When you buy a Miata, one of the first things you might do is head to your nearest Mazda dealership and request that they install power steering. And why not? After all, it’s a great feature that makes driving the car much more comfortable and makes maneuvering in tight spaces much easier. But what if you find out that your Miata doesn’t have power steering?
Miata Power Steering History
Power steering has been available on the Miata since the introduction of the first generation Miata in 1990. Mazda discontinued power steering on the Miata after the 2002 model year. However, a few enthusiasts have managed to install power steering systems from other makes and models, usually through modifications to the car’s wiring harness. Mazda discontinued power steering on the Miata after the 2002 model year, but a few enthusiasts have managed to install power steering systems from other makes and models.
The MX-Miata and its Power Steering
The Miata is known for its light weight, nimble handling and Sachs Power Steering. MX-Miata owner, Tony Gaziano, has a theory as to why theMiata’s power steering may not be as strong as other vehicles. Gaziano believes that because of the Miata’s low center of gravity, the power steering tends to work less than in other cars. In order to compensate for this lack of strength, Mazda engineers added an extra degree of turning radius to the Miata’s power steering system.
Why No Power Steering?
Power steering is something that most drivers take for granted, but for those who own a Miata, it can be a frustrating omission. For starters, power steering is a key safety feature that allows drivers to confidently maneuver in tight spaces. Additionally, power steering is invaluable when it comes to driving in the rain or snow, as it helps to keep drivers on the road even when conditions are slippery. Surprisingly, however, many Miata owners report that they have difficulty finding replacement power steering systems. Why is this the case?
The answer lies in the design of the Miata power steering system. As opposed to systems found in other vehicles, which use gear boxes and belts to transfer power from the engine to the wheels, the Miata’s power steering system relies on rotors and drums located inside of the car. Because of this design, replacement power steering systems are not readily available or affordable. In addition to being expensive, replacement systems are also difficult to install because they require removal of the entire front end of the car. This can be a daunting task for those without experience working with cars and can often result in damages to the vehicle.
Pros and Cons of Not Having Power Steering in a Miata
Power steering is arguably one of the most important features on a car, as it makes driving much easier and more comfortable. However, there are a few pros and cons to not having power steering in a Miata.
The biggest pro of not having power steering is that it can save you a lot of money in repairs. A power steering pump can easily cost over $1,000, and replacing the entire system can run well into the tens of thousands of dollars. By not having power steering, you can avoid all of these costs.
However, there are also a few cons to not having power steering in a Miata. First and foremost, it can make driving more difficult at times. Without power steering, you have to use your hands to control the car’s direction, which can be tough when traffic gets tight or you’re trying to make a quick turn.
Another con of not having power steering is that it can be difficult to stop on a slippery surface. Without power assistance from the wheel, you’re forced to rely entirely on your braking ability. If the road is wet or icy, this may not be enough to stop in time.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to upgrade your Miata’s performance without breaking the bank, a power steering upgrade is a great option. Power steering not only makes driving more pleasurable, it also makes manoeuvring in tight spaces and turning at high speeds easier. If you are in the market for a new power steering system for your Miata, be sure to read our article on the best options available today.