2011 Mazda 6

The 2011 Mazda 6 is a mid-size sedan known for its sporty handling and stylish design. This model year offered three engine options: a 2.5L inline-4 producing 170 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque, a 3.5L V6 producing 272 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0L Inline-4 engine. The 2.5L engine was typically paired with a 5-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual transmission (availability varied by trim), while the 3.5L V6 came exclusively with a 6-speed automatic. Owners generally appreciate the Mazda 6 for its responsive steering and comfortable ride. Common complaints include issues with interior trim quality and some electrical glitches.

Engine

2.5L Inline-4

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the valve cover gasket. Visible oil around the valve cover, burning oil smell, and low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacing the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Purge Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light with a code related to the evaporative emission control system (EVAP). Can also cause rough idling and difficulty starting.
  • Solution: Replacing the purge valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6

• Timing Chain Tensioner Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise, especially on cold starts, indicating the timing chain tensioner is not properly maintaining tension. Can lead to timing chain failure and engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain tensioner and potentially the timing chain itself if worn.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from various locations, including the valve cover gaskets and oil pan. Visible oil, burning smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ (per leak location)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (Paired with 2.5L Inline-4)

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifts between gears. May be more pronounced when the transmission is cold.
  • Solution: Replacing transmission fluid with updated fluid or replacing solenoids.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic (Paired with 3.5L V6 and some 2.5L Inline-4 models)

• Delayed Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: A noticeable delay when shifting into drive or reverse.
  • Solution: Transmission flush/fluid change. If the problem persists, valve body replacement or complete transmission rebuild/replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or clunking noise coming from the front suspension when going over bumps or turning.
  • Solution: Replacing the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery draining overnight or within a short period, leading to starting issues.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the source of the parasitic drain, which could be a faulty module, aftermarket accessory, or wiring issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found
• TPMS Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) light illuminated on the dashboard, even when tire pressure is correct.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty TPMS sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+ (per sensor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust near rear wheel wells
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the lower portion of the rear quarter panels near the wheel wells.
  • Solution: Repair and repaint the affected areas.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof getting stuck, making noise, or failing to open or close properly.
  • Solution: Lubricating the sunroof tracks, repairing or replacing the sunroof motor, or replacing the entire sunroof assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2011 Mazda 6 has several potential problem areas. Engine issues, particularly oil leaks and timing chain tensioner problems (V6), can be expensive to address. Transmission issues, especially rough shifting and delayed engagement, can also arise. Electrical problems like battery drains and TPMS sensor failures are common. Suspension and interior issues are also worth noting. Overall, while the Mazda 6 is a well-regarded vehicle, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and budget accordingly for potential repairs. The severity of these issues ranges from minor annoyances to major mechanical failures, and repair costs can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.