2021 Mazda Mazda6 problems

mazda logo

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.

2021 Mazda Mazda6

Social links

Common 2021 Mazda Mazda6 problems

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA6 has been reported to have several common problems by owners, primarily related to interior accessories and electrical issues. Here are the details of the most frequently reported problems:

  • Three complaints have been reported regarding interior accessories issues, making it the most problematic category for the 2021 MAZDA6.
  • The issues reported include infotainment system malfunctions, faulty climate control systems, and sunroof leaks.
  • These problems can affect the overall comfort and convenience of the vehicle, potentially leading to safety concerns if the climate control or infotainment systems fail during driving.
  • Electrical problems:
  • One complaint has been reported regarding electrical issues.
  • The issue reported includes a malfunctioning battery, which can affect various electrical systems in the vehicle, potentially leading to a no-start condition or other electrical failures.

While there are no reported engine problems for the 2021 MAZDA6, it is essential to note that some issues have been reported for the 2018-2021 models. For instance, a defect in the 2021 model year has caused excess oil burning and/or oil leakage. However, it is unclear whether this issue is specific to the 2021 model or if it affects other model years.

It is also worth noting that the 2021 Mazda Mazda6 has received average reliability ratings from Consumer Reports, primarily due to the defect in the 2021 model year that caused excess oil burning and/or oil leakage.

In conclusion, while the 2021 Mazda MAZDA6 has been reported to have some common problems related to interior accessories and electrical issues, it is essential to note that these issues are relatively minor and do not appear to pose significant safety concerns. However, it is always recommended to thoroughly research and test-drive any vehicle before purchasing to ensure it meets your expectations and needs.

2021 Mazda Mazda6 engine

How reliable is the 2021 Mazda6?

How Reliable Is the 2021 Mazda6? The 2021 Mazda6 has a predicted reliability score of 83 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.

What is the common problem with Mazda 6?

What are the most common problems with a used Mazda 6 saloon? On the whole, owners seem to have high praise for their Mazda 6s, but the 6 can be quite hard on its brake discs, which can lead to vibration under braking. If you detect this on a test drive, it will need a new set of brake discs and pads to sort.

Is A Mazda 6 a reliable car?

The Mazda 6 Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 6th out of 24 for midsize cars. The average annual repair cost is $481 which means it has lower than average ownership costs. The severity of repairs is low while frequency of those issues is average, so major issues are uncommon for the 6.

Why did Mazda discontinue Mazda 6?

The decision to discontinue the Mazda 6 aligns with this strategic vision, allowing resources to be redirected toward the development of next-generation, eco-friendly vehicles. The Mazda 6's departure sparked a wave of nostalgia among enthusiasts and loyal owners.

2021 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:

  • Engine problems
  • Unknown or other problems
  • Visibility/wiper problems
  • Fuel/propulsion system problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2021 Mazda Mazda6 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2021 Mazda Mazda6 complaints

The NHTSA has received 16 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2021 Mazda Mazda6.

2024-07-01

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-06-18
  • VIN: JM1GL1TY6M1
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: Twice had low oil warning lamp appear. First time in July 2023, 2nd time in June 2024. Both times oil has just been changed 2-3 months prior. Saw articles that there was a recent lawsuit, which is why I am filling complaint as well. Not for lawsuit, but for repairs so this does not occur again.
2023-12-17

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-12-17
  • VIN: JM1GL1TY8M1
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: Engine oil low warning 2k miles after oil change and again a week after topping oil off.
2023-06-25

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-06-24
  • VIN: JM1GL1WY4M1
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: My car displayed a low oil level light between oil changes and after checking the dipstick it was low. No sign of visible oil leak so upon further research I was made aware of a TSB about defective valve seals causing excessive oil consumption. My cars VIN is in the affected range outlined in the TSB. Now when I drive it's likely that slow but permanent damage could be occuring in my vehicle.
2023-05-12

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-05-12
  • VIN: JM1GL1WY1M1
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: Low oil light comes on. Using excessive oil between oil changes.
2023-04-24

ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-04-24
  • VIN: JM1GL1UM5M1
  • Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: Oil Consumption Defect. I bought car on 7/10/21. Mazda aware of the problem at the time and still sold me the car. Since then I have had to add oil in between oil changes. Mazda states problem cannot be fixed. My car vin # included with defected cars. My Limited New Car Warranty will be up soon. I am aware others have concacted you with this problem. Can you tell me what is being done about this?
2023-02-28

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-02-28
  • VIN: JM1GL1WY6M1
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: Excessive oil burn. I have 12,7000 miles on my engine and the car is burning ~1 quart of oil every 3k miles and increasing.
2022-10-31

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-10-01
  • VIN: JM1GL1TY7M1
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
  • Summary: I been having problems with oil consumption in between oil changes,I am concerned with the potential for damage to other engine systems aside from the reported issue with the gasket stem seals. I been taking my car to the dealership and I been told they don’t have a solution and they don’t know how to fix it. This is a new car!!!
2022-10-31

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-10-24
  • VIN: JM1GL1WY0M1
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Mazda Mazda6. The contact stated that the oil light continually illuminated on the instrument panel while driving at various speeds. The contact had taken the vehicle to the dealer where he was informed that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of oil. Upon investigation, the contact discovered information that a defective valve in the engine might have been the cause of the failure. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 11,800.
2022-10-18

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-08-28
  • VIN: JM1GL1TY6M1
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: Vehicle displays low engine oil light about every 1,000 miles due to burning oil from faulty valve stem seals from factory assembly. Mazda has acknowledged the defect but plans to only refill engine oil. The defect could lead to possible injury due to low oil which could cause the engine to seize and cause sudden loss of power.
2022-09-19

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-09-18
  • VIN: JM1GL1WY3M1
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: The engine oil low light has illuminated multiple times. I verified that there is no external engine oil leak. I have added oil and driven it for a couple thousand miles and the light is now on again. The car is brand new and should not be burning oil. Its a known issue as Mazda has a service bulletin but no fix for it. This is the bulletin number TSB-01-012/21.
2022-07-17

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-07-17
  • VIN: JM1GL1XY4M1
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: Excessive oil consumption. Recently purchased new vehicle with 0 miles. Oil low level warning light on at 3500 miles. Manually checked oil level. Added one quart. Online research indicates problem is created by faulty valve guide seals which allows oil into the engine combustion chamber and exhaust. Vehicle will be taken to dealership for inspection.
2022-07-13

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-07-13
  • VIN: JM1GL1WY7M1
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: The low oil pressure light had turned on shortly after my first oil change (roughly at around 6k miles). I had the service done at a trusted service shop back in April 2021. I wrote it off mentally thinking that it was just a one off thing and that the shop may have made a mistake and underfilled the engine because of unclear specifications between the mazda6 Turbo version vs other models within the same lineup. I measured the oil and confirmed it was low and topped it off with over a half quart of oil and never bothered with it again. Six months later I return to the same shop for an oil change at 11k miles. I had no issues up until the 17k miles month mark when I am about to schedule the oil service the low oil pressure light turns on once again. I top it off and go online to see similar experiences with the same issue experienced by other drivers.
2022-07-06

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-07-06
  • VIN: JM1GL1WY4M1
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: Low engine oil light came on at around 13,700. Last oil change was at 10,000 miles. Checked oil dipstick, oil level slightly below first marker hole.
2022-06-16

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-06-11
  • VIN: JM1GL1WY4M1
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: The issue I am experiencing is one that many are in regards to the oil consumption. My check oil light came on prematurely in regards to the recommended scheduling for these sorts of vehicles, at around 3500 miles approximately. This is a vehicle that experienced this issue under 10k miles.
2022-04-07

VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-04-06
  • VIN: JM1GL1VM5M1
  • Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
  • Summary: Sunroof exploded while on the highway. Nothing hit the glass. Glass was facing outward and no evidence if anything striking it. Major safety concern, easily could have blinded my wife or I.
2021-12-27

VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-12-23
  • VIN: JM1GL1VM4M1
  • Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
  • Summary: Visibility/safety issue with OEM Mazda windshields. Objects appear highly distorted from all angles, making it hard to judge distance, read road signs, and drive safely without a disorienting level of distraction occurring at all times. Some objects appear magnified while others seem shrunken, as well as shorter or taller than they actually are. Straight lines appear rippled and in some cases, completely broken. Operating the vehicle for more than a few minutes results in rapid eye fatigue, motion sickness, and vertigo.

Negative 2021 Mazda Mazda6 car reviews

  1. Arely Harber 2024-08-09

    I recently leased the 'carbon edition'. Although it is a Japanese made car, I did not check out the technology it came with. If I had, I doubt that I would have leased it. My biggest complaint is that it does not have a touch screen, unlike my 2018 Charger and 2019 Mustang which both have touch screens. The screen itself and toggle switch are not user-friendly and have not been updated in this 'special' model. If I am driving and want to change a destination, I have to pull over, put the car in park, put the emergency brake on, and then change where I want to go. On a positive note, the car is quick, handles like a dream, and is comfortable. However, it is way behind in terms of the technology used. If you are looking for updated tech, consider something else.

  2. Daryl Marvin 2024-08-09

    I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to share my recent experience with my new 2021 Mazda 6 Touring Plus. During the point of sale, I noticed some paint chipping on the hood and side panel. The dealer has kindly offered to touch it up, but I have since learned that this is a common issue with many Mazdas. Although I am a bit concerned that I may have purchased a lemon, I am happy to report that the car drives well. Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.

  3. Wilton Gislason 2024-08-07

    Hi there! It seems like there might be an issue with the fob as the trunk keeps opening on its own even while driving.

  4. Reymundo Jenkins 2024-06-12

    I always wanted a Mazda 6 Grand Touring. I finally bought a brand new 2021 Mazda 6 GT, but I am disappointed with my purchase. The engine has a 0 to 60 time of 7.1 sec and lacks the power I was hoping for. Additionally, the vehicle feels heavy and unsporty, making it difficult for me to get in and out of the car. While the infotainment system looks outdated, I do appreciate the center knob near the shifter. Overall, I am considering trading in this vehicle for something that better suits my needs and preferences.

  5. Jessy Hamill 2024-05-11

    I went to test drive this car, but unfortunately, it did not meet my expectations. Although it looks beautiful and well-made, the interior seating, even with the signature comfort seats, was too firm for my liking. The back seats were also uncomfortable due to their straight and hard design. Additionally, the technology and interior seemed outdated compared to other options in this price range. I have driven a Kia Optima from 2015 that was more comfortable, had better technology, and was easier to drive. Considering the price of the Signature, there are much better options available. I did have a minor issue with the salesman driving the car for 5 miles before handing it over to me, but in hindsight, it gave me ample time to realize that this car was not the right fit for me.

Positive 2021 Mazda Mazda6 car reviews

  1. Alfred Schumm 2024-11-11

    Great seats, comfortable ride, good acceleration and accessories!

  2. Hoyt Stokes 2024-09-29

    Very responsive, handles like a dream, and you won't see many on the road. This is a rare beast!!

  3. Christian Rolfson 2024-07-22

    I hope you're doing well! I wanted to share my experience with the Mazda6 sedan. It's a great car that's comfortable, reliable, and inexpensive to run. The ride is smooth and relaxed, making it perfect for long drives. Plus, it's got enough sport and zoom-zoom to make back-road forays enjoyable. Our Mazda6 is one level above the base, so for less than $28k, we get a naturally aspirated and responsive engine that's proven to be reliable. We expect to get a decade or more of low-hassle performance from it. It's not an SUV or a jacked-up truck, but it's perfect for our needs. The only negatives are the infomatics (but Car Play works well) and sound quality, which could be better. There's also a bit of wind and tire noise at high speeds. Overall, it's a good car from one of the industry's top-rated brands that will last and continue to work. Thanks for listening!

  4. Floyd West 2024-06-28

    Sporty handling with a smooth ride and a great interior.

  5. Mose Feest 2024-06-14

    Great car! It feels like a luxury vehicle.

Leave your review of 2021 Mazda Mazda6

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2021 Mazda Mazda6 problems:

2018-2021 Reliability : r/mazda6
2018-2021 Reliability : r/mazda6
https://www.reddit.com/r/mazda6/comments/185kvzk/20182021_reliability/

Nov 28, 2023 ... Few known issues are the notorious OEM brakes known for warping (easily solved by switching to Powerstops), terrible OEM tires, soft paint and a ...

Mazda 6 2014-2021: pros and cons, common problems
Mazda 6 2014-2021: pros and cons, common problems
https://www.samarins.com/reviews/mazda6-14.html

Jan 28, 2023 ... 2014-2019 Mazda 6 common problems: Common problems are mostly minor, such as bad wheel bearings, failed rear brake calipers, thin paint that ...

Burning oil Issue on 2021 Mazdas? : r/mazda6
Burning oil Issue on 2021 Mazdas? : r/mazda6
https://www.reddit.com/r/mazda6/comments/112tb44/burning_oil_issue_on_2021_mazdas/

Feb 15, 2023 ... Just searched this sub for other people experiencing oil issues, I have a 2018 Mazda 6 with the 2.5 turbo that's eating oil, checked my vin for ...

2021 Mazda6 Problems, Issues & Top Complaints - Is Your Car A ...
2021 Mazda6 Problems, Issues & Top Complaints - Is Your Car A ...
https://lemberglaw.com/2021-mazda-mazda6-problems-complaints-lemon/

Aug 25, 2023 ... Faulty Valve Stem Seals: The car is coming off of the assembly line with faulty valve stem seals. This defect is allowing for the oil to burn ...

2021 Mazda 6 Reliability - Consumer Reports
2021 Mazda 6 Reliability - Consumer Reports
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/mazda/6/2021/reliability/

"The system is painfully slow. Tye 6 was neglected for upgrades in the 2020/2021 models so Tye hardware is extremely outdated and underpowered. The system pulls ...

Other years of Mazda Mazda6

mazda mazda6 2002 photo
Mazda6 2002
Mazda

28

1

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda mazda6 2003 photo
Mazda6 2003
Mazda

175

9

20

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda mazda6 2004 photo
Mazda6 2004
Mazda

184

7

25

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda mazda6 2005 photo
Mazda6 2005
Mazda

153

6

28

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda mazda6 2006 photo
Mazda6 2006
Mazda

193

6

29

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda mazda6 2007 photo
Mazda6 2007
Mazda

164

6

23

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Are you having problems with your 2021 Mazda Mazda6?

Add car complaint
2021 Mazda Mazda6 photo