1991 Mazda Rx-7 problems
The Mazda RX-7 is a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, rotary engine-powered sports car that was manufactured and marketed by Mazda from 1978 until 2002 across three generations, all of which made use of a compact, lightweight Wankel rotary engine.
The first-generation RX-7, sometimes referred to as the SA (early) and FB (late), is a two-seater 2-door hatchback coupé. It featured a 12A carbureted rotary engine as well as the option for a 13B rotary engine with electronic fuel injection in later years.
The second-generation RX-7, sometimes referred to as the FC, was offered as a 2-seater coupé with a 2+2 option available in some markets, as well as in a convertible body style. This was powered by the 13B rotary engine, offered in naturally aspirated or turbocharged forms.
The third-generation RX-7, sometimes referred to as the FD, was offered a 2+2-seater coupé with a limited run of a 2-seater option. Some markets were only available as a 2-seater. It featured a sequentially-turbocharged 13B REW engine.
More than 800,000 RX-7s were manufactured over its lifetime.
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Common 1991 Mazda Rx-7 problems
The 1991 Mazda RX-7 is a popular sports car, but like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems. Here are some issues that RX-7 owners have reported:
- Electrical problems: The 1991 Mazda RX-7 has been known to have electrical issues, which can be a significant headache for owners. These problems can range from malfunctioning headlights to issues with the automatic seat belts. If the automatic seat belts are broken, there is a lifetime warranty for them, and they can be fixed for free at a Mazda dealership . However, other electrical issues may require more extensive repairs.
- Fuel dampener leaks: The fuel dampener, which is located near the exhaust manifold, can leak fuel on the 1991 RX-7. This issue is more common in the S4 models, but it can also occur in the S5 models. If the fuel dampener is leaking, it can cause a fire, so it's crucial to check for this problem before test-driving the car . The most surefire way to fix this issue is to replace the fuel dampener with a newer style that is less likely to fail.
- Leaky injectors: Another common problem with the 1991 RX-7 is leaky injectors. If the car doesn't start up after being turned off for 15 minutes, it may be due to a leaky injector. These can be challenging to fix, and it's essential to address this issue promptly, as it can lead to more severe problems with the engine .
- Radiator issues: If the RPM acts abnormally or there are bubbles coming out of the radiator when the car is turned on, it may indicate a problem with the radiator. This issue can be a sign of engine trouble, and it's essential to address it promptly to avoid more extensive repairs .
- Smoke on startup or deceleration: If there is smoke on startup, but it goes away after a few minutes, it's usually not a cause for concern. However, if the car smokes on deceleration, it may indicate a problem with the turbo seals. This issue can be a significant concern, and it's essential to address it promptly to avoid more extensive engine damage .
In summary, the 1991 Mazda RX-7 is a popular sports car, but it has its share of common problems. Electrical issues, fuel dampener leaks, leaky injectors, radiator problems, and smoke on startup or deceleration are some of the most common issues that RX-7 owners have reported. It's essential to address these issues promptly to avoid more extensive repairs and maintain the car's performance and safety.
Are RX 7s reliable?
They aren't more or less reliable than any other engine (okay, they're way more reliable than Subaru engines...). The problems are with heat and lubrication. The early RX8s had a flawed design. 2nd and 3rd Gen RX7s had problems with their OMPs and terrible electrical problems.
Why was the RX-7 banned?
Any Mazda RX-7 produced after 1995 is not allowed or is banned in the United States. This is because of the left-hand driving configuration of the vehicle. This means that if you want to own one, you have a couple of options. One is to find a used RX-7 in the United States that is a 1995 year model or older.
What is the problem with the RX-7 FC?
Engine Issues: One of the most common problems with the RX-7 (FC) is engine issues. This can include problems with the rotary engine, such as seal failure or low compression, as well as other mechanical issues like overheating, coolant leaks, and electrical problems.
What engine does a 1991 RX-7 have?
Used 1991 Mazda RX-7 - Specs & Features
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Base engine size | 1.3 L |
| Base engine type | Gas |
| Horsepower | 160 hp @ 7,000 rpm |
| Torque | 140 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm |
1991 Mazda Rx-7 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mazda Rx-7 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Seat belts problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1991 Mazda Rx-7 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1991 Mazda Rx-7 complaints
The NHTSA has received 23 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1991 Mazda Rx-7.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-13
- VIN: JM1FC3311M0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: My seatbelt motor and rail has a recall that the dealer confirmed it when I took it to them. My seatbelts get stuck sometimes causing safety concerns. The recall sent in 1996 from Mazda states the cable can wear sufficiently that the cable which retracts the buckle assembly will jam in the rail making it inoperative, if a collision the occupants will not be properly restrained.Recall states the dealer will extend warranty and replace shoulder belt rail and motor for the life of the vehicle. I took my car around October of 2021 they had the car and confirmed recall said they will call me when they get the parts, it’s September of 2022 and I haven’t gotten a call from them, when I call they tell me they don’t have them yet or say they know nothing regarding this car. Can someone help me to get this recall taken care of since I still own the car and have safety concerns with the seatbelts. Sometimes they get struck and don’t want to release properly.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-10
- VIN: jm1fc3311m0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: The contact owns a 1991 Mazda RX-7. The contact stated that the front driver's and passenger's side automatic seat belts failed to retract when the doors are opened. The dealer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that they had the parts to repair the front passenger's side seat belt but not the parts for the front driver's side seat belt. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 96V173000 (Seat Belts). The failure mileage was approximately 106,000.
SEAT BELTS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-11-11
- VIN: JM1FC3318H0
- Components: SEAT BELTS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: I AM HEAVILY CONCERNED WITH THE MAJOR SAFETY ISSUES OF MY BELOVED MAZDA AND NEED YOUR HELP. MY SEAT BELT RETRACTORS ARE BROKEN (EMERGENCY), THE HORNS DO NOT WORK (EMERGENCY), MY REAR WINDSHIELD WIPER AND FLUIDS DO NOT WORK (VISIBILITY), MY BRAKE LIGHT IS ON(EMERGENCY), AND MY PULSATION DAMPER IS LEAKING FUEL (FIRE HAZARD). I HAVE READ MANY STORIES ABOUT RX7'S THAT WOULD CATCH ON FIRE DUE TO THE FUEL PULSATION DAMPERS LEAKING FUEL ONTO THE ENGINE, EVENTUALLY IGNITING THEIR WHOLE CAR TO ASHES. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-02-05
- Fire: 1
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: PULSATION DAMPER FAILURE. LEAKED FUEL. CAUSED ENGINE FIRE. *JS
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-03-14
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JM1FC3521M0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1991 MAZDA RX7. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 20 MPH, ALL OF THE WARNING LAMPS ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL AND THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT IGNITED INTO FLAMES. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS NOTIFIED AND NO INJURIES WERE REPORTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 144,000. . UPDATED 03/26/12 *BF THE CONSUMER STATED PRIOR TO THE FIRE, THE ENGINE STARTED MISFIRING WHILE DRIVING UP A HILL AT 30 MPH. A SMELL OF FUEL WAS ALSO PRESENT. WITHIN ONE MILE OF THE MISFIRING, THE GAS PEDAL BECAME UNRESPONSIVE AND ALL THE WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED AND THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT EXPLODED IN FLAMES. THERE WAS NO SMOKE, JUST BURNING FUEL. HE OPENED THE HOOD AND FLAMES SHOT UP 20 FEET IN THE AIR. UPDATED 05/07/12
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-02-25
- VIN: JM1FC3317M0
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: MAZDA'S RX-7 MODEL FC3S FROM MODEL YEAR 1986-1992'S FUEL PULSATION DAMPER HAS AN ISSUE THAT IT WILL LEAK, SINCE THE DEVICE SITS ON TOP OF THE ENGINE SO IF THE TIMING IS RIGHT, AN ENGINE FIRE WILL START. IT IS A VERY WELL KNOWN ISSUE IN THE RX-7 COMMUNITY. IM SURPRISED NO ONE EVER FILED A COMPLAIN OVER THIS. 1986-1988'S FUEL PULSATION DAMPER IS VERY PRONE TO THIS DEFECT, THEY CHANGED THE DESIGN AND USE THEM ON LATER MODEL YEAR OF RX-7 FROM 1989-1992, BUT IT WILL STILL LEAK. *TR
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-01-30
- VIN: JM1FC3315M0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1991 MAZDA RX7. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS INSTALLED WITH AN AUTOMATIC SEAT BELT THAT DID NOT FUNCTION AT ALL. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 96V173000 (SEAT BELTS:FRONT:WEBBING) IN 1997. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE SEAT BELT WOULD BE COVERED UNDER WARRANTY FOR THE LIFE OF THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT BE REPAIRED. THE MAZDA CUSTOMER SERVICE MANAGER STATED THAT HE WOULD CONSULT WITH THE CONTACT AT A LATER DATE. THE PURCHASE DATE AND NUMBER OF CYLINDERS WERE UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 127,980 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 127,940.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-05-23
- VIN: JM1FC3520M0
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: ON SUNDAY EVENING 5/23/04 AT 10:00 PM I EXPERIENCED A TIRE FAILURE/TREAD SEPARATION ON THE LEFT REAR TIRE OF MY CAR WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH ON I-95 NORTH IN HARFORD COUNTY, MD. CONSIDERABLE DAMAGE WAS SUSTAINED BY THE CAR, BUT IT DID NOT ROLL, AND THERE WAS NO OTHER PROPERTY DAMAGE. THE TIRE WAS A PACEMARK RADIAL SR60, SIZE P205/60R15 90S, MADE IN BRAZIL BUT PURCHASED AT A SERVICE STATION IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY, MARYLAND. THERE IS SOME REFERENCE ON THE INTERNET THAT THIS TIRE COMPANY IS A SUBSUDUARY OF KELLY SPRINGFIELD.*AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-12-24
- VIN: JM1FC3520M0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: FRONT SEAT BELTS WERE NOT RETRACTING. THIS MADE IT IMPOSSIBLE FOR FRONT PASSENGERS TO WEAR SEAT BELTS. RECALL 96V17000 WAS ISSUED ON THIS PROBLEM; HOWEVER, DEALER REFUSED TO REPAIR THE SEAT BELTS BECAUSE THIS VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL DUE TO VIN. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-01-09
- VIN: JM1FC3313M0
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: DUE TO DEFECTIVE FUEL RAIL, CONNECTED TO FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM, LEAKS FUEL ONTO ENGINE COMPARTMENT, WHICH MAY HAVE CAUSE A FIRE. COMMON PROBLEM. DEALER NEEDED TO REPLACE FUEL RAIL. *AK THERE WAS EXCESSIVE FUEL SMELL AROUND THE VEHICLE WITH THE HOOD CLOSED. THE FUEL RAIL AND EXHAUST MANIFOLD ARE ON THE SAME SIDE. *YH
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-07-18
- VIN: JM1FC3311M0
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: AS I WAS DRIVING HOME ONE EVENING AT APPROXIMATELY 11:30PM IN MY 1991 MAZDA RX7, MY INTERIOR GAUGE LIGHTS SUDDENLY WENT OUT. I PULLED OVER TO CHECK THE OTHER LIGHTS ON THE OUTSIDE OF MY CAR. THE PARKING LIGHTS, TAIL LIGHTS AND ALL SIDE MARKER LIGHTS WERE NOT WORKING. I CHECKED FOR A BLOWN FUSE AND THE FUSE WAS OK. I HAVE TALKED WITH MY "MAZDA" MECHANIC AND HE SAID THAT HE HAS COME ACROSS MANY RX7'S THAT HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-10-01
- VIN: JM1FC3310M0
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: PAINT ON HOOD AND ROOF OF VEHICLE IS PEELING. HAVE HEARD FROM OTHER PEOPLE WITH SIMILAR PROBLEM. MY MAZDA DEALER'S BODY SHOP HAS SAID THEY HAVE PAINTED OTHER CARS WITH THE SAME PROBLEM DO TO IMPROPER ADHESI VE PROCEDURES USED AT FACTORY, WHEN PAINTING VEHILCE ORIGINALLY.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-07-01
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE FAILED.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-07-01
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: PAINT IS PEELING OFF THE VEHICLE. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SHOULDER BELT MECHANISM FAILED.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-09-01
- VIN: JM1FC3312M0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SHOULDER BELT BUCKLE OPENED WHEN STRUCK FROM BEHIND.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-09-01
- VIN: JM1FC3312M0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SET BELT RETRACTOR JAMS.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-02-15
- VIN: JM1FC3315M0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE DRIVER'S SIDE AUTOMATIC SHOULDER BELT IS STUCK IN THE FORWARD POSITION. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-06-01
- VIN: JM1FC3312M0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: AUTOMATIC SHOULDER STRAP ON DRIVER'S SIDE INOPERATIVE, CABLE COMES OFF TRACK AND OUT OF MOLDING.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-06-11
- VIN: JM1FC3311M0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: FAILURE OF THE DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BELT, AUTOMATIC SEAT BELT MALFUNCTIONED PE96-027.*AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1992-08-01
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DRIVERS SIDE SEAT BELT WILL NOT RETRACT PROPERLY.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JM1FC3310M0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: EXPERIENCED AUTOMATIC SHOULDER HARNESS MALFUNCTIONING WHEN BELT STOPS MIDWAY ON TRACK.*AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-06-05
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: FRONT AUTOMATIC SEAT BELTS DO NOT WORK; BOTH SEAT BELTS BROKE; SEAT BELT WILL NOT RETRACT/LOCKUP AS INTENDED. TT
1991 Mazda Rx-7 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1991 Mazda Rx-7.
- Manufacturer: MAZDA (NORTH AMERICA),INC
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:WEBBING
- Summary: THE RAIL OF THE AUTOMATIC SHOULDER BELT CAN WEAR SUFFICIENTLY SUCH THAT THE CABLE WHICH RETRACTS THE BUCKLE ASSEMBLY WILL BECOME JAMMED IN THE RAIL RENDERING THE SHOULDER BELT INOPERATIVE.
- Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE COLLISION, THE OCCUPANT WOULD NOT BE ADEQUATELY RESTRAINED INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE INOPERATIVE SHOULDER BELTS. MAZDA HAS EXTENDED THE WARRANTY COVERAGE ON THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER AUTOMATIC SHOULDER BELT RAIL AND MOTOR FOR THE LIFE OF THE VEHICLE.
Positive 1991 Mazda Rx-7 car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1991 Mazda Rx-7 problems:
Common problems that come with owning a rotary? - RX7Club.com ...
Feb 7, 2012 ... I really want a RX7 as my first car (84 or 85 GSL if I can get my way) so I'd like to know what are so common problems that occur with rotary ...
1991 Mazda RX-7 Problems and Complaints - 4 Issues
Problem with your 1991 Mazda RX-7? Our list of 4 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1991 Mazda RX-7.
Why do people not recommend the Mazda rx7, are the engines ...
Jan 13, 2019 ... The 2009+ ones fixed many of the issues that were prevalent on the earlier cars. Here are a few of the common failure points on RX-8s, and how ...
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Get 1991 Mazda RX-7 repair and maintenance costs, common problems, recalls, and more. Find certified Mazda mechanics near you.
Window rolls down but can't rollback up 1991 fc rx7 convertible : r/RX7
Sep 30, 2022 ... 115 votes, 20 comments. 49K subscribers in the RX7 community. The Mazda RX-7 Subreddit, home of the brap.
Other years of Mazda Rx-7
Are you having problems with your 1991 Mazda Rx-7?
Jordyn Runolfsdottir 2025-01-09
I've owned two of these cars and I've loved them both. Although there was one serious repair concern involving the engine losing compression, it's not a problem that will kill the car, but it can be a bit annoying the first time it happens. This car is an absolute joy to drive, it hugs the curves and loves the road. It's also great for long trips. Sure, it doesn't have cup holders, but who needs them? You need to keep both hands on the wheel to feel the excitement anyway. The oil-cooled engine is perfect for Southern climates (like mine) and as long as you regularly change the oil every 2500 - 3000 miles, you have nothing to worry about.
Houston Rodriguez 2025-01-02
I can't get enough of rotary engines! My love affair with them started with a 1991 coupe. I was blown away by the smooth ride and acceleration. But when I got my hands on a rotary turbo, I was completely hooked. The power in the mid-high RPMs is absolutely superb, and the handling and feel of the car is world class. I don't think I could ever sell this car unless it was for a 93+ RX-7. Back in the late 80s, it was the champ!
Mallory Quigley 2024-11-09
I really enjoy driving this car! It has high RPMs which make it great for racing and it can easily beat smaller cars like Civics. The body style is a bit older, but there are body kits available to update the look. Even without any modifications, it's still a great car. The sunroof and other features are fantastic. However, there are some electrical issues with the interior. It's worth noting that mechanics may not be very experienced with repairing rotary engines, and some may even refuse to do so. Additionally, there is a plastic elbow piece on the engine that connects to the top radiator tube, which can crack under pressure (I've experienced this myself).
Jeromy Mann 2024-08-16
This car is extremely fast and fun to drive, although it may have some minor reliability issues. The turbo boosts well at 6.5 psi, but it's important to avoid driving in rain or snow due to minimal traction. Additionally, it's worth noting that traction can be an issue on old roads, especially if you have a heavy foot. Overall, this car is a blast to drive!
Orin Gerhold 2024-08-10
Hey there! I recently bought my RX-7 from a friend and I'm really enjoying it. It performs magnificently! I do have a few small problems to fix, but once those are taken care of, it will be in perfect shape.