1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata: Recalls, Problems & MPG
Here are the deets on the 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata: 0 recalls, 11 owner complaints and up to 22 mpg combined.
Recalls
No recalls on file for this model year. Still worth a VIN check.
Most-reported problems
Owner complaints filed with NHTSA, by component. One complaint can list several components. 1 mention a fire, 1 injuries and 0 deaths were reported.
What owners describe
- Airbags (2): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Electrical (2): the most common themes are electrical failure (2).
- Fuel system (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Body & structure (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
The 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata has 11 owner complaints, ranking #12 of 16 MX-5 Miata model years for complaints (well below the 21 average). Complaints peaked in 1999 (4 filed that year). The typical problem showed up when the car was about 2 years old. Neighboring years: 1996 (29 complaints, 0 recalls), 1998 (1 complaints, 0 recalls).
Engines & fuel economy (EPA)
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.8 L 4-cyl | Automatic 4-spd | Rear-Wheel Drive | 19 | 26 | 22 | Regular |
| 1.8 L 4-cyl | Manual 5-spd | Rear-Wheel Drive | 20 | 26 | 22 | Regular |
Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.
Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Closest thing to the factory manual for most years. Pay once, keep it.
Most $25–$78, one-timePro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.
From $19.99/mo · $39.99/yrOEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.
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FAQ
Does the 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata have any recalls?
NHTSA doesn't list any vehicle recalls for the 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to be sure.
What are the most common 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata problems?
Owners have filed 11 complaints with NHTSA. The most-reported areas are airbags (2), electrical (2), fuel system (1).
What gas mileage does the 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata get?
EPA ratings run up to 22 mpg combined (1.8 L, Automatic 4-spd), across 2 engine and transmission combos.
Where can I get a 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata repair manual?
eManualOnline sells downloadable manuals, Mitchell 1 DIY and ALLDATAdiy sell online access to factory repair data, and Haynes sells printed guides and online access. Pick a download if you want to keep it, or a subscription for wiring diagrams and TSBs.