NA MX-5 – squeaking noise, steering wheel vibration & possible brake issue. Any advice + garage recommendation in Manchester (M13)?

  1. My model of MX-5 is: _NA_
  2. I’m based near: _Liverpool/ Manchester_
  3. I’m looking for technical help or recommendations on: _Squeaking noise, rhythmic shaking at low speed, violent vibration at high speed, power loss. Please recommend a garage near M13 :broken_heart:

Hi all,

I’m a new owner of a MX-5 NA. Honestly feeling heartbroken… my NA has started acting up.

Recent Symptoms:

  • Sometimes when I press the gas or brake, there’s a creaking / grinding noise – sounds like rust or something sticking. It comes and goes, no clear pattern yet. Really worrying to hear.

  • Power loss – it feels like the brakes are constantly dragging. I press the throttle, but the car just feels weak and heavy.

  • On Monday I drove from Liverpool to Manchester (about 1 hour). In the last 15 minutes, the steering wheel started shaking violently. There was no loud noise at that point, just occasional creaks. I thought I could make it back.

  • Last night I tried to drive back to Liverpool. Just before getting on the motorway, the noise suddenly became much worse. After about 5 minutes of driving, the creaking turned continuous and sharp – it wouldn’t stop.

  • I got out and checked. The front right brake disc was significantly hotter than the others. I’m pretty sure it’s a stuck caliper or worn-out brake pads.

Now the car is parked at a friend’s place in Manchester. I took the train home. It feels worrying – it’s an old car, and I don’t want it to suffer more than it already has.

What I’m asking:

  1. Has any NA owner experienced exactly this? How did you fix it? (New caliper? Slide pin service?)

  2. Most importantly – can anyone recommend a trustworthy garage near M13 Manchester (or within 10-15 mins drive)? Someone who knows old Japanese cars / Miatas and won’t rip me off.

Thank you all. Really want to get my NA back on the road soon :pensive_face:

Thanks very much in advance!

Shuwen