MAZDA MX5 (2016)
Running costs, reliability data, and common problems from 30 real MOT tests.
Annual Cost
£2,577
£215/month
MOT Pass Rate
77%
Average
Road Tax
£430
Based on CC/year
Insurance
Grp 30-42
3000cc Petrol
Check Carefully
77% pass rate, £2577/year to run. 5 points below average.
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Annual Running Costs
~30 mpg
Based on 3000cc
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT data. Insurance not included.
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Reliability Verdict
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the MAZDA brand average of 81%.
At 10 years old, 77% of MAZDA MX5s from 2016 passed their MOT first time in 2026. That's based on 30 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 113,609 miles.
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Mileage Analysis
113,609
Average miles
74,000
Expected for age
The average 2016 MAZDA MX5 has 113,609 miles on the clock, which is well above the expected 74,000 miles for a 10-year-old car. Check service history carefully, as high-mileage cars need consistent maintenance to stay reliable.
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About the 2016 MAZDA MX5
The 2016 MAZDA MX5 is a large car with a 3000cc petrol engine. 30 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2026, making it a rare model on UK roads. It sits in the bottom 93% of 2016 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 113,609 miles at 10 years old, MAZDA MX5 owners cover more miles than the average driver. High-mileage examples should be checked carefully for wear on suspension, brakes, and drivetrain components.
2016 MAZDA MX5 Fuel Costs
The 3000cc petrol engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2016 MAZDA MX5?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,577 (£215/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £430 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 77% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
Buying a Used 2016 MAZDA MX5
At 10 years old, the MAZDA MX5 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. Note: with only 30 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Common Issues to Watch For
Based on the 2016 MAZDA MX5's fuel type, age, and engine size, these are the most likely problem areas to check.
Timing Chain / Belt
Watch outAt 10 years old, check whether the timing belt has been replaced (typically due every 5-7 years or 60,000-100,000 miles). A snapped belt can destroy the engine.
Oil Consumption
Medium riskLarger petrol engines can develop higher oil consumption as they age. Check the oil level and look for blue smoke from the exhaust.
Rust and Corrosion
Watch outAt 10+ years, check wheel arches, sills, subframe, and brake lines for rust. Structural corrosion is an MOT failure. Prevention is far cheaper than repair.
Suspension Bushings
Watch outRubber suspension bushes harden and crack with age, causing knocking noises and vague handling. A full refresh costs £300-£800 depending on the car.
Clutch Wear
Watch outWith an average of 114k miles, clutch replacement may be due (typical lifespan 60,000-100,000 miles). Budget £400-£800 for a new clutch kit.
Brake Discs and Pads
Medium riskHigh-mileage cars often need brake disc replacement, not just pads. A full set of discs and pads costs £200-£500 per axle.
Service History
Low riskAlways request a full service history. Regular servicing is the single best indicator of how well a car has been maintained, regardless of mileage.
Running Costs Compared
How the 2016 MAZDA MX5 stacks up against similar cars for annual running costs, insurance, and tax.
| Car | Pass Rate | Fuel/yr | Tax/yr | Insurance | Total/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAZDA MX5(2016) | 77% | £1592 | £430 | Grp 30-42 | £2577 |
| BMW 3 SERIES(2014) | 87% | £1592 | £250 | Grp 30-42 | £2247-£330 |
| BMW 5 SERIES(2018) | 91% | £1592 | £190 | Grp 30-42 | £2037-£540 |
| LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER SPORT(2018) | 93% | £1592 | £190 | Grp 30-42 | £2037-£540 |
| MERCEDES GLC(2016) | 89% | £1592 | £250 | Grp 30-42 | £2247-£330 |
Estimates based on 7,400 miles/year, current fuel prices, and MOT data. Insurance groups are indicative. Actual costs vary by driver, location, and usage.
Related Mazda Models
Explore other Mazda cars or similar models in the same category.
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