The Mazda MX-6 spans 1988–1997 with 23 recorded NHTSA recalls and a 3.5/5 ForCar reliability score. The years to approach with caution are 1993, 1994, 1989 (most owner complaints); the cleanest are 1997, 1992, 1996. It delivers up to 26 mpg combined and NHTSA-rated safety.
How we score: NHTSA crash-test safety (40%), recall frequency across all years (25%) and the share of owner complaints involving a crash, fire or injury (35%). Based on NHTSA & EPA data — not user reviews.
Overview
The Mazda MX-6 is one of the most popular vehicles in its class, produced from 1988 to 1997 across multiple generations.
How to read a Mazda MX-6 VIN — every digit explained
Every Mazda MX-6 carries a unique 17-character VIN stamped at the factory. Each position is a code — together they spell out where, when and how your car was built. Here's exactly what every digit means.
- WMI (1–3) — country & manufacturer. Tells you it's a Mazda and the country it was built in (real Mazda codes below).
- VDS (4–8) — model, body style, engine, trim & restraints. The 8th digit is the engine code.
- Check digit (9) — a math check that proves the VIN is genuine.
- Model year (10) — the year it was built (e.g. R = 2024, S = 2025).
- Plant (11) — which factory assembled this MX-6.
- Serial (12–17) — the unique sequential production number.
- JapanJC1 · JC2 · JM1 · JM2 · JM3
- Mexico3MD · 3MV · 3MY · 3MZ
- USA7MM · 7MU
Digits 4–17 — the engine code (8th), model-year letter (10th) and plant — follow the universal SAE standard, identical on every car. For the full year-code table (2001–2026), country codes and where the VIN is stamped on your MX-6, see the complete guide to reading a VIN.
How many recalls does the Mazda MX-6 have?
The Mazda MX-6 has 23 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1988–1997. Pick a year below to see its recalls — then verify open recalls against your specific VIN.
1997 Mazda MX-6 recalls 3
Engine And Engine Cooling:engine
What's wrong. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. AN EXTERNAL SPRING IN THE TIMING BELT TENSIONER CAN BREAK AND GET CAUGHT IN THE TIMING BELT.
Risk. THIS CONDITION CAN RESULT IN POSSIBLE ENGINE STALLING.
Fix. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE TENSIONER AND REPLACE IT IF NECESSARY.
Fuel System, Gasoline
What's wrong. CERTAIN SPX FILTRAN FUEL FILTERS WITH A 45-DEGREE ANGLE INLET TUBE, MODEL 800F350-S1, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT FILTERS FOR 1993-1997 FORD PROBE,1993-2001 MAZDA 626 AND MX-6, AND 1983-1994 LOYAL, 3-DOOR COUPE, HATCHBACK, SEDAN, WAGON, BRAT, DL, GL, GL-10, RX, XT, AND XT6 PASSENGER VEHICLES WITH EFI OR TURBO ENGINES. THESE FILTERS ARE PACKAGED AS WIX, NAPA, AND CARQUEST BRAND FUEL FILTERS. CERTAIN SPX FILTRAN FUEL FILTERS WITH A 90-DEGREE ANGLE INLET TUBE, MODEL 800F300-S2, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT FILTERS FOR 19983-1994 SUBARU VEHICLES WITH EFI OR TURBO ENGINES. THESE FILTERS ARE PACKAGED AS WIX, NAPA, AND CARQUEST BRAND FUEL FILTERS. FUEL MAY LEAK FROM THE FILTER DUE TO NON-CONFORMING BRAZING WELDS WHERE THE INLET TUBE IS CONNECTED TO THE FILTER CAN.
Risk. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A VEHICLE FIRE CAN OCCUR.
Fix. SPX WILL NOTIFY ITS CUSTOMERS AND PROVIDE A FULL REFUND. THE RECALL BEGAN SEPTEMBER 27, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MR. CHRIS GREESON AT 704-869-3733 OR CONTACT THE WIX INFORMATION HOTLINE AT 800-949-6698.
Electrical System:ignition:switch
What's wrong. Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 1989-1998 MPV, 1990-1995 323, 1990-1998 Protege, 1992-1993 MX-3, 1993-1995 929, 1993-1997 MX-6, and 1993-1998 626 vehicles. In the affected vehicles, grease applied to the contact points inside the ignition switch may become conductive and overheat.
Risk. If the ignition switch overheats there would be an increased risk of a fire.
Fix. Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ignition switch, free of charge. The recall began on December 17, 2015. Owners may contact Mazda Customer Experience Center at 1-800-222-5500, option#6. Mazda's number for this recall is 8715J.
1996 Mazda MX-6 recalls 3
Air Bags:frontal:sensor/control Module-inactive
What's wrong. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE SAS SENSOR UNIT. THESE VEHICLES CAN EXPERIENCE AIR BAG DEPLOYMENTS IN MINOR UNDERCARRIAGE IMPACTS.
Risk. UNEXPECTED AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT CAN RESULT IN OCCUPANT INJURY.
Fix. DEALERS WILL REPROGRAM THE SAS UNIT TO REDUCE THE PROBABILITY OF UNNECESSARY DEPLOYMENTS IN LOW SPEED UNDERCARRIAGE IMPACTS.
Fuel System, Gasoline
What's wrong. CERTAIN SPX FILTRAN FUEL FILTERS WITH A 45-DEGREE ANGLE INLET TUBE, MODEL 800F350-S1, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT FILTERS FOR 1993-1997 FORD PROBE,1993-2001 MAZDA 626 AND MX-6, AND 1983-1994 LOYAL, 3-DOOR COUPE, HATCHBACK, SEDAN, WAGON, BRAT, DL, GL, GL-10, RX, XT, AND XT6 PASSENGER VEHICLES WITH EFI OR TURBO ENGINES. THESE FILTERS ARE PACKAGED AS WIX, NAPA, AND CARQUEST BRAND FUEL FILTERS. CERTAIN SPX FILTRAN FUEL FILTERS WITH A 90-DEGREE ANGLE INLET TUBE, MODEL 800F300-S2, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT FILTERS FOR 19983-1994 SUBARU VEHICLES WITH EFI OR TURBO ENGINES. THESE FILTERS ARE PACKAGED AS WIX, NAPA, AND CARQUEST BRAND FUEL FILTERS. FUEL MAY LEAK FROM THE FILTER DUE TO NON-CONFORMING BRAZING WELDS WHERE THE INLET TUBE IS CONNECTED TO THE FILTER CAN.
Risk. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A VEHICLE FIRE CAN OCCUR.
Fix. SPX WILL NOTIFY ITS CUSTOMERS AND PROVIDE A FULL REFUND. THE RECALL BEGAN SEPTEMBER 27, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MR. CHRIS GREESON AT 704-869-3733 OR CONTACT THE WIX INFORMATION HOTLINE AT 800-949-6698.
Electrical System:ignition:switch
What's wrong. Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 1989-1998 MPV, 1990-1995 323, 1990-1998 Protege, 1992-1993 MX-3, 1993-1995 929, 1993-1997 MX-6, and 1993-1998 626 vehicles. In the affected vehicles, grease applied to the contact points inside the ignition switch may become conductive and overheat.
Risk. If the ignition switch overheats there would be an increased risk of a fire.
Fix. Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ignition switch, free of charge. The recall began on December 17, 2015. Owners may contact Mazda Customer Experience Center at 1-800-222-5500, option#6. Mazda's number for this recall is 8715J.
1994 Mazda MX-6 recalls 4
Power Train:manual Transmission
What's wrong. THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SAFETY ACT. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE SPEEDOMETER GEAR SET CAN FAIL. SYMPTOMS INCLUDE AN INOPERATIVE SPEEDOMETER, SEVERE LACK OF POWER, AND/OR A TRANSMISSION WHICH STAYS IN THIRD GEAR. IN SOME CASES, THE "OD OFF" LIGHT MAY ALSO FLASH.
Risk. A DRIVER MAY NOT BE AWARE OF INCREASED SPEED DUE TO THE SPEEDOMETER NOT WORKING CORRECTLY.
Fix. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE SPEEDOMETER GEAR SET AND IF NECESSARY, WILL REPLACE THE SPEEDOMETER GEAR SET AT NO CHARGE. THIS EXTENDED WARRANTY COVERS NECESSARY REPAIRS DUE TO FAILURE OF THE VEHICLE'S SPEEDOMETER GEAR SET FROR 9 YEARS FROM THE ORIGINAL WARRANTY START DATE WITH NO MILEAGE LIMITATION.
Exterior Lighting:headlights:switch
What's wrong. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE HEADLIGHT WIRE THAT RUNS THROUGH THE TURN SIGNAL LEVER CAN FAIL AT THE POINT WHERE IT IS SOLDERED TO THE HEADLIGHT SWITCH.
Risk. THE FAILURE OF THIS WIRE COULD CAUSE A LOSS OF HEADLIGHTS, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE HEADLIGHT SWITCH LEVER.
Fuel System, Gasoline
What's wrong. CERTAIN SPX FILTRAN FUEL FILTERS WITH A 45-DEGREE ANGLE INLET TUBE, MODEL 800F350-S1, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT FILTERS FOR 1993-1997 FORD PROBE,1993-2001 MAZDA 626 AND MX-6, AND 1983-1994 LOYAL, 3-DOOR COUPE, HATCHBACK, SEDAN, WAGON, BRAT, DL, GL, GL-10, RX, XT, AND XT6 PASSENGER VEHICLES WITH EFI OR TURBO ENGINES. THESE FILTERS ARE PACKAGED AS WIX, NAPA, AND CARQUEST BRAND FUEL FILTERS. CERTAIN SPX FILTRAN FUEL FILTERS WITH A 90-DEGREE ANGLE INLET TUBE, MODEL 800F300-S2, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT FILTERS FOR 19983-1994 SUBARU VEHICLES WITH EFI OR TURBO ENGINES. THESE FILTERS ARE PACKAGED AS WIX, NAPA, AND CARQUEST BRAND FUEL FILTERS. FUEL MAY LEAK FROM THE FILTER DUE TO NON-CONFORMING BRAZING WELDS WHERE THE INLET TUBE IS CONNECTED TO THE FILTER CAN.
Risk. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A VEHICLE FIRE CAN OCCUR.
Fix. SPX WILL NOTIFY ITS CUSTOMERS AND PROVIDE A FULL REFUND. THE RECALL BEGAN SEPTEMBER 27, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MR. CHRIS GREESON AT 704-869-3733 OR CONTACT THE WIX INFORMATION HOTLINE AT 800-949-6698.
Electrical System:ignition:switch
What's wrong. Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 1989-1998 MPV, 1990-1995 323, 1990-1998 Protege, 1992-1993 MX-3, 1993-1995 929, 1993-1997 MX-6, and 1993-1998 626 vehicles. In the affected vehicles, grease applied to the contact points inside the ignition switch may become conductive and overheat.
Risk. If the ignition switch overheats there would be an increased risk of a fire.
Fix. Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ignition switch, free of charge. The recall began on December 17, 2015. Owners may contact Mazda Customer Experience Center at 1-800-222-5500, option#6. Mazda's number for this recall is 8715J.
1993 Mazda MX-6 recalls 3
Suspension:front:control Arm
What's wrong. THE LOWER ARM BALL JOINTS ON BOTH SIDES OF THE FRONT SUSPENSION MAY NOT HAVE BEEN TORQUED TO SPECIFICATION.
Risk. THE INSUFFICIENT TORQUE OF THE LOWER BALL JOINTRETAINING BOLT CAN RESULT IN THE SUSPENSION FAILING WHILE THE CAR IS IN MOTIONAND SUBSEQUENT LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL WITHOUT WARNING, WHICH CAN RESULT IN ANACCIDENT.
Fix. INSPECT THE LOWER BALL JOINT RETAINING BOLTS AND TIGHTEN LOOSE BOLTS TO THE CORRECT TORQUE.
Fuel System, Gasoline
What's wrong. CERTAIN SPX FILTRAN FUEL FILTERS WITH A 45-DEGREE ANGLE INLET TUBE, MODEL 800F350-S1, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT FILTERS FOR 1993-1997 FORD PROBE,1993-2001 MAZDA 626 AND MX-6, AND 1983-1994 LOYAL, 3-DOOR COUPE, HATCHBACK, SEDAN, WAGON, BRAT, DL, GL, GL-10, RX, XT, AND XT6 PASSENGER VEHICLES WITH EFI OR TURBO ENGINES. THESE FILTERS ARE PACKAGED AS WIX, NAPA, AND CARQUEST BRAND FUEL FILTERS. CERTAIN SPX FILTRAN FUEL FILTERS WITH A 90-DEGREE ANGLE INLET TUBE, MODEL 800F300-S2, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT FILTERS FOR 19983-1994 SUBARU VEHICLES WITH EFI OR TURBO ENGINES. THESE FILTERS ARE PACKAGED AS WIX, NAPA, AND CARQUEST BRAND FUEL FILTERS. FUEL MAY LEAK FROM THE FILTER DUE TO NON-CONFORMING BRAZING WELDS WHERE THE INLET TUBE IS CONNECTED TO THE FILTER CAN.
Risk. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A VEHICLE FIRE CAN OCCUR.
Fix. SPX WILL NOTIFY ITS CUSTOMERS AND PROVIDE A FULL REFUND. THE RECALL BEGAN SEPTEMBER 27, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MR. CHRIS GREESON AT 704-869-3733 OR CONTACT THE WIX INFORMATION HOTLINE AT 800-949-6698.
Electrical System:ignition:switch
What's wrong. Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 1989-1998 MPV, 1990-1995 323, 1990-1998 Protege, 1992-1993 MX-3, 1993-1995 929, 1993-1997 MX-6, and 1993-1998 626 vehicles. In the affected vehicles, grease applied to the contact points inside the ignition switch may become conductive and overheat.
Risk. If the ignition switch overheats there would be an increased risk of a fire.
Fix. Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ignition switch, free of charge. The recall began on December 17, 2015. Owners may contact Mazda Customer Experience Center at 1-800-222-5500, option#6. Mazda's number for this recall is 8715J.
1992 Mazda MX-6 recalls 1
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:drum:drum
What's wrong. THE GROOVE FOR THE REAR WHEEL BEARING RETAINER RING WAS INCORRECTLY MACHINED.
Risk. IF THE RETAINING RING DOES NOT SIT CORRECTLY IN THEGROOVE, THE AXLE LUG NUTS WILL BREAK, CAUSING THE BRAKE DRUM, WHEEL, AND TIREASSEMBLY TO SEPARATE FROM THE VEHICLE.
Fix. MIDAS SHOPS WILL REPLACE THE BRAKE DRUMS WITH OTHER BRAKE DRUMS FROM ANOTHER SUPPLIER.
1991 Mazda MX-6 recalls 1
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:drum:drum
What's wrong. THE GROOVE FOR THE REAR WHEEL BEARING RETAINER RING WAS INCORRECTLY MACHINED.
Risk. IF THE RETAINING RING DOES NOT SIT CORRECTLY IN THEGROOVE, THE AXLE LUG NUTS WILL BREAK, CAUSING THE BRAKE DRUM, WHEEL, AND TIREASSEMBLY TO SEPARATE FROM THE VEHICLE.
Fix. MIDAS SHOPS WILL REPLACE THE BRAKE DRUMS WITH OTHER BRAKE DRUMS FROM ANOTHER SUPPLIER.
1990 Mazda MX-6 recalls 1
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:drum:drum
What's wrong. THE GROOVE FOR THE REAR WHEEL BEARING RETAINER RING WAS INCORRECTLY MACHINED.
Risk. IF THE RETAINING RING DOES NOT SIT CORRECTLY IN THEGROOVE, THE AXLE LUG NUTS WILL BREAK, CAUSING THE BRAKE DRUM, WHEEL, AND TIREASSEMBLY TO SEPARATE FROM THE VEHICLE.
Fix. MIDAS SHOPS WILL REPLACE THE BRAKE DRUMS WITH OTHER BRAKE DRUMS FROM ANOTHER SUPPLIER.
1989 Mazda MX-6 recalls 2
Seat Belts:front:buckle Assembly
What's wrong. THE FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLE RELEASE BUTTONS CAN BREAK. THESE RED PLASTIC RELEASE BUTTONS ARE MARKED "PRESS." IF A BUTTON BREAKS, PIECES CAN FALL INTO THE BUCKLE ASSEMBLY CAUSING THE BUCKLE TO OPERATE IMPROPERLY.
Risk. THE SAFETY BELTS WOULD NOT PROVIDE ADEQUATE PROTECTION TO AN OCCUPANT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Fix. OWNERS SHOULD PROMPTLY CHECK THE CONDITION AND OPERATION OF BOTH FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLES AND CAREFULLY INSPECT THE RED RELEASE BUTTON FOR ANY BREAKS OR CRACKS. THEY SHOULD ENSURE THAT BOTH BUCKLES ARE OPERATING PROPERLY BY INSERTING EACH LATCH PLATE INTO ITS BUCKLE, TUGGING ON THE BELT TO MAKE SURE THE LATCH IS SECURELY LOCKED, AND THEN PRESSING THE RELEASE BUTTON. THE LATCH PLATE SHOULD POP OUT OF THE BUCKLE WHEN THE BUTTON IS PRESSED. IF EITHER RELEASE BUTTON SHOWS A SIGN OF BREAKING OR CRACKING OR IF EITHER BUCKLE FAILS TO OPERATE PROPERLY, OWNERS SHOULD PROMPTLY CONTACT THEIR AUTHORIZED DEALER TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TO HAVE THE BUCKLE REPLACED OR REPAIRED, FREE OF CHARGE. THE MANUFACTURER IS DEVELOPING A REMEDY DESIGNED TO PREVENT FAILURE OF THE BUTTONS THAT ARE NOT CURRENTLY BROKEN.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:drum:drum
What's wrong. THE GROOVE FOR THE REAR WHEEL BEARING RETAINER RING WAS INCORRECTLY MACHINED.
Risk. IF THE RETAINING RING DOES NOT SIT CORRECTLY IN THEGROOVE, THE AXLE LUG NUTS WILL BREAK, CAUSING THE BRAKE DRUM, WHEEL, AND TIREASSEMBLY TO SEPARATE FROM THE VEHICLE.
Fix. MIDAS SHOPS WILL REPLACE THE BRAKE DRUMS WITH OTHER BRAKE DRUMS FROM ANOTHER SUPPLIER.
1988 Mazda MX-6 recalls 5
Vehicle Speed Control:accelerator Pedal
What's wrong. AT AMBIENT TEMPERATURES BELOW 0 DEGREE F, FROST MAY ACCUMULATE WITHIN THE THROTTLE BODY UNDER EXTENDED CONSTANT SPEED OPERATION.
Risk. FROST ACCUMULATION ON THE THROTTLE VALVE MAY PREVENT THEVALVE FROM RETURNING SMOOTHLY.
Fix. INSTALL A NEW TYPE THERMOSTAT DESIGNED TO RAISE THE COOLANT TEMPERATURE AND WARM THE THROTTLE BODY TO A LEVEL ABOVE FREEZING.
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly
What's wrong. FUEL TANK FIXING BAND RETENTION IS NOT SUFFICIENT, ALLOWING THE BAND TO RUB AGAINST THE FUEL TANK BY VEHICLE VIBRATIONS.
Risk. THIS COULD WEAR A HOLE IN THE FUEL TANK WHICH COULDRESULT IN FUEL LEAKAGE.
Fix. REPAIR FUEL FIXING BAND BY INSTALLING A RUBBER SHEET.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:drum:shoes/linings
What's wrong. VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH REAR BRAKE DRUMS TRANSPORTED BY TRAIN MAY EXPERIENCE SEPARATION OF THE BRAKE SHOE FROM THE WHEEL BRAKE CYLINDER PISTON.
Risk. SHOULD SEPARATION OCCUR, REPEATED BRAKE OPERATION MAYDAMAGE THE WHEEL BRAKE CYLINDER DUST BOOT, ALLOWING WATER OR DUST INTRUSION ANDSUBSEQUENT PISTON CONTAMINATION.
Fix. ALL VEHICLES WILL BE INSPECTED AND IF NO SEPARATION IS FOUND GREASE WILL BE APPLIED TO THE COMPONENT INTERFACE TO LOWER FRICTION AND AVOID SUBSEQUENT RELATIVE MOTION. IF SEPARATION IS FOUND THE WHEEL BRAKE CYLINDER DUST BOOT WILL BE REPLACED.
Vehicle Speed Control:linkages
What's wrong. FLOOR MAT COULD INTERFERE WITH RELEASE OF ACCELERATOR PEDAL DUE TO IMPROPER SHAPE OF MAT.
Risk. THIS COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF ACCELERATOR CONTROL ANDCREATE POTENTIAL FOR AN ACCIDENT.
Fix. REMOVE PRESENT MAT AND REPLACE WITH NEW IMPROVED MAT.
Seat Belts:front:buckle Assembly
What's wrong. THE FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLE RELEASE BUTTONS CAN BREAK. THESE RED PLASTIC RELEASE BUTTONS ARE MARKED "PRESS." IF A BUTTON BREAKS, PIECES CAN FALL INTO THE BUCKLE ASSEMBLY CAUSING THE BUCKLE TO OPERATE IMPROPERLY.
Risk. THE SAFETY BELTS WOULD NOT PROVIDE ADEQUATE PROTECTION TO AN OCCUPANT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Fix. OWNERS SHOULD PROMPTLY CHECK THE CONDITION AND OPERATION OF BOTH FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLES AND CAREFULLY INSPECT THE RED RELEASE BUTTON FOR ANY BREAKS OR CRACKS. THEY SHOULD ENSURE THAT BOTH BUCKLES ARE OPERATING PROPERLY BY INSERTING EACH LATCH PLATE INTO ITS BUCKLE, TUGGING ON THE BELT TO MAKE SURE THE LATCH IS SECURELY LOCKED, AND THEN PRESSING THE RELEASE BUTTON. THE LATCH PLATE SHOULD POP OUT OF THE BUCKLE WHEN THE BUTTON IS PRESSED. IF EITHER RELEASE BUTTON SHOWS A SIGN OF BREAKING OR CRACKING OR IF EITHER BUCKLE FAILS TO OPERATE PROPERLY, OWNERS SHOULD PROMPTLY CONTACT THEIR AUTHORIZED DEALER TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TO HAVE THE BUCKLE REPLACED OR REPAIRED, FREE OF CHARGE. THE MANUFACTURER IS DEVELOPING A REMEDY DESIGNED TO PREVENT FAILURE OF THE BUTTONS THAT ARE NOT CURRENTLY BROKEN.
Best and worst years for the Mazda MX-6
Based on NHTSA owner-complaint volume across 9 tracked years, the worst years are 1993, 1994, 1989 and the best (fewest complaints) are 1997, 1992, 1996.
ForCar aggregate — our own analysis of complaint volume, not published by NHTSA.
| Year | Owner complaints | Top issue | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1988 MX-6 | Seat Belts | Average | |
| 1989 MX-6 | Seat Belts | Avoid | |
| 1990 MX-6 | Seat Belts | Average | |
| 1991 MX-6 | Seat Belts | Average | |
| 1992 MX-6 | Power Train | Best | |
| 1993 MX-6 | Service Brakes | Avoid | |
| 1994 MX-6 | Power Train | Avoid | |
| 1996 MX-6 | Air Bags | Best | |
| 1997 MX-6 | Power Train | Best |
What are the most common Mazda MX-6 problems?
The most-reported Mazda MX-6 problems are Seats (14 reports), Tires (3 reports) and Wheels (1 reports) — out of 231 owner complaints NHTSA holds for the model. Here's how they break down:
Most-reported components — tap a category to read what owners actually experienced:
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, all model years. Bar = share of total complaints. Full reports searchable on NHTSA.gov.
Mazda MX-6 specifications & dimensions
The 1997 Mazda MX-6 measures 182″ long on a 103″ wheelbase, with a curb weight near 2,800 lb. Full dimensions below — engine, horsepower and trim decode from your VIN. For the original factory build — MSRP, trim and standard equipment — rebuild the Mazda MX-6 window sticker.
| Wheelbase | 103″ (261 cm) |
| Rear track | 59″ |
| Body / trim | Mx-6 Mystere 2dr Coupe Ls V6 |
| Curb weight | 2,800 lb (1270 kg) |
| Front track | 59″ |
| Overall width | 69″ (175 cm) |
| Overall height | 52″ (131 cm) |
| Overall length | 182″ (462 cm) |
| Weight distribution (front/rear) | 65/35% |
How the MX-6's size changed by generation:
| Years | Length | Width | Height | Wheelbase | Curb weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1994–1997 | 182″ | 69″ | 52″ | 103″ | 2,800 lb |
| 1988–1991 | 177″ | 67″ | 54″ | 99″ | 2,524 lb |
Source: NHTSA vPIC / Transport Canada vehicle specifications. Metric values converted to imperial; generation ranges approximate.
Mazda MX-6 cargo space, seating & interior room
How much the MX-6 holds — passengers and cargo. EPA measures its interior at 195 cu ft of passenger volume and 21 cu ft of cargo. Seating capacity and legroom vary by trim.
Exact seating capacity, third-row availability, legroom and headroom decode from your VIN or vary by trim — the original factory equipment & options list shows what each trim included.
Passenger & cargo volume from EPA fueleconomy.gov (largest configuration). Seats, legroom and headroom from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
Mazda MX-6 tire size, oil type & owner specs
The fitment owners look up most — tires, wheels, oil and batteries. Exact wheel and tire sizes decode from your VIN or the driver's door-jamb placard; the universal items are listed below.
Exact tire, wheel, oil grade, capacity and battery group are added per trim and model year — decode your VIN above for the factory fitment. Universal items shown as-is.
What MPG does the Mazda MX-6 get?
The Mazda MX-6 returns up to 26 combined MPG (EPA), which works out to roughly $2,400/yr in fuel. Pick an engine to see MPG, annual running cost and CO₂ by year:
The 1997 Mazda MX-6 (2.5L 6-cyl) gets 20 mpg combined and costs about $3,850/yr to fuel, emitting 444 g/mi CO₂ — about $8,250 more than the average new vehicle over 5 years.
| Year | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Smog | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1997 MX-6 | 18 | 24 | $3,850 | 444 | — | 2.5L 6-cyl | |
| 1996 MX-6 | 18 | 24 | $3,850 | 444 | — | 2.5L 6-cyl | |
| 1995 MX-6 | 18 | 24 | $3,850 | 444 | — | 2.5L 6-cyl | |
| 1994 MX-6 | 18 | 24 | $3,850 | 444 | — | 2.5L 6-cyl | |
| 1993 MX-6 | 18 | 24 | $3,850 | 444 | — | 2.5L 6-cyl |
The 1997 Mazda MX-6 (2L 4-cyl) gets 26 mpg combined and costs about $2,400/yr to fuel, emitting 342 g/mi CO₂ — about $1,000 more than the average new vehicle over 5 years.
| Year | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Smog | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1997 MX-6 | 23 | 31 | $2,400 | 342 | — | 2L 4-cyl | |
| 1996 MX-6 | 23 | 31 | $2,400 | 342 | — | 2L 4-cyl | |
| 1995 MX-6 | 23 | 31 | $2,400 | 342 | — | 2L 4-cyl | |
| 1994 MX-6 | 23 | 31 | $2,400 | 342 | — | 2L 4-cyl | |
| 1993 MX-6 | 23 | 31 | $2,400 | 342 | — | 2L 4-cyl |
Source: EPA fuel-economy database (ForCar-hosted, 1986–2027) — best combined rating per engine & year, with EPA annual fuel cost and tailpipe CO₂. Trim & drivetrain vary slightly; decode your VIN for the exact figure.
See how the MX-6 stacks up against the most fuel-efficient sedans, or calculate this MX-6's real yearly fuel cost.
What engines does the Mazda MX-6 have? Power & range
The Mazda MX-6 is offered with 2 powertrains — 2.5L 6-cyl, 2L 4-cyl. Here's the lineup by engine, transmission and drivetrain.
| Engine | Displacement | Transmission | Drive | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| V6 | 2.5L · 6-cyl | Automatic 4-spd | FWD | Premium |
| 4-cyl | 2.0L · 4-cyl | Manual 5-spd | FWD | Regular |
Horsepower, torque and fuel-tank size decode from your VIN — exact figures vary by engine and trim.
Source: EPA fueleconomy.gov (engines, drivetrain, range, charge time). Horsepower & torque from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
How much does a Mazda MX-6 cost to own?
A Mazda MX-6 holds its value well. A typical example keeps roughly 56% of its value after five years — losing about 44% to depreciation. Check what a used MX-6 is worth today or browse current used-market prices before you buy or sell. Fuel, maintenance and insurance add to the total cost to own.
| Age | Value retained | Est. resale value | Lost to depreciation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 84% | $25,200 | −$4,800 |
| Year 2 | 76% | $22,800 | −$7,200 |
| Year 3 | 68% | $20,400 | −$9,600 |
| Year 4 | 61% | $18,300 | −$11,700 |
| Year 5 | 56% | $16,800 | −$13,200 |
What goes into the five-year cost to own:
- Depreciation — the biggest cost: this MX-6 loses about 44% of its value over five years. See the full depreciation curve by age.
- Fuel — ≈ $12,000 over five years at roughly 15,000 miles a year.
- Maintenance & repairs — routine service, tires and wear items as the MX-6 ages.
- Insurance — varies by driver, state and trim; get a quote for your exact figure.
Resale & depreciation are ForCar estimates from typical segment value-retention curves — not a live market quote. Fuel from EPA fueleconomy.gov at ~15k mi/yr.
Is the Mazda MX-6 safe?
NHTSA crash-test ratings aren't published for the MX-6 yet — see the top-rated safest cars instead.
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How many miles does a Mazda MX-6 last?
A well-maintained Mazda MX-6 typically lasts 200,000–250,000 miles. With regular oil, transmission and timing service, most examples comfortably pass the 200,000-mile mark. Its ForCar Reliability Score is 3.5/5.
Check your Mazda MX-6’s VIN — history, recalls & specs
Title records, open recalls, build details and paint code — straight from the VIN. Free.
Check this MX-6’s VIN free →All Mazda MX-6 model years
A year-by-year snapshot of the Mazda MX-6 — recalls, best EPA fuel economy and NHTSA safety. Tap a year for full details.
| Year | Recalls | Best MPG | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1997 MX-6 | 3 recalls | — | |
| 1996 MX-6 | 3 recalls | — | |
| 1994 MX-6 | 4 recalls | — | |
| 1993 MX-6 | 3 recalls | — | |
| 1992 MX-6 | 1 recall | — | |
| 1991 MX-6 | 1 recall | — | |
| 1990 MX-6 | 1 recall | — | |
| 1989 MX-6 | 2 recalls | — | |
| 1988 MX-6 | 5 recalls | — |
Recalls = NHTSA campaigns that year · MPG = best EPA combined · Safety = NHTSA overall stars (tested years).
Frequently asked questions
What are the worst years for the MX-6?
By owner-complaint volume, 1993, 1994, 1989 drew the most reports. 1997, 1992, 1996 have the cleanest records.
How many recalls does the MX-6 have?
23 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1988–1997. Always check open recalls by your VIN.
What MPG does the MX-6 get?
Up to 26 combined MPG (EPA), depending on engine — from the base 4-cylinder to the hybrid.
How many miles does a MX-6 last?
A well-maintained MX-6 typically reaches 200,000–300,000 miles with regular maintenance.
Is the MX-6 reliable?
Our ForCar Reliability Score for the MX-6 is 3.5/5, based on NHTSA safety, recall history and complaint severity.
What's the Mazda MX-6 warranty?
New Mazda models carry a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic (bumper-to-bumper) warranty and a 5 years / 60,000 miles powertrain warranty. Coverage can vary by model year and market — confirm with a Mazda dealer.
Where is the Mazda MX-6 made?
The assembly plant is encoded in the VIN — the 11th character. Decode your MX-6's VIN above to see exactly where it was built; Mazda may build it at more than one plant depending on the year.
How much does a MX-6 weigh?
The MX-6's curb weight is around 2,800 lb. Its GVWR — the maximum loaded weight — decodes from the VIN.
How much ground clearance does the MX-6 have?
Ground clearance varies by trim and drivetrain — AWD/4WD versions often sit higher. Decode your VIN or check the specific trim for the exact figure.