2000 NB. Nothing, and I mean nothing, will start this car. Vehicle to vehicle or jump box. Battery is at 12.7v. Headlights and wipers work fine. Neutral or drive don't matter. I give up!

 

Has the battery been professionally tested?
Does the starter motor turn the engine over?

 

No and no. I gave the starter a few whacks and it started.

 

LOL the starter in a 2000 Mazda MX 5 is likely a Mitsubishi manufactured starter not the OLD Chevy starter , so I recommend NOT to bang on it for any reason.

 

Love taps. It worked! Need to replace but I hear it's a bear to replace!

 

I understand

Your description, generally means a cable from the battery to the starter, and battery terminals. As well with any electrical problem or battery power supply source the battery should be load tested no matter the age or thought to be the condition.

 

I would do this.

 

I saw that you read post #6 before you replied.
It’s a little more detailed then grime_reapers which was still good advise.

Here let me repost it

 

I saw Grim_reaper's advice and it makes perfect sense!

 

Mine was a bit more complete or did you no read it?
try reading them both t a bit slower this time... they are both great information one is a bit more extended.