Best and worst Mazda 6 years — which to avoid

The Mazda 6 has a reputation for being incredibly durable, and it can typically go between 200,000 and 250,000 kilometers. On a general note, it’s a great car, however, there were some not-so-great model years. Knowing which Mazda 6 years to avoid is important and can save you a lot of expenses.

This guide will help you with that as our team explores the best and worst Mazda 6 years by generation-related issues, driver complaints, and official recalls among other evaluation methods.

Why you can trust REREV’s advice on which car model years to avoid: Our car experts look at official data, ask real drivers what they think, and talk to experienced mechanics to make sure our list is useful. This reliable info can make buying a car easier for you. Want to know how we do it? Find out more about our research methodology.

How we rated the best and worst Mazda 6 years

For you to be able to completely trust our guide, we had to consider numerous different sources looking for information on Mazda 6 reliability. We started with NHTSA complaints and details behind official recalls that took place after Mazda issued service bulletins to fix prominent issues.

We also scanned through driver reviews and reports including their ratings on Edmunds, KBB, and Consumer Reports to connect the dots between official and unofficial model impressions, and that’s how we created this list:

Most common Mazda 6 problems

Some of the most common problems of the Mazda 6 include overheating engine, whining noises, and rough idling issues, but there were even more issues with the model than meets the eye. Of course, each of the issues we’ll discuss is associated with certain Mazda 6 model years, so let’s discussed both the problems and affected models in more detail.

1. Whining noises from the transmission 

Over time, the 2014 Mazda 6 can start making odd whining noises. Owners said it will begin as an infrequent whine that occurs while moving forward. It might develop and become too common to ignore. It typically occurs around 51,600 miles, and depending on the cost of the parts and the labor rate, repairs may be costly. 

For more information regarding the automatic transmission of the 2014 Mazda 6, it is best to get in touch with your dealership. Several technical service bulletins (TSBs) have been published regarding this issue. Some were able to fix it by having their dealership replace their transmission, although they might not have covered all of the costs.

2. Ticking sounds from the engine 

One of the most common issues with the 2003-2010 and 2014 Mazda 6s is an abnormal ticking noise coming from its engine. It may not seem like a problem at first, but it may get worse and cause rough idling as well as unstable engine revolutions per minute (RPMs). Your car’s hydraulics may be producing the ticking noises. 

They’re more common among high-mileage Mazda 6 vehicles, usually happening at around 121,000 miles. Some owners report that replacing the hydraulic valve lash adjusters may stop the ticking sounds. Also, take note that your Mazda 6 may need to strictly comply with its oil change schedule after its part replacement to help prevent it from happening again.

3. Engine overheating

Engine overheating is a common issue among 2003-2010 and 2012 Mazda 6 models, usually caused by malfunctioning engine cooling fans. Their cooling fan control modules may have gone bad, causing symptoms to show up at around 125,200 miles. Coolant leaks and difficulties with the air conditioner may also occur in affected Mazda 6 models. 

Some people have mentioned that excessive heat may cause steam and coolant to leak from the coolant bay. Some people had radiators that burned through, necessitating the replacement of those radiators as well. If found early enough, your Mazda 6 might simply need a cheap replacement for the cooling fan control module. However, the only way to know for sure which parts need to be changed is to obtain a full checkup.

4. Problematic exterior lighting

The most noteworthy of the 2006 Mazda 6’s many concerns is with the external lights. Some owners reported that when their headlights dimmed, it became more or less impossible to drive at night. Around 75,000 miles, issues could arise. Some people have reported that despite having replacement bulbs installed, their low-beam headlamps frequently fail.

There is no known reason why it occurs, however, Mazda has issued numerous TSBs in response to a number of external illumination issues, including problems with headlights and taillights. Get your Mazda 6’s external lights checked as soon as you think there could be a problem so they don’t go out while you’re driving.

5. Idling problems

Idle issues with the 2004 Mazda 6 are highly prevalent and frequently reported. Its RPM may suddenly become unsteady while stopped at a traffic signal, according to several owners. This problem could have a number of causes, such as malfunctioning spark plugs, ignition coils, and vacuum leaks. 

Consult your mechanic right away if this happens to your Mazda 6 vehicle. Get your Mazda 6 thoroughly inspected to pinpoint the root of the rough idling problems. It can also assist you in keeping track of worn-out components so you can replace them right away.

6. Crankshaft or camshaft position sensor issues

The P0016 error code is associated with crankshaft or camshaft position sensor issues in the Mazda 6. Some 2003 Mazda 6 owners claim to have had an engine failure, which resulted in the P0016 error code being discovered. In essence, it indicates that the sensors in your car are not properly aligned, and camshaft position sensor symptoms shouldn’t be taken lightly. 

Because it could result in other bothersome symptoms like subpar engine performance, starting issues, and excessive vibrations, it’s crucial to get it fixed as soon as you can. P0016 could potentially be brought on by additional issues with your Mazda 6. Inadequate wiring, malfunctioning sensors, and other factors could cause it.

Worst Mazda 6 years to avoid

When buying a Mazda 6, you need to know about the mentioned issues and model years that proved to be most prone to them to avoid unnecessary stress and high repair bills. So, are you wondering what are the worst Mazda 6 years?

The worst Mazda 6 years are 2009 and 2014, but you should avoid all of the mentioned model years:

• 2003
• 2004
• 2006
• 2009
• 2010
• 2013
• 2014
• 2016

First-generation Mazda 6 (2003-2004, 2006, and 2008 model years)

The automatic transmission of the 2003,2006 and 2008 models are not responsive or smooth, and the 41-foot turning radius makes it difficult to drive in confined spaces. These models had an issue of an inflator explosion, the driver or other passengers may be seriously hurt or killed when sharp metal shards strike them. Also, the 2006 model had an issue of fuel leaks that increased the risk of fire in the presence of an ignition source. 

The 2004 model was the worst year for the Mazda 6. Numerous engine issues this year necessitated repairs and possibly replacements for Mazda 6 owners. An engine’s maintenance might be expensive.

Second-generation Mazda 6 (2009, 2010 and 2013 model years)

There were numerous complaints with the 2009 model about broken interior accessories. Others mention issues with deteriorating exterior paint and subframe rust. However, the biggest issue is engine failure and expensive engine replacements, which cost some Mazda6 owners more than $3,000 each.

For the 2013 model, the right side of the front subframe is known to rust. Also, Front brakes deteriorate quickly. The steering wheel may shake when applying the brakes while traveling at a greater speed if the front brake rotors are unevenly worn, which is relatively frequent.

Third-generation Mazda 6 (2014 and 2016 model years)

Some third-generation Mazda 6 vehicles have considerable weld splatter on the front seats that, when a person sits in the seat, rubs up against the occupant classification sensor wire harness. This is sufficient to turn off the Occupant Classification System (OCS), which controls when the airbags deploy. It may potentially result in other electrical problems that render the power steering inoperable.

What are the best Mazda 6 years to avoid?

When evaluating everything the Mazda6 has to offer, these models stand out as the best. Of course, these models don’t have perfect accuracy. Body difficulties and windshield flaws are a few of the problems that start to show up in the greatest years. These problems are just minor issues in comparison to the Mazda6’s avoidable experiences over the years.

You should have a great experience if you go for one of these years:

• 2005
• 2007
• 2011
• 2012
• 2015
• 2017
• 2018
• 2019
• 2020
• 2021

The 2005 and 2007 Mazda 6 are more enjoyable to drive than the majority of family vehicles, with smooth power delivery, tastefully furnished interior and attractive exterior, and a variety of body types. The 2011 and 2012  Mazda 6 are well-rounded family sedans with a spirited driving experience and a roomy cabin. Still, the best model overall is the 2018 Mazda 6 with an exceptional reliability rating and a low number of complaints.

2018 Mazda 6

There are significant upgrades to the Mazda for 2018 along with enhancements to the way it looks, drives, and feels. On the outside, improvements are highlighted by a new grille and standard LED headlights, but the extent of the updates is only apparent once you enter the cabin. The climate controls and dashboard trim have been updated, giving the 6 a more opulent appearance. 

This car has been updated with higher-quality materials and more comfortable seats, giving it a luxurious feel. A newly available turbocharged engine under the hood should enhance the 6’s already precise handling. Most importantly, there were no further complaints concerning the Mazda 6’s engine, transmission, and other common problems, making this one a worthy Mazda 6 year.

Is the Mazda 6 worth buying? 

Yes, the Mazda 6 is an excellent midsize vehicle. It has two spirited four-cylinder engine choices, precise steering, and exceptional handling. Additionally, it offers a luxurious interior and a plethora of infotainment and safety technologies, including newly included Android Auto and Apple CarPlay functionality. The only real drawbacks of this Mazda are a slightly constrained amount of rear seat legroom and an infotainment system that is less user-friendly than those of competitors.

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