Recall: airbag can fire in minor underbody hits (1995)
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What causes "Recall: airbag can fire in minor underbody hits (1995)" on the Mazda Miata NA (1990-1997), and how is it fixed?
On 1995 Miatas, the airbag sensing unit (SAS) could read a sharp underbody impact as a crash. Fix: Check by VIN; Mazda replaced the SAS unit.
Symptoms
Airbags deploy after hitting a curb, debris or a pothole at low speed.
Cause
On 1995 Miatas, the airbag sensing unit (SAS) could read a sharp underbody impact as a crash.
Fix (summary)
Check by VIN; Mazda replaced the SAS unit. Be careful with any 1995 car that has a replaced or non-original sensor.
Related build entries
Other NA problems
- Short-nose crankshaft (1990 and early 1991)
- Rocker and floor rust from clogged drains
- 1990-93 1.6 uses a smaller 6-inch rear differential
- Cooling parts crack with age and heat
- Verify timing belt and plug service history
- Oil leaks from the CAS O-ring and valve cover gasket
More for this car
- All Mazda Miata NA (1990-1997) fitment answers · NA common problems
- Guide: Miata NA/NB wheel fitment guide: bolt pattern, offsets, 15x8 sizes and brake clearance
- Guide: Miata NA/NB hardtop fitment guide: NA vs NB, OEM vs aftermarket, latches and seals
- Guide: Miata NA vs NB: differences, known problems and which parts swap
- Newsletter archive: past issues with every new and corrected entry
Sources
- NHTSA recall record 00V-004 (1995 Miata: SAS airbag sensor unit) — NHTSA recalls API (regulatory; read 2026-10-26; full page read)
Summaries are in our own words. Not repair instructions; consult the factory service manual.
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