MX-5 Miata (NB)
Engine Reliability Ratings
BPD
126 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
8 additional engine variants with fewer than 10 complaints not shown.
Vehicle-Level Issues
These issues affect the Mazda MX-5 Miata regardless of engine variant.
Recalls (2)
CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
ON CERTAIN MINI VANS AND PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE SOCKET HOLDER IN THE FOG LIGHTS IS INSTALLED IN THE LAMP CASING USING PRESSURE. DURING OPERATION OF THE FOG LIGHT, THE HEAT FROM THE BULB CAN EXPAND THE SOCKET HOLDER. THE EXPANSION CAN FORCE THE SOCKET HOLDER REARWARD. AFTER REPEATEDLY BEING SUBJECT TO THIS EXPANSION, IF THE FOG LIGHT IS ALSO SUBJECTED TO VIBRATION DURING VEHICLE OPERATION, THE SOCKET HOLDER WITH THE BULB HOLDER AND THE WIRING HARNESS MAY SEPARATE FROM THE FOG LIGHT CASING.
All Generations
Alternatives in Sports Car
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common 2000-2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata problems?
The 2000-2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata has accumulated 131 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Engine, Cooling System, Body/Trim. As with any used vehicle, a pre-purchase inspection and vehicle history report are recommended.
Which Mazda MX-5 Miata engine is most reliable?
The 2000-2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata was offered with 9 engine options. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the ?L ?-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.
Is the 2000-2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata a good used car?
The 2000-2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata can be a solid used car purchase depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 131 total NHTSA complaints on record, prospective buyers should review the known problem areas and check for open recalls before buying.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2000-2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata have?
The 2000-2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata has 131 complaints filed with NHTSA as of our latest data pull. Complaint counts reflect owner-reported issues and do not necessarily indicate defects or safety risks on their own.
What recalls affect the 2000-2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata?
There are 2 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2000-2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vehicles. Recall status varies by VIN — check the NHTSA recall database at recalls.nhtsa.dot.gov with your specific VIN to confirm which campaigns apply.
What should I check before buying a used Mazda MX-5 Miata?
Before buying a used Mazda MX-5 Miata, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Engine, Cooling System, Body/Trim, which are the most commonly reported problem areas. Request maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle, and run a vehicle history report to check for prior accidents or title issues.
Does the MX-5 Miata have NHTSA crash test ratings?
NHTSA has not published crash test ratings for the 2000-2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. Not all vehicles are tested each year. For the latest NHTSA safety information, visit nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 131 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-04-07.