2006 Mazda 6

The 2006 Mazda 6 is a mid-size sedan known for its sporty handling and stylish design. It was available with three engine options: a 2.3L inline-4 producing 160 hp and 156 lb-ft of torque, a 3.0L V6 producing 220 hp and 192 lb-ft of torque, and later in the model year, a 2.0L diesel engine that was only available in Europe. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual, a 5-speed automatic (for the 4-cylinder and V6), and a 6-speed manual (for the V6). Owners often praised the Mazda 6 for its engaging driving experience, responsive steering, and comfortable interior. Common complaints included issues with rust, electrical problems, and premature wear of certain components.

Engine

2.3L Inline-4

• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise upon startup, rough running engine, check engine light illuminated with codes related to timing. Can lead to engine damage if ignored.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, guides, and tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, poor acceleration, and a check engine light with codes related to the VVT system.
  • Solution: Replacement of the VVT actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level. Common leak points include valve cover gaskets and oil pan gasket.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ (per gasket)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Coil Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running engine, check engine light illuminated.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty ignition coil(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ (per coil)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds; slipping between gears; stalling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Shift Solenoid Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, inability to shift into certain gears, transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty shift solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Broken Coil Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises coming from the suspension, especially when going over bumps; uneven ride height.
  • Solution: Replacement of the broken coil spring(s). Usually recommended to replace in pairs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ (per pair)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or squeaking noises from the front suspension, loose steering feel, wandering on the road.
  • Solution: Replacement of the control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ (per control arm)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks not working properly, either failing to lock/unlock or operating intermittently.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350+ (per door)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not moving up or down, making grinding noises when operating the window switch.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ (per window)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Specifically around wheel wells and rocker panels)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust forming on the body panels. This is a common issue, especially in areas with harsh winters and road salt.
  • Solution: Rust repair, including cutting out the rusted metal and welding in new panels, followed by body filler and paint.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or making grinding noises. Water leaks may also occur.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, especially in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2006 Mazda 6, while a fun-to-drive and stylish sedan, is prone to several issues related to its engine, transmission, suspension, electrical system, exterior, and interior. Common issues include timing chain problems and VVT actuator failures on the 2.3L engine, oil leaks on the 3.0L V6, and torque converter problems on the 5-speed automatic transmission. Suspension issues involve broken coil springs and worn control arm bushings. Electrical problems include door lock actuator and power window regulator failures. Rust, especially around the wheel wells, is a significant concern. Interior issues include sunroof malfunctions and cracking dashboards. The severity of these issues ranges from minor annoyances to potentially serious mechanical problems, and the cost to fix can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the specific issue.