Segment:
Mid-size sedan (also available as wagon).
Competitive Landscape 2002 2003:
Competed against vehicles such as the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion, and Chevrolet Malibu.
Design:
Characterized by its distinctive 'Nagare' (flow) design language, offering a sporty and elegant aesthetic.
Handling:
Renowned for its engaging driving dynamics and sporty handling, often praised in automotive reviews.
Powertrain Options:
Offered with reliable and efficient Mazda MZR engines.
Reliability:
Generally considered a reliable vehicle for its era, with well-engineered components.
Engine:
Comprehensive coverage including engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emission control, and engine electrical systems.
Transmission:
Detailed information on manual and automatic transmissions, including maintenance, repair, troubleshooting, and specifications.
Drivetrain:
Coverage of front-wheel drive (FWD) systems, axles, CV joints, and differential components.
Suspension:
Detailed diagnosis and repair procedures for front and rear suspension components, including struts, shocks, control arms, and bushings.
Steering:
Complete guidance on steering system components, including power steering pump, rack and pinion, and steering column.
Brakes:
In-depth coverage of hydraulic systems, disc brakes (front and rear), anti-lock braking system (ABS) components, and parking brake.
Electrical System:
Extensive coverage of the entire electrical system, including battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, accessories, and wiring diagrams.
Body And Frame:
Information on body panel removal and installation, interior trim, exterior trim, glass, and chassis components.
HVAC:
Diagnosis and repair procedures for the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, including refrigerant handling.
Comfort And Convenience:
Procedures for power windows, door locks, mirrors, seats, and other comfort features.
Routine Maintenance:
Detailed instructions for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, and spark plug replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex problems with comprehensive symptom-to-cause charts.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment for all major vehicle systems.
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications for fasteners, fluid capacities, electrical component specifications, and diagnostic parameters.
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete and detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle circuits.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Tools:
References to necessary diagnostic tools, scan tools, and specialized equipment.
Engine 1 Displacement:
2.3L (2261cc)
Engine 1 Type:
Inline-4 (I4), DOHC, 16-valve
Engine 1 Codes:
L3-VE (common)
Engine 1 Horsepower:
Approx. 160 hp @ 6000 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
Approx. 150 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine 2 Displacement:
3.0L (2967cc) V6
Engine 2 Type:
V6, DOHC, 24-valve
Engine 2 Codes:
AJ-DE (or similar Ford Duratec variant)
Engine 2 Horsepower:
Approx. 200 hp @ 6300 rpm
Engine 2 Torque:
Approx. 200 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended, 91+ for optimal performance)
Emissions Control:
Catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, EGR system.
Type 2.3L:
5-speed manual transmission (FS5A-EL type)
Type 2.3L:
5-speed automatic transmission (FS5A-EL type)
Type 3.0L V6:
5-speed automatic transmission (GF8A-EL type)
Automatic Features:
Adaptive shift control, possible manual mode/sport mode.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Mazda ATF JWS 3317 or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon (verify with manual for precise recommendation)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (verify with manual for precise recommendation)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5 Stars (2003 model)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5 Stars (2003 model)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:
5 Stars (2003 model)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:
5 Stars (2003 model)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Driver:
5 Stars (2003 model)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:
5 Stars (2003 model)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:
Good (2003 model)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags Front:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Airbags Side:
Available front side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
Front 3-point pretensioner seat belts with load limiters, rear 3-point seat belts.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player, and available premium Bose audio system on higher trims.
Display:
Central dashboard display for audio, climate, and clock functions.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Keyless Entry:
Available keyless entry and alarm system.
Auxiliary Input:
Typically no standard auxiliary input or USB ports; aftermarket solutions available.
Steering Wheel Controls:
Available steering wheel mounted audio controls on select trims.
Service Intervals General
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions; refer to manual for severe conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement 2.3L:
Every 75,000 miles (platinum or iridium plugs recommended).
Engine Coolant Flush:
First at 60,000 miles or 4 years, then every 30,000 miles or 2 years thereafter.
Engine Oil Type 2.3L:
SAE 5W-30, API SL or SM, ILSAC GF-3 or GF-4 certified (e.g., Mazda Genuine Oil Ultra 5W-30).
Engine Oil Capacity 2.3L:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (with filter change).
Engine Oil Type 3.0L V6:
SAE 5W-30, API SL or SM, ILSAC GF-3 or GF-4 certified (e.g., Ford Motorcraft SAE 5W-30).
Engine Oil Capacity 3.0L V6:
Approx. 5.7 quarts (with filter change).
Coolant Type:
Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) antifreeze/coolant.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Mazda Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III/Mercon ATF.
Known Issues Common Complaints
Rust And Corrosion:
Prevalent in northern climates, particularly around wheel wells, rocker panels, and rear quarter panels. Early inspection and preventative measures are crucial.
Engine Mounts:
Can wear out over time, leading to increased vibration felt in the cabin, especially at idle or under acceleration.
Power Steering Pump Leaks:
Leaks can develop at the pump or hoses, leading to noise and loss of power steering assist.
Climate Control Blend Door Actuator:
Failure of this actuator can result in HVAC system issues, such as inability to control temperature or air distribution.
Window Regulators:
The electric window regulators can fail, causing windows to become inoperable.
Catalytic Converter Issues:
Can become clogged or fail, impacting engine performance and emissions.
Mazda Philosophy:
Mazda has a long history of producing engaging and well-engineered vehicles, often focusing on driving pleasure ('Zoom-Zoom' philosophy).
First Generation Launch:
The Mazda 6 (first generation, GG/GY) was introduced in 2002 as a replacement for the Mazda Capella/626.
Design Inspiration:
The design was a significant departure from its predecessor, aiming for a more modern and athletic appearance.
Platform Sharing:
Shared its platform with Ford and Volvo vehicles of the era, reflecting Mazda's parent company at the time (Ford Motor Company).
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan (Hofu) and also in Russia (by Sollers) and China (by FAW Mazda).
Car And Driver Best 10:
Car and Driver magazine named the Mazda 6 to its '10Best' list for 2003, a significant achievement in the competitive mid-size segment.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
Was a contender for MotorTrend Car of the Year upon its release.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Generally received good reliability ratings from Consumer Reports for its early years, though some common issues were noted with age.