MAZDA MX5 (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 50 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
86%
Total Tests (2024)
50
Avg Mileage
35,968 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,867
Is the 2012 MAZDA MX5 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%. It also outperforms the MAZDA brand average of 81%.
At 12 years old, 86% of MAZDA MX5s from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 50 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 35,968 miles.
How does the 2012 MAZDA MX5 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 MAZDA MX5 has 35,968 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-year-old car. Low-mileage examples may have spent time sitting unused, so check for issues like corroded brakes or perished rubber seals.
How much does a 2012 MAZDA MX5 cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
Checking a specific MAZDA MX5?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2012 MAZDA MX5
The 2012 MAZDA MX5 is a family car with a 1789cc petrol engine. 50 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 2012, the average MOT pass rate is 78%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 35,968 miles at 12 years old, MAZDA MX5 owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver. Very low mileage could mean the car has been garaged or used only for short trips, which can cause its own issues like battery drain and moisture buildup.
2012 MAZDA MX5 Fuel Costs
The 1789cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 36 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,327 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2012 MAZDA MX5?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,867 (£156/month), broken down as £1327 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 86% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
Buying a Used 2012 MAZDA MX5
At 12 years old, the MAZDA MX5 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. Note: with only 50 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 2012 MAZDA MX5
The MAZDA MX5 is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol family cars from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- VAUXHALL CORSA (2014) 76% pass rate (-10%) from 141,747 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2013) 78% pass rate (-8%) from 132,292 tests
- NISSAN QASHQAI (2013) 72% pass rate (-14%) from 84,989 tests
- MERCEDES C (2012) 79% pass rate (-7%) from 59,235 tests