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2022 Mazda MX-5 Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 12, 2026·Ethan Miller·1 Critical Recall

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2022 MX-5's primary ownership concern is a recall for the air bag control module, which could deploy with excessive force. Ensure this recall is addressed.
  • With no reported consumer complaints and a strong public reliability score of 8.3, the MX-5 is generally a dependable vehicle.
  • The standard manual transmission and rear-wheel drive setup are core to its agile, driver-focused character.
  • Fuel economy is a strong point, averaging 29 MPG combined, contributing to reasonable running costs.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2022 Mazda MX-5

The 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata remains a benchmark for affordable, pure sports car driving. For the used car shopper, it delivers that same lightweight, rear-drive agility. Its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, paired with a standard six-speed manual transmission, provides spirited performance without demanding premium fuel. Fuel economy is respectable, making it a practical choice for weekend fun. However, a significant recall concerning the air bag control module requires diligent attention from potential buyers.

Critical Failure Risk

A recall (24V695000) addresses a software error in the air bag control module (SAS) that could cause excessive front air bag deployment force. This poses a critical safety risk.

Early detection can help you avoid a repair of about $0.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls1
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
29
MPG
City
26
MPG
Highway
34
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.5/ 10

Practicality

3.6/ 10

The score is mainly limited by limited seating.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Enthusiasts seeking an affordable, engaging, and pure sports car experience.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Shoppers needing significant cargo space or passenger capacity.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2022 Mazda MX-5 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2022 Mazda MX-5.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
2
Transmission
Manual 6-spd
Drivetrain
RWD/Rear-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Chassis Cab
EPA Combined MPG
29

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Air Bag Control Module Software Defect

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Various Minor Issues (TSBs)

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
1 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2022 Mazda MX-5 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2022 Mazda MX-5 is 8.5/10. Reliability score is 8.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2022 Mazda MX-5 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 3.6/10. The score is mainly limited by limited seating. EPA combined economy is 29 MPG. Seating capacity is 2.

What is the overall score for the 2022 Mazda MX-5?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2022 Mazda MX-5 is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.3/10. Practicality 3.6/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2022 Mazda MX-5?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: Air Bag Control Module (estimated cost Min: $0).

What engine is in the 2022 Mazda MX-5?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2022 Mazda MX-5 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Mazda MX-5, transmission is Manual 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is RWD/Rear-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2022 MX-5 require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2022 Mazda MX-5?▾

EPA combined estimate is 29 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2022 Mazda MX-5?▾

12 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2022 Mazda MX-5?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Mazda MX-5, seating capacity is 2.

What body style is the 2022 Mazda MX-5?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Mazda MX-5, body style is chassis_cab.

What drivetrain does the 2022 Mazda MX-5 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Mazda MX-5, drivetrain is RWD/Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 6-spd.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2022 Mazda MX-5?▾

This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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