2017 Mazda Mx-5 Safety Report

The 2017 Mazda MX-5 presents a mixed safety picture, with a low overall complaint volume but some concerning issues highlighted by recalls and specific complaints. NHTSA has recorded only 11 total complaints for this model year, including 1 crash, 1 injury, and 0 fires, which is a relatively low number. However, the vehicle has been subject to two significant safety recalls. One recall addresses a software error in the air bag control module that could cause front airbags to deploy with excessive force, increasing injury risk. The second recall pertains to incorrect programming of the Transmission Control Module (TCM) in automatic transmission models, which could lead to abrupt downshifts and potential loss of vehicle control, increasing crash risk. These recalls indicate critical safety vulnerabilities that Mazda has identified and is addressing. Despite the low complaint count, patterns emerge from the reported issues. The most frequent complaint component is VISIBILITY/WIPER, accounting for 4 out of 11 complaints (36%), with specific mentions of spontaneous rear windshield shattering and abnormal susceptibility to windshield rock chips. POWER TRAIN issues, though only 1 complaint (9%), are critical given the recall for automatic transmission control module programming and a specific complaint detailing manual transmission failure at 55,000 miles. Steering-related complaints, including 'Power Steering Malfunction' leading to sudden stiffening and braking, also appear, with one complaint describing a sharp veer into a center divider. NHTSA has not provided specific crash test ratings (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover) for the 2017 Mazda MX-5, making it difficult to assess its performance in controlled crash scenarios. This lack of data means that the safety assessment relies more heavily on complaint patterns and recall information. The presence of two recalls addressing fundamental safety systems (airbags and transmission control) suggests that while the complaint volume is low, the potential severity of identified issues is high. Buyers should ensure all recall remedies have been performed.

Our recommendation: Given the low complaint volume but critical safety recalls, ensure all recall remedies have been performed and thoroughly inspect for windshield issues and steering anomalies before purchasing a 2017 Mazda MX-5.