2009 Mazda 6

2009 Mazda 6

Overview

The 2009 Mazda 6, a mid-size family car, offered a blend of sporty handling and practicality. Across its various engine and transmission configurations, it generally presented a solid reliability record for its era. While most owners reported satisfactory experiences, certain components and systems showed a propensity for specific issues that are worth noting for potential buyers or current owners. This analysis focuses on documented common problems beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential repair areas and their associated costs.

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Engine

2.5L I4 (LF-VE)

Oil Consumption

• Symptoms: Excessive oil burning, potentially leading to low oil levels and engine damage if not monitored.
• Solution: Engine rebuild or replacement, piston ring replacement.
• Cost: $1,500 - $4,000

Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Actuator

• Symptoms: Rattling noise on startup, check engine light, rough idle.
• Solution: Replacement of the VVT actuator and potentially related timing components.
• Cost: $500 - $1,200

3.7L V6 (VE)

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

2.0L MZR-CD Diesel (RF7J)

Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues

• Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced engine power, regeneration failures.
• Solution: Forced regeneration, DPF cleaning, or replacement.
• Cost: $800 - $2,500

Turbocharger Failure

• Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive smoke, whistling noises.
• Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
• Cost: $1,000 - $2,500

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (FWD)

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

6-Speed Manual (FWD)

Clutch Wear

• Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears, burning smell.
• Solution: Clutch kit replacement (clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing).
• Cost: $700 - $1,500

6-Speed Automatic (AWD)

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Worn Control Arm Bushings

• Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, vague steering, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of control arm bushings or entire control arm assembly.
• Cost: $300 - $700

Rear Shock Absorber Leaks

• Symptoms: Bouncy ride, visible fluid leaks on shock bodies.
• Solution: Replacement of rear shock absorbers.
• Cost: $200 - $500

Electrical

Standard Electrical System

Power Window Motor Failure

• Symptoms: Window not operating, slow operation, clicking noises.
• Solution: Replacement of the power window motor and regulator assembly.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Infotainment System Glitches

• Symptoms: Screen freezing, unresponsive touch controls, audio issues.
• Solution: Software update, head unit repair or replacement.
• Cost: $300 - $1,000

Exterior

Standard Exterior

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Interior

Standard Interior

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

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Summary Verdict

The 2009 Mazda 6 is generally a reliable vehicle, particularly with the gasoline engines. The 2.5L engine is the most commonly cited for potential issues like oil consumption and VVT actuator problems, which can be costly to repair. Diesel variants may face DPF and turbocharger issues, common for that technology. Transmission reliability is good across the board, though manual clutches will eventually require replacement. Suspension components like bushings and shocks can wear out, leading to noise and handling degradation. Electrical issues are infrequent but can include power window motors and infotainment system quirks. Overall, the Mazda 6 offers decent long-term value if common issues are addressed proactively.