2003 Mazda Mazda6 problems
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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Common 2003 Mazda Mazda6 problems
The 2003 Mazda 6 has a reputation for being a reliable vehicle, but there are some common problems that owners have reported. Here are the details of these issues:
- Fuel Leaks: Mazda issued a recall for the 2003 Mazda 6 to address possible fuel leaks, which is the most serious issue.
- Stalling Problem: Some owners have reported that their vehicles stall without warning, which can be dangerous. This issue is covered in one of the recalls for the 2003 Mazda 6.
- Duff Brake Warning Light: Some owners have reported that the brake warning light comes on even when there is no problem with the brakes. This issue is covered in one of the recalls for the 2003 Mazda 6.
- Oil Seal: Some owners have reported that the oil seal leaks, which can cause the engine to run poorly or even fail. This issue is covered in one of the recalls for the 2003 Mazda 6.
- Loose Foglamp: Some owners have reported that the foglamp comes loose, which can be a safety hazard. This issue is covered in one of the recalls for the 2003 Mazda 6.
- Transmission Issues: Transmission issues are not uncommon in the early models of the Mazda 6, especially in the 2003 model. It is recommended to stay away from this model year.
- Engine Misfire: In a V6 engine, misfire can be caused by bad ignition coils. If one of the coils fails, it's recommended to replace all the spark plugs if they are old. Replacing front ignition coils is easy, but replacing rear ignition coils can take about 2 hours of labor because the intake manifold has to be removed.
- Faulty or Clogged Purge Valve: A faulty or clogged purge valve (solenoid) can cause the Check Engine light to come on. When scanned for trouble codes, it could be the code P0446. The purge valve is easy to replace and is not very expensive.
- Oil Leaks: Oil leaks are common in a V6 engine. Completely eliminating all the leaks can be quite expensive, so it's recommended to start by replacing the valve cover gaskets. Often, the oil leaks are coming from the place where the valve cover meets the timing chain cover.
- Coolant Leaks: Coolant leaks from various plastic outlets are not uncommon. Some plastic cooling system pipes become brittle with age and can break easily. It's recommended to keep an eye on the coolant level in the expansion tank under the hood and fix any leak before it becomes a bigger problem.
- Vacuum Leak: A ripped intake snorkel (rubber boot) can cause a vacuum leak, which can result in the engine stalling and the Check Engine light staying on, with the code P2179. The repair is very simple, the snorkel must be replaced.
- Power Window Issues: In some 2006, 2007 Mazda 6, the passenger side window might stop working after the battery has been disconnected or drained. The power window initialization procedure must be performed to fix this issue.
- Steering Issues: The clunking or popping felt in the steering wheel could be caused by lack of lubrication in the intermediate steering shaft. There was a technical service bulletin (TSB) on this issue, and the repair is very simple; the steering shaft splines need to be lubricated.
- Headlight Fading: Faded headlights may be restored using a very simple technique. There are several YouTube videos available that demonstrate this technique.
In summary, the 2003 Mazda 6 has some common problems that owners have reported, including fuel leaks, stalling, brake warning light issues, oil seal leaks, loose foglamp, transmission issues, engine misfire, faulty or clogged purge valve, oil leaks, coolant leaks, vacuum leak, power window issues, steering issues, and headlight fading. However, Mazda has issued recalls to address some of these issues, and regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent many of these problems from occurring.
Are Mazda 6 2003 good cars?
2003 Mazda 6 Luxury Sports GG Series 1
Excellent vehicle that is easy and fun to drive. Very fuel efficient and lots of luxury features. The vehicle is not expensive to service and easy to work on as a home mechanic.
What is the most common problem with Mazda 6?
It can run up to 200,000 miles if you follow a proper service schedule and keep up with regular maintenance. Common complaints about the Mazda 6 include transmission noises, abnormal ticking sound from the engine, and an overheating engine.
How many miles can a 2003 Mazda 6 last?
2003-2008 Mazda6 Lifespan: 150,000-200,000 miles
NHTSA and carcomplaints.com have numerous reports of engine failure for the 2003 and 2004 model years. These issues arose with mileage in the 100,000-150,000 mile range.
Are Mazda 6 engines reliable?
The diesel-engined Mazda 6s finished in 10th place out of 26 cars in the executive car class in our most recent What Car? Reliability Survey. The petrol-engined cars finished in a respectable 15th place.
2003 Mazda Mazda6 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mazda Mazda6 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Power train problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Air bags problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Mazda Mazda6 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2003 Mazda Mazda6
The NHTSA has received 175 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Mazda Mazda6. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2003 Mazda Mazda6 vehicles.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-16
- VIN: 1YVFP80C135
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Mazda Mazda6. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the odor of fuel was present inside the cabin of the vehicle. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The contact indicated that the vehicle was previously repaired for the same failure under the NHTSA Campaign Number: 03V531000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 124,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-01-03
- VIN: 1yvfp80c935
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: In 2018, the car was part of a trade in for a certified used car at my dealership. The car had over 350,000 miles and could no longer run.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-08-02
- VIN: 1YVFP80C135
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: WHEN I TAKE MY FOOT OFF THE GAS IT STAYS AT THE SAME SPEED OR IT SPEEDS UP ON ITS OWN. WHEN I PRESS ON THE BREAK SOMETIMES IT FEELS LIKE IT'S NOT GOING TO STOP AND JUST KEEP GOING OR IT JERKS FORWARD WHEN I STOP. THIS HAPPENS WHEN I AM DRIVING ON THE ROAD AND THE CRUISE CONTROL IS NOT ON WHEN THIS HAPPENS.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-01-15
- VIN: 1YVFP80C035
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: AFTER TWO YEARS OF DRIVING THIS CAR THE CLUTCH PEDAL ASSEMBLY COMPLETELY BROKE PUNCTURING THROUGH THE FIRE WALL AND BRAKE RESERVOIR, LUCKILY I WAS STARTING THE VEHICLE IN A HOSPITAL PARKING LOT WHEN I PUSHED THE CLUTCH IN IT WENT COMPLETELY TO THE FLOOR AND DID NOT COME BACK UP. IT WAS COMPLETELY INOPERABLE, I HAD TO HAVE THE CAR TOWED AFTER PATCHING THE FIREWALL AND REPLACING THE CLUTCH PEDAL ASSEMBLY FOR $1800 I WAS TOLD THAT PART WAS FAULTY ON THIS VEHICLE AND IF IT HAPPENED ONCE IT WOULD PROBABLY HAPPEN AGAIN. ONE YEAR LATER IT BROKE AGAIN ONLY THIS TIME I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD WHEN I WENT TO SHIFT GEARS THE CLUTCH WENT TO THE FLOOR AND DIDN'T COME BACK UP, I HAD TO PULL OVER LUCKILY I DIDN'T GET HIT OR CAUSE AN ACCIDENT. I WAS TOLD BY MAZDA THERE WOULD BE NO RECALL BECAUSE THIS PART ISN'T A DIRECT SAFETY ISSUE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-01-18
- VIN: 1YVFP80C835
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: ON 01/18/2019 I TOOK VEHICLE I PURCHASED, TO MOCK FORD IN GRANT'S PASS OREGON FOR TAKARA AIRBAG RECALL. THIS IS WHEN I BECAME AWARE OF SAFETY ISSUE THAT VEHICLES AUR BAGS HAD BEEN CUT OUT AND REMOVED. THE SERVICE GUY AT MOCK FORD EXPLAINEDAND GAVE ESTIMATE WHICH WAS GREATER THAN WHAT CARS VALUE WAS. THE SELLER OF CAR AARON RONSON NEVER DISCLOSED ANY ISSUES. ONLY THAT HE BOUGHT FROM A FRIEND THAT BUYS AND FIXES CARS. HIS FRIEND WORKED AT A WRECKING YARD. MY SAFETY CONCERN AS WELL AS INSURANCE COVERAGE IS HAVE BEEN B.CEFFECTED. MY COMPLAINT IS NO FOUND RECORDS OF VEHICLEACCIDENT. AND NO BRANDING OF TITLE IT IS CLEAR. NO EVIDENCE OF AIRBAD DEPLOYMENT. I HAVE BEEN REFUSED COPIES IF PREVIOUS OWNER TO INVESTIGATED KNOWLEDGE PRIOR TO MY PURCGASE.
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-08-19
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1YVFP80C435
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I HIT A DEER AT 45 MILES AN HOUR THEN HIT THE HIT TOTALLING THE CAR, THE AIRBAG DID NOT COME OUT, THE SEAT BELT DID NOT LOCK CAUSING ME TO BE SLAMMED INTO THE STEELING WHEEL, NOW I SUFFER GREAT PAIN, CAN'T MOVE MY NECK, CAN'T LAY DOWN BC OF SUCH BAD HEADACHE I THROW UP, I SLEEP SITTING UP, SOMETHING IN THE CAR LIKE METAL FRAGMENT HIT ME IN THE LEFT EYE, NOW I CAN BARELY SEE OUT OF MY LEFT EYE. AND MUST CONTINUE MEDICAL TREATMENT. AND SOMEONE IS GOING TO PAY FOR MY MEDICAL TREATMENT AND PAIN AND SUFFERING, BC THAT SEAT BELT NOT LOCKING CAUSED MY INJURIES, MY INSURANCE COMPANY TOTALLED MY CAR OUT BC OF THE SEVERE DAMAGE TO IT.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-07-27
- VIN: 1YVFP80C635
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL - I HAVE NOTIFIED MAZDA AT LEAST 5 TIMES THAT THIS CAR HAS BEEN JUNKED, YET I KEEP GETTING HARASSED WITH MAILINGS. PLEASE STOP! THIS IS HARASSMENT!
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-01-15
- VIN: 435M12745
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I JUNKED THE CAR IN JANUARY OF 2018 DUE TO HAVING TOO MANY PROBLEMS
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-03-19
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1YVHP80D635
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THIS CAR WAS DESTROYED IN AN ACCIDENT, AND AS SUCH CAN NO LONGER BE REPAIRED.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-08-21
- VIN: 1YVFP80D735
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: 2003 MAZDA6 MODEL CARS WERE BUILT WITH FAULTY THROTTLE BODIES. UNAWARE OF THIS, I BOUGHT ONE OF THESE VEHICLES AND IMMEDIATELY BEGAN EXPERIENCING ISSUES WITH IT. WHEN DRIVING VERY SLOWLY, UNDER 15 MPH, THE CAR WILL SUDDENLY THROTTLE, ACCELERATING IT IN BURSTS EVEN WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES. THAT ISSUE IS PROBLEMATIC BUT RELATIVELY MINOR; HOWEVER, THERE IS A MUCH MORE DANGEROUS ISSUE THE FAULTY THROTTLE BODY CREATES. WHEN DRIVING AT ANY SPEED, THE FAULTY THROTTLE BODY CAN CAUSE THE ENGINE TO CUT OUT WITHOUT WARNING. MY WIFE WAS DRIVING WITH OUR KIDS IN THE CAR THE FIRST TIME WE HAD THE ENGINE CUT OUT WHILE DRIVING (SOON AFTER PURCHASING THE CAR). LUCKILY, SHE WAS DRIVING IN A RESIDENTIAL AREA AT 25 MPH. THE ENGINE HAS CUT OUT ON ME WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH ON THE FREEWAY. I WAS FORCED TO COAST THROUGH FREEWAY TRAFFIC TO THE SHOULDER IN ORDER TO STOP THE CAR AND RESTART THE ENGINE. THE ENGINE HAS CUT OUT, WITHOUT WARNING, AT SEVERAL SPEEDS. THERE IS NO RHYME TO WHEN IT WILL CUT OUT AND NO INDICATION IT'S GOING TO CUT OUT AHEAD OF TIME. I SPENT OVER $500 TRYING TO SOLVE THE PROBLEM WITH MECHANICS UNSURE WHAT WAS WRONG. THEN A MECHANIC HAPPENED TO HAVE AN OLD SERVICE BULLETIN (SB), DATED 5/18/2006, FROM MAZDA THAT STATED THROTTLE BODIES WITH THE MARKINGS AA, AB, OR BA AT THE END OF THEIR SERIAL NUMBERS (AS IS THE CASE WITH THE ONE IN MY CAR) ARE "NO GOOD". BECAUSE THE PART IS LABELED "NO GOOD" UNDER MAZDA LETTERHEAD, I FIGURED THERE MUST HAVE BEEN A RECALL ISSUED BEFORE I OWNED THE CAR THAT THE PREVIOUS OWNER SOMEHOW MISSED. I TOOK THE CAR IN TO A MAZDA DEALERSHIP WHERE I WAS ASSURED NO RECALL HAS EVER BEEN ISSUED ON THE PART AND IN ORDER TO REPLACE IT, THE COST WILL BE OVER $1,000. A RECALL MUST BE MADE ON THIS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS AND FAULTY, BY MAZDA'S OWN ADMISSION, PART BEFORE UNSUSPECTING PEOPLE ARE INJURED OR KILLED, IF THAT HASN'T HAPPENED ALREADY.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-08-11
- VIN: 1YVFP80C535
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL, FORMER OWNER
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-17
- VIN: 1YVFP80D835
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MAZDA 6. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 15V382000 (AIR BAGS) AND 16V354000 (AIR BAGS). THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME FRAME TO SCHEDULE THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT CALLED TWO DEALERS, BUT THERE WAS NO RESPONSE AFTER SEVERAL CALLS. THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO DETERMINE WHEN THE VEHICLE WOULD BE REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER COULD NOT PROVIDE AN ESTIMATED DATE FOR WHEN THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WOULD RECEIVE THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT WAS NOT EXPERIENCING A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-20
- VIN: 1YVFP80C135
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MAZDA MAZDA6. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY SHUT OFF. THE FAILURE HAD OCCURRED ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 167,000.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-04-28
- VIN: JM1BK323271
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MAZDA 6. WHILE BACKING OUT OF A PARKING SPACE, THE STEERING WHEEL REQUIRED MORE FORCE TO STEER AND THE ELECTRONIC POWER STEERING WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT RESTARTED THE VEHICLE AND WAS ABLE TO RESUME NORMAL OPERATION. THE FAILURE RECURRED INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE ELECTRONIC HYDRAULIC POWER STEERING PUMP FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 10V374000 (STEERING). THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 57,650.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-14
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MAZDA 6. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V382000 (AIR BAGS) AND THE CONTACT WAITED FOR MONTHS TO RECEIVE THE SECOND NOTICE INDICATING THAT THE PARTS WERE AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER HAD NOT SENT THE PARTS TO THE DEALER IN ORDER FOR THE RECALL REMEDY TO BE PERFORMED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND WAS UNABLE TO PROVIDE A SPECIFIC TIME FRAME THAT THE PARTS WOULD BECOME AVAILABLE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-10-28
- VIN: 1YVHP80D135
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 2003 MAZDA 6. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO VEHICLE WOULD NOT START AFTER BEING PARKED FOR SEVERAL HOURS. DISCOVERED PCM NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. *SMD THE CONSUMER WAS INFORMED MAZDA STOPPED MANUFACTURING THE PCM FOR VEHICLES MANUFACTURED IN 2003 AND THEREFORE, IT HAD TO SPECIAL ORDERED. IT TOOK EIGHT WEEKS FOR THE DEALER TO RECEIVE THE PART. *JB
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-08-22
- VIN: 1YVHP80CX35
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MAZDA 6. WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE RECURRED ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS. THE VIN WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 15V345000 (AIR BAGS) AND 15V382000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PARTS NEEDED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 190,000. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE AND PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT, RESPECTIVELY.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-12-02
- VIN: 1YVFP80D535
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MAZDA MAZDA6. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V382000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER HAD EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. UPDATED 03/10/16*LJ THE CONSUMER STATED THE DEALER REPLACED THE AIR BAG ON 02/12/16*JB
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-07-31
- VIN: 1YVFP80C035
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MAZDA MAZDA6. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V382000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-10-15
- VIN: 1YVFP80C235
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL I RECEVED THE FINAL REPAIR NOTICE, AND I HAVE CONTACT YOU GUYS I HAVE A REFERENCE NUMBER OF 896159. I LIVED IN HAWAII, I TOOK THE THE CAR TO CUTTER MAZDA IN WAIPAHU HAWAII IN OCTOBER, THEY TOLD ME THAT THEY WILL CONTACT ME WHEN THE PART IS AVAILABLE. I CALLED BACK LAST WEEK AND THEY WERE SUPPOSE TO RETURN MY CALL TO SEE WHEN THE PART WAS GOING TO BE IN. NO ONE HAS CONTACT ME AS OF YET. WHAT ELSE CAN I DO IF THE DEALERSHIP IS NOT TRYING TO REPAIR THE RECALLS.:
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-07
- VIN: 1YVHP80D035
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MAZDA 6. THE CONTACT RECIEVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V382000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-04
- VIN: 1YVFP80D335
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: MAZDA IS NOT ABLE TO REPAIR NHTSA 7914J AND 15V-382 FOR 4 MONTH 4250 STEVENS CREEK BOULEVARD SAN JOSE (408) 837-4061
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-08-03
- VIN: 1YVFP80D235
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MAZDA 6. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V773000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-10-05
- VIN: 1YVFP80C835
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MAZDA 6. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V773000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-06-19
- VIN: 1YVHP80C035
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MAZDA 6. THE CONTACT STATED THAT NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V34500 (AIR BAGS) EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR REPAIR. THE DEALER STATED THAT THAT THE PART NEEDED TO REVISE THE DEFECT HAD NOT BEEN PRODUCED. THE CONTACT'S VIN WAS ASSOCIATED WITH THE RECALL AS OF JUNE 19, 2015. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE VIN WAS INVALID. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. UPDATED 1/19/16 LN *CN
2003 Mazda Mazda6 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 9 recalls for different components of the 2003 Mazda Mazda6.
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Park It: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2003-2008 Mazda6, 2004-2005 MPV, 2004 RX-8, and 2006-2007 Mazdaspeed6 vehicles. These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the remedy is performed. Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator with an alternate one, free of charge. The recall began December 3, 2019. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 2618F. Note: This recall supersedes recalls 13V130, 14V362, 14V773 and 15V869.
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Park It: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Mazda North America Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2003-2008 Mazda6, 2006-2007 Mazdaspeed6 and 2004 MPV vehicles nationwide. Mazda is also recalling 2005-2006 MPV vehicles in Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. On July 9, 2019 this recall was expanded to include certain 2004-2011 RX-8 vehicles that were previously recalled under 16V-354 but have not yet been repaired. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these passenger air bag inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the remedy is performed. Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator with an alternate inflator, free of charge. The recall began July 6, 2018. Mailing to the affected RX-8 owners began July 6, 2019. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 2618F. Note: With the addition of the RX-8 vehicles, this recall fully supersedes recall 16V354.
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Park It: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2003-2008 Mazda6, 2004-2008 RX-8, and 2006-2007 Mazdaspeed6 vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with a dual-stage driver frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion and other factors, including manufacturing variability that, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the remedy is performed. Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag inflator with an alternate inflator, free of charge. The recall began on September 12, 2017. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's number for this recall is 1417G. Note: This recall supersedes recall 15V-382.
- Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
- Manufacturer: THULE, INC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: THULE, INC. IS RECALLING 2,323 OWNER-INSTALLED ROOF-MOUNTED FIT KITS, MODELS 3068 AND 3069, MANUFACTURED BETWEEN JANUARY 1, 2008 AND FEBRUARY 28, 2009 THAT ARE USED WITH THULE PODIUM FOOT PACKS, MODELS 460 AND 460R. THESE FIT KITS WERE SOLD AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE BOLT(S) USED TO SECURE THE FOOT TO THE VEHICLE WAS MANUFACTURED TO A HARDNESS THAT MAY CAUSE THE BOLT(S) TO BE BRITTLE AND POTENTIALLY BREAK UNDER STRESS.
- Consequence: THIS MAY RESULT IN THE BOLT(S) SNAPPING OFF DURING USE OR WITHOUT A LOAD. THE UNSECURED RACK AND LOAD CAN THEN COME LOOSE WHILE DRIVING CREATING A POTENTIAL ROAD HAZARD, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: THULE WILL MAIL A RETRO FIT KIT ALONG WITH REPAIR INSTRUCTIONS TO OWNERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE APRIL 13, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT THULE TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-238-2388.
- Manufacturer: MAZDA NORTH AMERICAN OPERATIONS
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE FUEL SENDER UNIT (FSU) MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY INSTALLED IN THE FUEL TANK, PRODUCING AN INADEQUATE SEAL, AND FUEL MAY LEAK.
- Consequence: A FIRE COULD OCCUR IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE TOP OF THE FUEL TANK, AND IF NECESSARY, REPAIR OR REPLACE IT. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN FEBRUARY 9, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT MAZDA AT 1-800-222-5500.
- Manufacturer: MAZDA NORTH AMERICAN OPERATIONS
- Components: PARKING BRAKE:INDICATOR LIGHT
- Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 135, "PASSENGER CAR BRAKE SYSTEMS." DURING PRODUCTION, THE FLOAT IN THE FLUID LEVEL SENSOR IN THE BRAKE RESERVOIR CAN BE FORCED OFF OF THE GUIDE RAIL DURING THE FILLING OF THE MASTER CYLINDER.
- Consequence: SHOULD THIS OCCUR, IT IS POSSIBLE THAT THE FLOAT WILL NOT RETURN TO THE GUIDE RAIL AND THE BRAKE FLUID LEVEL WARNING INDICATOR MAY NOT FUNCTION.
- Remedy: MAZDA HAS NOT YET PROVIDED A REMEDY FOR THIS CAMPAIGN. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JULY 14, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT MAZDA AT 1-800-222-5500.
- Manufacturer: MAZDA NORTH AMERICAN OPERATIONS
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:FOG LIGHTS
- Summary: ON CERTAIN MINI VANS AND PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE SOCKET HOLDER IN THE FOG LIGHTS IS INSTALLED IN THE LAMP CASING USING PRESSURE. DURING OPERATION OF THE FOG LIGHT, THE HEAT FROM THE BULB CAN EXPAND THE SOCKET HOLDER. THE EXPANSION CAN FORCE THE SOCKET HOLDER REARWARD. AFTER REPEATEDLY BEING SUBJECT TO THIS EXPANSION, IF THE FOG LIGHT IS ALSO SUBJECTED TO VIBRATION DURING VEHICLE OPERATION, THE SOCKET HOLDER WITH THE BULB HOLDER AND THE WIRING HARNESS MAY SEPARATE FROM THE FOG LIGHT CASING.
- Consequence: SHOULD THIS OCCUR, THE BULB SOCKET AND THE HARNESS CAN DROP INSIDE THE BUMPER AND POSSIBLY BUT RARELY, THE HEAT GENERATED BY THE BULB CAN CAUSE THE BUMPER TO BURN.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A SPRING TO PREVENT THE SOCKET HOLDER FROM SEPARATING FROM THE LAMP CASE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON JULY 14, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT MAZDA AT 1-800-222-5500.
Negative 2003 Mazda Mazda6 car reviews
Positive 2003 Mazda Mazda6 car reviews
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I bought my Mazda with 32000 miles on it and drove it everywhere. Haven't had any issues, just a set of tires, brakes, and oil changes. It's been a very worry-free car. I'm sold on Mazda's brand all around and will probably buy another 6 or maybe a 3.
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The Mazda6 is a sleek and sporty car that offers a luxury feel in a sporty package. I am currently in the process of ordering one and was fortunate enough to test drive a fully loaded 5-speed V6. The interior was impressive and the car handles great with the power you need. It also offers great features like heated seats, traction control, and map lights for four passengers (front and rear). The car has plenty of interior and trunk space for people and cargo, while still maintaining a sporty look. Overall, I am very impressed.
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This is the best sport sedan under $25,000. The overall performance is comparable to a $40,000 European sport sedan. While some may consider the Honda Accord, it's important to note that there are other great options available.
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It's rare to come across a $20,000 vehicle that can compete with those priced between $40,000 and $60,000, but I've been thoroughly impressed. Sorry Honda and Toyota, Mazda is back!
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Little did I know that my first NEW car would exceed my every expectation! This car is awesome! I spent so much time researching and shopping around that I regret not going to Mazda first. Don't waste your time elsewhere, check out the 6 first, you won't be disappointed!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Mazda Mazda6 problems:
2003 Mazda 6 Problems and Complaints - 5 Issues
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Are you having problems with your 2003 Mazda Mazda6?
Ernesto Johnson 2024-11-13
After extensive research, I confidently decided to purchase a 2003 Mazda 6S, which was fully loaded and had a clean record. However, after only 6 months of ownership, I encountered several issues with the car, including blown spark plugs (now fixed with helicoils) and a failed transmission at only 59,000 miles. Despite my diligent care of the vehicle, I am now facing a costly repair of $2K-$3K. While I initially loved the look and feel of the ride, I can no longer recommend this car to others. For those seeking reliability, I suggest considering a Honda or Toyota instead.
Nathanial Shanahan 2024-02-05
The transmission on my car started slamming into gear with only 50,000 miles on it. Based on my experience, it seems that there may be an internal issue with Mazda transmissions that cannot be rebuilt and require replacement. Although the cost of a new transmission from Mazda is high, I opted for this solution and have been satisfied with the results. It is worth noting that another car with the same issue and year as mine came into the shop while I was there. This may be a matter that Mazda should consider recalling.