Mazda Mazda6 Reliability by YearBest & worst years, problems & recalls — NHTSA data
Comparing used Mazda Mazda6 options? We analyzed 10 model years (2012–2021) using real NHTSA complaint and recall data so you can spot stronger years, avoid riskier ones, and know what to inspect before buying.
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- Accident & damage history
- Odometer rollback records
- Open recalls & title brands
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the Mazda Mazda6 has 532 owner complaints and 22 safety recalls across model years 2012–2021. The most reported issue area is ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. 2014 drew the most complaints; 2019 drew the fewest.
- Make
- Mazda
- Model
- Mazda6
- Model years analyzed
- 2012–2021 (10 years)
- Total NHTSA complaints
- 532
- Safety recall campaigns
- 22
- Crash-related complaints
- 37
- Fire-related complaints
- 3
- Worst model year (by complaints)
- 2014 (137 complaints)
- Best model year (fewest complaints)
- 2019 (6 complaints)
- Top reported issue area
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Reliability signal
- Poor
By model year
Mazda Mazda6: which years to avoid & which to buy
Based on total NHTSA owner complaints per model year. Higher complaint counts indicate a riskier year to buy used — lower counts suggest a cleaner reliability record.
These years have the most owner complaints. Inspect carefully and always run a VIN check.
These years have the fewest owner complaints on record — lower risk starting points.
Crash test ratings
NHTSA NCAP crash test ratings
New Car Assessment ProgramNCAP crash tests measure how well a vehicle protects occupants in controlled frontal crash, side crash, and rollover scenarios. Stars are awarded per category (5 = safest). These laboratory results are independent of owner complaints and are performed by NHTSA engineers on new production vehicles.
Source: nhtsa.gov/ratings
What the complaint data suggests
PoorThe MAZDA MAZDA6 has 532 NHTSA complaints and 22 recalls on record. 37 complaints involve crash-related incidents. This data reflects owner-reported issues submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
- 532 total complaints filed with NHTSA
- 22 federal recall campaigns
- 37 crash-related complaints on record
- Review NHTSA complaint history for the most-reported components
- Check recall completion status at nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Verify service records for frequently complained components
Consult the by-year breakdown to identify model years with elevated complaint rates.
Consult the by-year breakdown to identify model years with fewer reported issues.
- Run a VIN check on the specific vehicle you are considering
- Verify all open recalls are completed at nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Request service records for the most-reported complaint components
- Have a certified mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase
Problems by model year (best vs. worst)
Source: NHTSA public complaints database. Updated: Jul 2026
Safety recalls
NHTSA safety recalls
22 recalls foundSafety recalls are mandatory repair campaigns ordered by NHTSA when a vehicle defect poses an unreasonable risk to safety. Manufacturers are required to fix recalled vehicles free of charge. Always verify open recalls before buying a used car.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR
ENGINE
STRUCTURE
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
PARKING BRAKE
TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TURN SIGNAL
ENGINE
STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
STRUCTURE
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
PARKING BRAKE
Source: NHTSA Recalls Database. Data covers model years 2012–2021. Always run a VIN-specific check below for the most up-to-date open recall status.
Common problems
What goes wrong most often
The vehicle systems owners complain about most, ranked from all 532 NHTSA complaints — these are the areas to inspect first on a used car.
Owner complaints
NHTSA complaint reports
532 totalThese are consumer-submitted safety complaints filed directly with NHTSA. Each complaint describes a real owner's experience. Complaints flagged as crash-related or fire-related are highlighted.
Uneven premature brake wear. Right front and right rear pads and rotors worn beyond limits in 28,000miles of lite freeway driving. Left front and Left rear only half worn. Engine has multiple oil leaks.
EXCESSIVE PAINT CHIPPING. I HAVE THE SOUL RED (V46) PAINT. IT WAS PURCHASED ON 06JUN2020 AND HAS ONLY 2,000 MILES BUT IT HAS 3 LARGE CHIPS. MOST OF THE MILES ARE JUST GOING TO THE STORE. I WORK FROM HOME SO I DON'T DRIVE BUT A COUPLE DAYS A WEEK.
Coolant Control Valve was not working per recall !! They put in a dummy plug and it did not fix which should have . Based on your research in using the dummy plug . I asked the dealership could be the dummy plug installation and asked if there waa a system update .. I hope you can help me get car back on road for the coolant control valve !! Florence ky Mazda said. They could not do nothing else !! Please help resolve ty
Dear NHTSA, I am writing to submit a safety complaint regarding my 2019 Mazda 6 GTR. Below are the details of the issue: Vehicle Information: Make: Mazda Model: 6 GTR Year: 2019 VIN: [XXX] Problem Description: My vehicle began to overheat while driving. The vehicle has approximately 35,000 miles and has been meticulously maintained at authorized Mazda dealerships. Mazda Liberty is now asking me to pay approximately $10,000 for a new engine, while Mazda warranty declined to provide support, as I am two months past the warranty period. I have discovered that there are numerous complaints similar engine issues with Mazda vehicles, specifically related to coolant leaks and cylinder head cracks. Incident Details: Date of Incident: [XXX] Mileage at Incident: 35,000 miles Symptoms: Overheating, engine seizure Actions Taken: Topped up coolant, visited local garage and authorized dealership I believe this issue poses a significant safety risk, and I am seeking NHTSA's assistance in investigating this matter. Thank you for your attention to this serious issue. Sincerely, [XXX] Cell: [XXX] Email: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
The forward smart city brake malfunction front radar sense malfunction caused my car to slow down on the express with the check engine light blinking.
The paint is chipping excessively and will lead to extensive body damage at the rate it is chipping and exposing the metal underneath. I am taking the vehicle in to the dealer next week to show them the damage. The chipping issue has already been documented on a Bill of Lading from a transporter who shipped the car to me. I will upload it below.
Read 14 more owner reports
AFTER PURCHASING A 2019 MAZDA6 IN JULY 2019, THERE HAVE BEEN MULTIPLE OCCASIONS IN WHICH I START THE CAR AND THE DISPLAY SCREEN FREEZES OR IS BLACK, NOT DISPLAYING ANYTHING. AT THE SAME TIME, THE CONTROL BUTTONS ON THE STEERING WHEEL DO NOT WORK. I'VE ALSO EXPERIENCED A LONG DELAY IN RESPONSE AFTER PRESSING CONTROL BUTTONS ON THE STEERING WHEEL. ALL OF THESE ISSUES HAPPEN RANDOMLY AND WILL CONTINUE WHILE DRIVING OR STOPPED.
I WAS DRIVING TO WORK THIS MORNING AND STEERING WHEEL WAS TURN TO RIGHT TO KEEP STRAIGHT AND FELT LIKE SOMETHING WAS LOOSE. I DROVE HOME AND HIT THE BRAKES AND CAR VEERED TO THE RIGHT HARD. THE CAR DID NOT FEEL RIGHT WHEN I GOT HOME I FOUND PASSENGER FRONT TIRE WAS NOT STRAIGHT AND WAS CROOKED. I TOOK TO MEINKE AND THEY FOUND ENTIRE UNDER CARRIAGE OF ENGINE RUSTED BADLY AND LOOKED LIKE SWISS CHEESE THEY STATED I WAS LUCKY TO GET THERE AND THAT THIS HAPPENS A LOT ON THIS MAKE AND MODEL OF CAR AND THAT IT WOULD BE $1200 TO $1500 TO FIX. *BF
The Infotainment system malfunctions. The rear view camera freezes, not with the current conditions but a still picture of a street I do not recognize. This puts not only myself at risk for an accident but those of others as well. This malfunction has been taken into the dealership on two different occasions. Each time the dealer couldn't solve the issue. There is currently a class action lawsuit regarding the Infotainment system.
Twice had low oil warning lamp appear. First time in July 2023, 2nd time in June 2024. Both times oil has just been changed 2-3 months prior. Saw articles that there was a recent lawsuit, which is why I am filling complaint as well. Not for lawsuit, but for repairs so this does not occur again.
Engine oil low warning 2k miles after oil change and again a week after topping oil off.
My car displayed a low oil level light between oil changes and after checking the dipstick it was low. No sign of visible oil leak so upon further research I was made aware of a TSB about defective valve seals causing excessive oil consumption. My cars VIN is in the affected range outlined in the TSB. Now when I drive it's likely that slow but permanent damage could be occuring in my vehicle.
Low oil light comes on. Using excessive oil between oil changes.
Oil Consumption Defect. I bought car on 7/10/21. Mazda aware of the problem at the time and still sold me the car. Since then I have had to add oil in between oil changes. Mazda states problem cannot be fixed. My car vin # included with defected cars. My Limited New Car Warranty will be up soon. I am aware others have concacted you with this problem. Can you tell me what is being done about this?
Excessive oil burn. I have 12,7000 miles on my engine and the car is burning ~1 quart of oil every 3k miles and increasing.
I been having problems with oil consumption in between oil changes,I am concerned with the potential for damage to other engine systems aside from the reported issue with the gasket stem seals. I been taking my car to the dealership and I been told they don’t have a solution and they don’t know how to fix it. This is a new car!!!
The contact owns a 2021 Mazda Mazda6. The contact stated that the oil light continually illuminated on the instrument panel while driving at various speeds. The contact had taken the vehicle to the dealer where he was informed that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of oil. Upon investigation, the contact discovered information that a defective valve in the engine might have been the cause of the failure. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 11,800.
Vehicle displays low engine oil light about every 1,000 miles due to burning oil from faulty valve stem seals from factory assembly. Mazda has acknowledged the defect but plans to only refill engine oil. The defect could lead to possible injury due to low oil which could cause the engine to seize and cause sudden loss of power.
The engine oil low light has illuminated multiple times. I verified that there is no external engine oil leak. I have added oil and driven it for a couple thousand miles and the light is now on again. The car is brand new and should not be burning oil. Its a known issue as Mazda has a service bulletin but no fix for it. This is the bulletin number TSB-01-012/21.
Excessive oil consumption. Recently purchased new vehicle with 0 miles. Oil low level warning light on at 3500 miles. Manually checked oil level. Added one quart. Online research indicates problem is created by faulty valve guide seals which allows oil into the engine combustion chamber and exhaust. Vehicle will be taken to dealership for inspection.
Showing 20 of 532 total NHTSA complaints. Source: NHTSA Complaints Database
Check the exact car
Before you buy, check the exact Mazda Mazda6
These pages show model-year patterns across 10 years. Enter a VIN to verify the exact vehicle's accident history, title brands, odometer records, and open recall status before purchase.
The basics
How to read this data
Complaints, recalls, investigations — here’s what each number actually tells you about a used Mazda Mazda6, in plain English.
What is an NHTSA Complaint?
An NHTSA safety complaint is a report filed directly by a vehicle owner or driver describing a safety-related issue. Anyone can submit a complaint at NHTSA.gov. The number of complaints is a signal of how common a problem is — but complaints per model-year matter more than raw totals, since popular vehicles naturally receive more reports. The Mazda Mazda6 has 532 complaints on record across 10 model years.
What is a Safety Recall?
A safety recall is a mandatory campaign issued by NHTSA when a vehicle component poses an unreasonable risk to safety or does not comply with federal motor vehicle safety standards. Unlike complaints (which are owner-reported), recalls are formally investigated and confirmed by regulators. Manufacturers must fix recalled vehicles free of charge. The Mazda Mazda6 has 22 recall campaigns in the NHTSA database.
What Are Crash Complaints?
Crash complaints are NHTSA filings where the owner indicates a crash occurred as part of the incident. 37 of the Mazda Mazda6's 532 complaints involved a crash. This metric is particularly important because it indicates how often defects resulted in actual collisions — a key safety signal beyond general reliability.
How Is the Reliability Verdict Calculated?
The reliability verdict (Poor) is generated by analyzing the vehicle's total complaints, recall history, crash complaint ratio, fire complaint ratio, and top component failures relative to class averages. This verdict gives buyers a quick interpretation before they review year-level details and VIN-level history. It should be treated as one decision input, not a substitute for a VIN-specific report.
Why Do Newer Years Have Fewer Complaints?
Newer model years appear to have fewer complaints because there has been less time for owners to file them. Complaints accumulate over years of ownership. A 2020 model year vehicle will typically show fewer complaints than a 2015 model year even if it is less reliable — simply because fewer owners have had time to report issues. Focus on complaints per year of market presence when comparing across model years.
Fleet Data vs. Individual VIN
Everything on this page reflects aggregated data across all Mazda Mazda6 vehicles on the road — not any specific car. Two Mazda Mazda6 vehicles of the same year can have very different histories: one may have been in three accidents and have an open recall; another may be clean. A VIN check gives you the individual car's history: accidents, title brands, odometer records, service history, and real-time recall status.
What Are NHTSA Investigations?
When NHTSA receives a pattern of related safety complaints, it opens a formal investigation. A Preliminary Evaluation (PE) is the first stage — NHTSA determines if a safety defect may exist. If evidence is strong, it escalates to an Engineering Analysis (EA), which can result in a mandatory recall. The Mazda Mazda6 has 0 investigations on record (0 active). Investigations listed above may have already led to the recalls shown on this page.
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By state
Check a Mazda Mazda6 by state
Title-branding rules, flood-damage exposure, and salvage laws vary by state. Run a free VIN check or explore state-specific vehicle history guidance before buying a used Mazda Mazda6.
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Keep researching before you buy
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Mazda Mazda6 reliability — frequently asked questions
Is the Mazda Mazda6 reliable?
Poor. The Mazda Mazda6 has 532 NHTSA owner complaints and 22 recall campaigns across model years. A commonly reported issue area is ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Use year-level data as a pattern guide, then verify the exact car with a VIN check before purchase.
Which Mazda Mazda6 years to avoid?
Years with the most NHTSA complaints: 2014 (137 complaints), 2012 (99 complaints), 2016 (76 complaints). Use these years as a shortlist for deeper inspection, and always run a VIN check on the exact vehicle before purchase.
What are the most common Mazda Mazda6 problems?
Top reported issues: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (100 complaints); UNKNOWN OR OTHER (89 complaints); ENGINE (78 complaints).
Does the Mazda Mazda6 have recalls?
Yes — 22 NHTSA recall campaigns have been issued for the Mazda Mazda6. Check nhtsa.gov/recalls or run a VIN check to see if your specific vehicle has open recalls.