🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

Mazda6

Year:

2012

Chassis Code:

GH

Platform:

Mazda GG/GY (Global)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size sedan

Target Audience:

Automotive repair professionals, DIY enthusiasts, fleet maintenance departments.

Competitors:

Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion, Chevrolet Malibu.

Unique Selling Points:

Zoom-Zoom driving dynamics, stylish design, high-quality interior materials, focus on driver engagement.

Manual Value Proposition:

Official factory data ensures accuracy and completeness for all repair and maintenance tasks, saving time and money compared to generic guides.

📋 Manual Details

Languages:

English

Coverage Scope:

Full vehicle service and repair

Estimated Pages:

Varies based on specific software version, typically thousands of pages for comprehensive coverage.

Type:

Official Factory Service Manual (FSM) Software

Delivery Method:

Downloadable Software (Digital)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical (MZR LF-VE, LF-VD, L3-VE, L5-VE, R2AA, RF7J), transmission (manual F5M-A, F6W-A, automatic ATX, FNC1), engine control systems (ECM/PCM), fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system.

Chassis:

Suspension (front MacPherson strut, rear multi-link), steering (power rack and pinion), brakes (front ventilated disc, rear solid disc, ABS, DSC, EBD), wheels and tires, chassis electrical.

Body And Interior:

Body structure, exterior panels, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, seats, HVAC system, SRS airbags, safety restraints.

Electrical And Electronics:

Wiring diagrams, lighting systems, instrument cluster, audio system, power accessories, body control modules (BCM), immobilizer, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad/rotor replacement, tire rotation, battery maintenance.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, DTC interpretation, circuit testing, component testing, diagnostic tool usage (e.g., Mazda GDS).

Repair:

Engine component removal and installation (e.g., cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft), transmission overhaul, brake caliper/master cylinder replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair/replacement, body panel repair/replacement.

Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities and types, clearances, wear limits, diagnostic parameters.

Depth:

Comprehensive, from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

Proprietary software application, often searchable and interactive, potentially with embedded diagrams and videos.

Printability:

Printable sections for specific procedures or diagrams.

Binding:

Not applicable for software; digital access.

Paper Type:

Not applicable for software; digital display.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

LF-VE (2.0L MZR)

Engine Code 2:

LF-VD (2.5L MZR)

Engine Code 3:

L3-VE (2.3L MZR DISI Turbo - some markets)

Engine Code 4:

L5-VE (3.7L MZI - North America, some markets)

Horsepower 2 0L:

Approx. 147-156 hp (varies by market/emission standards)

Torque 2 0L:

Approx. 135-144 lb-ft (varies by market/emission standards)

Horsepower 2 5L:

Approx. 170-177 hp

Torque 2 5L:

Approx. 164-169 lb-ft

Horsepower 2 3L Turbo:

Approx. 263 hp

Torque 2 3L Turbo:

Approx. 280 lb-ft

Horsepower 3 7L:

Approx. 273 hp

Torque 3 7L:

Approx. 270 lb-ft

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) or Direct Injection (DISI) for turbo models.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating specified by manufacturer, typically 87 or higher).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type 1:

5-speed manual transmission (F5M-A)

Transmission Type 2:

6-speed manual transmission (F6W-A)

Transmission Type 3:

5-speed automatic transmission (ATX, FNC1 - typically with 2.0L/2.5L)

Transmission Type 4:

6-speed automatic transmission (A6LF2 - typically with 3.7L)

Features Manual:

Close-ratio gearing for sporty feel, durable construction.

Features Automatic:

Activematic (sequential manual shifting), Sport Mode for enhanced responsiveness.

Manual Fluid:

GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, viscosity grade specified by Mazda (e.g., 75W-90).

Automatic Fluid:

Mazda ATF-FZ (FNC1) or equivalent Dexron VI/Mercon LV compatible fluid for A6LF2. Consult manual for precise specification.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 189.1 - 191.5 inches (4803 - 4865 mm)

Width:

Approx. 70.1 - 70.1 inches (1780 - 1780 mm)

Height:

Approx. 57.5 - 58.1 inches (1460 - 1475 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 107.9 inches (2740 mm)

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 15.5 - 16.6 cubic feet (439 - 470 L)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,200 - 3,600 lbs (1450 - 1630 kg), varies by engine and trim.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

Typically 4 or 5 stars (varies by model year and specific test criteria).

IIHS Ratings:

Often received 'Good' ratings in various crash tests from IIHS.

Active Safety Systems:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC).

Airbags:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags.

Seat Belts:

Pretensioning front seat belts with load limiters, three-point rear seat belts.

Chassis Design:

Advanced safety chassis (ASC) with high-tensile strength steel for improved rigidity and crash energy absorption.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Mazda's infotainment system with a central display, typically CD player, AM/FM radio, MP3 playback, auxiliary audio input, and available USB ports. Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming.

Navigation:

Optional touchscreen navigation system.

Driver Assistance Features:

Optional features may include rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring (BSM), and adaptive front-lighting system (AFS).

Connectivity Options:

Bluetooth, USB, Auxiliary audio input.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Check manual for specific recommendations.

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Varies by engine type. Iridium spark plugs typically rated for 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km).

Brake Fluid Flush:

Recommended every 30,000 - 45,000 miles (48,000 - 72,000 km) or 2-3 years.

Engine Oil Type:

API SN, ILSAC GF-5 certified synthetic or synthetic blend oil. Viscosity grade typically 0W-20 or 5W-20, depending on engine and climate. Always consult manual.

Coolant Type:

Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with organic acid technology (OAT).

Power Steering Fluid:

Mazda Genuine Power Steering Fluid or an equivalent ATF Dexron III compatible fluid.

Common Issues 1:

Corrosion on underbody components, especially in rust-belt regions. Check for exhaust system rust, suspension component corrosion.

Common Issues 2:

Oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil cooler seals on some engines.

Common Issues 3:

Premature wear on certain suspension components (e.g., control arm bushings, sway bar links) due to driving conditions.

Common Issues 4:

Water pump seal leaks on some engine variants.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Philosophy:

Mazda's 'Zoom-Zoom' philosophy emphasizes driving pleasure and sporty handling.

Generation:

Second Generation (2008-2013) - based on the Mazda Atenza, significant redesign from the first generation.

Design Language:

Introduced the 'Nagare' design language, featuring flowing lines and aerodynamic styling.

Manufacturing Locations:

Hofu Plant, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan; AutoAlliance International, Flat Rock, Michigan, USA (for North American market).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards Received:

The Mazda6 (GH generation) received various accolades during its production run, often praised for its handling, design, and value for money in its segment. Specific awards vary by market and trim level.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Generally scored well in consumer satisfaction and predicted reliability from publications like Consumer Reports, though specific year-to-year ratings should be consulted.