1994 Mazda Navajo: Recalls, Problems & MPG
Here are the deets on the 1994 Mazda Navajo: 3 recalls, 49 owner complaints and up to 18 mpg combined.

Recalls
3 vehicle recalls from the manufacturer, plus 1 equipment/tire recall that can apply. Repairs are free. Check your VIN to see if one is still open on your car.
Parking brake Vehicle recall #94V169002 · 1994 · 48,609 vehicles
What's wrong: The parking brake control self-adjust pawl does not line up properly with the self-adjust rachet causing the pawl to slip over one or more teeth in the rachet.
Why it matters: When the above occurs, it can result in parking brake system ineffectiveness. The parking brake will not hold the vehicle, causing the vehicle to roll freely, if the transmission is not left in gear.
The fix: A wedge will be installed which will serve to lock the parking brake self-adjust mechanism pawl into engagement with the rachet. Also, owners will be advised to release and reapply the parking brake whenever tooth skip occurs and will be reminded to always turn off the engine and leave the vehicle…
Brakes (hydraulic) Vehicle recall #96V024002 · 1996 · 2,500 vehicles
What's wrong: The studs which attach the brake master cylinder to the power brake vacuum booster assembly can develop stress corrosion cracking after being operated for an extended period of time in the southern california location.
Why it matters: If a crack occurs, it could result in one or both studs fracturing. The master cylinder could then separate from the vacuum booster, when the brakes are applied, preventing the service brakes from fully activating increasing the risk of a vehicle accident.
The fix: Dealers will replace the power brake vacuum booster assembly.
Body & structure Vehicle recall #99V310002 · 1999 · 6,800 vehicles
What's wrong:
Why it matters: With a broken bracket weld, there is a potential for the liftgate bracket to gradually bend inward allowing the lift cylinder ball stud to disengage, unexpectedly allowing the liftgate to fall from an open position.
The fix: Dealers will install liftgate reinforcement brackets. Depending upon the condition of the liftgate sheet metal in the area of the bracket, dealers May also install a larger reinforcement.
1 aftermarket equipment / tire recall replacement parts sold to fit this car, not the car itself
Tires Tire recall #00T005000 · 2000 · 14,400,000 vehicles
What's wrong: Tire description: firestone wilderness at, size p235/75r15, produced at the decatur, illinois tire plant and all firestone radial atx and radial atx II tires, size p235/75r15. Operation of these tires at low inflation pressures, high speed, and in hot weather, can contribute to separation of the tire tread.
Why it matters: If the tread separates from the tire, the driver can lose control of the vehicle, possibly resulting in a crash causing injury or death.
The fix: The replacement/reimbursement program for this campaign expired on August 29, 2001. However, customers should contact firestone customer service at 1-800-465-1904 for possible assistance.
Most-reported problems
Owner complaints filed with NHTSA, by component. One complaint can list several components. 3 mention a fire, 2 injuries and 0 deaths were reported.
What owners describe
- Brakes (hydraulic) (10): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Speed control / throttle (7): the most common themes are sudden acceleration (2).
- Transmission & drivetrain (6): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Suspension (5): the most common themes are noise or vibration (4).
The 1994 Mazda Navajo has 49 owner complaints, ranking #1 of 5 Navajo model years for complaints (2.0× the average Navajo year). Complaints peaked in 1996 (12 filed that year). The typical problem showed up when the car was about 3 years old, at a median of 65,000 miles. Neighboring years: 1993 (22 complaints, 5 recalls).
Engines & fuel economy (EPA)
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4.0 L 6-cyl | Automatic 4-spd | Rear-Wheel Drive | 16 | 22 | 18 | Regular |
| 4.0 L 6-cyl | Manual 5-spd | Rear-Wheel Drive | 14 | 19 | 16 | 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 1994 Mazda Navajo.
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.
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FAQ
Does the 1994 Mazda Navajo have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 3 vehicle recalls for the 1994 Mazda Navajo, plus 1 equipment or tire recalls that can apply. Recall repairs are free at any dealer, no matter how old the car is. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What are the most common 1994 Mazda Navajo problems?
Owners have filed 49 complaints with NHTSA. The most-reported areas are brakes (hydraulic) (10), speed control / throttle (7), transmission & drivetrain (6).
What gas mileage does the 1994 Mazda Navajo get?
EPA ratings run up to 18 mpg combined (4.0 L, Automatic 4-spd), across 2 engine and transmission combos.
Where can I get a 1994 Mazda Navajo 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.