Latest owner complaints
Seat Belts · Jun 8, 2010 · VT
I own a 1989 mazda rx 7. I recently saw a recall on the ford recall web site for NHTSA campaign # 96V173000, front webbing for rx's manufactured between 12/24/88 to 05/31/91. I have this particular problem on my seats. I contacted a local dealer and was told that my rx was not in the group for the recall. The dealer did this by VIN # , [xxx] , and stated my car did not fall in…
Engine and Engine Cooling · Jan 9, 2008 · GA · fire · 1 injured
I was driving down the highway doing 63 MPH when I smelled a funny smell I pulled over and the front of my car was on fire. The pulsation damper failed causing serious engine damage and almost cost me my life if it wasn't for other motorist I would not be here my arm was slightly burned but it quickly healed I have not currently had the car repaired im seeking a best estimate…
Seat Belts · Dec 22, 2005 · 95,000 miles · HI
Dt: the contact stated previously had recall 96V173000 repair work performed on the seat belts: front: webbing. However the failure recurred and no additional repairs have been made. The dealership and manufacturer were contacted, and they claimed since the recall work was performed there was nothing else they could do. *ak updated 1/23/2006 - *nm
Electrical System · Mar 26, 2002 · AK
"headlight harness" melted and knocked out "headlight switch"...known problem and common, not recognized by mazda as worthy of being fixed. Takes out driving lights, and interior lights, which is very unsafe at night in dark regions. Contacted local mazda dealer, was told it was never recalled or anything. Nlm
Visibility · Jun 5, 2001 · CA
This is a known common problem among the 1987-1991 rx-7 owners. Speed adjuster for the windshield only operate at the top speed. Rendering it impossible to use in the light sprinkle; have to keep turning it on and off while driving. *ak
Visibility · Feb 10, 1999 · MD
While in use the windshield wipers malfunction which may cause visual difficulty, and may result in an accident. Dealer will replace the windshield wiper switch. Also known problems with this wiper switch which cost about $500 to repair. *ak
Engine and Engine Cooling · Dec 28, 1998 · IL · fire · 1 injured
Engine fire. (ohio traffic crash report).
Seat Belts · Dec 7, 1998 · TX
The consumer has received a recall letter for automatic shoulder belts. Since receiving the letter, no parts has been available. The manufacturer has yet to be contacted. Recall number 96V173000. *ak
Visibility · Sep 8, 1998 · TX
Windshield wiper switch only works on 1 speed. Wipers do not stop in the down position.
Seat Belts · May 1, 1997 · GA
Owner states that recevied a recall notice for shoulder belts, but has been unable to get work done because of no parts. Also dealer pulled his seat belt apart and did not complete work because of no parts. 96V173000. *ak
Seat Belts · Apr 1, 1997 · TX
Owner received recall notice #96V17300 for automatic shoulder belts. Took to dealer & had repairs done; problem w/shoulder belt has reoccurred a short time later; dealer will not repair again. *ak
Visibility · Mar 26, 1997 · FL
Windshield wiper switch defective, causing poor visibility.
Frequently asked questions
Does the 1989 Mazda RX7 have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 1 safety recall covering the 1989 Mazda RX7, the most recent one (96V173000) for seat belts. Recall repairs are free at authorized dealers.
What are the most common problems with the 1989 Mazda RX7?
Based on 30 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most reported areas are seat belts (19), engine and engine cooling (5), visibility (4).
Have there been crashes or injuries linked to the 1989 Mazda RX7?
Owners reported 0 crashes, 2 fires, 2 injuries and 0 deaths in complaints to NHTSA. These are unverified owner reports, not findings of fault.
Is NHTSA investigating the 1989 Mazda RX7?
NHTSA has opened 1 defect investigation that include this vehicle, most recently PE96027: Mazda rx7 automatic seat belt failure.