2017 Mazda MX-5: Recalls, Problems & MPG
Here are the deets on the 2017 Mazda MX-5: 2 recalls, 11 owner complaints and up to 29 mpg combined.

Recalls
2 vehicle recalls from the manufacturer. Repairs are free. Check your VIN to see if one is still open on your car.
Transmission & drivetrain Vehicle recall #19V072000 · 2019 · 14,370 vehicles
What's wrong: Due to incorrect programming of the transmission control module (tcm), certain conditions May cause the vehicle to unexpectedly downshift and abruptly decelerate.
Why it matters: If the vehicle abruptly downshifts, the driver May lose control of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the tcm with corrected software, free of charge. The recall began March 14, 2019.
Airbags Vehicle recall #24V695000 · 2024 · 77,670 vehicles
What's wrong: 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."
Why it matters: An air bag that deploys with excessive force can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
The fix: Dealers will update the sophisticated air bag sensor (sas) control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 7, 2024.
Most-reported problems
Owner complaints filed with NHTSA, by component. One complaint can list several components. 0 mention a fire, 1 injuries and 0 deaths were reported.
What owners describe
- Visibility/Wiper (4): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Steering (2): the most common themes are warning light on (2), steering problems (2).
- Stability control (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Brakes (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
The 2017 Mazda MX-5 has 11 owner complaints, ranking #4 of 21 MX-5 model years for complaints (about average; the typical year has 7). Complaints peaked in 2017 (2 filed that year). The typical problem showed up when the car was about 4 years old, at a median of 8,150 miles. Neighboring years: 2016 (34 complaints, 3 recalls), 2018 (3 complaints, 3 recalls).
Engines & fuel economy (EPA)
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0 L 4-cyl | Manual 6-spd | Rear-Wheel Drive | 26 | 33 | 29 | Premium |
| 2.0 L 4-cyl | Automatic (S6) | Rear-Wheel Drive | 26 | 35 | 29 | Premium |
Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.
Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the 2017 Mazda MX-5.
Closest thing to the factory manual for most years. Pay once, keep it.
Most $25–$78, one-timePro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.
From $19.99/mo · $39.99/yrOEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.
From $19.99/mo · $59.99/yrStep-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.
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FAQ
Does the 2017 Mazda MX-5 have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 2 vehicle recalls for the 2017 Mazda MX-5. Recall repairs are free at any dealer, no matter how old the car is. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What are the most common 2017 Mazda MX-5 problems?
Owners have filed 11 complaints with NHTSA. The most-reported areas are visibility/wiper (4), steering (2), stability control (1).
What gas mileage does the 2017 Mazda MX-5 get?
EPA ratings run up to 29 mpg combined (2.0 L, Manual 6-spd), across 2 engine and transmission combos.
Where can I get a 2017 Mazda MX-5 repair manual?
eManualOnline sells downloadable manuals, Mitchell 1 DIY and ALLDATAdiy sell online access to factory repair data, and Haynes sells printed guides and online access. Pick a download if you want to keep it, or a subscription for wiring diagrams and TSBs.