Last updated: 2026-03-15

2022 Mazda 5
RELIABILITY SCORE: 83/100 (EXCELLENT)

2022 Mazda 5 Reliability Report

The 2022 Mazda 5 scores 83/100 ("Excellent") with a complaint rate below the segment average. Data shows a dependable ownership experience across 1 recall and 79 owner complaints.

Recalls

1

Complaints

79

Complaint Rate

N/A

Est. Annual Cost

$581

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint SeverityN/A

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs80/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact88/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue DiversityN/A

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Buy

Strong reliability record — a solid choice for buyers.

Top Issues to Watch

  • EXTERIOR LIGHTING (14)
  • AIR BAGS (13)
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (10)

Should You Buy the 2022 Mazda 5?

The 2022 Mazda 5 earns an Excellent 83/100 reliability score.

With 1 recall and 79 owner complaints, most owners report a dependable ownership experience.

A solid choice for buyers prioritizing dependability, whether purchased new or used.

Compared to the 2023 Mazda 5, which scored 5 points lower. See also the 2021 Mazda 5 for an earlier comparison.

Pros

  • +Strong reliability score
  • +Low major repair risk (10%)
  • +Low recall count
  • +Low complaint frequency
  • +5-star NHTSA crash rating

Cons

  • Above-average repair costs for its class
  • EXTERIOR LIGHTING: Loud noises emanating from the cooling fans or headlight motors (14 complaints)
  • 2 fire incidents reported in owner complaints

Compare 2022 Mazda 5 With

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK
  • 1 manufacturer recall issued

Other

HIGH RISK
  • EXTERIOR LIGHTING (14)
  • AIR BAGS (13)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

1

recall on record

The 2022 Mazda 5 has 1 recall on record. This is a low count. Recalls are manufacturer-initiated fixes for safety or compliance issues and are repaired at no cost to the owner at authorized dealerships.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

79

complaints
LowAvgHigh
Low

Safety Incidents

6

Crashes

2

Fires

3

Injuries

0

Deaths

NHTSA 5/5 Stars

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2022 Mazda 5 Recall Details

1 recall has been issued for the 2022 Mazda 5. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

24V6950002024-09-18

AIR BAGS

Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2016-2023 MX-5 Miata vehicles. A software error in the air bag control module may cause the front air bags to deploy with excessive force during a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."

Consequence

An air bag that deploys with excessive force can increase the risk of injury during a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will update the Sophisticated Air Bag Sensor (SAS) control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 7, 2024. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's number for this recall is 6924I.

2022 Mazda 5 NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Overall safety rating: 5 out of 5
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 5/5Passenger: 5/5

Rollover risk: 10.1%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Not Available)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Torso/Pelvis (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Driver, Front Passenger)Additional Air Bags (-)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)
View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Mazda 5 Repair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

4Maintenance rating: 4 out of 5

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Est. Annual Maintenance

$581

vs $526 avg for compact cars

vs $652 avg for all vehicles

Repair Frequency

0.4

unscheduled repair visits per year

Severe Repair Probability

10%

chance of a major repair

Annual Cost Comparison

5
$581
Category Avg
$526
All Vehicles
$652

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2022 Mazda 5.

  • Check for airbag warning lights on the dashboard

  • Inspect headlights for noise or malfunction

  • Test for transmission smoothness and any grinding noises

  • Verify oil levels and check for excessive consumption

  • Ensure brakes operate smoothly without noise

  • Test for any unexpected acceleration or RPM surges

  • Inspect for rattling noises from the glove box or head-up display

Buying a 2022 5? Check Its History First

Every 2022 Mazda 5 has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

2022 Mazda 5 Common Problems by Component

79 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

14
13
10
9
12
EXTERIOR LIGHTING (14)AIR BAGS (13)ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (10)POWER TRAIN (9)ENGINE (7)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (6)FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (5)VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (3)Other (12)

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

14 complaints

Owners report that the 2022 Mazda 5 frequently experiences issues with the headlights, particularly related to loud noises emanating from the cooling fans or headlight motors. Complaints frequently mention a whining, buzzing, or humming sound, often attributed to contamination during manufacturing affecting the fan motor bearings. This issue typically becomes noticeable around 30,000 to 50,000 miles, often just outside the warranty period, resulting in significant repair costs. While no immediate safety incidents like crashes or fires are reported, some owners express concern over potential headlight failure or improper beam alignment, which could impact visibility. Buyers considering this model should be aware of the potential for costly headlight repairs if the vehicle is no longer under warranty.

14 complaints total

AIR BAGS

13 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2022 Mazda 5 frequently report issues related to airbag system malfunctions, with several complaints mentioning dashboard warnings about airbag or seatbelt pretensioner failures. These warnings often appear shortly after purchase, with some vehicles having as few as 20 miles on the odometer. Common symptoms include persistent warning lights and notifications via the Mazda app, and in some cases, the airbag system is reported not to deploy during crashes, contributing to injuries. Additionally, there are reports of random airbag deployment without any collision. The complaints highlight potential safety implications, including two crashes and three injuries, which could be significant for potential buyers considering the model.

13 complaints total2 crashes3 injuries

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

10 complaintsSafety-related

Owners report several electrical issues with the 2022 Mazda 5, primarily involving battery problems and unexpected power loss. Complaints frequently mention the vehicle failing to start after sitting for a few days due to an unidentified power drain, and some owners have experienced multiple battery replacements. Additionally, there are reports of sudden loss of acceleration while driving, which can lead to dangerous situations, especially on highways. Two incidents involve fires, one related to the front windscreen heating element and another unspecified fire event. One complaint describes a crash involving unintended acceleration, although the airbags did not deploy. These issues appear to manifest even in relatively new vehicles, with some owners experiencing problems shortly after purchase.

10 complaints total1 crash2 fires
POWER TRAIN (9 complaints)

POWER TRAIN

9 complaints

Owners report several power train issues with the 2022 Mazda models, primarily involving transmission failures and related symptoms. Complaints frequently mention transmission grinding and failure to shift gears, particularly in manual transmissions, often occurring around 20,000 miles. Some owners describe issues with the control valve body and transmission replacements that do not resolve the problem, with occurrences as early as 3,963 miles. Safety implications include the potential for accidents due to unexpected loss of throttle control and gear shifting difficulties. Additionally, a cracked cylinder head is reported, leading to oil leakage and the potential for fire hazards, typically appearing around 14,000 miles. These issues suggest that potential buyers should be aware of the mileage at which these problems might arise and the associated safety risks.

9 complaints total
ENGINE (7 complaints)

ENGINE

7 complaints

Owners of the 2022 Mazda CX-5 frequently report issues with the engine, particularly concerning ticking noises and oil consumption. Multiple complaints describe a persistent ticking or tapping noise during cold starts, often associated with Hydraulic Lash Adjusters (HLAs), with some owners noting the noise persists despite Mazda's previous claims of resolution in newer models. Additionally, there are reports of significant oil consumption at relatively low mileage around 15,500 miles, with owners needing to add oil unexpectedly. Some owners also mention a coolant control valve and thermostat potentially failing in the open position, supported by a warranty extension notice. A notable incident involves a cracked cylinder head leading to engine overheating, but no immediate safety implications like crashes or fires are reported. These patterns suggest potential reliability concerns for used car buyers considering this model.

7 complaints total
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (6 complaints)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

6 complaints

Owners of the 2022 Mazda 5 report two primary issues in the unknown or other category. The most frequently mentioned problem involves the sunroof, with multiple owners describing incidents where the sunroof glass explodes without apparent impact, both while driving and when stationary. This issue is noted to occur at highway speeds and in static traffic situations, with some reports indicating the glass fragments are caught by the sunroof shade. Another isolated complaint involves unintended acceleration where the vehicle accelerates despite the driver applying the brakes, reported at 23,000 miles. These issues have potential safety implications, including distraction from the sunroof explosion and the risk of accidents from unintended acceleration.

6 complaints total
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (5 complaints)

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

5 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2022 Mazda 5 report issues with the Forward Collision Avoidance system, with multiple instances of the system activating unexpectedly. Symptoms frequently include the vehicle coming to a sudden stop without any apparent obstacles, often while driving at undisclosed speeds or in busy traffic conditions. Two complaints involve crashes, one due to the system activating unnecessarily and causing a rear-end collision, and another where the system failed to engage during a potential collision. These incidents occur at mileage ranges from approximately 18,000 to 27,287 miles. Used car buyers should be aware of these potential safety implications, including unexpected braking and the risk of collision.

5 complaints total2 crashes
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (3 complaints)

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

3 complaints

Owners of the 2022 Mazda 5 report issues related to vehicle speed control, with two primary patterns emerging. The first involves transmission control unit (TCU) failures, specifically error code P061B, occurring around 8,181 miles and persisting despite multiple repair attempts. The second pattern involves unexpected acceleration when stopped, with instances of the vehicle lurching forward due to potential simultaneous brake and accelerator pedal engagement, particularly when wearing larger shoes. These issues are associated with safety concerns, such as unintended vehicle movement and potential curb impacts, although no crashes or injuries are reported. Buyers should be aware of these symptoms and consider the potential for unresolved acceleration issues and TCU malfunctions.

3 complaints total
STRUCTURE (3 complaints)

STRUCTURE

3 complaints

Owners report several structural issues with the 2022 Mazda 5. A common complaint involves persistent rattling noises, with sounds described as originating from behind the glove box and the head-up display, occurring after approximately 2,000 miles. Another issue involves a high-pitched noise at speeds over 50 mph in windy conditions, which is noted to be disruptive to in-car audio and communication. Additionally, there is a report of a sunroof shattering at highway speeds, with no external impact, potentially linked to temperature fluctuations and altitude changes. This latter issue presents a significant safety risk due to the potential for flying glass.

3 complaints total
SERVICE BRAKES (2 complaints)

SERVICE BRAKES

2 complaintsSafety-related

Owners report premature brake rotor wear on the 2022 Mazda CX-5, with one instance requiring replacement at 17,000 miles due to rotors measuring below minimum thickness. Typical symptoms include popping or clicking noises when moving the vehicle after it has been idle, as documented in a technical service bulletin. Additionally, a crash is reported where the brake pedal failed to engage properly, resulting in a collision at approximately 1,546 miles, although no injuries occurred. These issues suggest potential safety implications, particularly regarding the brake system's reliability in sudden stop situations. Buyers considering a used 2022 Mazda CX-5 should be aware of these patterns, especially at lower mileages.

2 complaints total1 crash

When Do 2022 Mazda 5 Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

3,000–7,000 milesTransmission failures
500–3,000 milesAirbag system malfunctions
30,000–40,000 milesHeadlight motor noise

Best & Worst Mazda 5 Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best Mazda 5 Years to Buy

The best Mazda 5 year is 2022 with a reliability score of 83/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2023 (78/100) and 2021 (78/100).

Top Pick
83
Excellent

2022

(Current Model)

1Recalls
79Complaints
78
Good

2023

3Recalls
68Complaints
78
Good

2021

3Recalls
180Complaints

Mazda 5 Years to Avoid

No Mazda 5 years are statistical outliers in our data.

All model years score consistently well. The Mazda 5 maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.

Mazda 5 Reliability Score Trend

Mazda 5 reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 76/100.

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

Mazda 5 reliability scores by year
YearScoreRating
201872/100Good
201972/100Good
202075/100Good
202178/100Good
202283/100Excellent
202378/100Good
202475/100Good
202575/100Good

Mazda 5 Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
YearScorevs Prior YearRatingRecallsComplaints
202676/100 (predicted)Predicted00
202575/1000Good542
202475/100-3Good570
202378/100-5Good368
2022(selected)83/100+5Excellent179
202178/100+3Good3180
202075/100+3Good5127
201972/1000Good12325
201872/100Good10423

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2022 Mazda 5 reliable?
Yes, the 2022 Mazda 5 is considered highly reliable with a score of 83/100 ("Excellent"). It has 1 recall and a complaint rate below the segment average, placing it among the more dependable vehicles in its class.
What are the most common problems with the 2022 Mazda 5?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2022 Mazda 5 include: EXTERIOR LIGHTING (14 complaints), AIR BAGS (13 complaints), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (10 complaints), POWER TRAIN (9 complaints), ENGINE (7 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.
How many recalls does the 2022 Mazda 5 have?
The 2022 Mazda 5 has 1 recall on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.
Is the 2022 Mazda 5 expensive to maintain?
The 2022 Mazda 5 is expected to have below-average maintenance costs at $581/year, which is $55 more than the compact cars average of $526. Its high reliability score of 83/100 and complaint rate below the segment average suggest that unexpected repairs are uncommon.

Don’t buy a 2022 Mazda 5 without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

Look Up a VIN →

How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

1

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

2

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

3

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

4

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

  • 80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
  • 60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
  • 40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
  • 0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.

See incorrect data? Report an issue