Mazda MX-5 ND (2015–2025) How to Remove Bumpers

The Mazda MX-5 (known as the Miata in North America and Eunos Roadster in Japan for early generations) is one of the most popular sports cars in the world. The fourth generation (MK4) continues the traditions of its predecessors, offering a rear-wheel-drive platform, lightweight construction, and excellent handling.

Model Names and Codes

The fourth-generation MX-5 officially debuted in 2014 at the Chicago Auto Show and went on sale in 2015. The model retained its traditional names in different regions:

  • Mazda MX-5 — the primary name for Europe and other markets.
  • Mazda MX-5 Miata — the name used in the USA and Canada.
  • Mazda Roadster — the name in Japan.
  • The model code for MK4 is ND, following previous generations (NA, NB, NC).

 

Production Years and Updates

  • 2015–2018 — initial model release.
  • 2018 — first facelift (updated front end, new technologies, improved safety).
  • 2020–2024 — further updates, including the introduction of the MX-5 RS in Japan with an upgraded suspension and new features.
  • In 2024, Mazda introduced a minor update with new body colors and an improved infotainment system.

 

Body Type and Modifications

The MX-5 MK4 is available in two body styles:

  • Roadster (soft top) — classic folding fabric roof.
  • RF (Retractable Fastback) — folding hardtop with coupe-like elements (debuted in 2016).

 

Main Modifications:

  • 1.5L SkyActiv-G (132 HP) — available in Europe and Japan, known for better weight distribution and fuel efficiency.
  • 2.0L SkyActiv-G (160–184 HP, depending on year and market) — the more powerful version, popular in the USA and Europe.
  • MX-5 RF — offers improved sound insulation and a stiffer body.
  • MX-5 RS (Japan) — a sportier version with Bilstein suspension, LSD, and lightweight components.

 

Plastic Bumper Marking >PP-(T25+S20)<

 

How to Remove the Front Bumper

  1. Open the hood.
  2. Under the hood, unscrew two screws and remove four clips securing the upper part of the front bumper.
  3. At the bottom, unscrew eight bolts (fastened from bottom to top).
  4. Turn the front wheels inward one at a time.
  5. In the wheel arches, remove six clips (three on each side) securing the fender liners (front part).
  6. Behind the fender liners, unscrew one bolt on each side (fastened from bottom to top) securing the corners to the fenders.
  7. Release the clips in the fenders (grab the corner and pull firmly toward yourself).
  8. Remove the front bumper (preferably with an assistant. Note the wiring).
  9. Disconnect the lighting connectors.

Mazda MX-5 ND (2015–2025) Front Bumper Mounting Locations

Mazda MX-5 ND Front Bumper Mounting Diagram (2015–2025)

How to Remove the Rear Bumper

⇒Useful tips on how to remove the bumper and not break anything.⇐

  1. Open the trunk lid.
  2. Unscrew two screws (fastened from top to bottom) securing the upper part of the rear bumper.
  3. Unscrew two screws (fastened from top to bottom) securing the taillights.
  4. Remove the clips, detach the rear trunk panel trim, and fold back the edges of the side trims (to access the back of the taillights).
  5. Behind the side trims, unscrew one nut on each side, release from the retainers, and remove the taillights.
  6. From the bottom, unscrew four screws (fastened from bottom to top).
  7. In the wheel arches, unscrew the screws, remove the clips, and detach the fender liners from the bumper.
  8. In the wheel arches, unscrew one screw on each side securing the corners to the fender brackets.
  9. Release the sides from the clips in the fenders (pull the corners toward yourself).
  10. With an assistant, pull the bumper backward (watch for wiring).
  11. Disconnect the license plate light, parking sensor, and side marker connectors.

Mazda MX-5 ND (2015–2025) rear bumper mounting locations

Mazda MX-5 ND Rear Bumper Mounting Diagram (2015–2025)

Model Description

The MX-5 ND retains the key features of previous generations: lightweight (around 1000–1100 kg depending on the version), rear-wheel drive, and a perfect 50:50 weight distribution. The design is more modern but keeps the rounded shapes and compact dimensions.

The interior is minimalist and driver-focused. Depending on the trim, it may include:

  • 7-inch touchscreen (Mazda Connect).
  • Leather seat upholstery.
  • Bose audio system with headrest speakers (for the Roadster).

The suspension consists of independent double wishbones at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. The transmission is a 6-speed manual or automatic (in some markets).

 

Interesting Facts

  • The lightest MX-5 since the 1990s — the 1.5L version weighs just 1009 kg, making it one of the lightest modern cars.
  • Inspired by the Lotus Elan — the ND’s design was partly influenced by the classic British roadster.
  • Guinness World Record — the MX-5 is the best-selling two-seater sports car in history (over 1 million units sold since 1989).
  • Special editions — including the 30th Anniversary Edition (2019) in orange and the 990S (Japan) with a lightweight construction.
  • Power evolution — the 2.0L engine received a power boost from 155 to 181 HP in Europe in 2018.

 

The MX-5 MK4 stays true to the "Jinba Ittai" ("horse and rider as one") philosophy, offering pure driving enjoyment without excess. It remains one of the last affordable sports cars with analog driving dynamics and minimal electronic intervention.