Engine & fuel system
2 documented faults — symptoms, causes and workshop fixes.
Engine idle high
Overview
- Affects
- All models, →25/03/08.
- Fault codes
P0507- Remedy
- Software update
Symptoms
Engine malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) illuminated. Trouble code stored: P0507.
Cause
Engine control module (ECM) software fault.
Repair
- Carry out electrical, mechanical and component tests (as applicable) to eliminate any other possible cause(s).
- If no fault(s) found: Re-program ECM with upgraded software.
Data: Motorwise Workshop. Bulletin 3.
Engine malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) illuminated. Trouble code stored: P2096
Overview
- Affects
- All models with petrol engines.
- Fault codes
P2096- Remedy
- Software update
Cause
Engine control module (ECM) software fault.
Repair
- Carry out electrical, mechanical and component tests (as applicable) to eliminate any other possible cause(s).
- If no fault(s) found: Re-program ECM with upgraded software.
Data: Motorwise Workshop. Bulletin 4.
Brakes
1 documented fault — symptoms, causes and workshop fixes.
Noise from front brakes when brakes applied at slow speed
Vibration between brake pads and discs. Fix: fit a modified part.
Overview
- Affects
- All models, →11/06.
- Remedy
- Fit modified part
Repair steps
- Remove brake pads.
- Clean and lubricate brake caliper carrier.
- Fit modified front brake pads. Ensure brake pad anti-squeal shims are fitted.
Parts
| Part | Part number | Qty |
|---|---|---|
| Front brake pads | NFY7-33-28ZC | 1 |
Data: Motorwise Workshop. Bulletin 1.
Other
2 documented faults — symptoms, causes and workshop fixes.
Rattling noise from audio unit area
Cause
Audio unit mounting brackets faulty.
Repair
- Fit modified audio unit mounting brackets.
Parts4 parts
| Part | Part number | Qty |
|---|---|---|
| Mounting bracket - RH | NH42-66-9BO | 1 |
| Mounting bracket - LH | NH52-66-9BO | 1 |
| Mounting screw | T060-66-A92 | 4 |
| Bolt | 9945-90-612 | 1 |
Data: Motorwise Workshop. Bulletin 2.
Resonance or whining noise from rear differential while driving
Overview
- Affects
- All models, →05/13.
- Remedy
- Fit new part
Cause
Poor manufacture of rear differential.
Repair
- Carry out electrical, mechanical and component tests (as applicable) to eliminate any other possible cause(s).
- If no fault(s) found: Fit new rear differential.
Data: Motorwise Workshop. Bulletin 5.
Glossary
Technical terms used in this guide.
- MIL
- Malfunction indicator lamp — the engine warning light on the dashboard
- ECM
- Engine control module — the electronic unit that manages the engine
- Caliper
- The part that squeezes the brake pads onto the disc
- Control Module
- A control unit for one of the vehicle's systems (engine, gearbox, brakes, body, and so on)
- Re-Program
- Update the software on a control module using the manufacturer's diagnostic tool
- Trouble Code
- A standardised fault code stored by a control module, read with a diagnostic tool
Frequently asked questions
What are the common faults with the Mazda MX-5 1.8?
This guide contains five workshop bulletins for the Mazda MX-5 1.8. Of these, two concern the engine and fuel system and one the brakes. Symptoms, causes, repair steps and part numbers are shown where supplied.
Does every Mazda MX-5 1.8 have these faults?
No. These are patterns documented across the model by workshops, not predictions for an individual vehicle. Where a fault applies only to certain vehicles or VIN ranges, that is listed with the fault.
Can I check for Mazda MX-5 1.8 faults myself?
Many of them. The documented symptoms can be seen, heard or felt during a test drive.