Mazda6 Years to Avoid - Auto Year Picks

The Mazda6 has earned a reputation for sporty handling, stylish design, and being a fun-to-drive midsize sedan. However, not all Mazda6 models are created equal. If you’re considering buying a used Mazda6, it’s important to know which years are plagued by mechanical issues, recalls, and owner complaints. In this guide, we will take an in-depth look at the Mazda6 years to avoid, discuss common problems with each, and help you make an informed decision before purchasing.

Key Takeaways

Mazda6 years to avoid include 2003, 2009-2010, 2014-2015, and 2018 due to transmission, engine, rust, and electrical issues.
Major concerns involve engine failures, transmission problems, excessive brake wear, and rusting.
Models like 2016 and newer have better reliability, making them a safer choice.
Look out for open recalls, especially for airbags and brakes in earlier years.

Introduction to the Mazda6: History and Reputation

The Mazda6 has been a popular choice in the midsize sedan category since its introduction in 2003. Known for its engaging driving dynamics and sleek looks, it often stands out from competitors like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. But with any long-running model, there are certain years that perform better than others. In this post, we will walk through the specific Mazda6 years to avoid based on user reports, repair data, and known recalls.

If you’re eyeing a used Mazda6, you’ll want to avoid specific years that have been notorious for costly repairs and frequent breakdowns. Let’s dive into the details.

Part 1: The Worst Mazda6 Years to Avoid

2003 Mazda6: First Generation Problems

The 2003 Mazda6 was the first model year, and while it introduced the world to the car’s sporty handling and design, it also came with a host of problems that made it unreliable for long-term ownership.

1. Transmission Failure

The automatic transmission in the 2003 Mazda6 was one of the biggest trouble spots. Many owners reported the transmission failing after around 60,000 miles, leading to costly repairs or replacements. Symptoms included rough shifting, gear slipping, and complete transmission failure.

2. Engine Stalling

Another major issue was engine stalling. This was especially common when the vehicle was idling or in cold conditions. Engine stalling in a moving car poses obvious dangers, and repairs for this issue were expensive and often ineffective, with problems resurfacing after a few months.

3. Excessive Rusting

Rust was also a prevalent problem in the 2003 model. In particular, owners in colder climates found rust developing on the wheel wells, door panels, and undercarriage, significantly reducing the lifespan of the car.

4. Electrical Problems

Finally, the electrical system in the 2003 Mazda6 was notoriously unreliable, leading to frequent battery drain issues and alternator failure. These issues, combined with rust and transmission failure, made the 2003 Mazda6 a poor choice for anyone looking for a reliable used car.

2009-2010 Mazda6: Engine and Brake Issues

The second generation of the Mazda6, specifically the 2009-2010 models, suffered from several serious reliability concerns. These years are best avoided due to widespread engine problems and premature brake wear.

1. Engine Failure

Both the 2009 and 2010 Mazda6 were known for engine failures, especially due to oil consumption issues. Owners frequently reported that their engines were consuming oil too quickly, causing severe damage if left unchecked. Many needed complete engine replacements, costing thousands of dollars. These problems often emerged around the 60,000-mile mark, leading to complaints of premature engine death.

2. Brake Wear

Another major concern was premature brake wear. Many Mazda6 owners found that their brake pads wore down far too quickly, often requiring replacement after just 20,000-30,000 miles. This was due to poor-quality brake components and poorly designed brake rotors.

3. Airbag Recalls

Both 2009 and 2010 Mazda6 models were affected by the Takata airbag recall, which was one of the largest recalls in automotive history. The defective airbags could rupture during deployment, posing serious risks to passengers.

4. Suspension Issues

Premature suspension wear was another common complaint in these years. Drivers noticed their cars rode roughly, particularly over bumps, due to worn-out struts and shocks. This problem required costly repairs and negatively impacted the driving experience.

2014-2015 Mazda6: Transmission and Interior Quality Issues

The 2014-2015 Mazda6 models saw some improvements in styling and fuel efficiency with the SkyActiv technology, but they were also plagued by multiple problems, particularly with the transmission and interior.

1. Transmission Jerking

Many owners reported transmission jerking and hesitation, particularly when shifting between gears. This was more common in automatic models, and the cost to repair or replace the transmission often exceeded the car’s value.

2. Interior Quality

While the Mazda6 was marketed as a more premium option, interior quality issues quickly became apparent. Dashboard peeling, cracking seat materials, and premature wear on the upholstery were common complaints, especially in warmer climates where the materials deteriorated faster.

3. Infotainment System Failure

The infotainment system in these models was also problematic. Owners frequently reported that the system would freeze, crash, or fail to connect to devices, leading to widespread frustration. This was particularly frustrating because Mazda’s warranty often didn’t cover these repairs after a few years.

4. Excessive Cabin Noise

Another issue that annoyed drivers was the excessive cabin noise. Especially at highway speeds, drivers reported that the cabin was too loud, which negatively affected comfort during long-distance driving.

2018 Mazda6: Turbo Engine and Tech Glitches

The 2018 Mazda6 came with a new turbocharged engine, designed to improve power and performance. However, this new engine introduced several new problems that made this year less reliable than anticipated.

1. Turbo Engine Issues

The introduction of the 2.5L turbocharged engine in the 2018 Mazda6 resulted in several issues, primarily involving misfiring and power loss. Owners often complained of engine hesitation and stalling, which were difficult and expensive to fix. These issues were more prevalent in high-mileage vehicles.

2. Infotainment System Glitches

Similar to the 2014-2015 models, the infotainment system in the 2018 Mazda6 frequently malfunctioned. Reports of the system freezing, rebooting, and failing to respond were common, and many drivers were forced to take their vehicles back to the dealer for software resets.

3. Steering Problems

Another common issue was with the steering. Owners noted that the steering felt unresponsive, particularly at higher speeds, which could pose safety concerns. This was usually caused by faulty steering sensors and often required dealer intervention to fix.

4. Disappointing Fuel Economy

Despite the SkyActiv technology being praised for its efficiency, the turbocharged engine in the 2018 Mazda6 did not meet EPA fuel economy ratings for many drivers. The fuel consumption was much higher than expected, adding to the overall cost of ownership.

Part 2: Best Mazda6 Model Years to Buy

Best Mazda6 Years: 2016-Present

If you’re considering a used Mazda6, the 2016 and newer models are widely regarded as the best options. These years saw improvements in reliability, safety, and interior quality, with fewer complaints compared to older models.

1. Improved Reliability

Mazda addressed many of the reliability concerns that plagued earlier models, making 2016 and newer Mazda6 models much more dependable. Transmission issues, engine problems, and brake wear were significantly reduced, giving owners more confidence in the car’s long-term durability.

2. Enhanced Safety Features

Safety became a priority in newer models, with features like adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist becoming standard or optional on most trims. These features improved the car’s overall safety rating and made it a better choice for families.

3. Better Interior Quality

Mazda also improved the interior materials in the newer models, reducing the likelihood of issues like peeling dashboards and cracked seats. The overall fit and finish in the 2016 and newer models were more competitive with other premium midsize sedans.

4. Balanced Performance

With the SkyActiv engine, the newer Mazda6 models offered a better balance of fuel efficiency and performance. The 2.5L engine in non-turbo trims was smooth and responsive, while still delivering impressive fuel economy.

Common Mazda6 Problems to Watch Out For

Even in the best model years, there are a few problems that Mazda6 owners should watch for:

Rusting: While newer models have fewer rust issues, earlier years still struggle with rust, especially in areas that use a lot of road salt.
Transmission concerns: Though much improved, some owners of newer models still report occasional transmission issues, particularly rough shifting.
Infotainment system glitches: The Mazda Connect infotainment system is still prone to bugs, especially in earlier model years.
Brake wear: Although not as severe as in the 2009-2010 models, some owners of newer models report needing brake replacements earlier than expected.

Tips for Buying a Used Mazda6

If you’re set on buying a used Mazda6, here are some tips to ensure you get a reliable model:

Get a vehicle history report: Always check the car’s history for any major accidents, recalls, or unresolved mechanical issues.
Inspect for rust: Check the car’s body panels, undercarriage, and wheel wells for signs of rust.
Test the transmission: Pay close attention to how the car shifts. Any signs of hesitation or jerking could indicate transmission issues.
Check for recalls: Make sure that any open recalls, especially those related to airbags and brakes, have been resolved by a dealership.

FAQs: Mazda6 Years to Avoid

What year Mazda6 is the most reliable?

The 2016 Mazda6 and newer models are the most reliable. These years show significant improvements in overall reliability, safety, and performance, with far fewer complaints from owners compared to earlier models.

What are the worst years for Mazda6?

The 2003, 2009-2010, 2014-2015, and 2018 Mazda6 models are considered the worst due to major issues like transmission failure, engine problems, and rust. Avoid these years to prevent costly repairs.

How many miles can a Mazda6 last?

With proper maintenance, a Mazda6 can last over 200,000 miles. Regular oil changes, brake maintenance, and transmission servicing are key to maximizing its lifespan.

Is Mazda6 expensive to maintain?

While Mazda6 has average maintenance costs, problematic years like 2009 and 2010 can result in high repair bills. Reliable models, especially those from 2016 onwards, tend to have lower maintenance costs and fewer expensive repairs.

Conclusion: Choose Wisely When Buying a Used Mazda6

The Mazda6 offers a compelling blend of performance, style, and affordability, but certain model years should be avoided to save yourself from costly repairs. Stick to 2016 and newer models for a more reliable experience, and steer clear of 2003, 2009-2010, 2014-2015, and 2018, which have been plagued by significant issues.