2012-2018 · 2.0L Skyactiv-G PE-VPS petrol engine · 165 hp
Stylish, reliable Japanese family sedan with one of Mazda's most dependable engines. The naturally aspirated 2.0 Skyactiv-G is known for longevity with proper maintenance - owners report 200,000+ km without major issues. Key concerns: rust on wheel arches (especially 2012-2014 models), infotainment touchscreen ghost touch problems, parking brake caliper corrosion (2014-2015 recall), and carbon buildup on intake valves if driven only short distances. Avoid diesel variants from before March 2014 due to camshaft issues. Manual gearbox is more reliable than automatic.
Bubbling paint on rear wheel arches, especially 2012-2014 models · more· less
The Mazda 6 GJ has a documented history of rust problems, particularly affecting rear wheel arches. Mazda identified the cause as an out-of-position sealing weld around the wheel arch that allows moisture ingress. Bubbling paint can appear as early as year 2-3, with some owners reporting "full of spidering rust spots" by year 3. Early production cars (2012-2014) are most susceptible. Mazda UK issued a service recall to inspect and treat affected vehicles. Repair cost is approximately €1,000-1,200 per arch (€2,000-2,400 for both rears). Cars as young as 3 years old have shown rust on both rear wheel arches despite regular washing and waxing.
Infotainment touchscreen ghost touch€500 - €1,200
Screen activates functions randomly or fails to respond to touch · more· less
The Mazda Connect infotainment system can develop "ghost touch" issues where the touchscreen either fails to recognize user inputs or randomly activates functions on its own. Common causes include moisture from AC condensate getting into the poorly sealed infotainment system, or sun heat destroying connections (screen positioning allows sun beams to heat the back of the unit). Diagnostic code B108E:04 indicates center display internal failure requiring replacement. Screen replacement costs €800-1,200 at dealers. Software update to version 70.00.367 helps some cases. System reset (hold volume, back, and NAV buttons for 10 seconds) may provide temporary relief. Repair kits available for €500 but expect to need repair again in about 5 years.
Carbon buildup on intake valves€600 - €1,200
Direct injection design allows carbon deposits, typically 80,000-120,000 km · more· less
The Skyactiv-G direct injection engine positions fuel injectors directly in the combustion chamber, so fuel doesn't wash over intake valves. This allows carbon deposits from combustion gases and PCV vapors to accumulate on valves and ports. The problem worsens with short trips, city driving, idling, and use of cheap conventional oils (high volatility means more vaporization). Symptoms include rough idling, hesitation during acceleration, and reduced efficiency. Walnut blasting is the most effective cleaning method - requires intake manifold removal, then 1-2 hours of cleaning. Cost approximately €600-1,200 depending on severity. Preventive measures: use synthetic oil (lower volatility), regular spirited highway driving, frequent PCV valve cleaning. Some engines go their whole lives without cleaning; others need service every 80,000-120,000 km.
Water enters rear brake caliper causing actuator shaft corrosion and binding · more· less
Mazda recall 1217F affects 2014-2015 Mazda 6 models built between October 25, 2012 and December 1, 2014 with hand-operated parking brake (not electric). Due to inappropriate sealing of the rear brake caliper protective boot, water can enter the brake caliper (especially in low temperatures) and cause the parking brake actuator shaft to corrode. In extreme cases, the corroded shaft can stick in the brake caliper body, leading to either decreased parking brake holding force (vehicle can roll on slope) or brake drag while driving. Manufactured by Akebono in Japan. Only affects models with mechanical hand lever; electric parking brake (from January 2014) not affected. Dealers inspect and replace corroded calipers or protective boot kit free of charge. Verify recall completion before purchase.
Brake disc and pad wear€300 - €700
Mazda 6 can be hard on brake discs, causing premature wear and vibration · more· less
The Mazda 6 can be quite hard on its brake discs, which can lead to vibration under braking. Front brake disc sizes are typically 297x28mm or 320x28mm depending on trim. Brake disc prices in Europe range from €20-60 per disc (€40-120 for pair), with premium brands like Brembo at the higher end. Expected lifespan is approximately 150,000 km but can be significantly less with aggressive driving or hilly terrain. Labor for disc and pad replacement typically €100-200. Total cost for front disc and pad replacement ranges €300-500 at independent shops, €500-700 at dealers. Rear disc replacement less common but similar cost structure.
Low oil pressure (early models)€200 - €800
Primarily affects 2012-2014 engines, usually debris on oil pump relief valve · more· less
Low oil pressure is the single most common problem on the Mazda 2.0L Skyactiv-G engine, though it only affects a small number of engines. The issue primarily affects earlier 2012-2014 models. Usually caused by debris or an object stuck on the oil pump pressure relief valve. Mazda issued a TSB (Technical Service Bulletin) to address this problem. Symptoms include oil pressure warning light illumination and potential engine damage if not addressed promptly. Repair involves oil pump inspection and cleaning or replacement. Cost ranges from €200 for simple cleaning to €800 for pump replacement including labor. Prevented by regular oil changes with quality synthetic oil and avoiding extended oil change intervals.
Spark plug and ignition coil replacement€200 - €400
Scheduled replacement every 75,000 km/miles for Skyactiv-G 2.0 · more· less
Mazda recommends spark plug replacement every 75,000 km for Skyactiv-G 2.0 naturally aspirated engines (40,000 km for turbo variants). Ignition coil failure can occur, often caused by faulty spark plugs or wires. Cost for spark plug replacement averages €200-270 (parts and labor). Ignition coil replacement costs €240-375 per coil. The 2.0 engine has 4 cylinders, so full ignition coil set replacement would be higher. Symptoms include rough idle, misfires, poor fuel economy, and check engine light. RepairPal recommends replacing coils in pairs if one fails. DIY friendly - spark plugs accessible on top of engine. Important: leaving steel spark plugs in aluminum heads for too long (10+ years) can cause threads to seize, making removal difficult or impossible without damage.
Suspension shock/strut wear€650 - €800
Premature front strut wear and rear shock leaks causing poor ride quality · more· less
The Mazda 6 often faces premature front strut wear and rear shock leaks. Symptoms include unstable, bumpy ride, excessive body roll, uneven tire wear, knocking noises over bumps, and oil leaking from struts/shocks. Clicking or growling noise when turning can indicate worn bearing in upper strut mount. Squeaking when steering wheel turned indicates rubber bushings in mount are decaying. Front strut replacement costs €660-780 on average. Rear shock replacement costs €350+. RepairPal recommends replacing struts in pairs for consistent ride quality. Four-wheel alignment recommended when struts replaced (changes ride height and alignment). Owners report Bilstein B6 upgrades improve handling and reduce body roll without harshness. OEM replacements widely available. DIY possible with spring compressor for fronts; rears don't require compressor.
Very reliable with proper maintenance
The Mazda 6 GJ with the 2.0 Skyactiv-G engine is one of the most reliable family sedans in its class. The naturally aspirated engine earns well-above-average reliability remarks with no serious design flaws. Owners report 200,000-250,000 km with just regular maintenance. The main concerns are bodywork (rust), brake system wear, and electronics (infotainment). The engine itself is extremely dependable when maintained with quality oil and proper service intervals.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete Mazda dealer or specialist records essential. Verify oil changes every 7,500-12,000 km with synthetic oil.
Tires
Check tread depth (legal minimum 1.6mm, replace at 3mm), tire age (date codes should be within 6-7 years), and uneven wear patterns. Verify all four tires are same model and type.
Cold start
Must start engine completely cold. Listen for unusual sounds, rattles, or knocking in first 30 seconds.
Body condition
Check for rust (wheel arches most critical), accident damage, paint mismatch, clustered dents. Check underneath doors, radiator area, behind tires, trunk area.
Test drive
Minimum 20-30 minutes including varied speeds, highway driving, and spirited acceleration to check for carbon buildup symptoms.
Specific for this vehicle
Inspect all wheel arches for rust bubbling
Look closely at rear wheel arches (inner and outer) for any paint bubbling or corrosion. Early 2012-2014 models most susceptible. Walk away if significant rust present.
Test infotainment touchscreen thoroughly
Press every button and screen area. Watch for ghost touches (random activation), frozen display, or unresponsive areas. Test during 20+ minute drive as heat can trigger issues.
Verify parking brake caliper recall completed (2014-2015)
For 2014-2015 models built Oct 2012 - Dec 2014, contact Mazda with VIN to confirm recall 1217F completed. Check parking brake engages firmly and releases fully.
Check for carbon buildup symptoms
During test drive, note any rough idling, hesitation during acceleration, or lack of power. Check if car was driven mainly short distances or highway. Short-trip cars more likely to have carbon issues.
Inspect brake discs for wear and warping
Feel for vibration during braking. Look at brake disc surface through wheel spokes for scoring or uneven wear. Mazda 6 is known to be hard on brake discs.
Check suspension for leaks and noise
Inspect shock absorbers and struts for oil leaks. Listen for knocking over bumps, clicking when turning, or squeaking when steering.
Verify oil change history and check oil level/condition
Check oil level (should be between min/max marks). Oil should be golden/brown, not black or milky. Verify service stickers show regular synthetic oil changes every 7,500-12,000 km.
Look for paint quality issues (if Crystal Red Metallic)
2017-2018 models in Crystal Red Metallic had paint scratching complaints. Inspect thoroughly for scratches and touch-ups.
i-ELOOP fire hazard (2013 models with i-ELOOP)DC/DC converter - Verify completed
Boot struts water ingress (Tourer/Estate)Pre-April 2015 Tourers - Verify completed
Intake shutter valve soot buildup (2012-2018)Jan 2012 - Jun 2018 production
Brake vacuum pump wear (2012-2016)Jan 2012 - Jan 2016 production
Wheel arch rust service recall (UK)Check with Mazda UK if applicable
Verify all recalls completed
Contact a Mazda dealer with the VIN to verify all recalls and Technical Service Bulletins have been completed. The parking brake caliper recall (2014-2015) is particularly important for safety. For rust issues, check if Mazda performed any warranty or goodwill repairs in the vehicle's history.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (3 years unlimited mileage)Expired on all 2012-2018 models
Paint defect warranty (3 years)Expired - but check history for rust claims
Anti-perforation warranty (12 years UK, 10 years other markets)May still apply - check with Mazda
All 2012-2018 Mazda 6 models are outside their original 3-year factory warranty. However, the anti-perforation (rust-through) warranty is 12 years in the UK and 10 years in other markets. This covers rust that perforates the body panels from the inside out. Surface rust and wheel arch bubbling typically fall under the 3-year paint warranty which has expired, but it's worth checking with Mazda if they performed any goodwill repairs. Note that surface rust does NOT qualify for anti-perforation warranty - only rust that creates actual holes.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.