2013 Mazda 6

The 2013 Mazda 6 marked a significant redesign, offering a more stylish and fuel-efficient mid-size sedan. The base engine was a 2.5-liter inline-4 cylinder producing 184 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. The 2013 model year only came with an inline 4 cylinder, though in later years a V6 would be offered. This engine was available with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally praised the car’s sharp handling, fuel economy, and attractive design. Criticisms often centered on road noise and some of the interior materials.

Engine

2.5L Inline-4 Cylinder

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. This is most noticeable in higher mileage vehicles.
  • Solution: Monitor oil levels regularly. Switching to a higher viscosity oil may help reduce consumption. In severe cases, engine rebuild or replacement might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (oil change) - $5,000+ (engine rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners reported issues with the timing chain stretching or failing, leading to engine misfires, rough running, and potential engine damage. This is less frequent than other issues, but costly when it occurs.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain, guides, and tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing rough or delayed shifting, particularly between lower gears. Hesitation upon acceleration is also a reported symptom.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter change. If the problem persists, a valve body replacement or transmission rebuild might be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid change) - $3,000+ (transmission rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

No Issues Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners experience premature battery drain, especially if the car sits for extended periods. This can manifest as difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Test the battery and charging system. Check for parasitic draws caused by aftermarket accessories or faulty electrical components. A new battery might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 (battery replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Freezing/Rebooting
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system occasionally freezes, reboots unexpectedly, or experiences glitches.
  • Solution: Try resetting the system. If the problem persists, a software update or replacement of the infotainment unit may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (reset) - $500+ (infotainment unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Body Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners in regions with harsh winters or salty roads have reported rust forming on body panels, particularly around the wheel wells and door edges.
  • Solution: Treat rust with rust converter and repaint affected areas. Applying rust preventative measures like undercoating can help prevent future occurrences.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ (depending on severity and extent of damage)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks around the sunroof seal, especially during heavy rain.
  • Solution: Clean and lubricate the sunroof seals. Inspect and clear any debris from the sunroof drain tubes. Replace the sunroof seal if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (cleaning/lubrication) - $300+ (seal replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Mazda 6 is generally a reliable vehicle, but some common issues include excessive oil consumption, potential transmission problems, electrical glitches, and rust in certain climates. The severity and cost of these issues vary, with engine or transmission repairs potentially being the most expensive. While there are no major widespread recalls affecting a large portion of these vehicles, proactive maintenance and addressing issues promptly can help extend the lifespan and minimize repair costs.