Two problems related to engine failure have been reported for the 1999 Mazda Miata. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Mazda USA is aware of thrust bearing #4 being improperly machined , which cause the crankshaft to become loose inside the engine block, resulting in engine failure. Mazda USA decided not to inform any of the affected owners, myself included, about this defect mentioned in internal service bulletin # 3102 dated 1-10-99. They have replaced many engines under, and out of, warranty, but since they did not notify any owners, many 1999 Miata engines are failing without any warning. This can happen at any speed. Mazda's service bulletin includes a range of VIN numbers affected by this problem, my number is in that range, and it needs a new engine because the crankshaft has 4 thousands of an inch of play, Mazda dealer advises I need a new engine. Mazda USA refuses to cover this work and refuses to disclose how many 1999 Miatas and proteges, they share the same engine, have had their engines replaced, but Miata. Net has posted a page with the VIN numbers of some of the cars that needed their engines replaced. Mazda claims my car is out of warranty, it is, but had they notified me about this potential problem when the car was under warranty, I would have had the car checked at the dealership, so far they have not notified any 1999 Miata owner about this potentially unsafe product. Please take a look at the history of this vehicle and have Mazda USA contact the owners of these cars so they can check if they are affected by this design flaw.
Engine lost all oil while I was driving the car. The mazada dealership determined that premature wear of thrust bearing had caused the initial problem which resulted in oil pressure problems and resulting engine failure.