1989 Mazda Rx7 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 1989 Mazda Rx7 problems
The Mazda RX7, particularly the 1989 model, is known for several common problems that owners often encounter. These issues range from minor inconveniences to significant repairs that can affect the car's performance and safety. Here are the most common problems with the Mazda RX7 1989, based on complaints from owners:
- Idling problems: Another common issue with the Mazda RX7 is idling problems, which can be caused by a malfunctioning Throttle Position Sensor (TPS). If you notice erratic idling, where the revs do not remain constant, then it is likely that the TPS is the culprit. Cleaning and refitting the TPS can often solve this problem, but it may require some mechanical knowledge.
- Suspension problems: The rear suspension bushes in the Mazda RX7 are prone to failing, which can cause a knocking noise when driving over speed bumps or rough surfaces. Replacing the rear suspension bushes is the only way to fix this problem.
- Door trim problems: The trim around the inside of the door is known for being poorly made and prone to breaking. The door handles and storage pockets are particularly susceptible to damage. If any of these parts are broken, they will need to be replaced to resolve the issue.
- Oil leaks: Oil leaks are a common problem with the Mazda RX7, particularly at the rear stationary gear seal and O-ring. These seals and O-rings are responsible for preventing oil from leaking out of the engine, but they can become worn or damaged over time. If left untreated, an oil leak can lead to engine damage or failure.
- Intermittent no-start: Some Mazda RX7 owners, particularly those with turbo models, have reported intermittent no-start issues. This problem can be caused by a malfunctioning engine control module (ECM), which controls various aspects of the engine's operation. Diagnosing and fixing this issue can be challenging and may require the assistance of a qualified mechanic.
- ABS warning lights: Some Mazda RX7 owners have reported that the ABS warning light can illuminate intermittently, even when there are no problems with the braking system. This issue can be caused by a faulty ABS control module or sensor, which can compromise the car's braking performance and potentially lead to dangerous situations.
These common problems with the Mazda RX7 1989 can affect the car's performance, safety, and overall enjoyment. However, with proper maintenance and prompt attention to any issues, these problems can be resolved, and the car can continue to provide a fun and exciting driving experience.
How reliable is an RX-7?
It requires a lot of maintenance and with a lot of care, you will not have a problem with it. Due to its high-performance engine, its maintenance requirements are nothing compared to daily-use cars. People need to take even more care of it, but the truth is that this car may not be as durable as others.
Why is the RX-7 illegal?
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.
Are Mazda RX-7 easy to work on?
Leaving aside those you see at the race tracks, where they get tremendous horsepower out of a 1.3 liter engine, they are really rather simple machines compared to piston engine cars. They take 1/2 the time to rebuild, and it's really very hard to mess one up if you any mechanical knowledge whatsoever.
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.
1989 Mazda Rx7 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mazda Rx7 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Seat belts problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Visibility problems
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1989 Mazda Rx7 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1989 Mazda Rx7
The NHTSA has received 32 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1989 Mazda Rx7. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1989 Mazda Rx7 vehicles.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-06-02
- VIN: JM1FC3517K0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: I OWN A 1989 MAZDA RX 7. I RECENTLY SAW A RECALL ON THE FORD RECALL WEB SITE FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN # 96V173000, FRONT WEBBING FOR RX'S MANUFACTURED BETWEEN 12/24/88 TO 05/31/91. I HAVE THIS PARTICULAR PROBLEM ON MY SEATS. I CONTACTED A LOCAL DEALER AND WAS TOLD THAT MY RX WAS NOT IN THE GROUP FOR THE RECALL. THE DEALER DID THIS BY VIN # , [XXX] , AND STATED MY CAR DID NOT FALL IN THE RECALL. THE DEALER PROVIDED A PRINT OUT SHOWING MY RX WAS MANUFACTURED, 01/10/89. I FEEL THAT THE PROBLEM IS WITHIN THE RANGE OF THE RECALL, MY VEHICLE IS AN RX7, AND MANUFACTURED IN THE RANGE OF THE RECALL. I AM REQUESTING HELP IN RESOLVING THIS PROBLEM. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR UPDATED 07/08/11.*JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-01-09
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Fire: 1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY DOING 63 MPH WHEN I SMELLED A FUNNY SMELL I PULLED OVER AND THE FRONT OF MY CAR WAS ON FIRE. THE PULSATION DAMPER FAILED CAUSING SERIOUS ENGINE DAMAGE AND ALMOST COST ME MY LIFE IF IT WASN'T FOR OTHER MOTORIST I WOULD NOT BE HERE MY ARM WAS SLIGHTLY BURNED BUT IT QUICKLY HEALED I HAVE NOT CURRENTLY HAD THE CAR REPAIRED IM SEEKING A BEST ESTIMATE FOR THE REPAIR. *TR
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-12-01
- VIN: JM1FC3313K0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DT: THE CONTACT STATED PREVIOUSLY HAD RECALL 96V173000 REPAIR WORK PERFORMED ON THE SEAT BELTS: FRONT: WEBBING. HOWEVER THE FAILURE RECURRED AND NO ADDITIONAL REPAIRS HAVE BEEN MADE. THE DEALERSHIP AND MANUFACTURER WERE CONTACTED, AND THEY CLAIMED SINCE THE RECALL WORK WAS PERFORMED THERE WAS NOTHING ELSE THEY COULD DO. *AK UPDATED 1/23/2006 - *NM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-08-12
- VIN: JM1FC3324K0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: "HEADLIGHT HARNESS" MELTED AND KNOCKED OUT "HEADLIGHT SWITCH"...KNOWN PROBLEM AND COMMON, NOT RECOGNIZED BY MAZDA AS WORTHY OF BEING FIXED. TAKES OUT DRIVING LIGHTS, AND INTERIOR LIGHTS, WHICH IS VERY UNSAFE AT NIGHT IN DARK REGIONS. CONTACTED LOCAL MAZDA DEALER, WAS TOLD IT WAS NEVER RECALLED OR ANYTHING. NLM
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JM1FC332XK0
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: THIS IS A KNOWN COMMON PROBLEM AMONG THE 1987-1991 RX-7 OWNERS. SPEED ADJUSTER FOR THE WINDSHIELD ONLY OPERATE AT THE TOP SPEED. RENDERING IT IMPOSSIBLE TO USE IN THE LIGHT SPRINKLE; HAVE TO KEEP TURNING IT ON AND OFF WHILE DRIVING. *AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-12-12
- VIN: JM1FC3510K0
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WHILE IN USE THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS MALFUNCTION WHICH MAY CAUSE VISUAL DIFFICULTY, AND MAY RESULT IN AN ACCIDENT. DEALER WILL REPLACE THE WINDSHIELD WIPER SWITCH. ALSO KNOWN PROBLEMS WITH THIS WIPER SWITCH WHICH COST ABOUT $500 TO REPAIR. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-11-28
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JM1FC3319K0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE FIRE. (OHIO TRAFFIC CRASH REPORT).
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-04-08
- VIN: JM1FC3314K0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE CONSUMER HAS RECEIVED A RECALL LETTER FOR AUTOMATIC SHOULDER BELTS. SINCE RECEIVING THE LETTER, NO PARTS HAS BEEN AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER HAS YET TO BE CONTACTED. RECALL NUMBER 96V173000. *AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WINDSHIELD WIPER SWITCH ONLY WORKS ON 1 SPEED. WIPERS DO NOT STOP IN THE DOWN POSITION.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: OWNER STATES THAT RECEVIED A RECALL NOTICE FOR SHOULDER BELTS, BUT HAS BEEN UNABLE TO GET WORK DONE BECAUSE OF NO PARTS. ALSO DEALER PULLED HIS SEAT BELT APART AND DID NOT COMPLETE WORK BECAUSE OF NO PARTS. 96V173000. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-02-21
- VIN: JM1SC3314K0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: OWNER RECEIVED RECALL NOTICE #96V17300 FOR AUTOMATIC SHOULDER BELTS. TOOK TO DEALER & HAD REPAIRS DONE; PROBLEM W/SHOULDER BELT HAS REOCCURRED A SHORT TIME LATER; DEALER WILL NOT REPAIR AGAIN. *AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-10-01
- VIN: JM1FC331XK0
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WINDSHIELD WIPER SWITCH DEFECTIVE, CAUSING POOR VISIBILITY.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: NO PARTS FOR SHOULDER BEL, TMANUFACTURER TOLD CUSTOMER THAT THEY DID NOT KNOW WHEN MORE PARTS WOULD BE COMING IN. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-10-28
- VIN: JM1FC3313K0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: PASSENGER'S SEAT BELT RETRACTOR INOPERATIVE.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-06-01
- VIN: JM1FC3323K0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: FAILURE ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE AUTOMATIC SHOULDER BELT, THE SHOULDER BELT WAS IN THE MIDWAY POSITION PRIOR TO RECALL (96V-173). *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-08-15
- VIN: JM1FC3319K0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE PASSENGER'S SIDE AUTOMATIC SHOULDER BELT IS INOPERATIVE. THE SEAT BELT WILL NOT RETRACT TOWARDS THE BODY WHEN THE DOOR IS CLOSED. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-09-19
- VIN: JH1FC3315K0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DRIVER'S SIDE MOTORBELT FAILED TO MOVE IN FORWARD POSITION DUE TO STRIPPED TRACK.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-10-08
- VIN: JM1FC33161T
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: MOTORIZED SEAT BELT RETRACTOR INOPERATIVE.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-09-25
- VIN: JM1FC3326K0
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS DRIVING AND THE ABS BRAKE LIGHT CAME ON , TOOK TO DEALER THE OIL WAS LEAKING . PLEASE DESCRIBE .*AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-06-15
- VIN: JM1FC3319K0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: FAILURE OF THE DRIVER'S AND PASSENGER'S SIDE AUTOMATIC SEAT BELT RETRACTORS, THE SEAT BELT IS IN THE RETRACTING POSITION, PE96-027.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-02-13
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE REPLACED DUE TO DEFECT. *SD
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1990-03-01
- VIN: JM1FC331XKO
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE AUTOMATIC SEATBELT FOR THE DRIVER DOES NOT GO UP AND DOWN THE TRACK. PLEASE DESCRIBE. TT
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-06-05
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE MOTOR HAS BLOWN IN CAR WHILE DRIVING. PLEASE DESCRIBE. TT
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-06-10
- VIN: JM1FC331CK0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: LAP/SHOULDER BELT ON DRIVER SIDE FAILED DUE FAULTY CABLE THAT BROKE. TT
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-06-11
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT RETRACTOR THE CABLE CAME OUT. TT
1989 Mazda Rx7 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1989 Mazda Rx7.
- 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.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1989 Mazda Rx7 problems:
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