Mazda Mazdaspeed6 problems

General information about Mazda Mazdaspeed6
Mazda Mazdaspeed6 years list
Overview of popular issues
Recalls 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.

photo of Mazda Mazdaspeed6 car production

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Mazda Mazdaspeed6 model years

Mazdaspeed6 2007

Mazda

Complaints

Recalls

Reviews

3.3

Mazdaspeed6 2006

Mazda

Complaints

Recalls

Reviews

2.9

Common Mazda Mazdaspeed6 problems

Based on the complaints from owners of the Mazda MAZDASPEED6, several common problems have been identified:

Oil Blowing Out of Turbo Seals: Owners have reported this issue in the 2007 MAZDASPEED6, with 2 complaints. This problem can lead to oil leaks, affecting engine performance and potentially causing damage if not addressed promptly.
Loud Ticking Noise from Engine: Seen in the 2006 MAZDASPEED6 with 2 complaints, this issue indicates potential engine problems that may require inspection by a mechanic. Ignoring this noise could lead to more severe engine issues over time.
Uneven and Premature Front Tire Wear: Owners of the 2006 MAZDASPEED6 have reported 2 complaints regarding this issue. Uneven tire wear can affect the vehicle's handling and safety, highlighting the importance of regular tire maintenance and alignment checks.
Rear Axle Breakage: One complaint has been made about the rear axle breaking in the 2006 MAZDASPEED6. A broken rear axle can pose a serious safety hazard, leading to loss of control while driving. Immediate attention and repair are necessary.
Stretched Timing Chain: Reported in the 2007 MAZDASPEED6 with 1 complaint, a stretched timing chain can cause engine timing issues, affecting performance and potentially leading to engine damage if not addressed promptly.
Engine Issues: Owners have made 5 complaints related to engine problems. Engine issues can vary widely and may include issues like overheating, loss of power, or unusual noises, all of which require professional diagnosis and repair.
Suspension Problems: 2 complaints have been made regarding suspension issues. Problems with the suspension can impact the vehicle's handling, comfort, and safety, necessitating inspection and potential replacement of components.
Drivetrain Concerns: 1 complaint has been reported about drivetrain issues. Drivetrain problems can manifest as difficulty shifting gears, unusual noises, or vibrations, indicating the need for a thorough inspection to prevent further damage.

These common problems reported by owners of the Mazda MAZDASPEED6 highlight the importance of regular maintenance, prompt attention to any unusual symptoms, and professional repairs to ensure the vehicle's reliability and safety.

What is the most common problem with Mazda 6?

What is the mileage of a Mazdaspeed 6?

Based on data from 48 vehicles, 5,796 fuel-ups and 1,484,126 miles of driving, the 2006 Mazda 6 gets a combined Avg MPG of 20.93 with a 0.11 MPG margin of error. Below you can see a distribution of the fuel-ups with 106 outliers (1.80%) removed.

Is the Mazda 6 v6 reliable?

The Mazda 6 can run up to 200,000 miles with minimal problems as you follow its proper service schedule and keep up with its regular maintenance. The Mazda 6 got a 4 out of 5 rating and ranked 6th out of 24 midsize cars in terms of reliability on RepairPal.

How many Mazdaspeed 6 were made?

Production numbers for the Speed6 were kept to a minimum, with approximately 5,000 units built for both the 06' and 07' model years, making it a possible future classic.

Latest 5 recalls Mazda Mazdaspeed6

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 8 recalls for different components of the Mazda Mazdaspeed6.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

Model: Mazda Mazdaspeed6 2006
Report Received Date: 2021-09-24
Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2009-2011 RX-8 and 2006-2007 MazdaSpeed6 vehicles. Fuel may leak from the fuel pump mounting rings.
Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Dealers will install new fuel pump mounting rings. Dealers will also add a thermal insulation pad to the fuel tank on RX-8 vehicles. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 17, 2021. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, Option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 5121I.

Model: Mazda Mazdaspeed6 2007
Report Received Date: 2021-09-24
Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2009-2011 RX-8 and 2006-2007 MazdaSpeed6 vehicles. Fuel may leak from the fuel pump mounting rings.
Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Dealers will install new fuel pump mounting rings. Dealers will also add a thermal insulation pad to the fuel tank on RX-8 vehicles. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 17, 2021. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, Option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 5121I.

Model: Mazda Mazdaspeed6 2006
Report Received Date: 2019-10-31
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.

Model: Mazda Mazdaspeed6 2007
Report Received Date: 2019-10-31
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.

Model: Mazda Mazdaspeed6 2006
Report Received Date: 2018-06-15
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.

Latest negative Mazda Mazdaspeed6 car reviews

Dayne Roob 2025-04-15

Vehicle year: 2006

We purchased our car in June and loved everything about it, especially the great acceleration for highway passing and interstate merging. However, after Mazda implemented recall 4106E to eliminate engine knocking by changing the ignition timing, we noticed a significant reduction in acceleration without a hint of the turbo kicking in. Although the recall was classified as an emission recall, we dutifully had it performed in August. We had the dealer check out the condition and were told that all was as specified by the recall. Unfortunately, the loss of acceleration is enough that we cannot recommend the Speed6 to anyone. It's a real shame that Mazda took the Zoom-Zoom out of our Speed6!
Oda Farrell 2025-04-09

Vehicle year: 2006

We all reach a point where we need to make some changes in our lives. For me, it was when I became a parent for the first time. I had to say goodbye to my beloved 2-seater sports car and find something with a backseat that was still enjoyable to drive and had all the luxury features I wanted. After looking at various models, I found that the MazdaSpeed6 was the perfect choice for me. It strikes the perfect balance between performance and luxury. The engine is powerful and responsive, and the brakes are sharp. The interior is both sporty and comfortable.
Akeem Rogahn 2025-01-29

Vehicle year: 2006

I've owned several cars in both Europe and America, but unfortunately, I have to say that 'this' car was the worst of them all. I'm not someone who abuses automobiles, but I had to replace the clutch twice and the transmission once. The first time the transmission went out was at 108k (clutch as well). I had an ongoing problem with the hydraulic clutch for over 20k, but it was finally resolved by replacing the clutch pedal and completely draining the entire hydraulic reservoir. Unfortunately, the car nearly stranded me and my family 70 miles from home when the transfer case went out. I spent over 5k in repairs, and I only owned the car for 4 years. If you come across this car, I would suggest you stay away from it...
Conrad Volkman 2024-11-14

Vehicle year: 2007

As a long-time Mazda owner and the owner of a 2004 Mazda 6 V6/5speed, traded in at 60K miles for this 2006 MazdaSpeed6, I have a couple of things to say. Although I have had some issues with my MS6, such as rear end whine since 1100 miles, 2 sets of front tires in 3400 miles, and a couple of CELs, I am confident in my assessment that Mazda is not keeping their word. Unfortunately, it took Mazda 6 weeks to decide what to do after reneging on a promise of a buyback and replacement with another Mazda. Therefore, I would not recommend purchasing this car or trusting Mazda.
Keshaun Turcotte 2024-07-21

Vehicle year: 2006

Hello! I just wanted to share my experience with this car. I absolutely love driving it, it suits me so well! At 6'1

Latest positive Mazda Mazdaspeed6 car reviews

Dorian Frami 2025-04-09

Vehicle year: 2007

I purchased this car used for my 16-year-old who has been learning to drive a stick on my Dakota 4x4. He's been doing quite well, but he really lights up when he gets behind the wheel of my A8. That's why we decided to go for a sporty car for his first ride. This car is a pocket rocket! It pulls hard, stops straight, and corners very well. The leather seats are very comfortable and show virtually no creasing. Everything works as it should, which is a testament to the build quality. The previous owner had an additional shock stabilizer on the fronts, which sheared off a bolt when he removed it, but it does not affect handling. You can feel the rear diff mechanicals kick in, which adds to the excitement of driving this car.
Guillermo Morar 2025-04-06

Vehicle year: 2007

It's great to hear about your experience with different car brands and how you usually have a clear idea of what you want before making a purchase. Your research process is impressive! However, I'm glad to hear that you decided to try out a Mazda and that it did not disappoint. The exterior design of the car is definitely eye-catching and the clean lines give it a sleek look. It's wonderful to hear that the car drives smoothly and has tight steering with no rattles. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the Mazda!
Manuela Vandervort 2025-04-04

Vehicle year: 2006

I really enjoyed my experience with this car from the moment I bought it. The six-speed standard transmission made it feel very fast and exciting to drive. The 18-inch tires that came with it were excellent and provided great traction, especially in corners. The car itself has a very cool and stylish look. While the insurance cost and tire prices were a bit higher, the stereo system with the Bose speakers, six-disc changer, and satellite radio upgrade was definitely worth it. The all-wheel drive and traction control made for a powerful and smooth ride, and the HID headlights were both bright and stylish. The car handled amazingly well on the highway, with no body roll even when changing lanes at high speeds. I even installed a cold air intake, which made it sound even better!
Wilton Harris 2025-03-29

Vehicle year: 2006

The car's performance on wet roads is truly impressive. The braking ability is also noteworthy, instilling confidence in the driver. The ride is firm yet comfortable, and the handling is smooth even in tight turns. The DSC system is unobtrusive and only activates during major weight shifts. While the clutch may take some time to get used to, it is easy to learn even in urban driving with hills. This car is an excellent choice for road trips, as both the driver and passengers arrive feeling relaxed. Although the shifts are a bit heavy, they are still smooth. Additionally, this car can outrun the majority of other vehicles on the road, especially in bad weather.
Geoffrey Waelchi 2025-03-24

Vehicle year: 2006

Congratulations on your purchase! It's great to hear that out of the 9 vehicles you've owned, this one is your favorite. Although you had to have the transmission rebuilt at 18000 miles, it's wonderful that it was covered under warranty. It seems like there are a few minor issues with the car, such as the reverse lights not working and inconsistent power due to a hyper-sensitive knock sensor, but it's great that you've found ways to improve the power with Mobile1 Extended Performance and plan to add some upgrades like a new intake, exhaust, lowering sport springs, and a COBB ECU programmer. With these upgrades, you should be able to take care of the power issues and even increase the peak HP to over 325! Overall, it sounds like a great car, but it's important to note that there may be some issues to deal with. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!