MYRModel Year Report

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata

○ Not enough data
1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
RENDERED 2026-08-02T13:35:32.920Z

Only 11 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 11 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.

How is this computed?

COMPLAINTS PER YEAR

Complaints per year, Mazda MX-5 Miata Bar chart of distinct NHTSA complaints filed per model year, 1997 highlighted. 1990: 28 complaints 1990 1991: 21 complaints 1992: 22 complaints 1992 1993: 8 complaints 1994: 18 complaints 1994 1995: 30 complaints 1996: 29 complaints 1996 1997: 11 complaints 1997 1998: 1 complaints 1998 1999: 74 complaints 2000: 29 complaints 2000 2001: 22 complaints 2002: 20 complaints 2002 2003: 14 complaints 2004: 8 complaints 2004 2005: 4 complaints 2005
1997: 11 complaints
View as data table
YearComplaints
199028
199121
199222
19938
199418
199530
199629
199711
19981
199974
200029
200122
200220
200314
20048
20054

KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS

Only 11 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.

STRUCTURE

1 of 11 total reports mentions: structure.

Show complaint excerpts

CONVERT ABLE HARD TOP FLEW OFF CAUSING DAMAGE TO VEHICLE (OHIO STATE POLICE REPORT)

NHTSA ODI report, 19980323

STEERING

1 of 11 total reports mentions: steering.

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

1 of 11 total reports mentions: fuel system, gasoline.

Show complaint excerpts

THE VEHICLE'S GAS TANK IS EXPANDING, CAUSING STRESS TO THE TANK. DEALER PUT STRESS TABS ON TANK. *AK

NHTSA ODI report, 19970902

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

1 of 11 total reports mentions: exterior lighting.

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

1 of 11 total reports mentions: exterior lighting.

SAFETY TIMELINE

No recalls on file for this model year.

BUY-SMART CHECKLIST

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata — pre-purchase inspection

  • Test/inspect for structure issues (1 reports on file for this year).
  • Test/inspect for steering issues (1 reports on file for this year).
  • Test/inspect for fuel system, gasoline issues (1 reports on file for this year).
Inspected by ______________ Date ______________

FAQ

Is the 1997 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 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata?

The most-reported component is structure:body:roof and pillars, accounting for 9% of complaints on file.

How many recalls does the 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata have?

No recalls are on file for this model year.

Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.