Mazda Miatas often come with a Bose stereo system. While Bose is a trusted and prestigious name in audio, there are a number of reports of problems with radios in Miatas.
Occasionally, Miata radios will not turn on. This is caused by a buildup of humidity in the radio system if the car has sat for several days. This is common especially in older Miatas.
The radio also may not work correctly in other ways, such as not changing stations, CD settings and volume control. While there as no known cause, disconnecting the negative battery terminal for several minutes and then connecting it again resets the system and has been shown to fix the problem temporarily.
The sound from the speakers, either from the radio or CD mode, may be distorted, or have a high pitched squeal and little output. This is caused by a defective amplifier, which must be replaced.
