Worst 2016 Mazda Mx-5 Problems
Top 3 most-reported issues with average mileage at failure.
Transmission / Drivetrain
Airbags
Electrical Faults
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All Problems by Category
Every NHTSA complaint category for the 2016 Mazda Mx-5.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Avg Mileage | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Transmission / Drivetrain | 11 | 1 | — | 33,002 mi | |
| Airbags | 5 | 2 | — | 30,950 mi | |
| Electrical Faults | 4 | — | — | — | |
| Body Structure | 4 | — | — | — | |
| Engine Problems | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Headlight/Taillight Failures | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Wheel Issues | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Steering Defects | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Suspension Failures | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Unintended Acceleration | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Wipers & Visibility | 1 | — | — | — |
Search Owner Complaints
Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2016 Mazda Mx-5. Type a keyword (e.g. “transmission”, “stalling”, “brakes”) to filter.
Recalls for 2016 Mazda Mx-5
3 NHTSA recall campaigns affecting ~94,516 vehicles.
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2016-2023 MX-5 Miata vehicles. A software error in the air bag control module may cause the front air bags to deploy with excessive force during a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2016 Miata MX-5 vehicles. The skid plate and metal bracket may detach from underneath the vehicle.
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2016-2019 MX-5 (Miata) vehicles with automatic transmissions. Due to incorrect programming of the Transmission Control Module (TCM), certain conditions may cause the vehicle to unexpectedly downshift and abruptly decelerate.
Other Mazda Mx-5 Years
2016 Mazda Mx-5 — FAQ
Answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this specific model year.
Is the 2016 Mazda Mx-5 reliable?
What are common problems with the 2016 Mazda Mx-5?
At what mileage do problems start on the 2016 Mazda Mx-5?
How safe is the 2016 Mazda Mx-5?
Does the 2016 Mazda Mx-5 have any recalls?
Should I buy a 2016 Mazda Mx-5?
Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) complaint and recall databases, aggregated by VinItel.
Wider context: See the full Mazda Mx-5 reliability report with year-by-year comparison and generation analysis.
Check Your Specific 2016 Mazda Mx-5
Real owner complaints tell you about the model. The VIN tells you about your specific car — accidents, title issues, odometer fraud.
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