Complaints over time
Complaints about the 2011 Mazda MX-5 peaked in 2011, with 1 filed
Owner complaints about this model year, by the year they were filed with NHTSA.
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. The lighter column runs through October.
Model year
2011 Mazda MX-5
Convertible, built in Japan. Owner complaints on file from Jul 12, 2011 to Jul 12, 2011.
Recall campaigns covering this model year0No recall campaign lists this model year
Owner complaints1Below the median 2011 convertible
Severity index0.02011 convertibles average 4.1
First 24 months1Complaints in its first two years
Components
100% of complaints about the 2011 Mazda MX-5 name lighting
Owner complaints by component. Hover or focus a bar for the crash, fire, injury or death count.
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. A complaint can name more than one component; it is counted under the first.
Recalls
No recall campaign lists the 2011 Mazda MX-5
Check a specific vehicle by VIN on NHTSA's site: a campaign may cover only part of a model year's production.
Source: NHTSA ODI recalls file.
Owner complaints
What owners reported about the 2011 Mazda MX-5
The full text of every complaint filed with NHTSA about this model year, newest first. Complaints are filed by owners and are not verified by NHTSA; NHTSA removes personal details before publishing.
1 complaint on file, page 1 of 1.
- Filed Jul 12, 2011Failure Mar 31, 20117 milesMaricopa, AZExterior lighting
TOOK POSSESSION OF NEW CAR 3/31/2001. DROVE IT THAT NIGHT AND SUCCEEDING NIGHTS ON THE TWO LANE ROAD AROUND THE AREA WHERE I LIVE. I ENCOUNTERED NUMEROUS INCIDENTS WHERE THE ONCOMING AUTO WOULD FLASH THEIR BRIGHT LIGHTS AT ME, BUT MY LIGHTS WERE ALREADY IN THE DIM MODE. I CAME TO FIND OUT THAT THERE IS NO WAY TO ADJUST THE HEADLIGHT BEAM LOWER. I CONTACTED MAZDA USA THREE TIMES WITH NO RESPONSE TO THE PROBLEM. I TOOK THE CAT TO THE DEALER WHERE I TOLD THEM THAT THERE IS NOTHING THEY CAN DO. THE LIGHT BEAM IS SET AT THE FACTORY. ON A SUBSEQUENT TRIP TO CARLSBAD, NM WE DECIDED TO TAKE A COUNT OF THE NUMBER OF ONCOMING CARS PASSING US, AND THE NUMBER OF TIMES THEY FLASHED THEIR BRIGHT AT US (OUR LIGHTS WERE ON DIM). WE MET A TOTAL OF 1,232 VEHICLE. OF THOSE, 471 FLASHED THEIR HIGH BEAMS AT US; THAT'S 38&. I KEEP BEING TOLD BY THE DEALER THAT MY LIGHTS ARE SUPPOSED TO BE BRIGHT. I AGREE, BUT THE SHOULD NOT BLIND THE DRIVER IN THE ONCOMING VEHICLE. I HAVE TO APPLY TAPE OVER THE DRIVER SIDE HEADLIGHT TO "FIX" THE PROBLEM AND NOW I GET ZERO BRIGHT BEAM FLASHES FROM ONCOMING CARS. OTHER AUTO MANUFACTURERS OFFER THE SAME TYPE OF LIGHTING FOR THEIR PRODUCE, BUT THEY ALSO INSTALL A DIAL THAT IS USED TO ADJUST THE LIGHT BEAMS UP AND DOWN. THIS CAR DOES NOT HAVE SUCH A DEVICE. AFFIXING AN UGLY PIECE OF TAPE TO MY CAT IS NOT WHAT I EXPECTED WHEN I PAID $ 34,000 FOR THIS AUTOMOBILE , AND I CANNOT GET ANYONE WHO IS WILLING TO HELP ME FIND A REASONABLE SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM AND HONOR THE 3-YEAR WARRANTY FOR THIS VEHICLE. THE SITUATION CAN BE VERY DANGEROUS, AND IT TENDS TOWARD INVITING A HEAD-ON-COLLISION; A HORRIBLE TRAGEDY THAT IS JUST WAITING TO HAPPEN. IT IS EITHER TAPE, OR I AM LIMITED TO NO DRIVING THIS CAR AT NIGHT, BOTH ARE WHICH NOT ACCEPTABLE. ALL THEY HAVE TO DO IS ASK THEMSELVES, "WOULD I WANT TO BE DRIVING THIS CAR AT NIGHT LIKE IT IS? UPDATED 07/28/11*BF
NHTSA complaint 10415919
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file.
Investigations
NHTSA has not opened an investigation on this model year
Source: NHTSA ODI investigations file.
Service bulletins
207 manufacturer communications cover this model year
Technical service bulletins and other notices the manufacturer sent to dealers. A bulletin is not a recall; the 60 most recent are listed.
- SA-041-26a Sep 11, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
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 dev… - SA-055-26 Aug 20, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Product Quality Information (PQI) DESCRIPTION Service Information MT-041/12 is no longer valid. It has been unpublished and superseded by the Field Quality Information Report (FQIR) reporting system. - SA-041-26 Jun 19, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
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 p… - SA-029-26 Apr 21, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
This Service Alert supersedes the previously issued SA listed below: The changes are noted in Red. SA-011/24 02/12/24, 06/06/24, 07/29/24 DESCRIPTION Mazda has developed factory recommended scheduled maintenance services that support all major vehicle syste… - SA-061-25 Dec 17, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
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 … - 07-004-25a Dec 10, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
A musty/mildew type odor may come from the vents when the air conditioning (A/C) system is operating. It is most noticeable when the A/C is first turned ON. This odor is the result of mold growth in the A/C evaporator/cooling unit which is caused by condens… - SA-039/25 Aug 22, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some vehicles may experience exterior trim heat damage such (melted, separating, etc.) when parked near a glass building or Low-E windows. This may be caused by the sun's reflection. If a structure's windows create enough of a curve, the concave glass can f… - SA-036-25 Aug 14, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
When replacing the SiriusXM satellite radio unit, a call must be made to inform SiriusXM of the existing Radio ID and the new/replacement SAT Radio ID as soon as possible to ensure the customer leaves the dealership with an active SAT radio. - SA-032-25 Jun 19, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some customers may complain about a noisy HVAC blower motor or odor after a cabin air filter replacement. Foreign debris on the blower motor after servicing the cabin air filter may be the cause. During the removal of the cabin air filter, foreign debris (l… - 07-004-25 Apr 25, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
A musty/mildew type odor may come from the vents when the air conditioning (A/C) system is operating. It is most noticeable when the A/C is first turned ON. This odor is the result of mold growth in the A/C evaporator/cooling unit which is caused by condens… - SA-058-24 Aug 15, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some vehicles may experience exterior trim heat damage such (melted, separating, etc.) when parked near a glass building or Low-E windows. This may be caused by the sun's reflection. - SA-057-24 Aug 15, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
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 … - 09-038-24 Aug 8, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
In accordance with Federal regulations, follow the procedure listed below when replacing a speedometer. NOTE: Tampering with a motor vehicle odometer is strictly prohibited by Federal, and State laws. It is the dealer’s responsibility to comply with Federal… - SA-011-24b Jul 29, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Mazda has developed factory recommended scheduled maintenance services that support all major vehicle systems. Mazda recommends dealers follow the scheduled maintenance tables as cited in the vehicle-specific workshop manual or owner's manual. Services perf… - SA-011-24a Jun 7, 2024 · Other
Mazda has developed factory recommended scheduled maintenance services that support all major vehicle systems. Mazda recommends dealers follow the scheduled maintenance tables as cited in the vehicle-specific workshop manual or owner's manual. Services perf… - SA-008-24 Feb 6, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Use the symptom troubleshooting tables below to diagnose MAZDA CONNECT concerns. - 09-016-23 Feb 28, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Speedometer replacement procedure - SA-075-22 Nov 14, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
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 … - 02-004-22a Nov 18, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some customers may complain of signs of oil on the struts or shock absorbers. In most cases the oil that is present is normal, and a result of the oil that remains on the shaft during the normal sweeping process of the shaft seal. Follow the inspection guid… - SA-008-22a Oct 17, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some vehicles may experience exterior trim heat damage when parked near a glass building or Low-E windows. This may be caused by the sun's reflection. - 09-024-22 Jul 18, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
In accordance with Federal regulations, follow the procedure listed below when replacing a speedometer. - 01-006-22 Jun 22, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
This service bulletin provides testing and charging procedures in order to promote proper battery maintenance, to deliver new vehicles with fully charged batteries, and to reduce unnecessary battery replacement cost. For new vehicles in stock at the dealer… - 0901316 Feb 26, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Excessive condensation or water within the headlamp assembly caustion - 0900916 Feb 17, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
HandsFree bluetooth module and/or text messaging troubleshooting procedure - 0900416 Feb 2, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
PROPER USAGE OF DRIVER'S FLOOR MAT. - 0100516 Feb 15, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Battery test procedure requirements using the GR81291 - 0100116 Feb 5, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Engine Start /Stop Procedure with room fuse removed - 0000216 Feb 26, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Mazda guidelines for factory scheduled maintenance - 02-004-22 May 24, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some customers may complain of signs of oil on the struts or shock absorbers. In most cases the oil that is present is normal, and a result of the oil that remains on the shaft during the normal sweeping process of the shaft seal. Follow the inspection guid… - 01-003/22 Mar 17, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
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 bat… - SA-014-22 Mar 29, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Accessory instructions can be found on OneMazda under Dealer Resources - Parts & Accessories. - SA-008-22 Feb 10, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some vehicles may experience exterior trim heat damage when parked near a glass building or Low-E windows. This may be caused by the sun's reflection. - 00-001-22 Feb 23, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Mazda has developed factory recommended scheduled maintenance services that support all major vehicle systems. Mazda recommends dealers follow the scheduled maintenance tables as cited in the vehicle-specific workshop manual or owner's manual. Services per… - 05-002-21-3854 Dec 8, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Automatic Transmission/Transaxle Cooler and Lines Flushing Procedure: Automatic Transaxle/Transmission (A/T) oil cooler and lines must be power flushed completely before an overhauled or replacement A/T is installed (except SKYACTIV-DRIVE). The most common… - 01-006-21-3779b Dec 21, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Battery Maintenance: This service bulletin provides testing and charging procedures in order to promote proper battery maintenance, to deliver new vehicles with fully charged batteries, and to reduce unnecessary battery replacement cost. For new vehicles … - MT-002-21a Oct 13, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Ethanol is becoming a common additive in gasoline. Gasoline containing ethanol is likely available at your local gasoline station. Typical blends of ethanol include E10 and E85. E10: A blend of 10% ethanol and 90% gasoline. E85: A blend of 85% ethanol and 1… - MT-002-21 Sep 24, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Ethanol is becoming a common additive in gasoline. Gasoline containing ethanol is likely available at your local gasoline station. Typical blends of ethanol include E10 and E85. E10: A blend of 10% ethanol and 90% gasoline, E85: A blend of 85% ethanol and 1… - 01-006-21-3779a Aug 24, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
This service bulletin provides testing and charging procedures in order to promote proper battery maintenance, to deliver new vehicles with fully charged batteries, and to reduce unnecessary battery replacement cost. For new vehicles in stock at the dealer,… - 09-025-21-3824 Aug 17, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
This service bulletin provides information regarding the proper use of the driverâ™s floor mat to avoid any potential interference with the foot pedals. The following are possible causes of floor mat interference, which can be avoided with proper usage. - SA-040-21 Jun 7, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some vehicles may experience exterior trim heat damage when parked near a glass building or Low-E windows. This may be caused by the sun's reflection. - SA-041-21 Jun 9, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Accessory instructions can be found on OneMazda under Dealer Resources - Parts & Accessories. The links provided below can be used for quick access: For 2016 models and newer: NOTE: Instructions are found under the "Attachments" section once a part is selec… - MT-003-21 Jun 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some vehicles may experience exterior trim heat damage when parked near a glass building. This may be caused by the suns reflection. If a building creates enough of a curve with a series of flat windows, which act like mirrors, the reflections all converge … - MT-001-21 May 5, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
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 Workshop Manual diagnosis. Aftermarket devices may be the cause of the electrical concern. Ask the c… - MT-001-21 Mar 15, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
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 Workshop Manual diagnosis. Aftermarket devices may be the cause of the electrical concern. Ask the c… - MT-017-17 Nov 2, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
If you encounter any type of electrical concern (e.g, dead battery), interview the customer before proceeding with normal Workshop Manual diagnosis. Aftermarket devices may be the cause of the electrical concern. Ask the customer if any aftermarket devices … - 01-006-21-3779 Feb 8, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
This service bulletin provides testing and charging procedures in order to promote proper battery maintenance, to deliver new vehicles with fully charged batteries, and to reduce unnecessary battery replacement cost. For new vehicles in stock at the dealer,… - 01-005-21-3778 Feb 8, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The Mazda DCA-8000PM is required for all warranty battery testing. If the Mazda DCA-8000PM 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… - 09-002-21-3770 Jan 21, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
In accordance with Federal regulations, follow the procedure listed below when replacing a speedometer - 07-001-21-3775 Jan 26, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
A musty/mildew type odor may come from the vents when the air conditioning (A/C) system is operating. It is most noticeable when the A/C is first turned ON. This odor is the result of mold growth in the A/C evaporator/cooling unit which is caused by condens… - 00-001-21-3768 Jan 21, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Mazda has developed factory recommended scheduled maintenance services that support all major vehicle systems. Mazda recommends dealers follow the scheduled maintenance tables as cited in the vehicle specific workshop manual or owner's manual. Services perf… - 09-018-17 May 22, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Display shows inaccurate ambient temperature. Some customers may complain that the ambient temperature display is not accurate, or it takes too long for the display to show actual temperature. - MTI_1032 Mar 24, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some customers may complain about a rattle type noise coming from the rear of the vehicle when driving on rough roads. This may be caused by a loose spare tire jack. - MTI_1031 Mar 24, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some customers may complain about a blurry rear view monitor display. This may be caused by an aftermarket accessory device. - MTI_1111 Mar 30, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
When installing a navigation SD card, confirm that the card is unlocked. Also, Mazda Does Not Recommend swapping navigation system SD cards from one vehicle to another for testing. If swapped, the SD card that is installed into the other vehicle becomes âli… - MTI_1034 Mar 30, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
This article provides HVAC heater/defroster operating tips using Mode selector dial. This includes the use of intermediate positions. - 03-002-16-3179 Mar 17, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some vehicles may exhibit a whining noise from the rear differential when driving. The concern may be caused by improper tooth contact pattern of the rear differential gear from abnormal wear. This abnormal wear is caused by gear tooth lapping compound (use… - 02-009-16-3155 Mar 7, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some customers may complain that the steering wheel is off center more than 3" even when driving straight on a flat road. - MT-005-20 Nov 10, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some customers may complain about high engine oil consumption. Before attempting any repairs, verify the complaint by using the guideline below to determine if an engine repair is necessary: Engine Oil Consumption Inspection Guideline 1. Record the vehicle… - 09-036-20-3756 Nov 17, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some vehicles may exhibit a Connectivity Master Unit (CMU), a BLUETOOTH® hands-free unit or text messaging related concerns. To improve the handling of BLUETOOTH® hands-free and/or text messaging customer concerns, Mazda created a special service and part… - MT-002-20 Aug 3, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
New CARB regulation regarding mandatory checking and documenting of tire pressure whenever a vehicle is in for service work. This applies to all service shops (including Mazda dealerships) in California effective September 1, 2010.
Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications files.