Why does the check engine light flash when accelerating and the car sputters and jerks?

Answer 1

AnswerA flashing check engine light means that something serious is wrong with the vehicle and you should not be driving it. Being that the vehicle sputters and jerks under acceleration, I would assume that you have a failure in your ignition system. Always have the car scanned when your check engine light comes on to obtain diagnosetic computer codes. Most common failure is basic maintenance items, Spark plugs and wires. Simple enough to replace, and relativly cheap. Ignition coils, ignition module, and crankshaft sensor would also cause a severe misfire. again... both pretty simple to change, but these items cost more. Start by having the vehicle checked with a scan tool first.

I had the same problem. It was the timing belt. If your Miata has around 100000 miles on it and the belt has never been changed it's most likely it. Timing belts are expensive to replace. You can change it yourself and save a ton of cash but be prepared to spend a few days working on it. Check out the Miata fan sites for step by step instructions!