Mazda MX-5 Miata NC
06-15 · Mazda MX-5 Miata
The heaviest Miata lost some purity but gained the PRHT, the Power Retractable Hardtop, making it a genuine daily car.
Scores last updated: June 14, 2026
Score breakdown
Our take
What it really is
The NC is heavier than the NA/NB and lighter than what comes after. The MZR 2.0L is reliable and adequate. The PRHT (Power Retractable Hardtop) mechanism works and adds weather sealing, making it genuinely usable year-round.
Why it's on this list
Miata reliability at a price below the ND. The NC2/NC3 (2009+) resolved most early concerns. PRHT versions are the definitive NC for daily use.
The honest trade-offs
The NC has rust potential in the wheel arches. Inspection is more important than on the ND. The VVT mechanism has known issues. Heavier than NA/NB means less of the pure sports car feeling.
What to buy and what to avoid
2012-2015 NC3 only. PRHT over soft top for daily use. Inspect wheel arches and sills for rust. The 2.0L engine is reliable. Check for VVT issues and listen for rattle at cold start.
Annual cost of ownership
Key specs
Safety
Rust vulnerability
NC has rust potential in wheel arches. Inspect undercarriage carefully.
Known issues by mileage
Best and worst years
Best years
- 2012
- 2013
- 2014
- 2015NC3, most refined
Years to avoid
- 2006NC1 launch issues
- 2007
Reliability data
Repairability
References
Sources used to research and score this vehicle. Superscript numbers in the sections above link here.
- [1]datasetRepairPal
Annual maintenance cost, reliability rating, unscheduled visit frequency, severe issue probability
- [2]governmentNHTSA Crash Test Ratings
Overall crash test stars, rollover risk %, rollover stars, frontal and side ratings
- [3]governmentNHTSA Technical Service Bulletins
Manufacturer-acknowledged technical issues and dealer fixes
- [4]datasetIIHS Safety Ratings
Small overlap, side impact, overall safety rating, Top Safety Pick status
- [5]governmentEPA Fuel Economy Guide
MPG city/highway/combined, fuel grade required, tank size
- [6]forum threadCarComplaints
Most complained-about model years, common failure patterns by year and mileage band
- [7]datasetiSeeCars Long-Term Reliability
250k-mile survival rate, depreciation curve, best age to buy used
- [8]publicationBankrate / Insurify Insurance Estimates
Insurance cost estimates by vehicle class and driver profile
Looking to buy a Mazda MX-5 Miata?
Start with our fully customized pre-purchase inspection checklist for you or your mechanic. Three versions: one for buyers who are not mechanics, one for enthusiasts with tools, one for handing off to a professional. Print or save as PDF.
Modernize this car
CarPlay, backup cameras, blind spot monitoring, TPMS, and dashcams. Researched picks and honest watch-outs.
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