Mazda Atenza problems

General information about Mazda Atenza
Mazda Atenza years list
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list

The Mazda6 (known as the Mazda Atenza in Japan, derived from the Italian attenzione) is a mid-size sedan produced by Mazda since 2002, replacing the long-produced Capella/626.

The Mazda6 was marketed as the first example of the company's "Stylish, Insightful and Spirited" design philosophy, followed by the Mazda2 in December 2002, the RX-8 in August 2003, the Mazda3 in January 2004, the Mazda5 in the summer of 2005, the MX-5 in October 2005, and the CX-7 in November 2006. The 2003 Mazda6 is essentially the seventh-generation Mazda 626, part of the 'G' model code family.

First generation (GG1; 2002)

The first-generation Mazda6 was launched in Japan as the Mazda Atenza in May 2002. The model lineup consisted of a four-door sedan, a four-door hatchback and a five-door wagon, marketed in North America as the "Sport Sedan", "5-Door" and "Sport Wagon", respectively. In Australia, the lineup was first available in Limited trim, as a sedan; in Classic trim as sedan, hatch or wagon and in Luxury trim as a sedan and liftback — and Luxury Sports trim, as a liftback. In New Zealand, the lineup consisted of 2.0L GLX (sedan only), 2.3L GSX (sedan, liftback, and wagon), and 2.3L Limited (sedan and liftback).

The first generation was marketed as a 2003 model in the United States and as a 2004 model in Canada. In Europe, the luxury sports model was available as a 120 hp (89 kW) direct injection turbodiesel ("DITD") estate up until 2007. As of 2008, the European Mazda catalog listed only the "Sport" version of the 146 hp (109 kW) turbodiesel estate, while the "Luxury Sport" version had been dropped.

Drivetrain combinations included the Mazda MZR engine in configurations of 1.8 L (L8-DE), 2.0 L (LF-VE) and 2.3 L (L3-VE), initially with a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission (with a sequential-automatic option, dubbed the "Four-Speed Sport AT"). In the US domestic market a 3.0 L Duratec 30 V6 engine was also available with a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic (with a sequential-automatic option, dubbed the "5-Speed Sport AT"). European and Australian versions also feature a four-cylinder turbodiesel that comes with a six-speed manual transmission and produces significantly more torque than the V6, with much improved fuel economy.

In North America, the 5-speed automatic optional on the V6 models were replaced by an Aisin 6-speed automatic for the 2005 model year. The four-cylinder model received a Jatco five-speed automatic in the following year. Power was directed to the front wheels in most markets, although full-time all-wheel-drive models were available in Japan, Europe, and Australia. Not all configurations were available in all areas – for example, the Mazda 6 as released in Australia was available in 2.3L four-cylinder guise only, when the 626 it replaced had been available with a choice of four- or six-cylinder engines. The MZI V6 engine was only fitted to vehicles manufactured at Mazda's Flat Rock Assembly Plant and destined for the U.S. and Canadian domestic markets.

Mazda's Hofu Plant in Yamaguchi Prefecture produced the Mazda6 for international markets from February 2002 to August 2007. In North America, Mazda6 production was handled at the AutoAlliance International plant in Flat Rock, Michigan. The first Mazda6 rolled off the AAI assembly line on October 1, 2002, one month after 626 production ended. There are also satellite plants building Mazda6 models in China and Thailand for local markets.

In September 2005, the Mazda6 received a facelift which introduced 5-speed auto and 6-speed manual transmissions, standard 16- or 17-inch alloy wheels, and minor bodywork upgrades.

In China, the Mazda6 was introduced by FAW Mazda in 2003. Despite the release of its successors, the first generation car, known locally as the Maliu (马六, "Horse 6"), continues to be manufactured at FAW's Changchun plant, having sold over 770,000 units as of 2014. This model is also used as the base for the FAW Benteng, also known as Besturn B70 or Hongqi C301.

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Mazda Atenza model years

Atenza 2005

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Complaints

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Common Mazda Atenza problems

Based on complaints from owners of the Mazda Atenza (known as the Mazda 6 in some markets), several common problems have been reported:

Transmission Failure: Transmission problems have been a common concern for Mazda Atenza owners. The 2014 model, in particular, has been associated with transmission failure at relatively low mileage, around 55,000 miles on average. Symptoms include slipping, delayed shifting, rough shifting, vibration, and jolting during gear changes. The 2008 model also faced transmission issues, typically at higher mileage, around 130,000 miles on average.

Melting Dashboard: A unique problem reported in the 2009-2013 models of the Mazda Atenza is the melting dashboard issue. Exposure to sunlight causes the dashboard to melt, leading to stickiness and shininess. This not only creates a nuisance but can also pose a safety risk by reflecting light onto the windshield, potentially obstructing visibility. Mazda issued an extended warranty for this problem, covering affected vehicles for 10 years.

Noise Isolation: Owners have raised concerns about the lack of adequate noise isolation in the Mazda Atenza. The wheel arches are a significant source of extraneous noise, impacting the interior quietness while driving. At higher speeds, road roughness exacerbates the noise levels. The absence of soundproofing materials in key areas like wheel arches, trunk, and doors contributes to this issue.

Suspension Comfort: Some owners have noted that the suspension of the Mazda Atenza is somewhat stiff, affecting ride comfort. The chassis's stiffness results in a less comfortable driving experience, especially over uneven road surfaces. This issue highlights a compromise between handling dynamics and ride comfort that may not suit all drivers.

These common problems reported by Mazda Atenza owners underscore the importance of thorough research and inspection when considering the purchase of this vehicle. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any emerging issues can help mitigate these concerns and ensure a more reliable ownership experience.

Are Mazda Atenza reliable?

I've not heard of many specific faults with the Atenza, they seem to be a very popular choice. The big thing to check is how well the engine and transmission have been serviced/ treated, as longevity may be affected. The Legacy is also a great car, not necessarily known for fuel economy but has very good handling.

What years to avoid Mazda 6?

The Mazda6 first appeared in 2002, and it's had an excellent twenty years of production. If you want a Mazda6 for yourself, it's critical to determine which Mazda6 years to avoid getting the most from your investment. We advise keeping clear of the 2003, 2004, 2006, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2013, 2014, and 2016 models.

What is the most common problem with Mazda 6?

Is the Mazda 6 high maintenance?

A Mazda 6 will cost about $5,507 for maintenance and repairs during its first 10 years of service. This beats the industry average for popular sedan models by $1,589. There is also a 16.22% chance that a 6 will require a major repair during that time.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Mazda Atenza years

We have researched Mazda problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Mazda Atenza cars and compiled the top 1 most problematic Mazda Atenza model years:

Mazda Atenza 2005

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Mazda Atenza model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Mazda Atenza years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Mazda Atenza car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Mazda Atenza , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

Service brakes problems
Hydraulic problems
Power train problems
Electrical system problems
Exterior lighting problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Mazda Atenza vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Mazda Atenza . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Mazda Atenza vehicles.

List of Mazda Atenza complaints

Mazda Atenza 2005

Date Of Incident: 2007-12-30
Date Complaint: 2007-12-30
VIN: 1YVHP84D855
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,STRUCTURE
Summary: THINGS HAVE BEEN WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE SINCE THE DELIVERY DATE. I HAD TO WAIT WHILE THE DEALER REPLACED A FAULTY HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLY. THIS WAS ONLY A SIGNAL OF THINGS TO COME. THE FRONT BRAKES WERE REPLACED UNDER A TSB AT LESS THAN 12,000 MILES. ALL FOUR OXYGEN SENSORS WERE REPLACED, TWICE, DUE TO VEHICLE STALLING AND MIL COMING ON. FAN CONTROL LIGHT WENT OUT AND REAR HATCH LEAKING. HAD TO ORDER PARTS. CAME BACK FOR SERVICE, WRONG PARTS ORDERED. LIGHT FIXED, HATCH CONTINUED TO LEAK AND STAINED REAR SEAT. BOLSTERS FELL OFF OF THE DRIVERS SEAT. HAD TO ORDER FROM MAZDA- ON BACK ORDER. HATCH FINALLY FIXED ON THIRD VISIT. TRANSMISSION DEVELOPED IRREGULAR SHIFTING PATTERNS, WHICH WERE NEVER VERIFIED BY DEALER. THROTTLE BODY REPLACED. TRANSMISSION ISSUES RETURNED. VALVE BODY REPLACED. INTERMITTENT ENGINE RAPPING HAS BEEN PRESENT, BUT NEVER VERIFIED. DOOR SEALS FALLING OFF. STEERING WHEEL TRIM WON'T STAY ON. I HAVE NOW PURSUED LITIGATION AGAINST MAZDA, NORTH AMERICA. *TR

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