2006 Mazda Mazdaspeed6 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.
Social links
Common 2006 Mazda Mazdaspeed6 problems
The Mazda Mazdaspeed6 2006, a high-performance variant of the Mazda 6, is known for its powerful 2.3-liter turbocharged engine and all-wheel-drive system. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems that owners have reported.
- Transmission Failure: Transmission failure is another common issue with the Mazda Mazdaspeed6 2006. The 2014 model is particularly infamous for this problem, with transmission failure occurring at an average mileage of 55,000 miles. The symptoms include slipping, delayed shifting, rough shifting, vibration, and jolting when shifting gears. The 2008 model also has transmission problems, but they occur at a higher mileage, with an average of 130,000 miles. The transmission failure can be an expensive issue to fix, and Mazda has acknowledged the problem by issuing an extended warranty for the 2009-2013 models.
- Melting Dash: The melting dash is a unique problem with the 2009-2013 models of the Mazda Mazdaspeed6. The dashboard is unable to withstand the heat from sunlight, causing it to melt along with the glue that covers it. This creates a sticky film that can be a nuisance and cause the dashboard to shine, reflecting light on the windshield and making it impossible to see through. Mazda has issued an extended warranty for the problem, covering the dash for 10 years. However, many owners have reported that they were not notified, and the warranty had expired by the time they found out about the issue.
- Suspension Issues: The Mazda Mazdaspeed6 2006 is known for its dense suspension, which provides a dynamic driving style. However, the rubber steering can interfere with the driving experience. The 2-liter diesel engine, in particular, has a high risk of costly repairs, especially if the vehicle has been driven on rough roads .
- Electrical Faults: The Mazda Mazdaspeed6 2006 has a complex electrical system that can be prone to faults, particularly in older models. Common issues include problems with the central locking, windows, and dashboard displays .
- Rust: The Mazda Mazdaspeed6 2006 is prone to rust, particularly on cars that have been exposed to salt on the roads in winter. Rust can form around the wheel arches, the sills, and the floor pan, which can be an expensive issue to fix .
In conclusion, the Mazda Mazdaspeed6 2006 is a high-performance vehicle with a powerful engine and all-wheel-drive system. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems that owners have reported. Engine failure, transmission failure, melting dash, suspension issues, electrical faults, and rust are some of the most common problems with the Mazda Mazdaspeed6 2006. It is essential to be aware of these issues and consider them when purchasing or maintaining the vehicle.
Why was Mazdaspeed6 discontinued?
Both the MazdaSpeed6 and Mazda6 Sport Wagon have been discontinued for the 2008 model year. The demise of the Sport Wagon comes at the hands of higher demand for the standard Sports Sedan and Mazda6 5-door.
How many 2006 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.
What is the mileage of a Mazdaspeed 6?
Based on data from 48 vehicles, 5,791 fuel-ups and 1,482,891 miles of driving, the 2006 Mazda 6 gets a combined Avg MPG of 20.93 with a 0.11 MPG margin of error.
What engine is in a 2006 Mazdaspeed 6?
The new 2006 MazdaSpeed6 ($27,995), a high-performance version of the Mazda 6 sedan, powered by a direct-injection 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine turbocharged to 274 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque.
2006 Mazda Mazdaspeed6 complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2006 Mazda Mazdaspeed6.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2006 Mazda Mazdaspeed6 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2006 Mazda Mazdaspeed6.
- 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.
- 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.
Negative 2006 Mazda Mazdaspeed6 car reviews
Positive 2006 Mazda Mazdaspeed6 car reviews
-
This car is a joy to drive! It feels lighter and more agile the harder you push it, making it a truly enjoyable experience. Although it may seem heavy and sluggish under normal driving circumstances, it really shines when you put it to the test. I was able to get some great discounts/rebates on this car, making it an even better deal. The AWD works wonders in the snow with a good set of all-season tires. If you're driving in snowy conditions, don't even bother with summer tires. Additionally, there's plenty of room for my growing family. Overall, I'm very happy with my purchase!
-
The handling of this car is truly remarkable. It's hard to find a better car without spending a lot more money on a German sedan. While the ride can be a bit stiff, as many have mentioned, buyers willing to spend an extra 3k on this particular drive-train probably expect it. I've had my Speed 6 for six months now and I must say, it's everything I hoped it would be. It's a reliable and reasonably economical commuter that's capable of raising hell on weekends (Tail of the Dragon & no tickets, yeah!). If you're looking for a grown-up car that outperforms most V8 coupes without the hefty price and bad mileage, this is the car for you.
-
I used to own a 2007 Mazda Speed 3, which I sold at 84,000 miles. I missed the turbo of that car, so I bought a used 2006 Speed 6. The Speed 6 came out a year earlier than the Speed 3 and had AWD, which was a better option than the front drive of the 3. I think Mazda missed an opportunity by not giving the 3 AWD, which would have made it a better car compared to the Subaru WRX. The Sp6 only made two years, 06 and 07, with 5,000 units each year. Both cars have heavy steering and are not great for stop and go town driving. The manual needs precise shifting, or you will start in 3rd instead of 1st and downshift from 5th to 4th instead of going to 5 to 6. However, the pros of this car are that it provides stealth performance with reliability. I recommend not modifying the Sp 6 or 3 because it can shorten the car's life and cause reliability problems over the long haul. I have a big grin when on CA HWY 5 going back and forth from LA when some BMW or MB tries to blow by me when tailgating me. I don't even downshift but just put the pedal down to let the 280 lbs of torque do its thing. I see instant distance in the rearview mirror. They don't say anything at all when I slow down to normal speed because they know they just got snuffed by a car for way less price - a MAZDA??? I get 25 mpg if I keep the highway speed between 70 and 75 mph, which is higher than forecasted by Mazda. I put Mazda RX8 wheels on because they look much sharper than the stock rims and give a BMW look. I bought my car at the end of 2015 with 91,000 miles and now have 112,000. I have other cars for daily in-town transportation, like the Mazda Protege 5 wagon, and use the 6 only for trips. The PR 5 is a great road trip car as well and has even more comfortable seats than the Spd 6. Until I bought those Mazdas, I never knew much, but I can say they have been reliable, fun to drive due to handling, and the stealth of both cars is satisfying.I've owned Porsches, but I'd take the Mazda any time for a lot less money. I don't need to show off with those high-priced, unreliable cars.
-
Great car to drive. It can be a bit challenging to do your own maintenance since the engine is packed in there.
-
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to say that I recently traded in my Mustang GT for a Black MS6, which is my first experience with an AWD vehicle. I have to say, the MS6 is an amazing car that can give even the elite group (Audi S, BMW M, Mercedes AMG, etc.) a run for their money. It's so much fun to drive and handles very well, with only a hint of understeer. The brakes are fantastic, but I do think it needs better tires. On the highway, it's a dream. In 6th gear, it pulls like a champ with gobs of available acceleration. However, I do think the car needs better torque delivery from a standstill. It feels like a 4 cylinder Honda up until 3500 RPM when it pulls like crazy. The clutch action is a bit tricky, requiring very careful application. Lastly, I have to admit that gas mileage is not great, even with careful use of the turbo. Overall, I'm really happy with my purchase and I think you would be too!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2006 Mazda Mazdaspeed6 problems:
Some questions about the reliability of the mazdaspeed6 : r/mazda
Feb 14, 2014 ... I've gone down the Mazda Speed6 road a couple times. In fact I have one saved in Marketplace at this time. A 2006 manual AWD. But I know I ...
Mazdaspeed 6 issues! | Mazda 6 Forums
Oct 9, 2012 ... It is the most common thing for a mazdaspeed6 to have happen. It's the VVT Actuator failing causing slop on the timing chain. My car is doing it ...
What to know before buying a used Mazdaspeed 6? : r/mazda
Sep 4, 2013 ... ... 2006 Mazdaspeed 6. I found a Craigslist ... http://forum.mazda6club.com/mazdaspeed6/236974-mazdaspeed-6 ... a common problem is the thermostat ...
Talk me in or out of a MazdaSpeed 6| Grassroots Motorsports forum |
... 2006 MazdaSpeed 6 ... But, don't the V6's have nasty problems with the pre-cat coming apart and destroying the engine? ... The PCV issues were ...
2006 Mazda 6 Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
Top 2006 Mazda 6 Problems · Engine Overheating Due to Failed Cooling Fan Control Module · Ticking Noise From Valve Lash Adjusters Due to Infrequent Oil Changes.
Other years of Mazda Mazdaspeed6
Are you having problems with your 2006 Mazda Mazdaspeed6?
Keshaun Turcotte 2024-07-21
Hello! I just wanted to share my experience with this car. I absolutely love driving it, it suits me so well! At 6'1
Clovis Turcotte 2024-05-16
This car has experienced several issues, including a broken differential bracket, a stuck E-brake, engine oil leaks, poor quality tires, a clunking sound when turning the steering wheel, and turbo lag. Despite being a new car with only 20,000 miles, it has had multiple recalls. However, I am confident that these issues can be resolved with the right attention and care.
Chandler Schultz 2024-04-15
This is a great alternative to the Evo and Sti on paper. However, with the lack of drivetrain/engine testing by Mazda, virtually no aftermarket parts available, terrible resale value, and awful customer service, this car was truly a bust. The clutch is hard to drive with its abnormally high engagement point, though there was a recent technical service bulletin to fix it.