1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata Problems: 2 Issues Every Owner Should Know
1998 model year · 8,800+ owner reports · Updated April 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 8,800+ owner reports, the 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata has 2 documented known issues. No issues are rated critical, indicating generally reliable ownership. The most commonly reported issue is Soft Top Wear and Rear Window Delamination with 5,000 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $300 to $1,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
All 2 Known Issues
On the 1990-2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata, miata soft tops deteriorate over time from UV exposure, flexing during operation, and age. Vinyl tops develop cracks and tears, cloth tops fade and shrink. The rear plastic window (NA/NB) or glass window (NC/ND) can delaminate from the top material, causing water leaks and reduced visibility. Expected soft top life is 7-10 years with proper care.
Common Symptoms
- Visible cracks or tears in top material
- Rear window yellowing, hazing, or separating from fabric
- Water leaks into cabin during rain
- Top material shrinking and pulling away from frame
- Difficulty latching top due to shrinkage
How to Fix
Replace soft top assembly. OEM replacement is available but aftermarket options (Robbins, TwinTop) offer better materials at lower cost. For NA/NB, replace rear window at same time. Apply 303 Aerospace Protectant or RaggTopp UV treatment every 3-6 months to maximize top life.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 5,000+ owners who fixed this issue
- UpgradeRobbins Auto Top (various models for NA/NB/NC/ND) - zippered glass window available for NA/NB
- Upgrade303 Aerospace Protectant for UV protection - apply every 3 months
- TipNever fold the top with a cold/stiff rear window (NA/NB) - causes permanent creases and cracks
- TipDIY soft top replacement is doable in a weekend with Miata.net installation guide
On the 1990-2015 Mazda MX-5 Miata, all generations of Miata (NA through NC) are prone to rear main seal leaks as the engine ages. Oil seeps from the crankshaft rear seal, dripping onto the clutch housing and eventually contaminating the clutch disc. High mileage engines and infrequent oil changes accelerate seal deterioration. This is a labor-intensive repair as the transmission must be removed.
Common Symptoms
- Oil dripping from bell housing area (bottom of engine/transmission junction)
- Oil smell when parked
- Clutch slipping if oil contaminates clutch disc
- Low oil level between changes
How to Fix
Replace rear main crankshaft seal. Since the transmission must be removed, replace the clutch, throwout bearing, and pilot bearing at the same time if they are worn. Clean bell housing thoroughly to remove oil contamination.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 3,800+ owners who fixed this issue
- UpgradeOEM Mazda rear main seal B6S7-11-312 (NA/NB) or LF01-11-312 (NC)
- TipReplace clutch, throwout bearing, and pilot bearing during rear main seal job - saves labor
- TipUse Mazda OEM seal over aftermarket - better fitment and longevity. Miata.net seal replacement guide
- TipA small amount of seepage is normal on high-mileage Miatas - only repair if dripping