I have a MX5 2010 which has the original Mazda battery fitted. I’ve never been blown away with how the car ‘sounds’ on turnover, perhaps as I myself am more accustomed to diesel cars.
Anyway, the other half uses the car more than I do and I’m considering a replacement battery as it is nudging 6 years old and I don’t want it to just fail one day.
I would appreciate advice on what replacement battery MX5 owners seem to go for, I’m generally not into cheap eBay batteries and I would like thoughts on whether or not I should fit a battery with a higher cranking capacity / Amphere hour etc.
There’s a Yuasa a few people have fitted, myself included on my previous 5, it is available from Halfords and online sellers although the model number differs between the two. This battery is higher rated especially with regard to CCA, check the dimensions first if not going OE.
If you are leaving the MK3/.5/.75 for a few day on the Alarm there is an amount of battery drain, and same if you are doing lots of short stuff, especially in the cold - the batteries can get a bit weak and sluggish at turnover. If you are parking up for a few days probably better (if you can) lock the car on the key and not use the alarm, or plug in a battery conditioner like the CTEK MXS 3.8or similar
If replacing, go for one with a good Cold cranking Amperage and good length guarantee.
When looking for a new battery because different manufacturers don’t always use a standard type number it is always worth double checking the battery size, terminal positions and terminal size.
There are 2 sizes of round terminal post, the larger DIN post and smaller Japanese JIS type see:
My 2007 Mk3 has a type 158 battery with the larger DIN terminal. The 158 was clearly marked on the original Panasonic battery. However when I entered the registration number on some websites, including Euro Car Parts, they came up with a 156 battery which has the smaller JIS terminal. Also make sure that the battery is straight sided at the bottom as it is secured by the top strap and not a bottom clamp.
Huge difference. It starts with the Varta! Sorry, I’ll get my coat.
I too found many previously reliable car part search sites pointing me towards the wrong size of battery. I can confirm that the Varta B32 is the correct size and has the correct size terminals for my '07 Mk3 Zsport. I would presume all Mk3s would be the same…unless you know otherwise…