🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

6

Year:

2006

Chassis Code:

GG/GY/GH

Platform Name:

Mazda GF-Platform

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size sedan (also available as hatchback and wagon variants globally).

Reputation:

Known for its sporty handling, attractive styling, and good reliability.

Key Competitors 2006:

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

Design Philosophy:

Nagare design concept (flowing forms), Jinba Ittai (horse and rider as one) driving dynamics.

Powertrain Options:

Available with responsive inline-4 and V6 engines, coupled with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Regions Covered:

North America, Europe, Asia (specific markets may vary based on original manual distribution)

Estimated Page Count:

1500-2500+ (typical for a full service repair manual covering multiple engine/drivetrain options)

Type:

Full Service Repair Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, piston, connecting rods, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, ignition system, emission control systems, timing systems (belt/chain), engine management (ECU/PCM).

Transmission Drivetrain:

Manual transmission (gearbox, clutch), Automatic transmission (torque converter, valve body, planetary gears, control systems), differentials, drive shafts, CV joints, AWD system (if applicable).

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, ABS system, EBD system, brake booster, master cylinder, brake calipers, brake pads, brake discs, parking brake, bleeding procedures.

Steering Suspension:

Power steering system (hydraulic/electric), steering rack, tie rods, ball joints, control arms, bushings, shock absorbers, struts, springs, sway bars, wheel alignment specifications.

Electrical Electronics:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, diagnostic connectors (OBD-II), instrument cluster, body control module (BCM), power windows, locks, mirrors, wipers, horn.

Body Chassis:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, interior trim, seats, chassis frame, rust repair, corrosion protection, sound deadening.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system (compressor, refrigerant, condenser, evaporator), heater core, blower motor, climate control unit, cabin air filter replacement.

Safety Restraint:

Airbag system (SRS module, sensors, airbags), seatbelts, pre-tensioners.

Maintenance Tasks:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad/disc replacement, tire rotation and pressure checks, coolant flushes, battery testing.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides based on symptoms, fault code interpretation (OBD-II), component testing (multimeter use, specific test procedures), live data analysis.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component replacement, system overhaul, body repairs, interior repairs, electrical component repair.

Rebuild Procedures:

Detailed instructions for engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and other major component restorations.

Technical Data Specs:

Torque specifications for fasteners, fluid capacities and types, component clearances, electrical resistance values, timing specifications, alignment settings.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, including power distribution, grounds, and signal pathways.

Depth:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including complex electrical diagnostics).

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Text-searchable (allows for quick location of information).

Image Resolution:

High-resolution, suitable for printing clear diagrams and images.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Family:

MZR (Mazda-eZ-ності)

Engine Displacement 1:

2.3L (2261cc)

Engine Code 1:

L3-VE

Horsepower 1:

160 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)

Torque 1:

150 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (approx.)

Engine Configuration 1:

Inline-4, DOHC, 16 valves

Fuel Induction 1:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine Displacement 2:

3.0L (2967cc)

Engine Code 2:

AJ-DE (Ford Duratec 30 based)

Horsepower 2:

214 hp @ 6200 rpm (approx.)

Torque 2:

203 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (approx.)

Engine Configuration 2:

V6, DOHC, 24 valves

Fuel Induction 2:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Redline 1:

6500 rpm (approx.)

Compression Ratio 1:

9.7:1 (approx.)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended, higher for V6)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type 1:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type 2:

5-Speed Sport Automatic Transmission (with manual shift mode on some trims)

AWD Availability:

Available on select models, often paired with the 2.3L engine.

Manual Transmission Clutch:

Hydraulic clutch actuation.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 186.2 inches (Sedan), 178.0 inches (Hatchback)

Width:

Approx. 70.1 inches

Height:

Approx. 57.1 inches (Sedan), 56.1 inches (Hatchback)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 105.3 inches

Track Width Front:

Approx. 60.6 inches

Track Width Rear:

Approx. 60.2 inches

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 5.4 inches

Curb Weight Min:

Approx. 3164 lbs (2.3L Manual Sedan)

Curb Weight Max:

Approx. 3530 lbs (3.0L Automatic AWD Sedan)

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 14.4 cu ft (Sedan)

Cargo Volume Hatchback:

Approx. 22.0 cu ft (rear seats up), 40.7 cu ft (rear seats folded)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Driver:

5-Star

NHTSA Frontal Crash Passenger:

5-Star

NHTSA Side Impact Driver:

5-Star

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:

5-Star

IIHS Frontal Offset:

Good

IIHS Side Impact:

Good

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS)

Electronic Stability:

Available Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with Traction Control System (TCS)

Brake Assist:

Available

Airbags Front:

Standard Advanced front airbags

Airbags Side:

Standard front side-impact airbags

Airbags Curtain:

Standard front and rear side-curtain airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD audio system with 4 or 6 speakers. Optional Bose premium audio system available on higher trims.

Display Screen:

Optional infotainment system with a color display for audio, climate, and trip computer functions. Some models may feature navigation (less common).

Connectivity:

Auxiliary input for audio devices (on some models). Bluetooth connectivity was not widely available in this model year.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Keyless Entry:

Available keyless entry with remote unlocking and trunk release.

Automatic Headlights:

Available on higher trim levels.

Rain Sensing Wipers:

Available on higher trim levels.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to specific manual recommendations).

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or approximately every 30,000 miles.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or approximately every 15,000 - 30,000 miles.

Spark Plug Replacement 2.3L:

Approximately every 100,000 miles (iridium type plugs).

Spark Plug Replacement 3.0L:

Approximately every 60,000 miles (platinum type plugs).

Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:

Check every 30,000 miles, replace fluid and filter at 60,000-100,000 miles (severe use may require more frequent changes).

Transmission Fluid Change Manual:

Inspect every 60,000 miles, replacement typically not scheduled unless issues arise, but consult manual for best practice.

Coolant Flush:

Approximately every 60,000 miles or 4 years.

Engine Oil 2.3L:

SAE 5W-20 (API SN or higher, ILSAC GF-5 or higher).

Engine Oil 3.0L:

SAE 5W-30 (API SN or higher, ILSAC GF-5 or higher).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Mazda Genuine ATF-FZ or equivalent Mercon V compatible fluid.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 gear oil (specific viscosity to be confirmed in manual).

Coolant:

Mazda Genuine Super Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent P-HOAT coolant.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

Mazda Genuine Power Steering Fluid or equivalent Dexron III H ATF.

Rust Corrosion:

Susceptible to rust in certain climates, especially around wheel wells, rocker panels, and subframes. Regular inspection and rust prevention are recommended.

Power Steering Pump Failure:

Some models experienced premature failure of the power steering pump, leading to stiff steering and noise. The manual will detail diagnostic and replacement procedures.

Engine Mounts Wear:

Engine mounts can wear over time, leading to increased vibration felt in the cabin, especially at idle. The manual will cover inspection and replacement.

Interior Rattles:

Some owners report minor interior rattles from the dashboard, door panels, or center console. The manual can help in diagnosing and quieting these noises.

Catalytic Converter Failure:

Occasional reports of premature catalytic converter failure, particularly with higher mileage vehicles. The manual covers exhaust system diagnostics.

Automatic Transmission Issues:

While generally reliable, some automatic transmissions may exhibit shifting issues or delayed engagement. Fluid changes and proper maintenance are crucial. The manual provides detailed diagnostic flowcharts.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda History:

Mazda Motor Corporation, established in 1920, has a long history of innovation in automotive manufacturing, known for its driver-focused approach and unique technologies like the rotary engine.

First Generation Mazda6:

The Mazda 6 (first generation, codenamed GG/GY) debuted in 2002 as a replacement for the Mazda Capella/626. It was praised for its sharp styling, engaging handling, and the introduction of Mazda's 'Nagare' design language.

Facelift 2006:

The 2006 model year represents a significant mid-cycle refresh for the first-generation Mazda 6. Key changes included revised exterior styling (front and rear fascias), updated interior appointments, and powertrain enhancements. This facelift aimed to maintain competitiveness and refine the car's appeal.

Production Locations:

Primary production facilities included Hofu, Japan, and Flat Rock, Michigan, USA (for North American market models).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Best 10:

Mazda 6 (first generation) was a Car and Driver 10Best list recipient for 2003.

Motor Trend Car Of The Year:

While not winning, the Mazda 6 was a finalist for MotorTrend Car of the Year in its debut year (2003).

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Generally rated as average to above average for reliability by consumer reporting agencies for its era, with specific model years and engines having better track records.