Known Faults Database

Mazda Mazda6 problems, reliability and years to avoid

If you are considering buying a used Mazda Mazda6, these are the common problems worth knowing about first. Our garage database tracks 4 known faults for this model, 3 of them rated high severity. Every one below is a repair bill a seller has good reason not to mention.

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Is the Mazda Mazda6 reliable?

The Mazda Mazda6 has 4 known faults in our database across 2 generations, 3 of them rated high severity. The most serious are engine (engine oil contamination on the 2.2 diesel leads to a blocked oil pick-up strainer) and engine (DPF regenerations causing oil dilution, premature camshaft wear). None of them makes the car a bad buy on its own; the risk is a seller who knows and says nothing.

That is a count of the faults we hold, not a reliability score. Popular cars get written about more, and a newer generation has had less time to show its faults.

Which Mazda Mazda6 years should you avoid?

No year is a write-off on its own. What matters is which serious faults a given year and engine can have, and whether the car in front of you has had them fixed.

GH, 2008 to 20121 high severity

1 known fault, the serious ones in the engine

BM / GJ / KE, 2012 to 20162 high severity

3 known faults, the serious ones in the engine

Years and engines with a serious known fault

2008 to 2012, 2.2 diesel (MZR-CD): engine oil contamination on the 2.2 diesel leads to a blocked oil pick-up
2012 to 2016, 2.2 SkyActiv-D: DPF regenerations causing oil dilution, premature camshaft wear
2012 to 2016, 2.2 SkyActiv-D (SH-VPTS): early 2.2 SkyActiv-D engines suffer exhaust camshaft wear

Each one is set out in full below, with the symptoms, the typical mileage and a rough repair cost.

Generation 1 of 21 known fault · 28 owner reports · 4 good notes

Mazda Mazda6 GH (2008 to 2012) problems

Engine/EmissionsHigh severity💬 14 owner reports, 2012 to 2019

Engine oil contamination on the 2.2 diesel leads to a blocked oil pick-up strainer in the sump and, often, a stretched timing chain. Leaking injector seals and DPF regenerations that end up putting diesel in the sump both foul the oil; carbon and metal debris then block the strainer, the oil pressure light comes on and engines have failed outright. Owners report blocked strainers from about 36,000 miles, several engines needing replacement, and worn or stretched timing chains from about 46,000 miles.

Typical symptoms

oil pressure warning light
oil level rising on the dipstick between services
DPF warning light
loud rattle from the timing chain

Affected vehicles

Engines:: 2.2 diesel (MZR-CD)
Typical mileage:: 36000-106000 miles

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What owners report on the GH

28 single reports, unconfirmed

One owner each, in their own words rewritten as a line, and not counted in our risk scoring. A fault joins the list above once a second report or an editorial source backs it.

Electrics · August 2019The airbag warning light illuminated on a 2008 Mazda 6 after airbag recall work was completed in April 2019, possibly due to a loose connection.
Exhaust · June 2019A 2012 Mazda 6 had its DPF light illuminate at 98,000 miles, with a damaged timing chain attributed to diesel in the sump.
Bodywork · April 2019Rust was reported inside the tailgate of a 2011 Mazda 6 estate, but the warranty was voided because annual bodywork inspections were missed.
Engine · November 2018A 2009 Mazda 6 estate experienced timing chain and camshaft problems at 76,000 miles, with a tensioner failure causing the chain to become slack.
Suspension and steering · March 2018The power assistance to the steering failed on a 2011 Mazda 6 Tourer.
Exhaust · December 2017The DPF light illuminated on a 2010 Mazda 6 2.2 diesel at 99,000 miles due to the filter filling with ash, costing £400 to clean or £1,000 to replace.
Engine · November 2017A 2009 Mazda 6 engine and turbo failed at 106,000 miles due to a blocked oil sump strainer, despite regular servicing.
Brakes · July 2017Multiple brake problems, including sticking callipers, were reported on an 83,000-mile 2010 Mazda 6 automatic, requiring replacement of pins, discs, and pads.
Engine · March 2017A flashing DPF light on a 2011 Mazda 6 2.2 diesel at 57,000 miles led to the discovery of premature timing chain wear.
Engine · January 2017A 2009 Mazda 6 with a 1.8 petrol engine exhibited heavy oil consumption, which the dealer attributed to gentle driving habits.
Engine · September 2016The oil pressure light illuminated on a 2010 Mazda 6 Sport diesel at 66,000 miles, caused by a blocked sump oil strainer and a seized injector.
Engine · September 2015A 2.2 diesel Mazda 6 suffered from a blocked oil filter screen in the sump at 36,200 miles, leading to the car's rejection.
Engine · August 2015A Mazda 6 2.2 diesel failed to regenerate its DPF, leading to diesel contamination in the sump and subsequent engine failure.
Suspension and steering · June 2015A used 2011 Mazda 6 with 78,000 miles required a new steering rack before sale due to a faulty torque sensor.
Engine · November 2014A 2008 Mazda 6 diesel at 62,500 miles experienced fuel injector seal failure, leading to carbon contamination and a blocked oil strainer.
Engine · March 2014A 2009 Mazda 6 2.2 diesel engine failed at 53,000 miles, with warning lights appearing before an oil and filter change, indicating an oil strainer problem.
Engine · March 2014A Mazda 2.2 diesel had its oil light activate due to a carbonised oil strainer, which recurred after cleaning, indicating leaking injector seals.
Engine · January 2014An injector seal failed on a 43,000-mile 2009 Mazda 6 2.2 diesel, resulting in total engine failure; Mazda contributed £3,800 to the repair.
Engine · November 2013Contaminated sumps on Mazda 6 diesels can result from the engine management system not being informed of a service, leading to continuous DPF regeneration.
General · November 2013A 2011 Mazda 6 2.2 180PS diesel completed 120,000 miles without any DPF problems, described by its owner as "totally bomb proof.".
Engine · June 2013The timing chain of a 2.2 diesel Mazda 6 wore against the engine block on a 2009 car at 46,000 miles, creating swarf that blocked oilways.
Engine · May 2013A DPF problem on a 65,000-mile 2.2 diesel Mazda 6 was attributed by the dealer to a stretched timing chain.
Engine · July 2012A 2.2 diesel engine failed at 36,500 miles due to a DPF issue, causing the oil/fuel mixture to reach 8.5 litres.
Engine · February 2012Timing chains on 2.2 diesel Mazda 6 engines were reported to be stretching.
Exhaust · February 2012Failing DPF regeneration on 2.2 diesels can cause numerous issues, including DPF blockage, diesel in oil, blocked EGR valve, turbo damage, and injector problems.
Bodywork · May 2011Cracks in the rubber boot button on some Mazda 6 cars allowed moisture ingress, leading to boot opening issues or battery drain.
Engine · April 2011The 2.2 diesel engine requires sustained high RPM for DPF regeneration, potentially diluting engine oil with diesel if not regularly checked.
Electrics · March 2011TPMS tyre valves were found to be susceptible to failure due to mixed metal corrosion.

What owners like about the GH

4 notes

July 2019A 2010 Mazda 6 1.8i petrol used no oil and achieved over 43mpg after switching to 99RON fuel, also running quieter.
February 2010The Mazda 6 was predicted to have significantly less depreciation than rivals, with the 2.2d TS2 163ps retaining 35 percent of its value.
February 2009The Mazda 6 achieved a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating in 2009, with strong scores in adult, child, pedestrian, and safety assist categories.
CAP data from January 2009 indicated that the Mazda 6 2.2 D could retain up to 39% of its new cost after 60,000 miles or three years.

Generation 2 of 23 known faults · 35 owner reports · 6 good notes

Mazda Mazda6 BM / GJ / KE (2012 to 2016) problems

Engine/EmissionsHigh severity📝 Editorial

DPF regenerations causing oil dilution, premature camshaft wear, and oil strainer blockage leading to catastrophic engine failure

Rough guide

£2500-5000

Typical symptoms

oil level rising above the 'X' mark on dipstick
low oil pressure warning
turbocharger failure
engine seizure

Affected vehicles

Engines:: 2.2 SkyActiv-D
Typical mileage:: 50000-100000 miles

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Engine/EmissionsHigh severity🏛️ Official recall

Early 2.2 SkyActiv-D engines suffer exhaust camshaft wear, and the metal debris it sheds circulates through the oil system. DVSA recall R/2018/236 (cars built 26/01/2012 to 21/01/2016) covers the consequence Mazda treated as safety-critical: the vacuum pump, which is driven off the intake camshaft, wears prematurely and reduces brake servo assistance when you press the pedal quickly at low revs. Specialists and owners report the same debris taking out the turbocharger, and the wear is driven by the oil dilution these engines are already prone to. The recall fix is free, but camshaft, turbo and oil-system damage is not

Rough guide

£1000-4000

Typical symptoms

brake pedal feeling hard or needing more effort when pressed quickly at low revs
whistling from the turbo, power loss or black smoke
rattle or ticking from the top of the engine
oil level rising on the dipstick (dilution) between services

Affected vehicles

Engines:: 2.2 SkyActiv-D (SH-VPTS)
Typical mileage:: 50000-110000 miles

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Engine/EmissionsMedium severity🏛️ Official recall

Soot can build up around the intake shutter valve on the inlet side of the 2.2 SkyActiv-D diesel. DVSA recall R/2019/187 covers Mazda3, Mazda6 and first generation CX-5 diesels built from 26/01/2012 to 30/06/2018: the valve is checked, cleaned or replaced and the engine software updated. Separately, one owner of a 2014 Mazda3 diesel reported carbon build-up inside the engine costing £3,000 to remove at 70,000 miles, and a dealer suspected carbon build-up behind juddering on a 2016 car.

Typical symptoms

juddering or rough running from the engine
an outstanding recall showing on the GOV.UK recall checker

Affected vehicles

Engines:: 2.2 SkyActiv-D diesel (CX-5 first generation only)
Typical mileage:: unknown miles

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What owners report on the BM / GJ / KE

35 single reports, unconfirmed

One owner each, in their own words rewritten as a line, and not counted in our risk scoring. A fault joins the list above once a second report or an editorial source backs it.

Gearbox and clutch · September 2019A 2015 Mazda 6 Skyactiv diesel with 59,000 miles and full service history developed a noise, diagnosed as a worn crown wheel and pinion with swarf present.
Engine · June 2019The oil pump chain snapped in a 2.2 Skyactiv D engine of a March 2016 Mazda 6 at 66,000 miles, requiring a new short engine and related parts costing £5,500.
Engine · December 2018A 2015 Mazda 6 2.2 Skyactiv D Tourer received an ECU software update, then displayed an "Oil Change Required" warning at 31,200 miles, possibly due to oil contamination.
Electrics · December 2018A 2016 Mazda 6 Skyactiv at 50,000 miles experienced a Smart Brake Support malfunction, causing the engine to die and not restart immediately.
Electrics · December 2018A 2013 Mazda 6 with the i-ELOOP system needed a new capacitor at 35,000 miles, costing £650 after a 10% Mazda contribution.
Electrics · October 2018The offside front headlamp on a 2015 Mazda 6 saloon failed when the handbrake was on; a new main beam bulb resolved the issue.
Engine · August 2018A 2013 Mazda 6 Skyactiv D experienced turbo failure, with the manufacturer potentially offering a £1,000 contribution towards replacement due to its service history.
Engine · April 2018Injector seal failure on three cylinders of a 2013 Mazda 6 Skyactiv 2.2 diesel at 57,000 miles caused engine oil to turn to jelly.
Interior · March 2018The locking mechanism of the rear seat on a Mazda 6 Tourer failed after lowering, requiring a 3-4 hour repair at the dealer.
Engine · March 2018A 2016 Mazda 6 2.2 Skyactiv D manual with 23,000 miles suffered power loss on upshifts, possibly due to an issue with DPF regeneration causing a rising oil level.
Engine · January 2018A 2013 Mazda 6 2.2 Skyactiv diesel tourer displayed a low oil pressure light, potentially indicating contaminated oil, high oil level, or a blocked sump strainer.
Engine · January 2018A 2013 Mazda 6 2.2 Skyactiv diesel experienced two engine head gasket failures, the first at 104,000 miles, both replaced under warranty.
Suspension and steering · January 2018A June 2016 Mazda 6 automatic developed a creaking noise from its front suspension, which the dealer was unable to diagnose.
Brakes · January 2018A 2013 Mazda 6 2.0 Sport Tourer with over 60,000 miles suffered multiple brake caliper seizures, with Mazda UK covering 60% of the third repair.
Engine · January 2018A 2014 Mazda 6 Skyactiv diesel experienced sump oil degradation six months after a service, suggesting improper DPF regeneration.
Electrics · November 2017A March 2017 Mazda 6 experienced constant GPS and electronic system problems that the dealer could not resolve.
Electrics · October 2017A 2013 Mazda 6 2.0 Skyactiv G estate at 34,000 miles displayed a "Battery Management System Inspection Required" message, which returned after a sensor replacement.
Engine · January 2017A Mazda 6 2.2 Skyactiv D Tourer required warranty repairs after an exhaust valve collapsed, damaging the turbocharger.
Gearbox and clutch · January 2017A 2013 Mazda 6 2.0 Skyactiv petrol developed a shudder when setting off in first gear from a cold start, which disappeared after a few miles.
Engine · December 2016A turbo failed on a 2013 Mazda 6 Skyactiv D 175 automatic at 36,000 miles.
Engine · December 2016Another turbo failure occurred on a used Mazda 6 estate just five weeks after purchase, with the dealer retaining the car for two weeks.
Engine · November 2016A 2013 Mazda 6 Skyactiv 175 diesel auto displayed a low oil pressure light, found to be caused by diesel contamination from failed DPF regenerations.
Electrics · July 2016A 2015 Mazda 6 owner was quoted £700 for a replacement satnav SD card after losing the original, which was later found.
Engine · July 2016A 2013 Mazda 6 2.2 Skyactiv D required a new engine at 94,000 miles due to a blocked sump strainer and rising oil level.
Engine · June 2016A 2014 Mazda 6 SE-L 2.2d reported low oil pressure 9,000 miles after a service, due to oil deterioration from DPF regeneration issues.
Engine · May 2016The oil change service indicator on a 2015 Mazda 6 2.2D 170ps Sport Nav illuminated at 6,300 miles, likely due to oil contamination.
Engine · May 2016A 2013 Mazda 6 SE-L 2.2 Skyactiv Diesel estate required a complete engine rebuild at 51,000 miles, which was covered under warranty.
Gearbox and clutch · October 2015A 2014 Mazda 6 2.0 Skyactiv petrol manual developed drivetrain vibration, mainly in fourth gear, even after a gearbox replacement.
Fuel system · September 2015A 2014 Mazda 6 Skyactiv diesel suffered fuel contamination by diesel at 60,000 miles, 2,000 miles before its scheduled service.
Engine · August 2015A new Mazda 6 Skyactiv diesel experienced a rising engine oil level to above the maximum mark over 5,300 miles.
Bodywork · July 2015Rear door seals on a recent Mazda 6 melted in high heat, sticking and ripping from their clips; front brake discs also warped at 12,000 miles.
Brakes · July 2014A Mazda 6 Skyactiv D175 Sport automatic had its front brakes and pads replaced free of charge due to disc warping after 27,000 kilometres.
Interior · October 2013The driver's seat squab on SE and SE-L models is not adjustable, potentially causing discomfort on longer journeys.
Gearbox and clutch · September 2013A Mazda 6 exhibited harsh changes from first to second gear, which the dealer noted and expected to improve after 4,000 miles.
Engine · November 2012An initial report of DPF problems and rising engine oil levels on a Skyactiv 2.2 diesel in Australia was later disproven, attributed to a badly calibrated dipstick.

What owners like about the BM / GJ / KE

6 notes

The Mazda 6 offers nimble and agile handling, making it enjoyable to drive on winding roads.
The Mazda 6 offers strong refinement, with minimal sounds from the engine, road, or wind at any speed.
The Mazda 6 features a spacious, well-made cabin, and the Tourer estate offers a very generous load bay.
The Mazda 6 received a 5-star NCAP rating, with high scores for adult occupant, child occupant, pedestrian protection, and safety assist.
The Mazda 6 won the AUTO BILD Design Award 2013 in the "Mid and Full-Sized" category, chosen by readers across 15 countries.
The Mazda 6 Skyactiv achieved a 5-star NCAP safety rating, with strong scores for adult and child occupant protection.

Other years0 known faults · 4 owner reports · 3 good notes

Other Mazda Mazda6 years: owner reports

What owners report

4 single reports, unconfirmed

One owner each, in their own words rewritten as a line, and not counted in our risk scoring. A fault joins the list above once a second report or an editorial source backs it.

Bodywork · October 2015The rear wheel arches of a 2005 Mazda 6 developed rust, with the warranty voided due to a lack of regular dealer inspections.
Gearbox and clutch · September 2015A 2005 Mazda 6 automatic suffered heat exchanger failure at 80,000 miles, causing coolant to mix with transmission fluid and gears to slip.
Suspension and steering · January 2013A knocking sensation was felt through the steering of a 2003-2005 Mazda 6, caused by incorrect grease in the steering column's splined section.
Bodywork · June 2011By 2010, severe rusting was frequently observed on 2002 and 2003 Mazda 6 models.

What owners like

3 notes

The Mazda 6 achieved a four-star NCAP crash safety rating, including three stars for child protection.
The Mazda 6 was ranked third in the 2004 J.D. Power Customer Satisfaction Survey, with 99% of cars under two years old breakdown-free.
The diesel estate version of the Mazda 6 was once again named Caravan Club Towcar of the Year in 2006.

Sellers rarely admit these faults outright

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Mazda Mazda6 recalls

Recall work is done by the manufacturer, and GOV.UK says you will not usually have to pay for it. These are the 20 DVSA recalls for the Mazda6, newest first. They do not tell you whether this particular car has had the work: for that, put the registration into the free GOV.UK MOT history check, which shows a recall status where the manufacturer shares it, or ask a franchised dealer to check the VIN.

🏛️ January 2022Cars built April 2018 to October 2018

Low pressure fuel pump impeller might become deformed

The impeller in the low-pressure fuel pump may become deformed causing fuel pump failure.

Put right by: Replace the low-pressure fuel pump with an improved part.

DVSA R/2021/43526,974 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ December 2021Cars built July 2005 to July 2007

Fuel may leak from fuel pump rings

Fuel may leak from fuel pump rings.

Put right by: Replace the fuel pump rings with new ones.

DVSA R/2021/4111,924 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ July 2019Cars built March 2018 to April 2019

Hydraulic valve clearance adjuster may operate incorrectly

The software controlling the hydraulic valve clearance adjuster may operate incorrectly.

Put right by: Reprogram the system with improved hydraulic valve adjustment control software.

DVSA R/2019/2182,252 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ July 2019Cars built January 2012 to June 2018

Soot may accumulate around the intake shutter valve on the inlet side of the engine

Soot may accumulate around the intake shutter valve on the inlet side of the engine.

Put right by: Check clean or replace the intake shutter valve and update software.

DVSA R/2019/18770,435 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ November 2018Cars built August 2007 to January 2010

Takata passenger air bag inflators may not operate as intended

Passenger airbag inflators may not operate as intended.

Put right by: Replacement of Airbag Assembly on affected vehicles.

DVSA R/2018/32125,435 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ September 2018Cars built June 2002 to June 2005

Takata driver airbag inflators may not operate as intended

Driver airbag inflators may not operate as intended.

Put right by: Replacement of Airbag Assembly on affected vehicles.

DVSA R/2018/24427,262 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ September 2018Cars built June 2002 to June 2005

Passenger airbag inflator may not operate as intended

On the subject vehicles the passenger airbag inflators may not operate as intended.

Put right by: Replacement of passenger airbag Assembly

DVSA R/2018/2771,500 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ September 2018Cars built March 2006 to September 2007

Takata driver and passenger airbag inflators may not operate as intended

Driver and Passenger airbag inflators may not operate as intended.

Put right by: Replacement of Airbag Assembly.

DVSA R/2018/28415,017 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ September 2018Cars built January 2012 to January 2016

Vacuum pump may wear prematurely.

The vacuum pump may wear prematurely meaning that in some applications where the brake pedal is pressed quickly whilst at low engine speed the servo assistance provided by the vacuum system in decreased. This could cause a momentary decrease in braking performance. Braking assistance available to the driver can be reduced

Put right by: Vehicles affected will be fitted with a modified Vacuum pump.

DVSA R/2018/23611,498 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ September 2018Cars built January 2012 to January 2016

Fuel injector software does not control the electric current correctly

The Software controlling the fuel injectors does not control the electric current correctly. This may cause the injector control circuit to short circuit and cause the engine to stall. Results in possible Engine Stall without Warning

Put right by: Vehicles affected will have the injector control software re-programmed

DVSA R/2018/28848,875 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ September 2018Cars built January 2012 to January 2016

Injector mounting nuts tightening force may be insufficient

The tightening force of the injector mounting nuts may be insufficient. This could cause combustion gas to leak from the injector and contaminate the engine oil within the cylinder head. This in turn could cause the engine oil strainer to become blocked. This could cause the engine to stall. Engine Pressure Oil Light appears along with the engine malfunction indicator. Possible Engine Stall without Warning

Put right by: Vehicles affected will have the engine checked for contamination and repaired / replaced if necessary. The Fuel injectors will also be re-tightened to the appropriate torque.

DVSA R/2018/28911,021 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ July 2018Cars built March 2002 to December 2007

Airbag inflators may not operate as intended

On the subject vehicles the Takata Driver and Passenger airbag inflators may not operate as intended Injury may result due to incorrect deployment of the Airbag

Put right by: Replacement of Airbag Assembly

DVSA R/2018/18419,851 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ December 2017Cars built July 2012 to November 2014

Corrosion may form around the parking brake actuating shaft and cause reduced handbrake performance

On the subject vehicles corrosion may form around the parking brake actuating shaft within the rear brake caliper. This could cause the handbrake to become difficult to operate (greater force required at the lever) or in some cases prevent the parking brake assembly from applying sufficient force at the rear wheels and cause a failure to hold the vehicle. Insufficient force to hold vehicle stationary causing unintentional and unexpected movement of the vehicle.

Put right by: Inspect the parking brake actuation lever. If no corrosion is found replace the protective boot with a modified assembly. If corrosion is found on the actuating shaft replace the brake caliper.

DVSA R/2017/32712,989 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ May 2017Cars built September 2007 to August 2010

Mounting points for seat runner may fail

One or more of the mounting points between the runner and the drivers seat may fail.

Put right by: On affected vehicles inspect the drivers seat frame to determine if seat lifter links are damaged. If no damage is evident fit reinforcement brackets and push nuts. If damage is present to the seat lifter link replace seat frame. If damage is restricted to stabilizer bar then the bar will be repaired plus brackets and push nuts fitted.

DVSA R/2017/15095,172 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ May 2017Cars built October 2007 to December 2015

Tailgate may drop down without warning

Water may penetrate the tailgate strut cylinder. This may cause corrosion which may affect the strut's attachment.

Put right by: Replace both tailgate struts on affected vehicles

DVSA R/2017/163243,624 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ February 2017Cars built March 2005 to April 2007

Airbag may malfunction

It has been identified that the density of the propellant within the airbag inflator may be insufficient due to inappropriate production and storage conditions of the propellant. In this condition the inflator may abnormally ignite at the time of the airbag deployment allowing the inner pressure of the inflator to increase abnormally resulting in the breakage of the inflator case. In this condition the airbags will not provide adequate protection during a frontal impact as the broken pieces of the inflator case could injure the driver and/or front seat passenger.

Put right by: Recall all affected vehicles to replace the driver and passenger front airbag inflators with modified units.

DVSA R/2017/04812,306 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ April 2016

Driver's front airbag may fail to deploy correctly

Continued exposure to high levels of absolute humidity may cause the drivers front airbag inflator housing to rupture and deploy abnormally in the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the drivers front airbag. Should the inflator rupture it could result in metal fragments striking the driver or other vehicle occupants.

Put right by: On affected vehicles replace air bag inflator

DVSA R/2016/08432,030 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ October 2014Cars built October 2013 to February 2014

Engine may stall

Engine may not restart when customer expects after i-stop operation. Although check engine light on dashboard will illuminate.

Put right by: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and re-programme the engine Power Control Module (PCM) with a modified calibration.

DVSA R/2014/134394 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ April 2013Cars built February 2002 to June 2003

Passenger side airbag may fail to deploy correctly

The subject vehicles are equipped with front passenger airbag inflators which could have been assembled with improperly manufactured propellant wafers. Improperly manufactured propellant wafers could cause the inflator to rupture and the front passenger airbag to deploy abnormally in a crash. This could result in increased risk of injury to the occupant and the possibility of a fire.

Put right by: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to inspect and where necessary replace the airbag inflator module.

DVSA R/2013/04711,627 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ March 2013Cars built July 2012 to March 2013

Fire may occur

A ceramic condenser required for noise suppression located within the DC-DC converter may have a crack within it causing the condenser to short circuit. It is possible that the DC-DC converter may melt and generate smoke and in the worst case cause a vehicle fire. This converter is located under the front passenger seat.There is small possibility that the DC-DC converter may melt resulting in a vehicle fire

Put right by: A Mazda dealer will replace the DC-DC converter with a modified one.

DVSA R/2013/0431,974 vehicles affected in the UK

Recall data published by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency under the Open Government Licence v3.0. A recall listed here may not apply to every car of this model: the build dates and the registration check are what decide it.

Mazda Mazda6 timing chain, and service intervals

A timing chain has no change interval, which is not the same as lasting for ever. Listen for it on a used Mazda6, and check the oil has been changed on time. These are the figures UK specialists work to.

Timing chainChain

2.2 SKYACTIV-D, 2.2 DIESEL

No fixed replacement interval

Mazda SkyActiv engines use a timing chain. On the 2.2 diesel, watch out for oil dilution from DPF regens which can cause premature wear to the engine internals.

Always confirm against the vehicle handbook. Intervals vary by engine, and several manufacturers revised theirs after failures in service.

Repair costs are typical UK ranges, not quotes. Actual cost depends on condition and garage.Data last verified: September 2026

Mazda Mazda6 buying questions

What are the most common Mazda Mazda6 problems?

Three stand out. Engine: engine oil contamination on the 2.2 diesel leads to a blocked oil pick-up strainer in the sump (typically 36000 to 106000 miles). Engine: DPF regenerations causing oil dilution, premature camshaft wear (typically 50000 to 100000 miles). Engine: early 2.2 SkyActiv-D engines suffer exhaust camshaft wear (typically 50000 to 110000 miles). The full list above is grouped by generation, with typical mileage and a rough repair cost for each.

Which Mazda Mazda6 years should I avoid?

No Mazda Mazda6 year is a write-off, but the GH (2008 to 2012) carries the most serious faults: engine. The BM / GJ / KE (2012 to 2016) has high-severity faults on record too. Year matters less than whether the specific car has had the known fixes, so check the history for them.

What should I check when viewing a used Mazda Mazda6?

Ask the seller about the engine faults on this page and whether they have been fixed, with invoices. On the test drive watch for oil pressure warning light, oil level rising above the 'X' mark on dipstick and brake pedal feeling hard or needing more effort when pressed quickly at low revs. Read the MOT history for repeat advisories, then paste the advert into the free check, which reads it against all 4 known faults before you travel. Check a Mazda Mazda6 advert →

Are there any recalls on the Mazda Mazda6?

The DVSA lists 20 safety recalls for the Mazda Mazda6 issued between 2013 and 2022. The most recent, from January 2022, is "Low pressure fuel pump impeller might become deformed". Recall work is done by the manufacturer, and GOV.UK says you will not usually have to pay for it. This list is by model, so it cannot tell you whether one particular car has had the work: the free GOV.UK MOT history check shows a recall status from the registration where the manufacturer shares it, and a franchised dealer can check the VIN.

Looking at a Mazda Mazda6 right now? Check the advert before you go and see it.

Where this Mazda Mazda6 fault data comes from

If you used to check the Honest John “Good & Bad” section before the site closed in 2026, this page is where that information now lives. We rebuilt the Mazda Mazda6 owner-report history from the archived Honest John dataset, added our own research, specialist and owner-club sources and DVSA recall data, and we keep it free. Each fault above is badged with its source. The same data feeds our free advert check, which reads a listing against every known fault for the exact engine and year.

CarAdCheck is not affiliated with Honest John or Volkswagen Financial Services. What happened to Honest John, and where each feature lives now.

Before you go and see it

Knowing what a Mazda Mazda6 goes wrong with is half of it. The rest is reading the advert and checking the car's history before you hand any money over.

How to haggle for a used car: negotiate the price with what its records show13 min read HPI check vs carVertical: which is better, and our pick for a UK car9 min read MOT advisories explained: how to check them, and which ones should worry you12 min read

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