The Mazda Navajo spans 1991–1994 with 20 recorded NHTSA recalls and a 3.5/5 ForCar reliability score. The years to approach with caution are 1994, 1991, 1993 (most owner complaints); the cleanest are 1992, 1993, 1991. It delivers up to 18 mpg combined and NHTSA-rated safety.
How we score: NHTSA crash-test safety (40%), recall frequency across all years (25%) and the share of owner complaints involving a crash, fire or injury (35%). Based on NHTSA & EPA data — not user reviews.
Overview
The Mazda Navajo is one of the most popular vehicles in its class, produced from 1991 to 1994 across multiple generations.
How to read a Mazda Navajo VIN — every digit explained
Every Mazda Navajo carries a unique 17-character VIN stamped at the factory. Each position is a code — together they spell out where, when and how your car was built. Here's exactly what every digit means.
- WMI (1–3) — country & manufacturer. Tells you it's a Mazda and the country it was built in (real Mazda codes below).
- VDS (4–8) — model, body style, engine, trim & restraints. The 8th digit is the engine code.
- Check digit (9) — a math check that proves the VIN is genuine.
- Model year (10) — the year it was built (e.g. R = 2024, S = 2025).
- Plant (11) — which factory assembled this Navajo.
- Serial (12–17) — the unique sequential production number.
- JapanJC1 · JC2 · JM1 · JM2 · JM3
- Mexico3MD · 3MV · 3MY · 3MZ
- USA7MM · 7MU
Digits 4–17 — the engine code (8th), model-year letter (10th) and plant — follow the universal SAE standard, identical on every car. For the full year-code table (2001–2026), country codes and where the VIN is stamped on your Navajo, see the complete guide to reading a VIN.
How many recalls does the Mazda Navajo have?
The Mazda Navajo has 20 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1991–1994. Pick a year below to see its recalls — then verify open recalls against your specific VIN.
1994 Mazda Navajo recalls 4
Parking Brake:conventional
What's wrong. The parking brake control self-adjust pawl does not line up properly with the self-adjust rachet causing the pawl to slip over one or more teeth in the rachet.
Risk. When the above occurs, it can result in parking brake system ineffectiveness. The parking brake will not hold the vehicle, causing the vehicle to roll freely, if the transmission is not left in gear.
Fix. A wedge will be installed which will serve to lock the parking brake self-adjust mechanism pawl into engagement with the rachet. Also, owners will be advised to release and reapply the parking brake whenever tooth skip occurs and will be reminded to always turn off the engine and leave the vehicle in gear when the vehicle is parked.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:power Assist:hydraulic
What's wrong. The studs which attach the brake master cylinder to the power brake vacuum booster assembly can develop stress corrosion cracking after being operated for an extended period of time in the southern california location.
Risk. If a crack occurs, it could result in one or both studs fracturing. The master cylinder could then separate from the vacuum booster, when the brakes are applied, preventing the service brakes from fully activating increasing the risk of a vehicle accident.
Fix. Dealers will replace the power brake vacuum booster assembly.
Structure:body:hatchback/liftgate:support Device/strut
What's wrong. Vehicle description: on certain sport utility vehicles, the hydraulic lift cylinder bracket welds could fracture.
Risk. With a broken bracket weld, there is a potential for the liftgate bracket to gradually bend inward allowing the lift cylinder ball stud to disengage, unexpectedly allowing the liftgate to fall from an open position.
Fix. Dealers will install liftgate reinforcement brackets. Depending upon the condition of the liftgate sheet metal in the area of the bracket, dealers may also install a larger reinforcement.
Tires:tread/belt
What's wrong. Tire description: firestone wilderness at, size p235/75r15, produced at the decatur, illinois tire plant and all firestone radial atx and radial atx ii tires, size p235/75r15. Operation of these tires at low inflation pressures, high speed, and in hot weather, can contribute to separation of the tire tread.
Risk. If the tread separates from the tire, the driver can lose control of the vehicle, possibly resulting in a crash causing injury or death.
Fix. The replacement/reimbursement program for this campaign expired on august 29, 2001. However, customers should contact firestone customer service at 1-800-465-1904 for possible assistance.
1993 Mazda Navajo recalls 6
Parking Brake:conventional
What's wrong. The parking brake control self-adjust pawl does not line up properly with the self-adjust rachet causing the pawl to slip over one or more teeth in the rachet.
Risk. When the above occurs, it can result in parking brake system ineffectiveness. The parking brake will not hold the vehicle, causing the vehicle to roll freely, if the transmission is not left in gear.
Fix. A wedge will be installed which will serve to lock the parking brake self-adjust mechanism pawl into engagement with the rachet. Also, owners will be advised to release and reapply the parking brake whenever tooth skip occurs and will be reminded to always turn off the engine and leave the vehicle in gear when the vehicle is parked.
Structure:body:hatchback/liftgate:support Device/strut
What's wrong. The hydraulic lift cylinders are attached to brackets that are welded to the liftgate. The bracket welds can fracture.
Risk. With a broken bracket weld, there is a potential for the liftgate bracket to gradually bend inward allowing the lift cylinder ballstud to disengage.
Fix. Dealers will install reinforcement brackets.
Structure:body:roof And Pillars
What's wrong. Vehicle description: multi-purpose passenger vehicles equipped with factory installed sunroof. The sunroof glass panel assembly can separate while the vehicle is moving due to incorrect hinge engagement. This was caused by improper sunroof installation of the glass panel.
Risk. Unexpected separation of the sunroof glass panel could possibly distract the driver increasing the risk of a vehicle crash or loss of vehicle control.
Fix. Owners will be provided with an instruction booklet which thoroughly outlines, with illustrations, the proper procedures for the removal, storage, and reinstallation of the sunroof's glass panel. A warning label for attachment to the sunroof's latch knob will also be provided to the owners.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:power Assist:hydraulic
What's wrong. The studs which attach the brake master cylinder to the power brake vacuum booster assembly can develop stress corrosion cracking after being operated for an extended period of time in the southern california location.
Risk. If a crack occurs, it could result in one or both studs fracturing. The master cylinder could then separate from the vacuum booster, when the brakes are applied, preventing the service brakes from fully activating increasing the risk of a vehicle accident.
Fix. Dealers will replace the power brake vacuum booster assembly.
Structure:body:hatchback/liftgate:support Device/strut
What's wrong. Vehicle description: on certain sport utility vehicles, the hydraulic lift cylinder bracket welds could fracture.
Risk. With a broken bracket weld, there is a potential for the liftgate bracket to gradually bend inward allowing the lift cylinder ball stud to disengage, unexpectedly allowing the liftgate to fall from an open position.
Fix. Dealers will install liftgate reinforcement brackets. Depending upon the condition of the liftgate sheet metal in the area of the bracket, dealers may also install a larger reinforcement.
Tires:tread/belt
What's wrong. Tire description: firestone wilderness at, size p235/75r15, produced at the decatur, illinois tire plant and all firestone radial atx and radial atx ii tires, size p235/75r15. Operation of these tires at low inflation pressures, high speed, and in hot weather, can contribute to separation of the tire tread.
Risk. If the tread separates from the tire, the driver can lose control of the vehicle, possibly resulting in a crash causing injury or death.
Fix. The replacement/reimbursement program for this campaign expired on august 29, 2001. However, customers should contact firestone customer service at 1-800-465-1904 for possible assistance.
1992 Mazda Navajo recalls 4
Structure:body:hatchback/liftgate:support Device/strut
What's wrong. The hydraulic lift cylinders are attached to brackets that are welded to the liftgate. The bracket welds can fracture.
Risk. With a broken bracket weld, there is a potential for the liftgate bracket to gradually bend inward allowing the lift cylinder ballstud to disengage.
Fix. Dealers will install reinforcement brackets.
Structure:body:roof And Pillars
What's wrong. Vehicle description: multi-purpose passenger vehicles equipped with factory installed sunroof. The sunroof glass panel assembly can separate while the vehicle is moving due to incorrect hinge engagement. This was caused by improper sunroof installation of the glass panel.
Risk. Unexpected separation of the sunroof glass panel could possibly distract the driver increasing the risk of a vehicle crash or loss of vehicle control.
Fix. Owners will be provided with an instruction booklet which thoroughly outlines, with illustrations, the proper procedures for the removal, storage, and reinstallation of the sunroof's glass panel. A warning label for attachment to the sunroof's latch knob will also be provided to the owners.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:power Assist:hydraulic
What's wrong. The studs which attach the brake master cylinder to the power brake vacuum booster assembly can develop stress corrosion cracking after being operated for an extended period of time in the southern california location.
Risk. If a crack occurs, it could result in one or both studs fracturing. The master cylinder could then separate from the vacuum booster, when the brakes are applied, preventing the service brakes from fully activating increasing the risk of a vehicle accident.
Fix. Dealers will replace the power brake vacuum booster assembly.
Tires:tread/belt
What's wrong. Tire description: firestone wilderness at, size p235/75r15, produced at the decatur, illinois tire plant and all firestone radial atx and radial atx ii tires, size p235/75r15. Operation of these tires at low inflation pressures, high speed, and in hot weather, can contribute to separation of the tire tread.
Risk. If the tread separates from the tire, the driver can lose control of the vehicle, possibly resulting in a crash causing injury or death.
Fix. The replacement/reimbursement program for this campaign expired on august 29, 2001. However, customers should contact firestone customer service at 1-800-465-1904 for possible assistance.
1991 Mazda Navajo recalls 6
Power Train:automatic Transmission
What's wrong. When the automatic transmission shift lever is placed in the park position, the park pawl does not always abut or engage the park gear.
Risk. Driver may believe the vehicle is safely engaged in parkwhen the gear is not truly engaged. This can lead to the vehicle jumping out ofgear unintentionally, vehicle rollaway when parked on a sloped surface, andinadvertent motion when the vehicle is started. All of these conditions canresult in a vehicle accident.
Fix. Repair the transmission with a new park pawl.
Structure:body:roof And Pillars
What's wrong. Vehicle description: multi-purpose passenger vehicles equipped with factory installed sunroof. The sunroof glass panel assembly can separate while the vehicle is moving due to incorrect hinge engagement. This was caused by improper sunroof installation of the glass panel.
Risk. Unexpected separation of the sunroof glass panel could possibly distract the driver increasing the risk of a vehicle crash or loss of vehicle control.
Fix. Owners will be provided with an instruction booklet which thoroughly outlines, with illustrations, the proper procedures for the removal, storage, and reinstallation of the sunroof's glass panel. A warning label for attachment to the sunroof's latch knob will also be provided to the owners.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:power Assist:hydraulic
What's wrong. The studs which attach the brake master cylinder to the power brake vacuum booster assembly can develop stress corrosion cracking after being operated for an extended period of time in the southern california location.
Risk. If a crack occurs, it could result in one or both studs fracturing. The master cylinder could then separate from the vacuum booster, when the brakes are applied, preventing the service brakes from fully activating increasing the risk of a vehicle accident.
Fix. Dealers will replace the power brake vacuum booster assembly.
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly
What's wrong. Front heat shield extension may contact the upper front corner of plastic fuel tank damaging or puncturing the fuel tank.
Risk. Such fuel tank damage could allow vapor and or fuel toescape; this could result in a fire if a source of ignition is present.
Fix. Relocate heat shield; replace fuel tank if damaged or punctured.
Structure:body:bumpers
What's wrong. Rear bumper may be susceptible to fatigue cracking under extended trailer tow service when using a bumper mounted trailer hitch.
Risk. Bumper could separate from vehicle when using a bumpermounted trailer hitch ball.
Fix. Install two additional brackets, one additional bar and associated fasteners to prevent bumper separation.
Tires:tread/belt
What's wrong. Tire description: firestone wilderness at, size p235/75r15, produced at the decatur, illinois tire plant and all firestone radial atx and radial atx ii tires, size p235/75r15. Operation of these tires at low inflation pressures, high speed, and in hot weather, can contribute to separation of the tire tread.
Risk. If the tread separates from the tire, the driver can lose control of the vehicle, possibly resulting in a crash causing injury or death.
Fix. The replacement/reimbursement program for this campaign expired on august 29, 2001. However, customers should contact firestone customer service at 1-800-465-1904 for possible assistance.
Best and worst years for the Mazda Navajo
Based on NHTSA owner-complaint volume across 4 tracked years, the worst years are 1994, 1991, 1993 and the best (fewest complaints) are 1992, 1993, 1991.
ForCar aggregate — our own analysis of complaint volume, not published by NHTSA.
| Year | Owner complaints | Top issue | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1991 Navajo | Tires | Avoid | |
| 1992 Navajo | Engine And Engine Cooling | Best | |
| 1993 Navajo | Tires | Avoid | |
| 1994 Navajo | Service Brakes | Avoid |
What are the most common Mazda Navajo problems?
The most-reported Mazda Navajo problems are Other (1 reports), Seats (1 reports) and Tires (22 reports) — out of 172 owner complaints NHTSA holds for the model. Here's how they break down:
Most-reported components — tap a category to read what owners actually experienced:
Service Brakes 25 Read
The proportioning valve failed "closed" and did not allow for the brake fluid to go to the rear brakes, as a result the rear brakes failed resulting in the front tires locking up and skidded causing collision. *mjs
The brakes had to be replaced four years after purchase. Nlm
Vehicle abs light stayed on and caused abs system to disengage. Vehicle been in dealer shop on two occasions, and dealer is still unable to locate the problem. Please feel free to provide any further details.*ak
Vehicle vibrates when braking due to failed rotors.
Vehicle vibrates when braking due to failed brake pads.
Abs: when applied brake pedal felt spongy, traveled to floor, caused by corrosion of brake pad retainer, retainer detached from brake pad, brake pads replaced. *ak
On normal road conditions the brakes locks up, causing the driver to lose control of the vehicle, almost caused an accident at least (3) times. The system has abs. *ak
Vehicle pulls to the right under moderate to hard braking/more noticeable during snowy or rainy conditions. *sd
After driving the car press on brake goes to the floor have abs anti-lock brake . Tt
Brake master cylinder collapsed. Resulting in total loss of brakes. Tt
Hydraulic 25 Read
The proportioning valve failed "closed" and did not allow for the brake fluid to go to the rear brakes, as a result the rear brakes failed resulting in the front tires locking up and skidded causing collision. *mjs
The brakes had to be replaced four years after purchase. Nlm
Vehicle abs light stayed on and caused abs system to disengage. Vehicle been in dealer shop on two occasions, and dealer is still unable to locate the problem. Please feel free to provide any further details.*ak
Vehicle vibrates when braking due to failed rotors.
Vehicle vibrates when braking due to failed brake pads.
Abs: when applied brake pedal felt spongy, traveled to floor, caused by corrosion of brake pad retainer, retainer detached from brake pad, brake pads replaced. *ak
On normal road conditions the brakes locks up, causing the driver to lose control of the vehicle, almost caused an accident at least (3) times. The system has abs. *ak
Vehicle pulls to the right under moderate to hard braking/more noticeable during snowy or rainy conditions. *sd
After driving the car press on brake goes to the floor have abs anti-lock brake . Tt
Brake master cylinder collapsed. Resulting in total loss of brakes. Tt
Tires 22 Read
Pe00 020; consumer was traveling about 55mph on the highway and heard a thumping noise. She pulled over and noticed that right passenger's tire tread had separated from rim. *ak
Consumer felt a vibration in front end of vehicle but before he could slow down the right front tire blew out causing him to loose control of the vehicle, hit the median and rolled over 3 times. The right front tire appears to have separated, the others went flat on impact(firestone atx p235/75r15). Nlm
While driving 70mph right rear passenger firestone atx tire blew out, causing the vehicle to lose control, and go under a semi -trailer and roll over. Vehicle was a mazda navajo. Dot # wihlat51561. *ak
While driving vehicle became unstable and difficult to drive, consumer immediately slowed down with great difficulty, was able to pull vehicle over to the shoulder, got out of the vehicle and inspected the firestone wilderness at tires and saw that one of the tires had come completley apart and was in shreds around the wheel, all 4 tires were replaced and consumer is requesting reimbursement. *jb
Tire failed coming off expressway at ramp. This tire picks up nails, glass and other objects easily and often.( dot number: tire size: 2357515 )
The spare tire that came with the vehicle is not of the same construction material as the original tires. The consumer had trouble installing spare tire. The spare tire is mounted on a steel wheel and the origina tires are mounted on aluminum wheels, while installing spare tire and tightening the lug nuts the locking hub unit began to crack.
Vehicle drifts/vibrates due to unbalanced tires.
I just received a notice from bridgestone firestone on a tire recall from years ago. I bought a new mazda navajo in 1993 and it had firestone atx tires. They failed way before any recall so i replaced them at my cost with the same. These tires failed also so i replaced them with something else. 2 sets (10 tires) at my cost. When the recall came out i got nothing. In fact, i didn't even own the vehicle anymore. My complaint is...when it takes so long to identify a problem, what about the people who had problems before the recall? They can find me 10 years later, but why don't i have any recourse to get compensated for risking my life and paying out of pocket? *nm
The vehicles tires experienced many failures prior to recall notice, the consumer requested reimbursement but was denied because the replacement tires were purchased prior to january 1, 2000 (firestone atx p235/75r15). Nlm
These tires are supposed to be all weather street tires (per salesman), but these tires cause my car to skid out of complete stop on wet pavement and skid and slide in snow or slush. Had an instance where on a windy and wet day where the vehicle slid across a lane and a half of traffic nearly hitting a tanker truck. All indications are that these tires do not hug the road very well and endanger those in the vehicle. Note that i replaced 4 of the wilderness style tires with these tires a couple of years ago (and still have a recalled wilderness as a spare). I notified firestone via e-mail and got a complicated, canned response that did nothing to satisfy my problem. I hope that the numbers i pulled off the tire are correct (ltp235/ 75r15 m//s ; 22433ur bmo2528). *ak( dot number: 22433ur tire size: 75 r15 )
Power Train 20 Read
The transmission and emergency brake failed. *jb
No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
Automatic locking hub for the front wheels dows not work. Whenever switching from 2-wd to 4-wd hubs failed to lock in place. Took vehicle to mechanic, and informed consumer that would need a new locking hub. Gave no indication what caused problem. *ak
The transmission failed three years after purchase. Nlm
While driving transmission would not shift into gear and would pop out. In addition, vehicle bounces or drifts to the right and emergency parking brake works intermittently/makes a popping noise when pushed in, and thermostat overheated while driving. Dealer notified of all problems, some replacements were made, major problem still exists. *ak *ml
After 48,000 miles the transmission went out on the vehicle. Dealer has replaced it. *ak
Transmission failure. *ak
Replaced wheel bearings three times. *ak
While driving at 70mph transmission froze up, locking the rear wheels. Manufacturer has been notified. *ak
Cv boots/joints replaced 3 times.
Engine And Engine Cooling 17 Read
Serpentine belt idler pulley is defective. When bearings went, it would cause belt to overheat and then snap. Would lose power steering control. Steering would go into a hard manual steering instead. *ak
Pulley was defective and redesigned. Owners should be notified that pulley can disentegrate causing belt to break resulting in loss of power steering, overheating, and battery charging. The company redesinged the pulley so they know they had a problem, but the consumer is at risk. It also cost $165.00 parts and labor to fix. If it was a design problem, i think i should be reimbursed for the failure. Fortunately, i was stopped at the time the belt separated. I would hate to have lost my steering at 70 mph.*ak
While driving transmission would not shift into gear and would pop out. In addition, vehicle bounces or drifts to the right and emergency parking brake works intermittently/makes a popping noise when pushed in, and thermostat overheated while driving. Dealer notified of all problems, some replacements were made, major problem still exists. *ak *ml
Drive belt failed, causing noise.
Radiator drain ring failed, causing leak.
Drive belt makes noise.
The heads were severly cracked. The mechanic said that this should have been recalled because there have , not only been so many instances but many times, as with this case the heads were so severly cracked that only complete replacement is acceptable. *ak
Motor mounts failed.
Vehicle vibrates severely when driving between 50-70mph, a tsb was issued for this problem feb,1996, a kit to replace engine mounts and other equipment was created to alleviate this condition.*ak the problem has since been fixed by dealer.*jb
Exhaust system replaced three times.
Visibility 16 Read
Started vehicle snowy day turned on the defroster - smoke started coming in through heating and defrost vents, smelled like pine needles. Turned car off smoke proceeded to get worse - called fire dept. Suv was then on fire, suv is completely totaled - from reading other incidents i really think this a fault where debris gets in the fan compartment and catches on fire - some type of notice should be sent to people with navajo mazdas and ford rangers/explorers that have this type of fan compartment.*tr
Broken sun roof was open and the glass just fell out while driving. *ak *nlm
Driver's side mirror failed, causing vibration.
Windshield wiper fluid sprayers failed.
Sun roof leaks.
The driver's side mirror vibrates.
The sun roof is leaking.
Rearview mirror vibrates, impairing visibility to the rear. *tw
When i turn on the heater, there is a smell of burning material inside the vehicle. Recently i paid the dealer to clean leaves from the heater. They suggested i not park under trees. Since this vehicle was made by ford, any recall for debris in the heater would apply.
Sun roof: was in the parking lot, sitting in vehicle and the sun roof completely shattered. *ak
Vehicle Speed Control 14 Read
The gas pedal got stuck and while trying to put the car into neutral, the car went into reverse which caused the car to rollover. *ak
Pressed accelerator pedal went to the floor. Car went additional thirty feet. Please describe other problems. Tt
Cruise control failed to disengage when brakes applied/vehicle suddenly accelerated, causing loss of control/accident. *skd
The throttle was dirty causing the pedal to stick and the vehicle to accelerate quickly. Nlm
On aug 7, 2000 i was on route 17, when i entered the highway, my gas pedal jammed and started excelerating very quickly, i was driving at 85 miles per hour, within seconds of entering the highway. Thank god, i was capable, to handle the situation and was able to get off the road safely! I contacted mazda corp to inform them of this. There reply was my car is no longer under warrenty and there are no recalls for my vehcile. The mechanic who fixed my vehcile said is was because my throttle was dirty. This situation is very dangerous my gas peddal becoming jammed like that so easily i feel there is something wrong with this vehcile because that should not happen.
While driving on highway vehicle started to accelerate very fast on its own. Accelerator pedal was pressed down while the consumer was pressing the brake pedal to make the vehicle to stop. Vehicle drove about 3 miles when consumer had a chance to place vehicle in neutral which eventually stopped vehicle. Dealer has advised consumer that the accelerator pedal's cable had binded and freid (wear and tear) which caused problem. *ak
The cruise control system will not shut off when you apply the brakes to slow down. You can slow the car, by braking, by 15-20 mph and the system continues to accelerate. The only way to shut off the cruise control is to hit the off switch on the steering wheel. This could lead to uncontrolled speed and possible crash.
Vehicle surges upon starting.
Cruise control inoperative. *sd
Failure of the throttle , the throttle is sticking. Tt
Structure 14 Read
Dealer does not have the parts for recall no 95v164000, owner received recall notice on 12/95, and contacted dealer the same date. *ak
Consumer received recall 99v310002 and is waiting for dealer to receive parts. *slc
Recall99v310002 concerning hydraulic lift cylinders. Dealer says it's not a recall, as well as owner's miles have expired. *ak
Qconsumer states that the hatchback cylinder broke. Manufacturer has been notified. *ak
Doors squeaking due to failed hinge.
Hatch window/hatch door difficult to open due to handle sticking.
The driver's door squeaks/ rubs against the frame.
The rear hatch handle sticks.
Consumer took vehicle to dealer to have liftgate bracket repaired per recall notice 99v-310, dealer refused to repair bracket free of charge claiming that the recall notice expired, as a result consumer had the bracket replaced by another company, however since the original bracket broke the tailgate does not close completely, this is allowing exhaust fumes to enter the vehicle. Nlm
Mfr recall 61510 rear liftgate cylinders. Bronx mazda parts on order since dec 95. Please describe details. *ak
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, all model years. Bar = share of total complaints. Full reports searchable on NHTSA.gov.
Mazda Navajo specifications & dimensions
The 1994 Mazda Navajo. Full dimensions below — engine, horsepower and trim decode from your VIN. For the original factory build — MSRP, trim and standard equipment — rebuild the Mazda Navajo window sticker.
| Specs cache warming… |
Source: NHTSA vPIC / Transport Canada vehicle specifications. Metric values converted to imperial; generation ranges approximate.
Mazda Navajo cargo space, seating & interior room
How much the Navajo holds — passengers and cargo. Seating, cargo and interior dimensions vary by trim and seat configuration — decode your VIN for the exact build.
Exact seating capacity, third-row availability, legroom and headroom decode from your VIN or vary by trim — the original factory equipment & options list shows what each trim included.
Passenger & cargo volume from EPA fueleconomy.gov (largest configuration). Seats, legroom and headroom from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
Mazda Navajo tire size, oil type & owner specs
The fitment owners look up most — tires, wheels, oil and batteries. Exact wheel and tire sizes decode from your VIN or the driver's door-jamb placard; the universal items are listed below.
Exact tire, wheel, oil grade, capacity and battery group are added per trim and model year — decode your VIN above for the factory fitment. Universal items shown as-is.
What MPG does the Mazda Navajo get?
The Mazda Navajo returns up to 18 combined MPG (EPA), which works out to roughly $3,450/yr in fuel. Pick an engine to see MPG, annual running cost and CO₂ by year:
The 1994 Mazda Navajo (4L 6-cyl) gets 18 mpg combined and costs about $3,450/yr to fuel, emitting 494 g/mi CO₂ — about $6,250 more than the average new vehicle over 5 years.
| Year | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Smog | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1994 Navajo | 16 | 22 | $3,450 | 494 | — | 4L 6-cyl | |
| 1993 Navajo | 16 | 21 | $3,450 | 494 | — | 4L 6-cyl | |
| 1992 Navajo | 15 | 20 | $3,650 | 523 | — | 4L 6-cyl | |
| 1991 Navajo | 14 | 19 | $3,900 | 555 | — | 4L 6-cyl |
Source: EPA fuel-economy database (ForCar-hosted, 1986–2027) — best combined rating per engine & year, with EPA annual fuel cost and tailpipe CO₂. Trim & drivetrain vary slightly; decode your VIN for the exact figure.
See how the Navajo stacks up against the most fuel-efficient cars, or calculate this Navajo's real yearly fuel cost.
What engines does the Mazda Navajo have? Power & range
The Mazda Navajo is offered with 1 powertrain — 4L 6-cyl. Here's the lineup by engine, transmission and drivetrain.
| Engine | Displacement | Transmission | Drive | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| V6 | 4.0L · 6-cyl | Automatic 4-spd | RWD | Regular |
Horsepower, torque and fuel-tank size decode from your VIN — exact figures vary by engine and trim.
Source: EPA fueleconomy.gov (engines, drivetrain, range, charge time). Horsepower & torque from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
How much does a Mazda Navajo cost to own?
A Mazda Navajo holds its value well. A typical example keeps roughly 56% of its value after five years — losing about 44% to depreciation. Check what a used Navajo is worth today or browse current used-market prices before you buy or sell. Fuel, maintenance and insurance add to the total cost to own.
| Age | Value retained | Est. resale value | Lost to depreciation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 84% | $25,200 | −$4,800 |
| Year 2 | 76% | $22,800 | −$7,200 |
| Year 3 | 68% | $20,400 | −$9,600 |
| Year 4 | 61% | $18,300 | −$11,700 |
| Year 5 | 56% | $16,800 | −$13,200 |
What goes into the five-year cost to own:
- Depreciation — the biggest cost: this Navajo loses about 44% of its value over five years. See the full depreciation curve by age.
- Fuel — ≈ $17,250 over five years at roughly 15,000 miles a year.
- Maintenance & repairs — routine service, tires and wear items as the Navajo ages.
- Insurance — varies by driver, state and trim; get a quote for your exact figure.
Resale & depreciation are ForCar estimates from typical segment value-retention curves — not a live market quote. Fuel from EPA fueleconomy.gov at ~15k mi/yr.
Is the Mazda Navajo safe?
NHTSA crash-test ratings aren't published for the Navajo yet — see the top-rated safest cars instead.
Tired of ads? Go Pro.
- Zero ads — clean, fast pages
- Exact mileage-adjusted car values
- Full research reports + PDF
- Market charts & price-drop alerts
- …and much more
How many miles does a Mazda Navajo last?
A well-maintained Mazda Navajo typically lasts 250,000–300,000+ miles. It's exceptionally durable — with routine maintenance many owners report 250k+ on the original powertrain. Its ForCar Reliability Score is 3.5/5.
Check your Mazda Navajo’s VIN — history, recalls & specs
Title records, open recalls, build details and paint code — straight from the VIN. Free.
Check this Navajo’s VIN free →All Mazda Navajo model years
A year-by-year snapshot of the Mazda Navajo — recalls, best EPA fuel economy and NHTSA safety. Tap a year for full details.
| Year | Recalls | Best MPG | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1994 Navajo | 4 recalls | — | |
| 1993 Navajo | 6 recalls | — | |
| 1992 Navajo | 4 recalls | — | |
| 1991 Navajo | 6 recalls | — |
Recalls = NHTSA campaigns that year · MPG = best EPA combined · Safety = NHTSA overall stars (tested years).
Frequently asked questions
What are the worst years for the Navajo?
By owner-complaint volume, 1994, 1991, 1993 drew the most reports. 1992, 1993, 1991 have the cleanest records.
How many recalls does the Navajo have?
20 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1991–1994. Always check open recalls by your VIN.
What MPG does the Navajo get?
Up to 18 combined MPG (EPA), depending on engine — from the base 4-cylinder to the hybrid.
How many miles does a Navajo last?
A well-maintained Navajo typically reaches 200,000–300,000 miles with regular maintenance.
Is the Navajo reliable?
Our ForCar Reliability Score for the Navajo is 3.5/5, based on NHTSA safety, recall history and complaint severity.
What's the Mazda Navajo warranty?
New Mazda models carry a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic (bumper-to-bumper) warranty and a 5 years / 60,000 miles powertrain warranty. Coverage can vary by model year and market — confirm with a Mazda dealer.
Where is the Mazda Navajo made?
The assembly plant is encoded in the VIN — the 11th character. Decode your Navajo's VIN above to see exactly where it was built; Mazda may build it at more than one plant depending on the year.
How much ground clearance does the Navajo have?
Ground clearance varies by trim and drivetrain — AWD/4WD versions often sit higher. Decode your VIN or check the specific trim for the exact figure.