Today when I tried to fill up my car it was almost impossible. The pump reacted like it was full (automatically cutting off the fuel flow) almost continuously. I was fighting like that for a long time, it took me 10 min for the first 5-6 lit, and then it got better, but not as good as normal. This is the second time I have this problem second in a row. This time my tank was almost empty, the first time it was half full. And the station was a different one as well. The car is 2 years old (MK2) with 36,000 km (20k miles), it has being filled up a hundred times before. I never had any indication before not even the slightest problem. Anybody had this before? I think I read something about a problem like that before. (6/00)
I just found out there is a recall campain in the US (attachment). We never hear of these things in Europe, I hate that. I 'll send an e-mail to Mazda Greece and see what happens. (6/00)
Yes I remember the problem from Miata.net and as mine is going in soon for the seat cover replacement will ask about that too! (6/00)

I have had problems a couple of times. I have found two tricks that seem to help.

1. Turn the pump nozzle round in the tank hole.

2. Only half pull the trigger. This delivers fuel at a slower rate.

However I got my car in Jan 98. So it could be a sticking valve. But since I have done 97K miles and only had problems 'once or twice' and I have always been able to fill up, I don't think I have a problem. It may be related to the pump nozzle design. You could have just picked two bad ones. Have you ever had problems at your regular garage? The only times I had any trouble is when I am away from home. (6/00)
I don't usually have much trouble with the MX-5 although it's not ideal, but the Impreza can be dreadful to fill - it all depends on the condition of the spout - since I normally fill up at Tesco Gloucester, I know which pumps work fine and which are problematic - perhaps you just got two bad ones concurrently. (6/00)
They state in the recall that a non-return valve has to be replaced. Service guy also revealed that they are instructed by Mazda Greece to change the last part of the pipe, right where it turns to meet the tank. Many drivers over here, especially 10AE drivers, were complaining about excessive smell of petrol in the car. (6/00)
From memory it is a known issue shown for the MK2 filler design on some early ones ( vague read in miata.net ) Just guess like most motor retailers unless is very safety related they job is never important enough to remember to check for and do replacement UNLESS the customer complains. (6/00)
Try turning the nozzle to different angles and even pulling it back a few inches. You can usually find a position that allows top fill rate. (6/00)
Problem solved. Mazda Greece contacted Japan and they claimed there won't be a recall issued for EU as only few cars will be affected (just about ten over here, one them is mine), mainly a US problem as almost the whole of the first production year ended up on the other side of the Atlantic. They called me up yesterday to tell me that my replacement is waiting for me :)) Another technical note covers owners who complained about gasoline smell in their cars. They are instructed to replace part of the filling hose. Note that there is no part number for the fuel return valve and they could still trace it. Maybe this will be the case with the glass window, if ever needed. (6/00)