1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Only 1 complaint 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 1 complaint on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
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 1 complaint on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
1 of 1 total report mentions: air bags.
Show complaint excerpts
AIRBAGS DEPLOY WHILE SITTING AT AN INTERSECTION, AND THERE WAS NO CONTACT WITH A VEHICLE. DEALERSHIP IS AWARE OF PROBLEM.*AK
NHTSA ODI report, 20020621
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for air bags issues (1 reports on file for this year).
FAQ
Is the 1998 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 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata?
The most-reported component is air bags:frontal, accounting for 100% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1998 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.