Used Mazda6 - what to expect?

The first generation Mazda6 hit the market in 2002 and underwent a facelift in 2005. Despite its serious age, the Japanese business class model is still popular in the used car market, prompting Autoweek experts to analyze its strengths and weaknesses to determine if it is worth the money.

They note that with their release, the "six" (GG generation) has changed the perception of the Japanese car. The model distances itself from its predecessor - 626, offering an interesting design, chrome body elements and quality materials in the cabin, which remain even after a run of 200000 km. Now there are many offers on the market since 2008 at an affordable price. However, are they reliable enough for investment?

Body

When buying your first Mazda6, be sure to check the fenders, doors, window frames, boot lid and sills for rust. It is these elements that are threatened with corrosion. Therefore, it is advisable to treat hidden cavities and the bottom of the car every 3-4 years with a material that prevents rust.

Engines

All gasoline engines of this model work flawlessly, which is very rare these days. The units have 4 valves per cylinder and a timing chain, which is also reliable and can rarely surprise the car owner. However, engines are sensitive to oil quality, so you shouldn't skimp on it. This is especially true for the 2,3-liter variable displacement engine, which consumes more oil and requires careful monitoring.

At the opposite pole is the 2,0-liter FR series diesel, which is very capricious. If the owner pours low-quality lubricant, the crankshaft wears out quickly and requires repair, which is very expensive. Therefore, experts do not recommend the Mazda6 (first generation) with a diesel engine.

Transmission

The sedan and wagon were originally equipped with a Jatco 4-speed automatic transmission and after 2006 the transmission became an Aisin 5-speed transmission. This unit is also reliable, and sometimes there is a problem of wear of the solenoids. Replacing them is not the cheapest. In addition, the gearbox oil must be changed every 60 km.

As for the 5-speed and 6-speed manual transmissions, the models are offered, they are maintenance-free and generally do not cause problems. Possibly difficult gear shifting with a cold gearbox means that the oil has absorbed too much water and lost its properties. Accordingly, it's time to replace it in a specialized service.

Suspension

The Mazda6 chassis is rather complicated, since the car has 3 carriers on the front axle - two lower and one upper, and four on the rear. In general, these elements are strong and reliable enough, so that even after 150 km the car can be in original parts.

The weak part is the connecting rods and pads on the stabilizing rods. Problems in these two elements arise with more frequent crossing of rough roads. Bad weather conditions - rain or snow is bad for bushings that rot and break, so it's good to check their condition from time to time.

To buy or not?

Although the first Mazda6 is quite old, the car is relatively in demand. However, experts recommend avoiding diesel options and choosing a car with a gasoline engine and an automatic transmission.

Of course, the car will need to replace the main consumables, as well as, probably, suspension parts, but even with a mileage of 200000 km (provided that they are real), the car will delight its new owner with excellent handling and comfort for long journeys.