Mk1 MX-5 1.8 overheating

Technical Area Engine, Transmission, Exhaust etc
1
  1. My model of MX-5 is: 1997 MX-5 Harvard Edition
  2. I’m based near: Cheshire
  3. I’m looking for technical help or recommendations on: Cooling

Hi! New member here,

I’ve had my '5 for nearly 2 years now and for the most part the cooling and engine have all been fine. Over the last few months however it has been overheating during drives in hot weather, when sat in traffic, on the motorway or during a blast round country roads. (basically its fine going 30mph in town).

I’ve cleaned out the radiator, changed the coolant and thermostat, however, I’ve still got the issues with overheating. It only seems to cool down when the heaters are on full blast. But in 25 degree heat it its becoming unbearable even with the roof off!

Also, the fan doesn’t seem to kick in often, I’ve had the bonnet up before when it’s been boiling over and the fan has been idle. Are the two problems related??

Any help or advice would be appreciated!

  • Sam
2

Check the fan operation:

https://www.miata.net/garage/CoolingSystemProblems.html

I had a overheating issue that was traced to a corroded fan plug. Cleaning it up, was good to go.

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