Servicing the Mazda MX5 Mk3. Part 1 can be seen here • Mazda MX5 Mk3 service Pt1 In this video I continue the service by changing the coolant, inspecting the brake pads for wear and replacing bothe final drive and gearbox oils.
Thanks Nigel. Good no nonsense commentary and clear explanations. Trust you enjoy driving the MX5. Feel free to do a driving video in glorious countryside if you would like to.
Great video, when changing the coolant you should first refill with distilled water, run the car, drain and repeat so you get as much of the old coolant out as possible. When changing the diff oil, always loosen the fill plug first before draining, as if the fill plug strips you won't be able to refill the diff (same applies to the gearbox oil). When you've refilled the gearbox oil, you should also remove the gear gaitor (have to remove the centre console) and fill the reservoir at the base of the gear lever. Finally, I noticed you have a small rust spot on the outside of the bodywork on the driver's side, where the rear wheel arch joins the sill. This is a tell-tale sign of rot in the rear sill end panels, which probably extends into the sill itself. Mk3's are notorious for this. I would recommend you remove the rear fabric wheel arch liners on both sides and you may find a horror story underneath. It's likely the sill end panels will be rotted out, also look for rust in the wheel arches themselves, especially around the fixing studs for the fabric liners. If it's just surface rust, thoroughly clean it to bare metal and then use a rust converter and several coats of hammerite. Worst case scenario (very likely on a 2006 car) is you will need extensive welding repairs in this area and inside the rear sill itself.
Great video having just bought an mx5 nc I am keen to get to these jobs, I am at 45k so maybe get on them in the summer. But it's great that you share how to complete these jobs because you can read all you want but it's not the same as a bloke lying under the car struggling with a 10 mm is it. Cheers. May your mx5 stay rust free
There is a proper procedure for bleeding the cooling system after changing the fluid. You need to follow this in order to remove any possibility of creating air locks and the heater not working.
I have recent bought a ten year old mx5 nc in Spain. It’s a one owner car that has only done 7000 miles and just 600 since a dealer service 3 years ago. I don’t think they have ever changed the gear and axle oils nor the coolant so I’ll get them done. What else do you think I should do?
Andy. While you are under it you may well see a lot of surface rust. MX5 are known for it. I’m getting mine rust proofed for £250. www.protectorust.co.uk/
