The Mazda 6 is a large family car and estate that competed with the Ford Mondeo, VW Passat and Vauxhall Insignia. Discontinued in 2023, it remains a very popular used buy — particularly as the Tourer estate. The MK2 (2007–2012) and MK3 (2012–2023) are the most common on UK roads. Known for above-average build quality and driving dynamics in the class. A strong alternative to German rivals at a significantly lower used price point.
Quick Facts — Mazda 6
Common Engines
2.0 Skyactiv-G, 2.5 Skyactiv-G, 2.0 Skyactiv-D, 2.2 Skyactiv-D
6 Most Common Mazda 6 Problems
These are the faults most frequently seen on the Mazda 6 by UK garages — ranked by how commonly they occur and what they cost to fix.
Diesel Mazda 6s — especially Tourers used as family cars — develop DPF blockages on short runs. Very common at UK garages on cars primarily used for short journeys.
💷 Typical repair cost: £100–£1,500
Pre-Skyactiv 2.0 and 2.5 petrol engines in older MK2 Mazda 6s can develop timing chain noise on higher mileage examples. A cold-start rattle indicates tensioner wear.
💷 Typical repair cost: £500–£1,800
High-mileage Skyactiv-D Mazda 6s develop EGR carbon deposits causing rough running and EML.
💷 Typical repair cost: £150–£500
Rear brake caliper seizure is reported on older Mazda 6 models — particularly in high-salt areas. Causes uneven brake wear, pulling and judder.
💷 Typical repair cost: £150–£400 per side
Panoramic sunroof drain blockages cause water ingress into the cabin on MK3 Mazda 6 models.
💷 Typical repair cost: £50–£300
Wiper motor failures are occasionally seen on older MK2 Mazda 6 models.
💷 Typical repair cost: £80–£250
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Mazda 6 — MOT Tips
DPF warning is an automatic fail on diesel models. Check the 2.0/2.5 petrol for cold-start timing chain rattle on older MK2 cars. Inspect rear brake calipers for seizure — seized calipers are a common MOT fail. Check all wiper functions — both are MOT items.
Engine management light on before your MOT? It's an automatic fail. Run a
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Mazda 6 Tyres
Most Mazda 6 models run 205/60 R16 or 215/55 R17 or 225/45 R18 or 225/40 R19 depending on trim level and year. Always check the placard inside the driver's door for the exact size for your vehicle.
Summary
The Mazda 6 is an outstanding used large family car — better built than many rivals at its used price point. The Skyactiv-G petrol with a manual gearbox is the most reliable combination. Avoid the diesel for short-journey family use. The Tourer estate is particularly good value on the used market.
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