Most common 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata problems
Share of the 29 complaints; one complaint can involve more than one system. "~" is the median mileage when the problem started.
Mazda MX-5 Miata complaints by model year
Best MX-5 Miata years: 2004, 2003, 1997. Years to avoid: 1999, 1995, 2000. Compare all years →
What 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata owners say
Air bags
The contact owns a 1996 Mazda MX-5. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who informed the contact that the failure was due to the Takata air bag module. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 78,000.
The contact owns a 1996 MAZDA Miata. The contact stated that the air bag warning lights was illuminated. The vehicle was diagnosed but not yet repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure but offered no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
Engine & cooling
Engine malfunction light came on at approx. 19,000 miles and simultaneously engine began knocking strongly and lost power during 2nd and 3rd gear, during full accelertion.
1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata engines & fuel economy
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | MPG city / hwy / combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.8L 4-cyl | 5-speed manual | RWD | 21 / 26 / 23 |
| 1.8L 4-cyl | 4-speed automatic | RWD | 19 / 26 / 22 |
EPA ratings. Class: Sports car.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata a good car?
Based on 29 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 1996 MX-5 Miata rates average: about as many complaints as a typical year of the MX-5 Miata at the same age. Complaint counts don't account for sales volume or individual maintenance, so have any used car inspected before buying.
What is the most common problem with the 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata?
The air bags — 17 complaints, 59% of all complaints for this model year, most often about frontal. Next are the engine & cooling (3) and wheels & tires (2).
How many recalls does the 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata have?
NHTSA lists no recalls for the 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. You can still confirm with your VIN using our VIN recall check.
What are the best and worst years of the Mazda MX-5 Miata?
The best years by complaints, compared at the same age, are 2004, 2003 and 1997. Years to avoid or approach with caution: 1999, 1995 and 2000. See the full Mazda MX-5 Miata years comparison.
At what mileage do 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata problems happen?
The median mileage reported in complaints is about 78,000 miles; 25% of problems with a recorded mileage started before 50,000 miles.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.