Mazda 6
2.0-litre SkyActiv-G with 13:1 compression ratio and chain drive. Core engine of the SkyActiv fleet with a wide power range from 88 to 121 kW.
SkyActiv-G with Real Shift Feel
The GJ with the 2.0-litre SkyActiv-G and short throw enables a sporty driving style unusual in this class. G-Vectoring Control from 2017 improves handling and comfort further. Direct steering and good feedback make the GJ the dynamic benchmark of its segment.
Engine Weaknesses 6
Direct-injection carbon build-up on intake valves from crankcase breather oil mist. Typically occurs between 100,000–160,000 km. Walnut blasting is the only lasting solution.
Symptoms: Rough cold start with misfire codes P0300–P0304, sluggish throttle response, increased fuel consumption
Particularly on early build years 2012–2014, contamination in the oil pump pressure relief valve can reduce oil pressure. Persistently low oil pressure accelerates bearing wear considerably.
Symptoms: Oil pressure warning light illuminates, knocking noises from the engine, increased engine noise at low revs
A manufacturing deviation in the electric coolant control valve allows coolant to enter the dry chamber. The valve opens too early. TSI R054-21 affects all SkyActiv-G engines.
Symptoms: Extended warm-up phase, blue coolant warning light, poor heater output at idle
The oil control valve on the variable valve timing system is prone to seal leakage. Oil enters the intake system and increases carbon deposits. Can amplify misfires.
Symptoms: Oil film visible around the OCV housing, increased oil consumption, misfire codes from oil contamination
The PE-VPS develops tapping or ticking noises from around 30,000 km due to faulty hydraulic valve lifters. Mazda released revised HLA versions from spring 2022. Warranty replacement is possible on newer vehicles.
Symptoms: Deep, slow ticking at operating temperature, particularly at low revs. Noise disappears when the oil pressure sensor is disconnected.
As a direct-injection engine the PE-VPS does not clean its intake valves with fuel. From around 80,000 km without BeDi treatment, carbon deposits become so severe that only walnut blasting helps. A measurable power loss of around 10 hp is typical.
Symptoms: Gradual power loss, increased fuel consumption, rough idle behaviour. No sudden symptoms — deterioration occurs over months.
Vehicle Weaknesses 6
Brake discs on the Mazda 6 GJ warp from as little as 5,000 to 30,000 km, causing steering wheel judder. A well-known chronic Mazda weakness. Aftermarket discs from Brembo or ATE are a more lasting solution.
On vehicles produced between July and December 2012, water can enter the rear brake caliper and impair the function of the electric parking brake.
Early Mazda 6 GJ (2012–2015) have a bonnet that flutters at around 170–190 km/h due to a defective seal at the rear of the bonnet. Mazda dealerships have a service bulletin to address this.
Light rust on door edges and underside folds appears on the Mazda 6 GJ from around 5–8 years. Without cavity wax treatment, corrosion forms at corners and folds that can become MOT-relevant.
Some Mazda 6 GJ develop clunking or banging noises from the dampers, especially on older vehicles from around 120,000 km. TÜV reports flag the suspension as above-average for defects.
Early Mazda 6 GJ (2012–2015) have issues with the MZD Connect infotainment system: Bluetooth dropouts, iPhone USB problems and navigation errors. Software updates resolve many cases.