2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata

The 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata is a beloved two-seat roadster celebrated for its nimble handling, engaging driving experience, and classic sports car design. The standard engine is a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated inline-4 producing 181 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. It’s available with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners typically praise the Miata for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and the pure joy of driving it provides. Common criticisms include its limited cargo space, cramped interior, and road noise.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4

• Engine Knocking/Pinging
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report experiencing engine knocking or pinging, especially under load or during acceleration. This can be more noticeable with lower octane fuel.
  • Solution: Using premium fuel (higher octane) is a common recommendation. In some cases, a software update or adjustment to the engine timing may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies, potentially $0 if fuel change solves the issue, up to $100+ for software update/adjustment.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: A few owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption, particularly in higher mileage examples.
  • Solution: Monitoring oil levels regularly and using the recommended oil type are crucial. In some cases, a dealer may perform an oil consumption test to determine the severity and if further action is needed. More extensive repairs could involve piston ring replacement, but this is rare.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly, monitoring oil consumption is generally free, piston ring replacement could range from $1000 - $3000+ depending on the extent of the work needed.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual Transmission

• Grinding During Shifts
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported grinding during shifts, particularly when shifting into 2nd gear or 3rd gear.
  • Solution: Possible fixes range from adjusting the clutch cable to replacing the synchros. Replacing the entire transmission might be necessary in some severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Clutch cable adjustment $50-100, synchro replacement $500-$1500+, Transmission replacement $3000 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Squeaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported squeaking noises coming from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps or uneven surfaces.
  • Solution: Often, this can be resolved by lubricating the suspension components, such as the sway bar bushings or the shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ depending on the extent of the lubrication or component replacement needed.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: Infotainment system occasionally freezes, crashes, or becomes unresponsive.
  • Solution: Performing a system reset or updating the software to the latest version may resolve the issue. In some cases, replacing the infotainment unit may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update free or minor dealer charge (less than $100), Infotainment unit replacement $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Convertible Top Leaks (Soft Top)
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks around the seals of the soft top, particularly during heavy rain or car washes.
  • Solution: Adjusting the alignment of the soft top, replacing worn weather stripping, or applying sealant to the seams may resolve the leaks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Weather stripping replacement $100 - $400+, Alignment and sealant application $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noises coming from various areas of the interior, such as the dashboard or door panels.
  • Solution: Locating and securing the source of the rattle, which may involve tightening loose screws, adding padding, or replacing worn clips.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Highly variable, $0 if DIY, $50-$200+ at a shop depending on the difficulty.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata is generally a reliable vehicle, but like any car, it has some potential issues. The reported issues are relatively minor, with many being related to noises or infotainment glitches. While the grinding during shifts and oil consumption issues are more significant, they are not universally reported and may affect only a small percentage of vehicles. The costs associated with repairs vary, but most common issues can be addressed without major expense. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and perform thorough inspections and test drives before purchasing a used 2022 MX-5 Miata.