Avoid: 2023, 2019, 2017, 2016, 2006, 2001, 2000 (lowest Year Scores on complaints per year on the road, crash reports and recalls)
Best: 2015 (few owner reports) · Best recent: 2021
20 model years of NHTSA owner complaints and recalls · How we grade
Across 20 model years, the Mazda MX-5 has 309 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 17 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are power train and air bags. 1999 drew the most complaints (75), 2021 the fewest of the years on the road 3+ years (1).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Mazda MX-5 vehicles (US, public record).
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2025 | 3 |
| 2024 | 5 |
| 2023 | 7 |
| 2022 | 5 |
| 2021 | 1 |
| 2020 | 3 |
| 2019 | 11 |
| 2018 | 3 |
| 2017 | 11 |
| 2016 | 34 |
| 2014 | 6 |
| 2012 | 5 |
| 2008 | 7 |
| 2007 | 17 |
| 2006 | 25 |
| 2001 | 22 |
| 2000 | 29 |
| 1999 | 75 |
| 1997 | 11 |
| 1996 | 29 |
Highest: 1999 (75 complaints). Lowest: 2021 (1).
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment across all generations, with the MX-5 consistently praised as a benchmark for pure, engaging, and reliable sports car driving.
Gearbox failures at stock power levels, especially with track use; described as a known, ongoing issue even in brand-new 2026 models.
NA, NB, NC): Corrosion on rear sills, wheel arches, and around side indicator pods; a common and expensive fix.
Significant cabin noise at highway speeds, with buffeting from side mirrors noted on the RF hardtop at 100 km/h (62 mph).
Plastic coolant tank prone to failure with age, leading to coolant loss and potential engine damage if unnoticed.
Sticking oil control rings leading to noticeable oil burning, particularly in higher-mileage examples.
Owner insights cover all generations of the MX-5. Individual model years are broken down above.
We're building a full check by VIN: the exact trim and engine, its known problems and recalls, what to inspect, a fair price, and how it compares with its rivals. Get an email when it's ready.
One email when it launches. Unsubscribe any time. Privacy