1991 Mazda Miata problems
The Mazda MX-5 is a lightweight two-person sports car manufactured and marketed by Mazda with a front mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout. The convertible is marketed as the Mazda Roadster (マツダ・ロードスター, Matsuda Rōdosutā) or Eunos Roadster (ユーノス・ロードスター, Yūnosu Rōdosutā) in Japan, and as the Mazda Miata (/miˈɑːtə/) in the United States, and formerly in Canada, where it is now marketed as the MX-5 but is still commonly referred to as Miata.
Manufactured at Mazda's Hiroshima plant, the MX-5 debuted in 1989 at the Chicago Auto Show and was conceived and executed under a tightly focused design credo, Jinba ittai (人馬一体), meaning "oneness of horse and rider". Widely noted for its small, light, technologically modern, dynamically balanced and minimally complex design, the MX-5 has frequently been called a spiritual successor to 1950s and '60s Italian and British roadster sports cars. The Lotus Elan was used as a design benchmark.
Generations were internally designated with a two-letter code, beginning with the first generation, the NA. The second generation (NB) launched in 1998 for MY 1999; followed by the third generation (NC) in 2005 for MY 2006, and the fourth generation (ND) in 2015 for MY 2016.
As the best-selling two-seat convertible sports car in history, the MX-5 has been marketed globally, with production exceeding one million, as of early 2016. The name miata derives from Old High German for "reward".
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Common 1991 Mazda Miata problems
The first-generation Mazda Miata, produced from 1990 to 1997, is a popular and reliable sports car. However, like any vehicle, it has some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of, particularly for the 1991 model year.
- Short-nose crankshaft: Some 1991 Miatas suffered from defects in the crankshafts that could negatively affect timing, eventually grenading the motor.
- Plastic windows in vinyl soft tops: The plastic windows in the vinyl soft tops can dry out over time, blurring transparency and developing cracks. While this issue can be resolved by replacing the windows, it's worth noting that the replacement process might not be straightforward, as it requires simple tools and some time to complete.
- Failed airbag control module: Some Miatas might have an illuminated airbag light in the gauge cluster, which is the result of a failed airbag control module. This component, located under the dash, can be replaced for around $100.
- Seatbelt problems: Over time, the seatbelts in the Miata can become harder to pull out and may not retract fully on their own accord. This issue is caused by dirt buildup and can be resolved by cleaning the belts with hot, soapy water and a brush, allowing them to dry fully before reinstalling them in the vehicle.
- Fuel pipe problems: Some Miatas might experience slow fuel tank filling due to a fault in the fuel system. This issue can be resolved by replacing the fuel tank, the fuel filler pipe, and the breather pipe, which requires draining the tank and raising the vehicle on jackstands for access.
- Shock absorber problems: The Miata's handling can be compromised if the shock absorbers lose their oil, which can happen over time. Replacing the shock absorbers is the solution to this problem.
- Transmission trouble: Some Miatas might experience grinding, popping, or difficulty blipping into gear. It's essential to inspect the transmission for any issues and ensure that the timing belt, water pump, serpentine belt, cam seals, and tensioner are in good condition.
In summary, while the Mazda Miata is a reliable and fun sports car, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues, particularly for the 1991 model year. Regular maintenance, inspections, and timely repairs can help ensure a trouble-free ownership experience.
Is 1991 Miata reliable?
Very reliable and easy car to maintain.
What is the common problem with Miata?
Common problems found in the Mazda Miata include A/C compressor failure, convertible top problems, and fuel filler piper issues.
How long does a 1991 Miata last?
250K+ miles
the mazda miata NA and NB (1990 to.... early 2000s) has either the 1.6 or 1.8 motor. both are small and stand up to abuse rather well. They can easily last 250K+ miles as long as maintenance is not overlooked.
Is a 1991 Miata a good first car?
The Miata is a good car for many first-time drivers. It's affordable, relatively inexpensive to insure and maintain, and it's also fun to drive. However, it's not the most practical car on the market and it might not be the best choice for every beginner driver.
1991 Mazda Miata complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1991 Mazda Miata.
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1991 Mazda Miata recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1991 Mazda Miata.
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
- Manufacturer: MAZDA (NORTH AMERICA),INC
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: A HARDTOP HOIST ACCESSORY KIT WAS SOLD TO CUSTOMERS WHO HAVE THE MIATA WITH A HARDTOP. THE PLASTIC BUCKLES USED TO ADJUST STRAP TENSION CAN BREAK AFTER THE HARDTOP HAS BEEN SUSPENDED BY THE HOIST.
- Consequence: THE BUCKLES ON THE HARDTOP HOIST CAN BREAK AND RESULT INTHE HARDTOP FALLING FROM THE HOIST, CAUSING PERSONAL INJURY TO ANYONE STANDINGBENEATH OR NEAR THE HARDTOP WHEN IT FALLS.
- Remedy: MAZDA WILL REPLACE ALL HOISTS WITHOUT CHARGE.
- Manufacturer: MAZDA (NORTH AMERICA),INC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
- Summary: A RETURN FLUID LINE OF THE FRONT BRAKE SYSTEM IS MISCONNECTED TO A REAR BRAKE FLUID RETURN. WHEN THE ABS SYSTEM COMES INTO USE, ALL THE FLUID FROM THE FRONT BRAKES GOES TO THE REAR BRAKE SYSTEM. THE FLUID RETURNS TO THE FRONT SYSTEM WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL IS RELEASED.
- Consequence: TOTAL LOSS OF FLUID IN THE FRONT BRAKE SYSTEM LEADS TOINCREASED STOPPING DISTANCES, AND COULD RESULT IN VEHICLE COLLISION.
- Remedy: REPLACE DEFECTIVE ABS SYSTEMS.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1991 Mazda Miata problems:
Common problems with 90-91? - MX-5 Miata Forum
what are the common problems with them? I want to check it out before i pay hardearned cash for it. ... 2)when is the schedule'd due day for ...
1991 Mazda Miata Problems and Complaints - 4 Issues
Top 1991 Mazda Miata Problems · Ticking Noise From Valve Lash Adjusters Due to Infrequent Oil Changes · Valve Cover Gasket May Fail and Leak Oil onto Spark Plug ...
Any common problem with 1990 Miata's? - MX-5 Miata Forum
The two main problems are indeed the crankshaft and the "stuck in reverse" transmission. Look at the crankshaft pulley when engine running to ...
NA Miata Buyer's Guide - First-Gen Mazda MX-5 Common Issues
Jul 21, 2020 ... Some first- and second-year Miatas suffered from defects in the crankshafts that could negatively affect timing, eventually grenading the motor.
What are common Mazda MX-5 Miata issues and problems? - Quora
Nov 28, 2015 ... You are taller than about 6′4″ (1.9m) · You often need more than two seats · You think driving should be boring · You are rich enough to buy a ...
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