1997 Mazda Miata problems

General information about Mazda-Miata
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

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 1997 Mazda Miata problems

Based on the complaints from owners of the 1997 Mazda Miata, several common problems have been highlighted:

Climate Control and Electric System Issues: Some owners reported problems with the climate control and electric systems in the 1997 Miata. These issues could affect the comfort and functionality of the car, potentially leading to discomfort for the driver and passengers.
Windshield Problems: Complaints included windshield problems with the 1997 model. Issues with the windshield can impact visibility and safety while driving, highlighting the importance of maintaining a clear and undamaged windshield for optimal driving conditions.
Paint Issues: Paint problems were also mentioned, which could lead to aesthetic concerns and potentially contribute to rust if not addressed promptly. Maintaining the paintwork of a vehicle is crucial not only for appearance but also for protecting the underlying metal from corrosion.
Electrical Gremlins: Reports of electrical issues surfaced, indicating potential challenges with the car's electrical system. Electrical problems can be complex and affect various components of the vehicle, requiring thorough diagnostics and repairs to ensure proper functionality.
Suspension Troubles: Complaints included troubles with the suspension system. Suspension issues can impact the handling and stability of the car, affecting the overall driving experience and safety. Addressing suspension problems promptly is essential for maintaining a smooth and controlled ride.
Interior Accessory Problems: Various issues with interior accessories were noted, which could affect the convenience and functionality of features inside the car. Malfunctioning interior accessories can impact the driver's comfort and the overall usability of the vehicle.
Exterior Accessory Concerns: Complaints mentioned problems with exterior accessories, highlighting potential issues with components outside the vehicle. Addressing exterior accessory problems is crucial for maintaining the car's aesthetics and functionality.

By addressing these common problems reported by owners of the 1997 Mazda Miata, prospective buyers and current owners can be better informed about potential issues to watch out for and ensure timely maintenance and repairs to keep their vehicles in optimal condition.

Are 1997 Miatas reliable?

A truly wonderful roadster that is fun to drive, easy to maintain and one of the most reliable cars I've ever owned. It sticks to the road as-if it is riding on rails. Fun fun fun, even with the top up!

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.

What year is the best Miata engine?

Ideally, you'll want one of the 1994-1997 models, which got the more powerful and more easily modified 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine. But the 1.6 will still be fun, and it can be easily replaced with the later 1.8. Also, the Miata is a great starting point if you're looking to modify a car.

Do Miatas require a lot of maintenance?

Once you have driven your MX-5 Miata for 30,000 miles, you will want to repeat the 15,000-mile maintenance by replacing the engine air filter, cabin air filter, and wiper blades. These simple maintenance items are often overlooked, yet crucial to maintaining your MX-5 Miata and keeping it running like new.

1997 Mazda Miata car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mazda Miata problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Fuel system problems
Gasoline problems
Power train problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Mazda Miata vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1997 Mazda Miata complaints

The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Mazda Miata.

2004-10-18

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2004-10-18
VIN: NOT AVAILAB
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Summary: THE CONSUMER STATED THE FILLER NECK TUBE HAS RUSTED. AS A RESULT FUEL VAPORS SEEPED INTO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. A RECALL FOR THE FUEL TANK FILLER NECK HAS BEEN ISSUED, HOWEVER THE VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER WAS OUTSIDE OF THE REMEDY SCOPE. PLEASE PROVIDE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. *JB

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2003-06-19

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2003-06-01
Components: POWER TRAIN
Summary: MY 1997 626 IS HAVING A SEVERE TRANSMISSION PROBLEM. THERE IS ONLY 60000 MILES ON IT. CONSIDERING THE NUMBER OF COMPLAINTS FILES ON THIS ISSUE, I SINCERELY HOPE THAT MAZDA DOES SOMETHING ABOUT (RECALL OR BETTER GO OUT OF BUSINESS). *NLM

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1997 Mazda Miata recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1997 Mazda Miata.

2006-03-23

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.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 1997 Mazda Miata problems:

Common Issues with 90-97 Miatas [Archive] - MX-5 Miata Forum

https://forum.miata.net/vb/archive/index.php/t-163633.html

Door panels -- The cardboard panels under the panel upholstery is weak, allowing the little clips/nubs to break off and fail to continue holding ...

1997 Miata - General Discussion - Car Talk Community

https://community.cartalk.com/t/1997-miata/141804

Jun 7, 2019 ... The Mazda Mata has been very reliable for the owners i've known Any problems re really no different than other Mazda's of the same era. We had a ...

NA Miatas -- Common Issues [Archive] - MX-5 Miata Forum

https://forum.miata.net/vb/archive/index.php/t-162436.html

Uneven head clamping at left/rear, resulting in oil seep. Positioning vulnerable rubber hoses beneath prone-to-leak camshaft angle sensor on 1.8 ...

What are common Mazda MX-5 Miata issues and problems? - Quora

https://www.quora.com/What-are-common-Mazda-MX-5-Miata-issues-and-problems

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 ...