2006 Mazda Mx-5 problems
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".
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Common 2006 Mazda Mx-5 problems
The Mazda MX-5, also known as the Roadster or Miata in some markets, is a popular sports car known for its reliability and longevity
. However, there are still specific areas to consider when purchasing a used Mazda MX-5, particularly the 2006 model.
- Buzzing Noise: Some owners have reported a strange buzzing noise from near the gearlever when the car is accelerating. Mazda has stated that it is nothing to worry about, but it is still worth investigating before making a purchase.
- Wheel Alignment: Incorrect wheel alignment can lead to uneven tyre wear. Therefore, it is essential to check for any signs of uneven tyre wear when inspecting a used Mazda MX-5.
- Engine and Gearbox: The engines and gearboxes of all MX-5s are generally strong, with few consistently reported problems, even in cars with above-average mileages. However, it is still worth checking that the oil changes have been performed on time, roughly every 10,000 miles, and that the timing belt has been changed regularly; every 60,000 miles is the recommended period.
- Rust: Rust is a significant issue with an old MX-5, and it can affect many different areas of the bodywork, especially around the wheel arches. Therefore, it is vital to check carefully when inspecting a used Mazda MX-5.
- Convertible Top: Water ingress in the front of the convertible can be a problem, and it is essential to check for any signs of water leaks or damage to the fabric top.
- Noises and Leaks: Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, seals and/or weather stripping, air and water leaks are common trouble spots in the Mazda MX-5. Water can drain into the floor instead of under the car, and tabs that secure the convertible top to the front windshield can become loose, causing rattling and wind noise.
In summary, when purchasing a used Mazda MX-5, it is essential to check the roof-folding mechanism, inspect for any signs of leaks, tears, or damage, and ensure that the wheels are correctly aligned. Additionally, checking the engine and gearbox for regular maintenance, looking for signs of rust, and carefully inspecting the convertible top for any water leaks or damage are all critical steps in ensuring that you are buying a reliable and problem-free car.
Is a 2006 Mazda MX-5 reliable?
Reliable, economical, ruggedly built, practical and affordable — with few vices. If you drove a Beetle, you were personally releasing those characteristics. You were, in effect, living the car.
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.
Does the 2006 Mazda MX-5 have a timing belt or chain?
2006 is equipped with a timing chain instead of a belt, no service is required .. Owners manual is your best source for information about 'that' vehicle!
2006 Mazda Mx-5 complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2006 Mazda Mx-5.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2006 Mazda Mx-5 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2006 Mazda Mx-5.
- Manufacturer: MAZDA MOTOR CORP
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE BOLT ATTACHING THE HORN ASSEMBLY TO THE STEERING WHEEL HUB MAY FAIL DURING A DRIVER SIDE FRONT AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT IN EXTREMELY LOW AMBIENT TEMPERATURE.
- Consequence: SHOULD THIS OCCUR, THE HORN ASSEMBLY MAY SEPARATE AND COULD INJURE THE DRIVER.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE DRIVER-SIDE FRONTAL AIR BAG MODULE FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 28, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MAZDA AT 800-222-5500.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2006 Mazda Mx-5 problems:
2006 NC known issues - MX-5 Miata Forum
Some 2006 thermostats tend to get "lazy" or fail (stay open) resulting in low operating temp. ... [2007 MX-5 GT, True Red, MT6, SP, PP2, AP, ...
Mazda MX-5 NC common problems (2005-2015)
What common problems does the Mazda MX-5 have? The Mazda MX-5 NC has a common problem in that the rear differential emits a loud whining noise. A different part ...
2006 motor problems - MX-5 Miata Forum
If the car had services from a Mazda dealership, any Mazda dealership can pull up those records. '07 Sport 5MT - Sunlight Silver - RHT - Hella ...
2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata Reliability - Consumer Reports
What Owners Say ... "Water is coming through the fabric top despite re-waterproofing." ... "Water is draining into the floor instead of under the car." ... "Tabs that ...
NC Miata Problem Areas - MX-5 Miata Forum
There are two things that kill these cars - a cracked coolant tank with a car overheating unnoticed, and sudden oil loss between checks.
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