Recently, more than 90,000 Mazda MX-5 Miata and Fiat 124 convertible roadsters have been recalled due to front airbags that may deploy with excessive force, putting front-seat occupants in a kind of danger that airbags are designed to prevent. In these two-seat convertibles, front-seat occupants are the only possible inhabitants.
The recall affects 77,670 current generation Miatas from 2016-2023 model years and 15,835 Fiat 124 Spiders from 2017-2020 model years, as disclosed by the NHTSA. This covers every Fiat 124 made in the U.S. during its limited four-year run and most of the fourth-generation MX-5 Miata.
The 2024 MX-5 Miata is not included in the recall due to a software update. The issue stems from a software error in the airbag control module that can cause the front airbags to deploy with 'excessive force' during a minor crash, according to the NHTSA filing. The fix will require a trip to the dealer, where technicians will update the airbag sensor control module at no cost to owners.
The risk of injury from excessive force in a minor crash is increased if occupants are not wearing their seatbelts.
Mazda, who produced the 124 Spider in partnership with Fiat, uncovered the issue while developing new airbag sensors used in the 2024 model. Models built after November 2, 2023, are not included in the recall.
Owners can expect notification by mail as early as November 17. The notice will include repair information as well as reimbursement options for owners who paid to fix the airbag issue. For more info, contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500 or visit Mazda's recall hub here.
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