Is the 1988 Mazda 929 reliable?

There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.

What are the most common problems with the 1988 Mazda 929?

The most-reported component is seat belts, accounting for 28% of complaints on file.

How many recalls does the 1988 Mazda 929 have?

2 recalls on file for this model year.

1988 Mazda 929

○ Not enough data

1988 Mazda 929
RENDERED 2026-11-01T15:53:42.630Z

Not enough comparison years on file yet for a fair verdict.

This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.

How is this computed?

Complaints: 36
Recalls: 2
Investigations: 3
Top problem: Seat belts

Complaints per year

1988: 36 complaints

View as data table

Year	Complaints
1986	0
1987	0
1988	36
1989	37
1990	12
1991	18
1992	36
1993	19
1994	12
1995	3

Known problem areas

Percentages can add to more than 100% — a complaint can name more than one system.

Seat belts

28% · 10 reports

Most commonly citing buckle assembly and anchorage.

CRASHINJURY

Show complaint excerpts

Vehicle was in an accident and when the vehicle was struck the seat belt did not operate like it should of had. The seat belt did not lock when the vehicle was hit.

NHTSA ODI report, 1996-09-20

Structure

22% · 8 reports

Most commonly citing door.

Show complaint excerpts

Outside door handle failed prior to recall. (93V-174)

NHTSA ODI report, 1994-09-28

Latches/locks/linkages

14% · 5 reports

Most commonly citing latch.

Show complaint excerpts

Front door latch stuck prior to recall, rear door stuck after recall repairs to front door.

NHTSA ODI report, 1994-10-24

Service brakes

14% · 5 reports

Most commonly citing hydraulic.

CRASHFIREINJURY

Fuel system, gasoline

11% · 4 reports

Most commonly citing fuel injection system and injectors.

Safety timeline

2 recalls · 3 investigations · oldest first

To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →

I
1991-06-18Preliminary evaluationClosed 1991-10-21 Throttle sticking
I
1992-06-02Preliminary evaluationClosed 1992-09-25 Inadvertent door opening
I
1992-09-25Engineering analysisClosed 1993-11-30 Inadvertent door opening
R

1994-04-29Structure93V174000 Resin molded front handles fail at the door latch actuating rod attachment, freeing the rod to fall inside the door frame. Subsequent lowering of the associated window may force the actuating rod…

Remedy: Dealers will replace the door handle/latch assembly.

Check if this car was fixed →
R

1995-12-15Seat belts95V103005 The front safety belt buckle release buttons can break. These red plastic release buttons are marked "Press." If a button breaks, pieces can fall into the buckle assembly causing the buckle to…

Remedy: Owners should promptly check the condition and operation of both front safety belt buckles and carefully inspect the red release button for any breaks or cracks. They should ensure that both buckles…

Check if this car was fixed →

Buy-smart checklist

1988 Mazda 929 — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

Seat belts: 10 reports on file for this year.
Structure: 8 reports on file for this year.
Latches/locks/linkages: 5 reports on file for this year.

Verify these recalls were completed

Recall 93V174000 · Structure
Recall 95V103005 · Seat belts

FAQ

Is the 1988 Mazda 929 reliable?: There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 1988 Mazda 929?: The most-reported component is seat belts, accounting for 28% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1988 Mazda 929 have?: 2 recalls on file for this model year.

Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.