazda MX-5 was 10th out of 15 cars in the most reliable used sports car class. It scored 89.7%, a little down on its performance the year before. Mazda performed well in our manufacturer table, too.

How long do MX-5 engines last?

Cambelt is none interference so isn't terminal if it goes. Engines in mx5s are pretty reliable. Mines on a relatively low 105k or so. Far more likely to kill one is the body work rotting away before your eyes.

What to look out for when buying an MX-5?

As with all MX5s check the interior for any signs of damp, whether that be wet carpets or a musty smell. Make sure all the kit works as it should, including electric windows, air-con, heated seats (if fitted) and stereo. Make sure fabric hoods are in good condition with no tears, creases or other obvious damage.

2004 Mazda Mx-5 complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2004 Mazda Mx-5.

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2004 Mazda Mx-5 problems:

Common Issues with NB 1998-2005 Miatas - MX-5 Miata Forum
Common Issues with NB 1998-2005 Miatas - MX-5 Miata Forum
https://forum.miata.net/vb/showthread.php?t=552185

- No up: motor wiring gets caught/bunched and eventually frays. - No Down: door stop comes out of it's hole and creates a physical blockage.

Mazda MX-5 Miata Common Problems (1990-2005) - Haynes Manuals
Mazda MX-5 Miata Common Problems (1990-2005) - Haynes Manuals
https://haynes.com/en-us/tips-tutorials/mazda-mx-5-miata-common-problems-1990-2005

Does the Mazda MX-5 Miata have fuel pump problems? ... You've got your foot down. The revs are siling towards the redline, you're just about to hook another gear ...

Mazdaspeed Miata common issues... - MX-5 Miata Forum
Mazdaspeed Miata common issues... - MX-5 Miata Forum
https://forum.miata.net/vb/showthread.php?t=590147

Shifter Notchy, or grinds slightly when shifting. Cause- Worn or Destroyed plastic bushing. Fix - Shifter rebuild. Stock Wheels very soft. They ...

2004 MAZDA MX-5 Miata Problems | Kelley Blue Book
2004 MAZDA MX-5 Miata Problems | Kelley Blue Book
https://www.kbb.com/mazda/mx-5-miata/2004/common-problems/

How reliable is the 2004 MAZDA MX-5 Miata? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 ...

2004 Mazda Miata Problems and Complaints - 3 Issues
2004 Mazda Miata Problems and Complaints - 3 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2004-mazda-miata/problems

Top 2004 Mazda Miata Problems · Ticking Noise From Valve Lash Adjusters Due to Infrequent Oil Changes. 53 people have reported this. 25 · Clutch Slave Cylinder ...

Other years of Mazda Mx-5

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