Positioning:
The Mazda 6 (2004) represented Mazda's commitment to a more engaging driving experience within the mid-size sedan segment, known for its 'Zoom-Zoom' philosophy.
Competitors 2004:
Competed against vehicles such as the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, and Ford Fusion.
Design:
Stylish, aerodynamic design with distinctive 'face' grille and flowing lines.
Handling:
Touted for its sporty handling and responsive chassis, often praised for being more engaging to drive than segment rivals.
Body Styles:
Available as a four-door sedan, five-door hatchback, and five-door sport wagon.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, timing belt/chain, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox, drive axles, service, repair
Transmission Automatic:
Service, fluid changes, diagnostics, torque converter
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, EBD, disc/drum components, parking brake
Suspension Steering:
Front/rear suspension, struts, shock absorbers, control arms, steering rack, power steering
Electrical System:
Battery, charging, starting, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, ECU diagnostics
HVAC:
Climate control system, A/C refrigerant, heating, ventilation, blower motor
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, chassis components, collision repair basics
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seat belts, SRS system diagnostics
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tire rotations
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Symptom-based diagnosis, fault code interpretation, electrical system troubleshooting
Engine Repair:
Head gasket replacement, piston rings, valve seals, timing belt/chain service
Transmission Repair:
Clutch replacement, internal transmission component service
Brake Repair:
Brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper service, bleeding procedure
Suspension Steering Repair:
Strut/shock replacement, ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring harness repair, sensor testing, module troubleshooting
Bodywork Repair:
Door panel removal, bumper replacement, window regulator repair
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Transmission Type Std:
5-Speed Manual
Transmission Type Opt:
5-Speed Automatic (with Sport Mode)
Automatic Features:
Adaptive Shift Control (ASC), available paddle shifters on some higher trims.
Manual Features:
Close-ratio gearing for sporty feel, hydraulic clutch actuation.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mazda ATF-MV or equivalent DEXRON-III/VI compatible fluid. Capacity: Approx. 7.7 US quarts (7.3 Liters) for complete fill.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil. Capacity: Approx. 1.9 US quarts (1.8 Liters).
Wheelbase:
105.3 inches (2675 mm)
Length:
189.5 inches (4813 mm) - Sedan
Width:
70.1 inches (1781 mm)
Height:
57.4 inches (1458 mm) - Sedan
Front Track:
60.7 inches (1541 mm)
Rear Track:
60.4 inches (1534 mm)
Trunk Volume Sedan:
Approx. 14.4 cu ft (408 Liters)
Curb Weight Est Min:
3150 lbs (1430 kg)
Curb Weight Est Max:
3550 lbs (1610 kg) - including MPS
Wheel Size Standard:
16-inch alloy
Tire Size Standard:
205/55R16
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)
Wheel Size Optional:
17-inch alloy, 18-inch alloy (MPS)
Tire Size Optional:
215/45R17, 215/40R18 (MPS)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5 Stars
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5 Stars
IIHS Front Crash Test:
Good
ABS:
Standard (4-wheel disc brakes)
Traction Control:
Optional (TCS)
Stability Control:
Optional (DSC - Dynamic Stability Control)
Airbags Front:
Standard Dual-Stage Frontal Airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional Front Side-Impact Airbags, Optional Side-Curtain Airbags (Roof in some trims)
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seat belts, pretensioners and load limiters for front seats.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions.
Engine Oil Filter:
Replace with every oil change.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Recommended replacement around 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Cabin Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Recommended replacement around 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km).
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) depending on plug type (standard vs. long-life iridium).
Timing Belt Replacement:
This model utilizes a timing chain, not a belt, which generally does not require scheduled replacement but should be inspected for wear.
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ or SL, ILSAC GF-3, SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (check owner's manual for specific recommendation based on climate).
Coolant Type:
Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) - Blue or equivalent HOAT coolant. Capacity: Approx. 7.7 US quarts (7.3 Liters).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Mazda Genuine Power Steering Fluid or equivalent ATF Dexron III compatible fluid.
Engine Oil Consumption:
Some 2.3L engines, particularly early models, may exhibit higher than normal oil consumption. Regular checks are recommended. PCV valve issues can sometimes contribute.
Suspension Noise:
Front strut mounts and sway bar links can wear out and cause clunking or rattling noises, especially over bumps.
Power Window Motors:
Infrequent reports of power window motor or regulator failures.
PCM Issues:
Rare instances of Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure or software glitches, often addressed by dealership updates.
Rust:
As with many vehicles of this era, rust can be a concern on wheel wells, rocker panels, and subframes, especially in rust-belt regions. Regular inspection and rust prevention are advised.
Mazda Philosophy:
Mazda's heritage is built on a spirit of innovation, engineering excellence, and a passion for driving, encapsulated in their 'Zoom-Zoom' marketing and product design.
First Generation:
The Mazda 6 replaced the Mazda Capella/626. This first generation (2002-2008) marked a significant shift in Mazda's design and driving dynamics.
2004 Updates:
The 2004 model year saw the introduction of the Mazdaspeed6 (MPS), a performance-oriented variant with a turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive (or advanced AWD system).
Manufacturing Location:
Primary manufacturing in Hofu, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan. Also assembled in other global locations depending on market.
