Models · Mazda
Mazda MX-5 ND (Mk4) buying guide
The fourth MX-5, on sale since 2015 with 1.5 and 2.0 Skyactiv-G engines, as a soft-top roadster and, from 2017, the RF with a folding steel roof. The engines are sound with regular servicing, and the main checks are the gearbox and recall work.
The versions
- 1.5 Skyactiv-G, 129hp
- 2.0 Skyactiv-G, 158hp, with a limited slip differential and bigger brakes; 181hp from the 2019 model year
- Sport and GT trims add Bilstein dampers
- Soft-top roadster, and the RF with a powered fastback steel roof
- Six-speed manual; the automatic is rare in the UK
What to check on a Mk4 MX-5
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
The six-speed manual gearbox
What to look for: On the drive, change from first to second and from third to second several times, both gently and more briskly, then accelerate fully in third and change to fourth. Note any baulking, crunching or difficulty selecting a gear. Ask about gearbox replacements or updates in the history.
Why it matters: The early six-speed manual has had problems ranging from difficult selection to complete failure, on tracked cars and on low-mileage cars with full histories alike. Mazda issued several revisions and many early gearboxes were replaced under warranty, so a car with a later or replaced gearbox on record is what you want.
i-ELOOP stop-start recall
What to look for: Check the build date, and ask a Mazda dealer to confirm against the VIN that recall work has been completed.
Why it matters: Cars built between 15 May 2015 and 13 April 2017 were recalled because the i-ELOOP stop-start system could overheat and, in extreme cases, catch fire. The fix is a software update and an inspection, with parts replaced where needed. Most will have been done by now.
Wear on the front of the soft top
What to look for: With the roof up, look at the fabric near the front, where it folds over the roll hoops, for scrubbing marks or worn patches. Lower and raise it to check it works smoothly.
Why it matters: If the roof isn't lowered exactly as the handbook describes, it can rub against the roll hoops and wear the front section. Some dealers have replaced affected roofs.
Also in the full guide
- Knocks from the rear over bumps
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the Mk4 MX-5
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
Other generations
Mazda MX-5 NA (Mk1) · Mazda MX-5 NB (Mk2 and Mk2.5) · Mazda MX-5 NC (Mk3)
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Mazda.