RoadVitals

2024 Mazda MX-5

Recalls, owner-reported complaints, investigations and safety data

Data refreshed

Owner complaintsComplaints are reports submitted to NHTSA by owners and drivers. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a complaint does not establish that a defect exists. Volume is influenced by how many of a vehicle were sold, how long it has been on the road, and how much attention an issue has received.
5
Latest Feb 25, 2026
Safety recallsA safety recall is issued when a manufacturer or NHTSA determines that a vehicle has a safety-related defect or does not comply with a federal motor vehicle safety standard. Recall repairs are free. Whether a specific vehicle is covered depends on its VIN — a recall listed for a model year does not necessarily apply to every vehicle of that year.
1
Latest Jun 3, 2025
InvestigationsNHTSA opens an investigation to examine whether a safety defect may exist. An open investigation is not a determination that a defect exists, and many investigations close without a recall. Investigations can, however, lead to one.
0
Crash or fire reportedComplaints whose submitter recorded that a crash or a fire occurred. These are the reporter's own answers on the NHTSA form, not verified findings.
0

Overview

Our database contains 5 NHTSA owner-reported complaints for the 2024 Mazda MX-5, most frequently naming the electrical, powertrain (other) and driver assistance categories. 1 safety recall has been issued covering this model year; and 126 manufacturer communications are on file.

Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.

What owners report

Complaints grouped by the component NHTSA recorded

  • Electrical228.6%
  • Powertrain (other)228.6%
  • Driver assistance114.3%
  • Exterior lighting114.3%
  • Visibility114.3%

Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.

Safety recalls

1 campaign cover this model year

Recalls apply to specific vehicles, not to every vehicle of a model year. Check your VIN with NHTSA or your manufacturer's dealer to confirm whether a recall affects your vehicle.

Check a VIN on NHTSA.gov

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC):CONTROL MODULE; TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM

Jun 3, 2025
12,244 units potentially affected
The defect: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Mazda MX-5 vehicles. The Traction Control System (TCS) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) indicator light may fail to illuminate as intended due to a software error. As such, these vehicles fail to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 126, "Electronic Stability Control Systems."
The risk: An indicator light that does not illuminate may fail to warn the driver of a TCS or DSC system issue, increasing the risk of a crash.
The remedy: Dealers will replace the DSC unit, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 18, 2025. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500 Option 6. Mazda's number for this recall is 7425E.
Mazda North American OperationsManufacturer number 7425EView on NHTSA.gov

Recent owner complaints

Reports submitted to NHTSA, shown in the owner's own words

Electrical
Filed Feb 25, 2026

My current vehicle has a headlight malfunction issue that has plagued the car since 2k. Under turning the swivel in the headlight will break or become off track.The headlight if it becomes off track the adaptive headlight will stick in place causing a lost of field of view at night. Mazda has warranty the drive side headlight due this issue. Their new headlight house was redesigned for 2024 year. It continues to be an issue. When getting the vehicle inspected they say it because of spirited drive and yet to fix the issue with programming or other means. This is common issue with refresh Miatas.In the forums many owners of the refresh are complaining about it. Mazda is aware of the issue but has not come out with a solution and dealer support not really there.

NHTSA ID
11720320
Incident
Sep 11, 2025
Powertrain (other)
Filed Jan 23, 2026

The contact owns a 2024 Mazda MX-5. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, an unknown warning light illuminated. In addition, the contact stated that the failure had occurred several times. The contact stated that while driving at 60 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The contact stated that several warning lights illuminated. The contact turned the vehicle off and restarted the vehicle. The contact stated that while The contact owns a 2024 Mazda MX-5. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, an unknown warning light illuminated. The failure had occurred several times. While driving approximately 60 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended, with several unknown warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was turned off and restarted the vehicle. In addition, the warning lights were no longer illuminated. The dealer was made aware of the failure. The contact was informed of an unknown recall; however, the contact was informed that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was towed to the dealer. The contact was informed that there was an unknown recall for an unknown software update. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was towed back to the dealer. The vehicle was released; however, there was no information if any repairs were performed, and the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was towed back to the dealer. The contact stated that the vehicle was unsafe to drive. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 14,408. To start the vehicle, the vehicle started. In addition, the contact stated that the warning lights went off. The dealer was made aware of the failure. The contact was informed of an unknown recall repair, however the contact was informed that the parts were not available. The vehicle was towed to the dealer. The contact was informed that there was an unknown recall

NHTSA ID
11712930
Incident
Apr 8, 2025
Mileage
14,408 mi
Exterior lightingVisibility
Filed Dec 20, 2025

The vehicle has a recurrent malfunction of the Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS), part of the exterior headlight system and advertised as a safety feature within Mazda’s i-ACTIVSENSE® technology. The failure presents as a dashboard warning stating: “Headlight System Malfunction. Have the vehicle inspected.” The affected components remain installed and are available for inspection upon request. This malfunction poses a potential safety risk because it affects a system intended to improve visibility during night driving and around curves, creating uncertainty about headlight performance under low-visibility conditions. The issue has been confirmed by an authorized Mazda dealer, which recorded fault logs related to the headlight system. The vehicle has been inspected multiple times. Repairs performed include replacement of the headlamp wiring harness and replacement of the entire headlamp assembly, but the malfunction continues and has increased in frequency over time. The problem first appeared intermittently over a year ago, progressed to weekly, and now occurs daily. The failure occurs under normal driving conditions, including at very low speeds (approximately 5 mph) while exiting a parking lot. One documented instance occurred with the engine still cold (blue low-engine-temperature indicator illuminated), indicating no aggressive driving. Several additional occurrences happened below 35 mph with no harsh steering or acceleration. Suggestions that this is related to “spirited driving” are contradicted by observed conditions and video evidence.

NHTSA ID
11706227
Incident
Dec 19, 2025
Powertrain (other)
Filed Dec 17, 2025

Driving vehicle on highway could not get the manual transmission into 3rd gear. Had to double clutch in order to do so. The vehicle only had 5,700 miles. The transmission produced a loud whining sound that could be heard outside the car. Took vehicle to dealership in which entire transmission was replaced.

NHTSA ID
11705699
Incident
Nov 22, 2025
Driver assistanceElectrical
Filed Oct 14, 2025

I was driving on interstate 30 with the cruise control on and I needed to slow down as there was roadwork so I pressed down the brakes to disengage the cruiser control and slow the vehicle down, the vehicle not only not slow down but lunged forward. The brake pedal did not disengage the cruise control after pumping the brake pedal several times and tried to bring the vehicle back to the set speed. I avoided major collision and possible saved my wife's life and mine by going into the grassy center median at 70mph. I had to pull the emergency brake handle to slow the vehicle down enough to stall the engine to come to a complete stop.

NHTSA ID
11693271
Incident
Oct 9, 2025

Manufacturer communications

A bulletin sent by a manufacturer to its dealers. Not a recall, and repairs are not necessarily free.

SA-042-26

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; ENGINE

This Service Alert supersedes the previously issued SAs listed below. The changes are noted in Red text. SA-017/25 12/16/25, 09/08/25, 07/14/25, 05/15/25 and 03/21/25 DESCRIPTION Mazda Connect Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Index General Questions MAZDA CONNECT Indication Setup and Getting Started Dealer Processes Registration / Enrollment / Take-Over Customer Subscription Status WI-FI General Informatio Opening the TCU Communication Line WI-FI How-To Conditions for Remote Engine Start Will Not Function WI-FI Trial Period Conditions for Remote Engine Start Function Will turn engine OFF Interacting With The App TCU Communication Line Status Service Issues Educational Videos Troubleshooting Resources MyMazda App Error Codes Customer Opt-Out

16-010-26

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

COMPLIANCE WITH NEW YORK STATE GENERAL BUSINESS LAW §399‑CCCCC (CONNECTED VEHICLE SERVICE; DOMESTIC VIOLENCE VICTIMS) DESCRIPTION This Service Information is issued in accordance with New York State General Business Law §399􀀀CCCCC (Connected Vehicle Service; Domestic Violence Victims). This regulation is intended to protect victims of domestic violence by allowing them to request the termination of third-party access (including access by an alleged abuser) to connected vehicle services, such as vehicle location tracking and remote control functions. To support this requirement, this Service Information enables confirmation of whether a vehicle is subject to connected vehicle services by referring to the SUBJECT VIN & PRODUCTION DATE RANGE, and provides guidance on the procedure to terminate such services when a customer requests the removal of third-party access for an applicable vehicle. Effective July 1, 2026, if a customer requests action under this regulation, a CMU/CDC software update must be performed to enable appropriate control of connected vehicle service access. If no request is made by the customer, the CMU/CDC software update is not required. REPAIR PROCEDURE 1. Confirm that the customer has requested deactivation of connected services in accordance with New York State General Business Law related action. 2. Perform the CMU/CDC software update according to the procedures outlined in the appropriate TSB shown in the table below:

16-003-26a

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

UPDATED SOFTWARE RELEASE FOR CONCERNS WITH MAZDA CONNECT INFOTAINMENT SYSTEM This bulletin supersedes the previously issued bulletin(s) listed below. The changes are noted in Red. 16-003/26 01/12/26 DESCRIPTION The release notes outlined below provide an overview of bug fixes, feature improvements, and updates included in the latest software release. The latest version of software contains all the updates of the previous versions. NOTE: If current version is not 7230C1A-NA07_***** or 7230C2A-NA07_*****, this TSB is not applicable. Version 7230C1A-NA07_10036 enables termination of connected services at customer request: Termination of Connected Services by customers at their initiative has been enabled. Accordingly, the following items have been updated. Add a "Data Communication Information" item under Settings > System Settings>Online Connectivity. ○ Updated the text displayed on the confirmation screen for disabling Connected Services. REPAIR PROCEDURE 1. Verify the customer concern. 2. Update MAZDA CONNECT with software version 7230C1A-NA07_10032 / 7230C2A-NA07_10032 or later with a USB memory stick using the 7TH GEN MAZDA CONNECT Update Instructions.

SA-041-26

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; ENGINE

This SA supersedes the previously issued SA(s) listed below. The changes are noted in Red. SA-061/25 12/17/25 DESCRIPTION If you encounter any type of electrical concern (e.g, dead battery, engine no start, DTC(s) stored...), interview the customer before proceeding with normal MGSS diagnosis by asking if any aftermarket devices have been installed. Aftermarket devices may be the cause of the electrical concern. Below are a few examples of unusual electrical concerns caused by aftermarket devices. Examples: 1. Devices connected to the DLC-2 (battery discharge/DTC stored) 2. Devices plugged into the 12V outlet 3. GPS tracking device (engine no start/battery discharge) 4. Dash cam (DTC stored) 5. Non-certified USB cable (Apple Carplay™/ Android Auto™ will not connect) 6. Over-sized wheels/tires (incorrect GPS location) 7. DTC C0023:14 8. Decorative trim and/or cover on the START/STOP ENGINE button Example 1: Some electrical devices connected to the DLC-2 connector by insurance or mobile phone companies may cause: Battery discharge. The device may disrupt the CAN system battery saver mode. • IDS/MMDS will not communicate with the vehicle due to poor DLC-2 connection. The aftermarket device may cause DLC-2 female terminals to spread open.

09-020-26

SEATS; STRUCTURE:BODY

DESCRIPTION Some vehicles may exhibit scratches (1) on the rear of the seat back bar garnish (2) from contact with the convertible top (3). Due to assembly variations, the clearance between the seat back bar garnish and the convertible top is too small on some vehicles. REPAIR PROCEDURE 6. Install the seat back crossmember assembly from the vehicle according to the instructions on MGSS online or the Workshop Manual (section 09-10 SEAT BACK CROSSMEMBER ASSEMBLY REMOVAL/INSTALLATION). 7. Reinstall the rear seat back bar garnish while twisting the garnish so that the garnish can be kept closer to the seat back bar and away from the convertible top (for both left and right sides).

SA-027-26a

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This SA supersedes the previously issued bulletin(s) listed below. The changes are noted below in Red. SA-027/26 04/16/26 DESCRIPTION The Mazda DCA-8000 is required for all warranty battery testing. If the Mazda DCA-8000 is not used, incorrect battery testing may result in unnecessary battery replacement. Use the following test procedures in this Service Bulletin to test Mazda vehicle batteries and to generate a Warranty Code. NOTE: A Warranty Code is required for warranty claim submission Battery Identification (Mazda batteries have 2 rating types) 1. JIS (Japanese Industrial Standard): JIS codes are six-digit alpha-numeric markings (excluding i-STOP batteries e.g. Q-85, S-95) molded into the top of the battery to identify a battery by the capacity (amps), dimensions, and battery terminal type. Vehicles manufactured in Japan come from the factory with a JIS rated battery. NOTE: Replacement batteries may use a CCA rating. If so, use the CCA rating listed on the battery. REPAIR PROCEDURE 1. Perform appropriate repair to vehicle. If needed, use the Battery Diagnostics of the DCA-8000 to test the charging and starting systems by following the on-screen instructions for entering the appropriate information. Refer to the Mazda DCA-8000 Instruction Manual for more information.

Manufacturers file copies of the bulletins they send to dealers with NHTSA. These often describe diagnostic or repair procedures for a known condition. They are not recalls: repairs described in a bulletin are usually only free if the vehicle is still under warranty or the manufacturer has extended coverage.

Compare model years

Complaint and recall counts across every year of this model

Mazda MX-5 by model year
YearComplaintsRecallsInvestigationsIssue Index
2026100
2025310
2024Viewing510
2023710
2022510
2021110
2020310
2019113050.7
2018330
2017112059.3
2016343052.9
2015100
2014600
2013200
2012500
2011100
2010400
2009300
2008700
2007170031.6
2006251034.1

Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers. Older model years have had longer for reports to accumulate.