1992 Mazda MX-6
Introduction The 1992 Mazda MX-6 is a sleek and sporty coupe that offers a blend of performance and style. It comes with a variety of engine and transmission options, including:
- 2.2-liter 4-cylinder engine (110 horsepower, 140 lb-ft of torque) with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission
- 2.5-liter V6 engine (164 horsepower, 160 lb-ft of torque) with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission
Owners of the Mazda MX-6 often praise its handling, performance, and affordability. However, there are some common issues that owners have reported with the vehicle.
Engine 2.2-liter 4-cylinder Engine
- Oil leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket.
- Solution: Replace the leaking gasket.
Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
- Timing belt failure
- Description/Symptoms: The timing belt can snap, leading to catastrophic engine damage.
- Solution: Replace the timing belt according to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
- Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number 03V074000
2.5-liter V6 Engine
- Intake manifold gasket failure
- Description/Symptoms: The intake manifold gasket can fail, leading to a vacuum leak. Symptoms may include rough idling, poor performance, and increased emissions.
- Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
Transmission 5-speed Manual Transmission
- Grinding gears
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noise when shifting.
- Solution: Replace the worn synchronizers.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
4-speed Automatic Transmission
- Transmission slipping
- Description/Symptoms: The transmission may slip or hesitate when shifting gears.
- Solution: Replace the worn or damaged transmission components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
Suspension
- Front strut mount failure
- Description/Symptoms: The front strut mounts can wear out, leading to clunking noises and poor handling.
- Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Rear shock absorber failure
- Description/Symptoms: The rear shock absorbers can fail, leading to a rough ride and poor handling.
- Solution: Replace the rear shock absorbers.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
Electrical
- Electrical gremlins
- Description/Symptoms: Various electrical problems, such as flickering lights, power window issues, or dashboard malfunctions.
- Solution: Diagnose and repair the faulty electrical components or wiring.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
Exterior
- Sunroof leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into the cabin from the sunroof.
- Solution: Replace the sunroof weatherstripping or drain tubes.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
Interior
- HVAC system failure
- Description/Symptoms: The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system may fail to function properly.
- Solution: Repair or replace the faulty components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
Summary
The 1992 Mazda MX-6 is a fun and affordable sports coupe, but it is not without its issues. Some of the most common problems include oil leaks, timing belt failure, transmission problems, and electrical gremlins. While these issues can be costly to fix, they are generally not severe enough to deter owners from enjoying the car’s many positive attributes.