We are continuing our series of buyers guides with the MX-5 NB/NBFL. What do I have to consider when buying the second generation of the MX-5? Where are the weak points and problems of the MX-5 NB and NBFL? Today we get to the bottom of these and other topics!
Rust / condition of the body:
Similar to the MX-5 NA, the rust is the biggest issue with the second series of Mazda´s MX-5. On the NB / NBFL, the rust is a little more pronounced or more components are affected. As with NA, the rear side skirts and wheel arches tend to be affected by rust and usually have to be replaced. Here you shouldn't find any blooming rust bubbles when buying, as the cars usually rust from the inside out. In other words, when you see the rust on the outside, it's often too late on the inside. Always check the inside of the wheel arches here. Just like with the NA, there are rusted front fenders here and there (because the rain-soaked dirt collects here) and rusted longitudinal trays on the underbody, if the vehicle has grinded on the floor.
The front longitudinal frame of the MX-5 NB / NBFL are also often affected by rust. You should definitely take a closer look at it from all sides. As a first check in the dealer's yard, you can take a closer look at the two longitudinal frame here in the engine compartment. If these flake off crispy when you touch them, it can quickly become expensive here. So be sure to pay attention here, otherwise the car can go directly from the dealer to the bodyshop to replace everything.
It is important to note that any body work has not been "fudged". In retrospect, this means more costs than doing it right right away. Patched sheet metal that were simply placed on the rusted body are an absolute no-go here, because it just continues to rust under the new patch and thus only causes more damage.
Interior:
The interior of the MX-5 NB is better insulated than that of its previous model, which is why you can no longer hear so much noise and vibrations. As with the MX-5 NA, there was also a wide variety of interior designs in different colors, with different seats. In addition, the MX-5 NB was the first to have versions with the 6-speed gearbox that is very popular today.
In general, as with any other car, you should make sure that the interior is not too worn out. So always check all switches etc. for their function and touch everything and check that the plastic parts are firmly in place.
All MX-5 NB and NBFL had airbag steering wheels as standard, so a lot has happened here in terms of safety.
Suspension and Steering:
Roughly speaking, Mazda has taken over a lot of the MX-5 NA here. Wishbones, bushings and suspension are almost identical to the previous model, which is why you should pay attention to the same things as with the MX-5 NA. You should definitely check the suspension bushings for cracks, as this is usually more expensive and also not so pleasant to work on. After replacing the suspension bushings, it is essential to carry out an alignment.
Softtop:
Here Mazda has also taken over many components from its predecessor. Above the side window, the softtop tend to tear at the folding edge, please be careful here. The convertible top should be in generally good condition and, above all, tight. Open and close the convertible top on the test drive in order to rule out a malfunction or hooking of the linkage.
As with the NA, you should definitely check the front convertible top locks, they must not open without pressing the safety button.
Engine bay and powertrain:
There were 3 different engines in the NB / NBFL. The 1.6L with 110 hp as well as a 1.8L without VVT and a 1.8L with VVT. As already mentioned, there were two different transmissions to choose from, a 5-speed transmission and a new and now very popular 6-speed transmission.
The complete drive train with engine, gearbox and differential should be tight and not have any leaks. Here one likes to see leaks on the gearbox housing, which in 90 percent of cases comes from the rear crankshaft oil seal and the oil pan gasket underneath.
You should also take a closer look at the radiator. If the plastic changes color from black to light, the days are numbered and the leak will not be long in coming.
If you have further questions, you are of course welcome to post a comment under this post or alternatively send us an email.
Your SPS Motorsport Team