Model year guide

2012 Mazda mx-5

Recalls, most-reported problems, crash-test ratings, fuel economy and what a 2012 Mazda mx-5 is worth — from official NHTSA and EPA data. 1 on record.

2012 Mazda mx-5 — representative photo
Representative photo · via Wikimedia Commons

2012 Mazda mx-5 at a glance

Safety recallsNone
Owner complaints5
Combined23–24 mpg

Free: that car's specs and build sheet, model-year recall campaigns and a fair price.

2012 Mazda mx-5 recalls 0

No NHTSA safety-recall campaigns are on record for the 2012 Mazda mx-5.

Source: U.S. NHTSA, checked 7 Oct 2026. A campaign covers the model year; to see whether a particular car still needs the repair, check its VIN on NHTSA.gov or ask a franchised dealer.

2012 Mazda mx-5 common problems

The most-reported problem areas across all 5 owner complaints filed with NHTSA — and what to check before you buy.

Structure
Inspect for rust, fresh undercoating, mismatched paint, uneven panel gaps and any sign of prior collision or frame repair.
Traction Control System
Have a trusted mechanic inspect this system as part of a pre-purchase inspection.
Engine
Listen for knocks or ticking, check for leaks and blue/white exhaust smoke, and make sure it doesn't overheat. No check-engine light should be on.
Air Bags
Confirm the airbag light turns on then off at startup — if it stays lit there's a fault (costly, and a safety risk). Check for signs of prior deployment.
Service Brakes
Brakes should feel firm and quiet — no grinding, pulsing or pulling. Check for an ABS light and uneven pad/rotor wear.
Hydraulic
Have a trusted mechanic inspect this system as part of a pre-purchase inspection.

2012 Mazda mx-5 MPG & running costs

Combined23–24 mpg
City21 mpg
Highway27 mpg
Est. annual fuel cost$3,450
EPA size classTwo Seaters
Transmission3 options
5-yr fuel cost vs average new car$5,250 more

Source: U.S. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov. The EPA lists 3 versions of this model year; combined is shown as a range and the other figures are averages.

Estimated 5-year cost to own

A rough guide to what running a 2012 Mazda mx-5 costs over five years and 75,000 miles.

Fuel (5 yrs)$17,250
Fuel only$17,250
Per mile$0.23

How this is estimated: fuel is the U.S. EPA annual cost at 15,000 miles a year. There aren't enough comparable listings to estimate depreciation for this model, so it is left out. Not included: insurance, maintenance, repairs, taxes, registration and finance costs. Treat it as a comparison guide, not a quote.

2012 Mazda mx-5 trims & engines on record

Trims
Grand Touring/GT
Engines
2.0L

2012 Mazda mx-5 vehicles on record

2012 Mazda mx-5 2012 Mazda mx-5 Grand Touring/GTJM1NC2PF6C0224056

Other Mazda mx-5 model years

2021 2020 2019 2018 2014 2011 2009 2008 2006 2002

2012 Mazda mx-5 — frequently asked questions

Does the 2012 Mazda mx-5 have any safety recalls?

NHTSA lists no safety-recall campaigns for the 2012 Mazda mx-5. Whether an individual car still needs a recall repair depends on its VIN — check it on NHTSA.gov or ask a franchised dealer. Recall repairs are free.

What are the most common problems with the 2012 Mazda mx-5?

Across all 5 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are structure, traction control system, engine.

What gas mileage does the 2012 Mazda mx-5 get?

The 2012 Mazda mx-5 has U.S. EPA estimates of 23–24 mpg combined, depending on engine and trim (3 versions).

Sources: NHTSA (recalls, complaints, crash tests), U.S. EPA (fuel economy). Vehicle data only — CarLogs never shows owner information.