1996 Mazda Mx-6 problems
The Mazda MX-6 is a front-engine, front-wheel-drive coupé manufactured and marketed by Mazda from 1987 to 1997 across two generations.
Mechanically identical to the Ford Probe, the Capella/626 and its hatchback platform mate, the Ford Telstar, these cars shared the GD (1988–1992) and GE (1993–1997) platforms. The MX-6 replaced the 626 Coupé, although it continued to share the same chassis.
The MX-6, 626, and Ford Probe were manufactured at joint-venture plants either by AutoAlliance in Flat Rock, Michigan, for the North American market, and by Mazda Japan for Asian and European markets.
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Common 1996 Mazda Mx-6 problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Mazda MX-6 1996, several common problems have been reported:
- Transmission Jerking: Owners have experienced hard jerks when transitioning from first to second gear, resembling hitting a large pothole. This issue is intermittent and can sometimes be mitigated by releasing the gas at the right moment. It is a significant concern affecting the driving experience and potentially the vehicle's overall performance.
- Power Window Malfunction: Another prevalent problem involves the driver's side power window buttons ceasing to function correctly. In some cases, the window may go down but struggle to go back up. Finding replacement modules for this issue can be challenging, indicating a widespread problem among MX-6 owners.
- Oil Leakage into Spark Plug Wells: Owners have reported oil leaking into the spark plug wells, leading to performance issues and potential damage if not addressed promptly. This problem can be costly to fix, requiring new valve cover gaskets to prevent further oil seepage and maintain the engine's integrity.
- Cup Holder Instability: The cup holder in the Mazda MX-6 has a tendency to fall out, especially when holding a hot drink. This recurring issue can be inconvenient and frustrating for drivers, impacting the overall usability and comfort of the vehicle.
- Defogging Challenges: During rainy weather, owners have faced difficulties in effectively defogging all windows of the Mazda MX-6. This issue poses a safety concern, as inadequate visibility can compromise driving conditions, especially in humid regions where fogging is more common.
- Belt Squeaking and Snapping: A notable problem involves a belt connecting the alternator and the A/C system, which emits loud squeaking noises upon starting the car. Accelerating rapidly or using the A/C can lead to belt snapping, triggering warning lights and potential electrical issues. Replacing the belt may offer a temporary solution, but the problem tends to recur, indicating a persistent mechanical issue.
These common problems reported by Mazda MX-6 1996 owners highlight various mechanical, electrical, and usability issues that can affect the vehicle's performance, safety, and overall driving experience. Addressing these concerns promptly through proper maintenance and repairs is crucial to ensure the longevity and reliability of the Mazda MX-6.
Are mx6s reliable?
MX6-LS is Very Reliable Car - Still Fun To Drive
I purchased this car used, and have put over 70,000 miles since then. It has a 5-spd with the 2.4L V6, ABS, sunroof and leather interior. Very fun to drive, even after having it for several years. This car handles extremely well, with newer tires.
Is the Mazda MX-6 rare?
Ford eventually ended up redesigning the Mustang. The MX-6 has gained something of a cult following among car enthusiasts, making them rarer to be found in the wild. Here are 10 reasons why the Mazda MX-6 is still so sought after.
What is the fuel economy of a 1996 Mazda MX-6?
Mazda MX-6 1996 Fuel consumption
The Mazda MX-6 currently offers fuel consumption from 9.3 to 9.8L/100km.
What engine is in the Mazda MX-6?
The base MX-6 comes with a 2-liter, 16-valve, 118-h.p. 4-cylinder engine; the LS with a 2.5-liter, 24- valve, 164-h.p. V-6.
1996 Mazda Mx-6 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mazda Mx-6 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Air bags problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Wheels problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1996 Mazda Mx-6 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1996 Mazda Mx-6 complaints
The NHTSA has received 15 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1996 Mazda Mx-6.
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-01-01
- VIN: 1YVGE31D8T5
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: ALL 4 WHEELS ARE CRACKED ON THE OUTSIDE, AND BAC SIDE OF THE RIMS. THEY LOOK DEEP AND THE WHEELS MIGHT BREAK AT ANY TIME. *NM
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-07-28
- VIN: 1YVGE31D1T5
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: VEHICLE WAS GOING 55MPH , AND CONSUMER WAS NOT SURE WHAT VEHICLE RAN OVER, BUT AIR BAG DEPLOYED. NOTHING WAS HIT, AND NO DAMAGE WAS DONE. NO INJURIES. CONSUMER IS CONTACTING MANUFACTURER. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-03-27
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: ADD
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: HEAD-ON CRASH AT 35-40 MPH, AND NEITHER AIRBAG DEPLOYED. DRIVER SUSTAINED INJURIES. *AK
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1YVGE31D9T5
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: ENGINE CHECK LIGHT REMAINS ILLUMINATED, INDICATING A MALFUNCTION WITHIN THE SYSTEM, CAUSE UNKNOWN. PLEASE GIVE ANY FURTHER DETAILS. *AK
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-12-07
- VIN: 1YVGE31C9T5
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOV EVEHICLE. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-04-01
- VIN: 1YVGE22C3T5
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION JUST WENT OUT WITH NO SIGNS OR PROBLEMS, JUST STOP AND COULD NOT DRIVE VEHICLE.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1YVGE31C955
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,AIR BAGS
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT. POINT OF IMPACT WAS DRIVERS SIDE, FRONT AT 60 TO 65 MPH, IN WHICH THERE WAS NO DEPLOYMENT OF DRIVER'S OR PASSENGER'S SIDE AIRBAGS. CAUSE UNKOWN. ALSO BRAKE ROTORS HAVE EXCESSIVE WEAR AND TEAR. CAUSE ALSO UNKNOWN.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-04-21
- VIN: 1YVGE31D4T5
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: FALSE/VIOLENT DEPLOYMENT OF AIR BAG, RESULTING IN INJURIES.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-03-06
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1YVGE31D9T5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ON GOOD ROAD CONDITIONS, NO RAIN, DRIVER APPLIED THE BRAKES IN A REGULAR STOPPING SITUATION AND THE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR, CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO CRASH INTO THE REAR OF A TRUCK. THE VEHICLE IS BEING REPAIRED. THE DEALERSHIP COULD NOT FIND A PROBLEM WITH THE BRAKE SYSTEM. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-07-01
- VIN: 4F4CR16UOTT
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: VACUUM HOSE FAILED CAUSING TRUCK TO HESITATE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-02-13
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: FALSE DEPLOYMENT OF DRIVER'S AND PASSENGER'S AIR BAGS. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-02-13
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: BOTH AIR BAGS DEPLOYED SPONTANEOUSLY.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-02-02
- VIN: PLEASE FILL
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: WHILE LIFTING HOOD UP THE HOOD FELL DOWN ON THE CONSUMER. THE CONSUMER WAS NOT HURT BUT COULD HAVE BEEN HURT VERY BADLY. *AK
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1YVGE31D8T5
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATES WITH CAUSE NOT KNOWN. SECOND TIME DEALERSHIP REPLACED A CLOCK SPRING. NOW FOR THE THIRD TIME AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT IS FLASHING AGAIN. CONSUMER WAS TOLD THIS MEANS AIR BAG IS DISFUNCTIONAL. PLEASE DESCRIBE DETAILS. *AK.
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-03-15
- VIN: 4F4CR1ZA8TT
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: HEADRESTS DO NOT EXTEND HIGH ENOUGH TO PROTECT DRIVER FROM INJURY. *DSH
1996 Mazda Mx-6 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1996 Mazda Mx-6.
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
- Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 1989-1998 MPV, 1990-1995 323, 1990-1998 Protege, 1992-1993 MX-3, 1993-1995 929, 1993-1997 MX-6, and 1993-1998 626 vehicles. In the affected vehicles, grease applied to the contact points inside the ignition switch may become conductive and overheat.
- Consequence: If the ignition switch overheats there would be an increased risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ignition switch, free of charge. The recall began on December 17, 2015. Owners may contact Mazda Customer Experience Center at 1-800-222-5500, option#6. Mazda's number for this recall is 8715J.
- Manufacturer: SPX FILTRAN
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CERTAIN SPX FILTRAN FUEL FILTERS WITH A 45-DEGREE ANGLE INLET TUBE, MODEL 800F350-S1, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT FILTERS FOR 1993-1997 FORD PROBE,1993-2001 MAZDA 626 AND MX-6, AND 1983-1994 LOYAL, 3-DOOR COUPE, HATCHBACK, SEDAN, WAGON, BRAT, DL, GL, GL-10, RX, XT, AND XT6 PASSENGER VEHICLES WITH EFI OR TURBO ENGINES. THESE FILTERS ARE PACKAGED AS WIX, NAPA, AND CARQUEST BRAND FUEL FILTERS. CERTAIN SPX FILTRAN FUEL FILTERS WITH A 90-DEGREE ANGLE INLET TUBE, MODEL 800F300-S2, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT FILTERS FOR 19983-1994 SUBARU VEHICLES WITH EFI OR TURBO ENGINES. THESE FILTERS ARE PACKAGED AS WIX, NAPA, AND CARQUEST BRAND FUEL FILTERS. FUEL MAY LEAK FROM THE FILTER DUE TO NON-CONFORMING BRAZING WELDS WHERE THE INLET TUBE IS CONNECTED TO THE FILTER CAN.
- Consequence: IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A VEHICLE FIRE CAN OCCUR.
- Remedy: SPX WILL NOTIFY ITS CUSTOMERS AND PROVIDE A FULL REFUND. THE RECALL BEGAN SEPTEMBER 27, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MR. CHRIS GREESON AT 704-869-3733 OR CONTACT THE WIX INFORMATION HOTLINE AT 800-949-6698.
- Manufacturer: MAZDA (NORTH AMERICA),INC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE SAS SENSOR UNIT. THESE VEHICLES CAN EXPERIENCE AIR BAG DEPLOYMENTS IN MINOR UNDERCARRIAGE IMPACTS.
- Consequence: UNEXPECTED AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT CAN RESULT IN OCCUPANT INJURY.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPROGRAM THE SAS UNIT TO REDUCE THE PROBABILITY OF UNNECESSARY DEPLOYMENTS IN LOW SPEED UNDERCARRIAGE IMPACTS.
Negative 1996 Mazda Mx-6 car reviews
Positive 1996 Mazda Mx-6 car reviews
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This car is a great choice, with excellent handling, acceleration, and ride quality. While there have been some mechanical issues that have arisen around the 65,000-mile mark, they have been mostly minor and have not detracted from the overall quality of the vehicle. Additionally, the car's sleek and stylish appearance makes it one of the most attractive options on the road.
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It was...I thought it was just another car for a short time, but now I love it. It's dependable, safe, and at 160,000 miles, it runs like no other. I like to keep it...
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One of my favorite cars.
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Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my car. I've actually owned it since January 1996 and I have to say, it's been amazing! With over 134K miles, it's still going strong and has never given me any problems. It's been the perfect car for my twenties and I'm really going to miss it when I have to upgrade to something bigger. But I'll definitely be keeping it around for those fun solo rides. Overall, I have to say it's been the best car buy ever! Thanks for listening.
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This car is incredibly reliable, with zero problems up to its current mileage of 110,000. It's also a blast to drive, even more so than an Integra. You may want to consider upgrading to a stronger engine.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1996 Mazda Mx-6 problems:
Common MX6 problems | Mazda MX-6 Forum
Sep 12, 2003 ... Common MX6 problems · Transmission jerks hard occasionally going from first to second gear; feels like you hit one huge pot hole. · Driver's side ...
Thinking about getting a Mazda MX-6 : r/mazda
Nov 6, 2013 ... Common problems are rust (it's a mazda, it will rust) - particularly around the rear wheel arches and the sills. Both engines have a tendancy to ...
General mx6 problems | Mazda MX-6 Forum
Aug 12, 2007 ... Now i just wanted to know is there anything i should look for inthe mx6 thats common with them. ... General Mazda MX-6 Discussions ... My 1996 MX6 ...
1996 Mazda MX-6 Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
Get 1996 Mazda MX-6 repair and maintenance costs, common problems, recalls, and more. Find certified Mazda mechanics near you.
reliability of MX-6's, 1993? | Mazda MX-6 Forum
Jan 15, 2003 ... i just got my '93 mx6 about 3 months ago, its got 106k miles on it hasnt had any engine problems ever that i know of, its due for a new clutch ...
Other years of Mazda Mx-6
Are you having problems with your 1996 Mazda Mx-6?
Paul Crist 2024-09-09
I bought this car when it was 2 years old with 50k miles and initially, I was very happy with it. However, after owning it for a couple of years, I started experiencing some issues with it overheating. I have replaced several parts including the hoses, water pump, thermometer, and radiator. Unfortunately, the transmission also failed and had to be replaced, only to have it fail again 2 years later. Currently, at 235k miles, I am experiencing overheating issues again and have replaced the hoses and radiator. It seems like I will also have to replace the water pump again. While I wouldn't recommend this car, I have been doing regular maintenance on it. I would love to get another car, but it's not feasible for me at the moment due to the current economic situation. Overall, I regret buying this car, but I have learned that you can't judge a book by its cover!
Cedrick Altenwerth 2024-05-01
I bought my MX-6 with 88,000 miles on the odometer. It had minor body damage which is being fixed. So far, I have replaced the spark plugs and brake pads. The car looks great and picks up speed effortlessly with the V6. I regularly hit ninety on the highway with no issues. Oh yeah, this car comes with a fantastic stock sound system. Overall, it's a great car with only a few minor issues that I have fixed. I would highly recommend it to any enthusiast driver who likes to cruise.
Keyshawn Kohler 2024-02-13
Japanese cars can be expensive, but they are worth it. Even if you buy domestic, it can be difficult to find a good service department. It's important to find a trustworthy mechanic who won't overcharge you for labor. While parts can be costly, it's worth investing in quality. If you're considering a high-performance foreign car, be prepared to spend a bit more. It's important to make an informed decision and budget accordingly.