2014 Mazda 6

The 2014 Mazda 6 marked a significant redesign for the model, showcasing Mazda’s “KODO - Soul of Motion” design language. This model year offered two engine options: a 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G inline-4 engine producing 184 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.2-liter Skyactiv-D diesel engine (though the diesel engine was not widely available in the US market). Transmission options included a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic. Owners generally praised the 2014 Mazda 6 for its sporty handling, fuel efficiency, stylish design, and comfortable interior. Common complaints centered around the infotainment system, road noise, and some concerns regarding long-term reliability.

Engine

2.5L Skyactiv-G I4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption, requiring more frequent oil top-offs between scheduled oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warnings and the need to add oil regularly.
  • Solution: Monitor oil levels frequently. Some owners have had success with using a thicker grade of oil. If consumption is severe, further diagnostics might be needed to determine the root cause such as piston rings or valve seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Diagnostic costs may range from $100 - $200. Repair costs can vary significantly depending on the cause and may range from $500 - $3000+ for more extensive engine work.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported fuel injector issues leading to engine misfires, rough idling, and reduced fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+, depending on the number of injectors needing replacement and labor costs.
  • Recalls: None Found

2.2L Skyactiv-D I4 (Diesel)

No Issues Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing harsh or jerky shifts, particularly between lower gears.
  • Solution: In some cases, a transmission fluid flush and replacement have resolved the issue. In more severe cases, valve body repair or replacement, or even a full transmission replacement, may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Transmission fluid flush: $150 - $300. Valve body repair/replacement: $500 - $1500. Transmission replacement: $3000 - $5000+.
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual

No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature failure of rear shock absorbers, leading to a bouncy ride, reduced handling stability, and potential noise from the rear suspension.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+ for replacing both rear shock absorbers, including parts and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The Mazda Connect infotainment system can experience freezing, crashing, or unresponsive touch screen issues.
  • Solution: Software updates can sometimes resolve the issue. In other cases, replacement of the infotainment unit may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update: $0 - $150 (dealer charge if not covered). Infotainment unit replacement: $500 - $1500+.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported premature battery drain, leading to difficulty starting the car, especially in cold weather. This can be due to parasitic drain from various electrical components.
  • Solution: Diagnostic testing to identify the source of the parasitic drain. Replacement of the battery and addressing the underlying electrical issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Battery replacement: $150 - $300. Diagnostic testing: $100 - $200. Repairing the parasitic drain source can vary greatly depending on the cause, ranging from $100 to several hundred dollars.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup (condensation) inside the headlight housings. This can reduce visibility and potentially damage the headlight components over time.
  • Solution: Removal and resealing of the headlight housing, or replacement of the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Resealing: $200 - $400 per headlight. Replacement: $400 - $800+ per headlight.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported various rattling noises coming from the dashboard, door panels, or rear deck area.
  • Solution: Identifying and securing the source of the rattle, which may involve adding foam padding, tightening screws, or replacing worn clips.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+, depending on the complexity of the issue and labor time.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 Mazda 6, while praised for its design and driving dynamics, does have some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. Engine oil consumption, infotainment system glitches, and suspension component failures seem to be the most prevalent problems. While some fixes are relatively inexpensive, others can be quite costly, particularly those related to the transmission or engine. Overall, the 2014 Mazda 6 is a stylish and enjoyable car, but a thorough inspection and pre-purchase review of potential issues is recommended.