There are no safety recalls for the 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata, but owners have filed 14 complaints with NHTSA.
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Exterior Lighting | 2 | |
| Steering | 2 | |
| Structure | 2 | |
| Power Train | 2 | |
| Seats | 1 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 1 | |
| Equipment | 1 | |
| Wheels | 1 | |
| Fuel System, Gasoline | 1 | |
| Electrical System | 1 | |
| Tires | 1 | |
| Suspension | 1 | |
Most reported parts
- Exterior Lighting › Headlights — 1
- Seats › Front Assembly › Recliner — 1
- Vehicle Speed Control › Accelerator Pedal — 1
- Wheels › Rim — 1
- Fuel System, Gasoline › Fuel Injection System — 1
- Structure › Body — 1
- Power Train › Clutch Assembly — 1
- Power Train › Manual Transmission — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 53,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Unknown or Other · at 42,516 miles · reported Jun 28, 2016
The plastic battery tray in the mazda mx5 is quite fragile and often breaks under normal operating conditions. I have had to replace several of these trays in my 2003 mx5. Now, with yet another broken tray, I AM told that these trays are no longer available. Recently this created a very dangerous situation in which my battery moved enough to make a contact between the positive battery pole and the metal part that holds down the battery. This contact caused a short circuit and fire in the trunk that could have destroyed the car while also causing a dangerous accident (Because the engine shuts…
Steering · at 75,000 miles · reported May 8, 2015
The contact owns a 2003 mazda miata. While driving approximately 35 MPH, it became difficult for the contact to steer the vehicle. While turning left, the contact lost control of the vehicle and crashed into an electrical pole. The air bags failed to deploy. There were no injuries and a police report was not filed. The vehicle was destroyed and towed to a private tow lot. The VIN was invalid. The approximate failure mileage was 75,000.
Suspension · at 53,000 miles · reported Apr 16, 2015
The contact owns a 2003 mazda miata. While driving approximately 30 MPH, the vehicle suddenly began to shake and became difficult to control. After stopping the vehicle, the contact discovered that the rear passenger side wheel was positioned at a 45 degree angle. While inspecting the vehicle, the contact discovered that the rear passenger side control arm was severely rusted and fractured. The contact indicated that the rear driver side control arm also was severely rusted. The vehicle was towed to the dealer. The vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of…
Structure · at 68,000 miles · reported Apr 19, 2011
The contact owns a 2003 mazda miata. The contact stated that the frame rail on the passenger side of the engine was completely rusted. He noticed the problem when he was repairing the suspension. The sway bar was also defective because of the rust. The vehicle was not inspected or repaired. The contact called the manufacturer who offered no assistance. The current mileage was 87,625. The failure mileage was approximately 68,000.
Power Train · at 81,000 miles · reported Dec 8, 2010
The limited slip differential has failed at approximately 81,000 miles. I've been informed that repair parts are not manufactured and that a new differential must be installed. There are none in stock in the united states and they are on back order indefinitely. There is no time estimate of any kind to get this part in the united states. My only option is to find and install an used differential.
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.
What is the most common problem with the 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata?
Owners report exterior lighting problems most often (2 reports), followed by steering (2). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 53,000 miles.
Are Mazda recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Mazda dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.