Hi all,
New MX-5 owner here. I recently bought my first car, a red NB2 1.8 VVT and don’t think the VVT system is working, the power delivery seems to all be in the first 4000rpm or so and then it seems quite lackluster.
After taking it to the friendly local mechanic, he took apart the VVT cylinder on the end of the inlet camshaft, and found some score marks. If anyone has taken one of these off before is this normal wear and tear or an issue. The car is 2002 and has 59k miles, and has been well maintained.
What do you guys think? Could it be something else?
- My model of MX-5 is: NB2
- I’m based near: Stafford
- I’m looking for technical help or recommendations on:VVT system
I’ve never had an actuator apart to comment on yours, but I’ve never known of a VVT system failure before either. Has the operation of the oil control valve on top of the cam cover been checked?
I’d be tempted to get a second opinion (compare to another) to confirm if there is actually an issue with the engine/VVT before investing too much more time into it.
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Can’t help because I have never been anything like that deep, changed the vvt oil filter a couple of times is as far as I have gone, but you might find this from our American cousins interesting, it would appear it is not unknown for bits in the vvt system to break off and cause damage, the pics should be particularly intresting :- https://forum.miata.net/vb/showthread.php?t=686886
Good luck getting it sorted. Once it is going again I am sure you will find you have a hugely addictive rewarding car.
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Greetings Henry
From Mark 2.5 [2005] NB 1.8 Icon owner in Newcastle-under-Lyme [just under 47,000 miles]
Second Opinion 
C & S Haynes Ltd
Stonewall Place
Silverdale
ST5 6NR
They are Club Members [discount] and MX-5 enthusiasts
Indeed Steph is the MX-5 Club benefits contact and Colin knows his onions re the MX-5
They may well charge though for an assessment
Best
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