what to look for when buying a miata?

Answer 1

Well first that depends on the version of the Miata that you interested in buying. However, generally, you want to see if the owner has kept up good records keeping on the care and maintenance of the Miata. Chances are if they don't have good records on the care and maintenance, the car probably has not had a good maitnance and care performed. Your also need to see if the top, dash, and body itself appear to be taken care of on a regular basis. It is easy to Amorall one now and again, but the vinyl, trim, and such will still have signs of distress from lack of a regular treatment program.

Next you need to break down and run a VIN check with a company such as CarFax. This will let you know if the vehicle has been wrecked significantly, has a salvage title, and to verify the mileage given to you. If a company such as CarFax warns you away from the car, then let it go.

If those check out, you need to take it out for a test drive and a run by a mechanic that you trust. You want to make sure the brakes, clutch, transmission and engine are all operating smoothly and without undue noise. The mechanic should be able to take a look at the Miata and let you know if they can see any signs of potential problems.

If all of this checks out then you have to determine if it is equipped like you like and in the price range your interested in. Don't rush and jump at the first one that comes along, as another one will.

Answer 2

It depends on the year.
The first generation Miata engines had a problem that developed if the key was not put in right. This caused a crankshaft failure.
So one thing to look for is maintenance records. If the Miata was maintained by the owner- MAKE SURE THEY KNEW WHAT THEY WERE DOING!
The tops will only last 5 to 7 years. If you can find one that has the hard top and soft top go for it.
As another writer has said- Say away from anything that has been modified. The sole exception is a modified air cleaner or cool air intake. If the power train is heavy modified then it has been run hard. Any thing that has been run hard and put up wet will develop problems.
Be aware that while an up-graded sound system may seem desirable that many who install them botch the job and as a result have wiring problems waiting to bite you.
Give preference to a one that has a great body, but avoid fresh paint jobs.
If you want to maintain the resale value of the ride avoid heavy modifications, to the power train and body.

Answer 3

AS always as soon as you buy the MX-5 of your dreams there will be this guy who say's My brother has one under a cover in his barn with 5,000 miles on it he won in a divorce settelment and only wants $10 grand for it! Sports car season except in Miami and southern Califorina is about over. Miata is a very small car and you will loose in a accident. Maintence records and total stockness No hot rod headers modifications of any kind. Or total professional hot rod aeroquipt hoses polished valve covers supercharged quad headlight conversions real roll cage racing seats body kits. AS always buy the very best car you can and there are many Miata clubs out there I bet you can get the car of your dreams looked at by an expert miata owner and CLUB Member.

Answer 4

I have had my 1995 Miata MX5 2 door CV for about 5 years now. Obviously, I bought it used. LOVE IT ! My husband, xmechanic, has maintained it with regular oil changes, a radiator flush, and recently, new brake calipers. I have absolutely no complaints. Fire engine red, takes corners great, down shifts like a dream and great in 75 degree weather. Yes, I'm in love. Any draw backs? Well, I hate to admit my mother was right. . . I am married, two teenagers. When she said a two seater wasn't practical, she was right. On the other hand, that was one of the selling points for me. For you? I would have preferred electric windows but that is being picky. I will pass on a tip though: when grocery shopping a two week supply for family of four, including two teenage boys, just know, it will fit. Put top down and pile grocery bags up. Neighbors have taken photos. One other down fall: My near 15 year old has eyes on MY car! Good luck, I love my car.