MX-5 Miata (ND)
Engine Reliability Ratings
PE
2.0L 4-cylView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
Vehicle-Level Issues
These issues affect the Mazda MX-5 Miata regardless of engine variant.
Recalls (5)
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Mazda MX-5 vehicles. The Traction Control System (TCS) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) indicator light may fail to illuminate as intended due to a software error. As such, these vehicles fail to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 126, "Electronic Stability Control Systems."
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2016-2023 MX-5 Miata vehicles. A software error in the air bag control module may cause the front air bags to deploy with excessive force during a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2018 Mazda3, Mazda6, 2019 CX-3, 2018-2019 MX-5, CX-5, CX-9, and 2019-2020 Mazda2 vehicles. The impeller inside the low-pressure fuel pump may crack and deform, potentially causing the fuel pump to fail.
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2016 Miata MX-5 vehicles. The skid plate and metal bracket may detach from underneath the vehicle.
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2016-2019 MX-5 (Miata) vehicles with automatic transmissions. Due to incorrect programming of the Transmission Control Module (TCM), certain conditions may cause the vehicle to unexpectedly downshift and abruptly decelerate.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common 2016-2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata problems?
The 2016-2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata has accumulated 78 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Transmission, Electrical System, Safety Systems. 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 2016-2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata was offered with 1 engine option. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2.0L 4-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.
Is the 2016-2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata a good used car?
The 2016-2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata can be a solid used car purchase depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 78 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 2016-2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata have?
The 2016-2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata has 78 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 2016-2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata?
There are 5 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2016-2025 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 Transmission, Electrical System, Safety Systems, 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 2016-2025 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. 78 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: moderate. Last updated: 2026-04-07.