Positioning:
The 2011 Mazda 6 represented Mazda's continuation in the competitive mid-size sedan and hatchback market, emphasizing driving dynamics (Zoom-Zoom philosophy) and stylish design.
Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion, Chevrolet Malibu, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima.
Design Philosophy:
Nagare (Flowing) design language cues, sporty handling, refined interior.
Target Audience:
Consumers seeking a stylish, engaging, and reliable mid-size vehicle with a focus on driving pleasure.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul procedures, timing belt/chain, lubrication, cooling system, fuel delivery, exhaust system, engine management system (ECU).
Transmission Drivetrain:
Automatic & Manual Transmission repair, clutch system, drive shafts, differentials, transaxle.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, EBD, DSC, brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, parking brake.
Suspension Steering:
Front & Rear suspension components, alignment specifications, power steering system, steering column.
Electrical Electronics:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, charging system, starting system, ignition system, instrumentation, body control modules (BCM), CAN bus communication, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heating system, climate control unit, refrigerant handling.
Body Interior:
Body panel repair, interior trim removal/installation, seats, airbags, door mechanisms, glass replacement.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting, common issues and their solutions.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems, component replacement, reassembly procedures.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, scan tool usage, sensor testing, actuator testing, specific diagnostic procedures for DTCs.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics and structural repairs.
Engine Code 2.5L:
LF-VDS (Displacement: 2488cc, Bore x Stroke: 87.5mm x 83.1mm, Compression Ratio: 9.7:1)
Engine Code 3.7L:
Mazda MZI-3.7L V6 (Displacement: 3726cc, Bore x Stroke: 95.5mm x 86.1mm, Compression Ratio: 10.3:1)
Horsepower:
170 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Torque:
167 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
Horsepower:
273 hp @ 6,200 rpm
Torque:
270 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
Injection Type:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Minimum Recommended)
Certification:
Federal Tier 2 Bin 5, California LEV-II ULEV
Type:
5-Speed Automatic (FS5A-EL)
Type:
6-Speed Automatic (XA6A-EL)
Automatic Modes:
Sport mode, Manual shift mode (Activematic)
Fluid Type:
Mazda ATF-FZ (or equivalent Dexron-VI)
Fluid Type:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 (or specified Mazda gear oil)
Overall Safety Rating:
5-Star (for sedan models)
Roof Strength Rating:
Good
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Brake Assist:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) & Brake Assist (BA)
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-impact curtain airbags (front and rear).
Seatbelts:
Pretensioner and load-limiting front seatbelts, LATCH child seat anchors.
System Name:
Mazda Navigation System (optional), BOSE premium audio system (optional), SiriusXM Satellite Radio.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth hands-free phone capability, USB audio input, auxiliary audio input jack.
Key Features:
Keyless entry and ignition (push-button start), cruise control, rearview camera (optional), adaptive front-lighting system (AFS) (optional).
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control (dual-zone optional), manual climate control.
Service Intervals Oil 2.5L
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months (whichever comes first), or based on oil quality monitoring system.
Service Intervals Oil 3.7L
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months (whichever comes first), or based on oil quality monitoring system.
Service Intervals Filters
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
2.5L (Iridium): Approx. 75,000 miles; 3.7L (Iridium): Approx. 75,000 miles.
Service Intervals Coolant
Coolant Replacement:
First change at 105,000 miles or 7 years, then every 52,500 miles or 5 years.
Engine Oil 2.5L:
SAE 5W-20, API SN/SM, ILSAC GF-5 (5.7 US Quarts capacity with filter)
Engine Oil 3.7L:
SAE 5W-20, API SN/SM, ILSAC GF-5 (5.5 US Quarts capacity with filter)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Power Steering Fluid:
Mazda Power Steering Fluid (or equivalent ATF DEXRON III/MERCON)
Common Complaints 2.5L:
Potential oil consumption issues, occasional timing chain noise (ensure proper oil changes), exhaust manifold cracks (less common).
Common Complaints 3.7L:
Water pump leaks, occasional torque converter shudder in automatic transmission.
Common Complaints General:
Mazda infotainment system glitches (nav, Bluetooth), HVAC control panel issues, rear wheel bearing noise at higher mileage, strut mount noise.
Mazda Philosophy:
Mazda has a long history dating back to 1920, evolving from cork production to automotive manufacturing with a strong emphasis on driving pleasure ('Zoom-Zoom') and innovative technologies like the rotary engine.
Generation 2011:
This represents the second generation (GH) Mazda 6, introduced in 2007/2008. The 2011 model year received minor updates or carried over features from the pre-facelift (2009) models.
Manufacturing Locations:
Hofu, Yamaguchi, Japan; Flat Rock, Michigan, USA (for North American market during this generation).
Model Cycle Status:
The GH generation was succeeded by the third generation (GJ) Mazda 6 for the 2014 model year.