2008 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 2008 Mazda Mx-5 problems
The Mazda MX-5 from 2008 has been known to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. These issues include climate system problems, body hardware issues, paint and trim concerns, engine major troubles, electrical accessories malfunctions, drive system difficulties, brake problems, and steering and suspension challenges.
- Climate System: The climate system in the 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata has been reported to have several issues, including AC compressor failures, blower (fan) motor problems, condenser malfunctions, evaporator issues, heater system failures, automatic climate system electrical failures, and refrigerant leakage. These problems can lead to uncomfortable driving conditions and increased repair costs.
- Body Hardware: The body hardware of the 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata has been known to have issues with windows, locks, and latches, doors or sliding doors, tailgate, trunk or hatch, mirrors, seat controls, seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, and glass defects. For example, one owner reported that the driver door lock became loose and ceased to operate manually, requiring them to enter the car through the passenger door for several months.
- Paint and Trim: The paint and trim of the 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata can also be problematic. Owners have reported issues with paint fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking, loose interior or exterior trim or moldings, and rust. These problems can lead to decreased vehicle value and increased repair costs.
- Engine Major: The engine of the 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata has been known to have significant issues, including the need for engine rebuilds or replacements, cylinder head problems, head gasket failures, turbocharger or supercharger issues, and timing chain or belt problems. These issues can lead to expensive repair costs and decreased vehicle reliability.
- Electrical Accessories: The electrical accessories of the 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata have also been problematic. Owners have reported issues with cruise control, clocks, warning lights, body control modules, keyless entry, wiper motors or washers, tire pressure monitors, interior or exterior lights, horns, gauges, 12V power plugs, USB ports, alarm or security systems, remote engine starts, heated or cooled seats, heated steering wheels, headlights, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, and wireless charging pads. These issues can lead to decreased vehicle functionality and increased repair costs.
- Drive System: The drive system of the 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata has been known to have problems with driveshafts or axles, CV joints, differentials, transfer cases, four-wheel-drive/all-wheel-drive components, driveline vibrations, electrical failures, traction control, and electronic stability control. These issues can lead to decreased vehicle reliability and increased repair costs.
- Brake Problems: The brakes of the 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata have also been problematic. Owners have reported issues with premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system problems, parking brake failures, master cylinder issues, caliper problems, squeaking, brake failure, and regenerative braking. These issues can lead to decreased vehicle safety and increased repair costs.
- Steering and Suspension: The steering and suspension of the 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata have been known to have problems with shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage, power steering pumps and hoses, leaks, wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, and electronic or air suspension. These issues can lead to decreased vehicle handling and increased repair costs.
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 2008 Miata reliable?
Since its debut nearly two decades ago, the Miata has won over legions of driving enthusiasts and earned accolades from auto critics and consumers alike thanks to its entertaining drive and impressive reliability record.
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.
2008 Mazda Mx-5 complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2008 Mazda Mx-5.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2008 Mazda Mx-5 problems:
The good and the bad about a 2008 MX-5 GT : r/Miata
May 28, 2016 ... ... common problems with them, that would be fantastic. I have to sell my current car to get one, and I don't want to get a car I know nothing ...
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.
Mazda MX-5 common problems
The Mazda MX-5 NC has a common problem in that the rear differential emits a loud whining noise. A different part of the drivetrain has been a source of concern ...
Are the NC's known for engine issues? - MX-5 Miata Forum
Of course anything man made can have a problem now and then, but pretty much a solid motor. In 2009 Mazda put a forged crankshaft in it to ...
2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata Reliability - Consumer Reports
Owner Reported Trouble Spots · Climate System · Body Hardware · Paint And Trim · Engine Major · Electrical Accessories · Drive System · Brakes · Steering And ...
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