'95 Mazda Miata

Seems like two problems here.

1. Oil consuption. More than likely a valve guide or seal problem, or just plan worn out motor. Best be is to yank it and have it checked over by an machine shop that knows Mazda engines.

2. Sounds like you might want to check out the MAF sensor. These things are notorious for causing the problems you describe. But check out fine.

Cosmo

Mazda TEch

Ok number one its just plain stupid to yank an engine when your syptoms are just that, are you trying to make him bankrupt? The mass air flow sensor will not have anything to do with that at all, if your engine light comes on then i'll think that, but anyways somethiing simple look at your crankcase cap, is it tight or defective, or something complicated like resurfacing the heads

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ASE Certified
Advance Auto
9289

Hey Bubba gump.

Notice the name. Cosmo, Mazda Tech. I have worked for Mazda for over 15 years I have seen lots of things go wrong on Mazda's and have had a VERY large gambit of problems with mazda's to solve over the years.

Ok here goes. The 1.6L and 1.8L motos are KNOWN for either wearing out valve seals or wearing out valve seats. The block itself is buillit proof but in some cases of high milage, I have seen cylingders that are egg shaped (on the mic).

THe PCV system on the Miata is faily simple and foolproof. AS long as the PCV is working properly (oh and the car won't run if its stuck open).

Now they problem that he is describing is "smoking when first started". This sounds to me like a great candidate for either worn out or dried up valve seals/guides.

I wouldn't however sudgest just doing a 'head' job at this point with that milage. I would personally have the complete motor looked at.

P.S. If a motor job bankrupts you. Maybe you should buy a bus pass and not a car buddy.

Cosmo

Mazda Tech

I agree. If it's only smoking during start up, it sounds like valve stem seals. Also, the mass air flow sensor could be your problem but it's hard to say without seeing it in person.