Segment:
Mid-size sedan, known for sporty handling and upscale interior for its class.
Competitors:
Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned 'Zoom-Zoom' driving dynamics, praised for chassis balance and responsive steering.
Design:
Stylish exterior and a well-appointed interior that often punched above its weight in perceived quality.
Reliability:
Generally considered reliable, but specific components require diligent maintenance.
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, and Mazda 6 owners seeking in-depth repair knowledge.
Cost Savings:
Enables significant cost savings by empowering owners to perform complex repairs and maintenance themselves.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing system, lubrication system, cooling system
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, fuel injection system, emissions control system, starter system, charging system, sensors and actuators
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission assembly, disassembly, gear selection, clutch system, shift linkage
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission assembly, disassembly, torque converter, hydraulic control system, electronic control system
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, axles, CV joints, differential
Suspension:
Front suspension (struts, control arms, bushings), rear suspension (multi-link, bushings), wheel bearings, alignment specifications
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, calipers, rotors, pads, master cylinder, brake lines, ABS system, parking brake
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, tie rods, power steering fluid specifications
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emission control (EVAP) system
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, exhaust pipes, oxygen sensors
Cooling System:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, coolant hoses, coolant specifications, fan system
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter, lighting system, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, instrument cluster, power windows, locks, mirrors
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system components, refrigerant, compressor, condenser, evaporator, cabin air filter replacement
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, seating systems, airbags, seatbelts
Chassis And Frame:
Frame construction, subframes, mounting points
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, spark plug replacement, brake inspections
Component Replacement:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for replacing major and minor components
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues
Rebuilding Procedures:
Complete rebuild instructions for engine and transmission components
Alignment And Calibration:
Wheel alignment procedures, steering angle sensor calibration
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems
Diagnostic Trouble Codes:
Explanation of OBD-II codes and diagnostic procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls
Diagnostic Scope:
Advanced diagnostics, including sensor data interpretation and module programming guidance
Rebuild Level:
Full rebuild specifications and procedures for major mechanical components
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first) under normal driving conditions. Consult manual for severe conditions.
Service Intervals Filters
Engine Oil Filter Part Number:
LF01-14-302 (for 2.3L MZR)
Engine Air Filter Part Number:
B455-13-215
Cabin Air Filter Part Number:
BP4K-61-J11
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or higher
Coolant Type:
Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (FL22) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant, pre-diluted
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Dexron III MERCON Automatic Transmission Fluid or equivalent
Engine Oil Capacity With Filter 2 3L:
4.7 US quarts (4.4 liters)
Coolant Capacity 2 3L:
7.5 US quarts (7.1 liters)
Rust Corrosion:
Susceptible to rust on fenders, rocker panels, and rear wheel arches, especially in regions with road salt. Regular inspection and rust prevention are advised.
Engine Mounts:
Engine and transmission mounts can degrade over time, leading to increased vibration and noise.
Power Steering Pump:
Some models may experience premature failure of the power steering pump, leading to noise or loss of assist.
Catalytic Converter:
Early failure of the catalytic converter has been reported in some instances.
Rear Wheel Bearing:
Rear wheel bearings can wear out, causing humming or grinding noises.
Automatic Transmission Shifts:
Occasional reports of rough shifting or delayed engagement in automatic transmissions, sometimes resolved by fluid changes or software updates.
Mazda Legacy:
Mazda has a long history of producing well-engineered vehicles, often emphasizing driving dynamics and innovative technology, dating back to its origins in 1920.
First Generation Mazda6:
The first generation Mazda 6 (2002-2008) introduced Mazda's 'Zoom-Zoom' philosophy and the distinctive 'S' shaped styling.
Second Generation Mazda6:
The 2007 model belongs to the second generation (2008-2013, though the 2007 model year often bridges generations or has specific updates) which refined the design and platform.
Platform:
Based on the Mazda GG (sedan) / GY (wagon) platform, sharing components with other Mazda and Ford models of the era.
Assembly Locations:
Primarily Hofu, Yamaguchi, Japan; also Flat Rock, Michigan, USA (for North American market).
