2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Only 20 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 20 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 20
- Recalls
- 0
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
None on file
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
2002: 20 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 20 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Structure
5 of 20 total reports mention: structure, most commonly citing roof and pillars and body.
Show complaint excerpts
One of two latches for the convertible soft top came unfastened while driving causing one side of the top to lift upwards with great violence and a very loud noise. No accident this time but it will happen- e.g.
NHTSA ODI report, 2015-08-26
Mazda Miata convertible top blew off while driving 65 MPH on the freeway causing loss of control and almost causing an accident. I have checked reports and this seems to be a regular problem. Mazda has even issued a bulletin on this problem.
NHTSA ODI report, 2013-09-18
Power train
4 of 20 total reports mention: power train, most commonly citing manual transmission and clutch assembly.
Electrical system
3 of 20 total reports mention: electrical system.
Show complaint excerpts
Tl* the contact owns a 2002 Mazda miata. While driving various speeds, the vehicle suddenly shut off and could not be immediately restarted.
NHTSA ODI report, 2018-09-06
This car has a safety immobilizer that prevents car from running if the correct transponder key is not used. This car has only 28,000 miles, of which I have driven the last 10,000 miles.
NHTSA ODI report, 2017-12-02
Latches/locks/linkages
2 of 20 total reports mention: latches/locks/linkages.
Exterior lighting
2 of 20 total reports mention: exterior lighting, most commonly citing fog lights.
Show complaint excerpts
Tl*the contact owns a 2002 Mazda miata. After parking his vehicle, the contact noticed that his fog lights were on fire. He was able to extinguish the fire. A police report was filed.
NHTSA ODI report, 2007-08-16
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
2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Structure: 5 reports on file for this year.
- Power train: 4 reports on file for this year.
- Electrical system: 3 reports on file for this year.
FAQ
- Is the 2002 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 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata?
- The most-reported component is structure, accounting for 25% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2002 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.