1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Only 18 complaints on file — too few 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.
Only 18 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 18
- Recalls
- 0
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
None on file
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1994: 18 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1990 | 28 |
| 1991 | 21 |
| 1992 | 22 |
| 1993 | 8 |
| 1994 | 18 |
| 1995 | 30 |
| 1996 | 29 |
| 1997 | 11 |
| 1998 | 1 |
| 1999 | 74 |
| 2000 | 29 |
| 2001 | 22 |
| 2002 | 20 |
| 2003 | 14 |
| 2004 | 8 |
| 2005 | 4 |
Known problem areas
Only 18 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Air bags
10 of 18 total reports mention: air bags.
Show complaint excerpts
In 2010, the air bag control module went out on my vehicle. There were no replacement units available, and I was forced to disconnect the system to prevent the dangerous possibility of a malfunction.
NHTSA ODI report, 2023-11-14
Air bag light flashes off and on now with code 52. This car only has 80,000 original miles. I am driving it but need to know if a recall will fix this .
NHTSA ODI report, 2021-03-13
The airbag warning light will flash in a code of 5-1 or 5-2, meaning "System down fuse open" (51) or "Damaged backup battery" (52).
NHTSA ODI report, 2020-09-06
Visibility
2 of 18 total reports mention: visibility, most commonly citing windshield wiper/washer.
Show complaint excerpts
Problems with driver being hit by objects and insects while driving with the window down. *mr the objects were being deflected by the mirror housing.
NHTSA ODI report, 2004-02-02
Windshield wiper work periodically, due to electricial problem. Tt
NHTSA ODI report, 1995-03-27
Electrical system
2 of 18 total reports mention: electrical system, most commonly citing ignition.
Vehicle speed control
1 of 18 total reports mentions: vehicle speed control.
Show complaint excerpts
Just before applying the brakes and removing pressure from the accelerator pedal, the vehicle accelerated and the brakes were not able to stop it and caused a crash.
NHTSA ODI report, 1998-09-16
Tires
1 of 18 total reports mentions: tires.
Show complaint excerpts
Rear end spun out when tires hit a wet patch on road.
NHTSA ODI report, 2001-04-24
Safety timeline
No recalls on file for this model year.
0 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
Buy-smart checklist
1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Air bags: 10 reports on file for this year.
- Visibility: 2 reports on file for this year.
- Electrical system: 2 reports on file for this year.
FAQ
- Is the 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata?
- The most-reported component is air bags, accounting for 56% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata have?
- No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.