Is the 2009 Mazda Mazda6 a good car?
An honest AI verdict — reliability, common problems, and real cost to own.
B7.5/10
The 2009 Mazda6 is a solid choice for someone who values sporty driving dynamics and a stylish look. Be vigilant about rust and maintain the transmission properly.
Pros
- Sporty handling
- Stylish design
- Spacious interior
Cons
- Potential for rust
- Transmission issues in higher mileage
- Average fuel economy
Ownership at a glance
Fuel economy
21 mpg
Maintenance cost
$1,500/yr
Expected lifespan
220,000 miles
Common problems to watch for
- Power steering pump failure
- Transmission shifting issues
- Rust on wheel wells and underbody
CarsJudge exclusive data
Active recalls (10)
The 2009 Mazda Mazda6 has 10 NHTSA recalls on record. Most recent: Equipment (campaign 09E011000). All recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer.
- Latches/Locks/Linkages — Doors — Latch — Mazda is recalling certain model year 2009-2013 Mazda6 vehicles manufactured February 4, 2008, through August 24, 2012. The door latch mounting screws may become loose.…
- Fuel System, Gasoline — Storage — Tank Assembly — MAZDA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2009-2010 MAZDA6 VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM APRIL 8, 2008, THROUGH FEBRUARY 8, 2010. A CERTAIN TYPE OF SPIDER MAY WEAVE A WEB IN THE EVAPORATIVE CANISTER VENT LINE AND THIS MAY CAUS…
- Structure — Body — Door — Hinge And Attachments — MAZDA IS RECALLING 29,000 MY 2009 MAZDA6. THE OUTER DOOR HANDLES MAY STICK WHICH MAY PREVENT THE DOOR FROM LATCHING. THIS SITUATION MAY ALLOW THE DOOR TO OPEN WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION.…
- Equipment — THULE, INC. IS RECALLING 2,323 OWNER-INSTALLED ROOF-MOUNTED FIT KITS, MODELS 3068 AND 3069, MANUFACTURED BETWEEN JANUARY 1, 2008 AND FEBRUARY 28, 2009 THAT ARE USED WITH THULE PODIUM FOOT PACKS, MODELS 460 AND 460R. THE…
Recall data: NHTSA. Owner costs & MPG: anonymized aggregates from CarsJudge users who track this vehicle. Updated 2026-07-05.
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This AI-generated assessment is general guidance only, not a substitute for a professional inspection. Always inspect a used vehicle before purchase.