This 2021 model shows good reliability, primarily driven by a below-average recall rate for the MAZDA brand.
Key Factor:below-average recall rate
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Standard Safety Record
The 2021 MX-5 maintains a standard safety record for MAZDA, with 1 recall documented.
1 recall for this vehicle1.1 avg. recalls per vehicle (brand)
๐Why This Matters
Understanding recall history helps predict future ownership costs. Each unaddressed issue represents potential repair expenses.
Insurance companies review vehicle reliability data when setting premiums. Models with elevated recall rates often see adjusted pricing.
Focus Area:general reliability
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Expert Analysis
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Recall Trend:No Change in recalls
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Primary Risk Area:Burn
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Vs Brand: Better than avg (1.1)
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Summary:
Safety & Reliability Score
92/100
Score Breakdown
Recall Impact-8
Complaint Impact-0.05
Investigation Impact-0
Technical Specifications
Key specifications for the 2021 MAZDA MX-5
Model Year2021
MakeMAZDA
ModelMX-5
Fuel TypeGasoline
Body ClassPassenger Vehicle
Safety History Timeline
Jan21
NEWProduction
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Aug22
ISSUEFirst Report
Consumer Complaint Analysis
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Most Reported Issue
1 complaints (100% of total)
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Complaint Trend
Stable
No trend data
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Safety Incidents
No critical incidents
Complaint Severity Distribution
Breakdown of 1 consumer complaints by severity level.
๐ High
1(100%)
Mileage Failure Analysis
โ๏ธEngineering Insight
Based on consumer reports, issues for this vehicle tend to peak around the 0-20k mileage range. The average reported failure mileage is 1,000 miles.
๐ Mileage data extracted from 1 of 1 complaints (100% coverage)
0-20k
1 reports (100%)
20k-40k
0 reports (0%)
40k-60k
0 reports (0%)
60k-80k
0 reports (0%)
80k-100k
0 reports (0%)
100k+
0 reports (0%)
* Analysis based on mileage data extracted from consumer complaint descriptions. Actual failure rates may vary.
๐ ๏ธ DIY Diagnosis Center
Experiencing an issue? Select a symptom to find official manufacturer solutions (TSBs).
Primary Risk Areas
AIR BAGS
Official Safety Recalls (1)
Campaign: 24V695000
AIR BAGS: AIR BAG/RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE
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Summary
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."
Consequence
An air bag that deploys with excessive force can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the Sophisticated Air Bag Sensor (SAS) control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 7, 2024. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's number for this recall is 6924I.
Additional Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
NHTSA Investigations
0 investigations
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No active investigations for this vehicle.
Consumer Complaints
1 total complaints
Consumer-reported issues submitted to NHTSA for 2021 MX-5.
Common Reported SymptomsAI Analysis
Burn100%
Odor100%
Engine/Powertrainโ ๏ธ High
POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2021 Mazda MX-5. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power and a burning odor was detected. The failure nearly caused a collision. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the clutch had melted and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired and remained at the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was opened. The failure mileage was approximately 1,000.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any recalls for the 2021 MAZDA MX-5?
Yes, the 2021 MAZDA MX-5 has 1 recorded recall from NHTSA. These recalls cover various components including AIR BAGS: AIR BAG/RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE.
Is the 2021 MAZDA MX-5 safe to drive?
The 2021 MAZDA MX-5 has 1 recall. If you own this vehicle, check with your dealer to ensure all recall repairs have been completed. Most recalls have free remedies available.
Where can I check if my 2021 MAZDA MX-5 has open recalls?
You can check for open recalls by visiting NHTSA.gov and entering your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), or by contacting your local MAZDA dealer.
๐Year-over-Year Context
โก๏ธStable Pattern
Compared to earlier years, the 2021 model shows stable reliability patterns. No meaningful structural change detected in recall frequency between adjacent model years.
๐ฏRisk Areas & Recommended Actions
Based on recall data, these components require verification:
1
Air bags
Issue: increases crash or loss-of-control risk
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If you already own this vehicle: Contact your dealer immediately to confirm air bags recall is complete. Recall repairs are always free.
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If you are evaluating a used example: Request VIN and verify all air bags recalls are completed before purchase.
Campaign:24V695000
๐กVisit NHTSA.gov or contact your MAZDA dealer to verify recall completion status.
๐งญWhat This Means for You
Families with young passengers, pregnant drivers, or those with frequent highway commutes should prioritize this information.
If you're unsure, we recommend starting with a VIN check or consulting a certified mechanic.
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If You Own This Vehicle
Verify all 1 recalls have been completed using your VIN at NHTSA.gov or through your MAZDA dealer.
If any recalls are open, schedule service immediatelyโrecall repairs are always free.
Consider setting up VIN-specific alerts to receive notification of future recalls.
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If You're Buying Used
Request the VIN before purchase and verify recall status at NHTSA.gov.
This model year shows favorable reliability metrics compared to alternatives.