2004 Mazda MAZDA6 Problems
- Complaints
- 160filed with NHTSA
- Median mileage
- 66,100miles, 93 complaints with mileage
- Recalls
- 43 do-not-drive
- Trend
- StableComplaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are within 25% of the 3 years before.
- NHTSA crash rating
- —overall rating starts with 2011 models
- EPA fuel economy
- 22 mpgcombined, 2.3L 4-cyl FWD · 20 city / 26 hwy
Sources: NHTSA records for the 2004 Mazda MAZDA6 (complaints, recalls, investigations), NHTSA crash tests, EPA fuel economy. Report an error
What owners report
Complaints on this model year cluster in two areas: the Takata front airbag inflator recalls, with owners describing long waits for parts, and a front driver door latch that stops opening from either handle, often at higher mileage. Transmission complaints mostly describe harsh or banging automatic shifts, and a smaller group concerns premature front brake lines and headlight bulb failures.
- Body and structure
Driver door will not open (latch failure)
- 15 complaints (9%)
- median 110,000 mi at 7.6 yrs old (13 state mileage)
- filed 2005–2016
Owners describe the driver's door no longer opening from either the inside or outside handle, sometimes without warning while the vehicle is parked. Several report having to enter through the passenger side or climb over the console, and some say the power lock and key fob also stop releasing that door. Dealers quoted latch or handle replacement, in some cases around several hundred dollars, and a few owners report the part was replaced but the symptom came back. Mostly reported between roughly 80,000 and 165,000 miles, on cars that had been in use for several years.
What to check: Open and close the driver's door several times from both handles and with the remote during a test drive, and ask whether the latch or handle assembly has ever been replaced.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“On august 15, 2012 I stopped off at a gas station went to open driver side door and the door would not open from inside or outside handle. I then had to escape by climbing over the console to exit the passenger side door, good thing I'm a small girl and not a big guy trying to climb out. I have been without a door handle on my car for approximately 6 months, having to climb thru the window or passenger door. …”
NHTSA complaint #10500850, filed 2013-02, 115,000 miles“The driver's door on my 2004 Mazda 6 will not open. This car has electric locks. All doors open except the driver's door. The dealership told me the latch was bad and it will cost $400 to repair. This creates a safety hazard. If I am in a wreck, I can't open the door to get out. There should be a way to manually disengage the locking mechanism in case of emergency. This is a manufacturing defect and engineering defect. This is a big safety issue with this car.”
NHTSA complaint #10241317, filed 2008-09, 114,000 miles - Transmission and drivetrain
Harsh or banging automatic transmission shifts
- 14 complaints (9%)
- median 65,024 mi at 7.1 yrs old (12 state mileage)
- filed 2004–2024
Complaints describe a hard jolt or bang between first and second gear under light acceleration, slipping out of gear, and occasional hesitation or flaring when downshifting under braking. Owners report dealers telling them the transmission was designed to shift that way, or applying a computer reflash described in a service bulletin, while others found a torn intake tube or burned wiring harness affecting shifting. Reported from as low as a few thousand miles through the 80,000-130,000 mile range, sometimes worse when the engine is cold.
What to check: Drive at low speed and let the car shift through the first few gears while cold, and ask whether any transmission control software update has been applied.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“Bought this car in 2010 ever since I had it nightmare, the automatic transmission would bang between 1st and 2nd gear at just normal speed, the tires would spin because of this. It also would slip out of gear in 3rd with shifting up sometimes. But just recently I found out that the intake tube for the car had a giant hole in it. So fixed that and its not really banging 1st and 2nd but slips a little bit.”
NHTSA complaint #10434908, filed 2011-11, 80,000 miles“While driving back home the car started to slow down the speed , when I tried to shifted to get more speed because I was on the expressway , it just died , I took a tow truck to my mechanic and he told me that the engine transmission wiring harness burned.”
NHTSA complaint #10565300, filed 2014-02, 133,000 miles
Buying note. Confirm the airbag inflator recalls were completed by VIN, and test the driver's door latch and lighting from both handles and switches. A slow cold test drive will show whether the automatic shifts harshly.
Summary written with AI from a sample of 60 NHTSA complaints for this model year (picked at random, with complaints that state a mileage and recent ones taken first), then checked automatically against the source records. Where a problem shows a complaint count, every complaint for this model year was matched with fixed keyword rules (written with AI and tested against the sample), and the mileage, age and repair figures are calculated from those complaints; owners' figures are as stated, not verified. Other counts refer to the sample. The excerpts come from NHTSA's public complaint records and are unverified; capitalisation is normalised, NHTSA staff notes are removed, and shortened text ends with “…”. Something wrong? Request a correction.
NHTSA recorded 160 consumer complaints for the 2004 Mazda MAZDA6. 93 of the complaints include a mileage, and 42% of those were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles; the median is 66,100 miles. Of all complaints, 11 involved a crash, 5 a fire, 15 an injury, 1 a death, according to the filers. NHTSA lists 4 recall campaigns (3 marked do-not-drive) and 193 technical service bulletins for this model year.
Not compared (before 2008). Model years 2008–2023 of the same vehicle that have at least 25 complaints are compared, and a model needs at least 3 of them.
Which parts are reported most
Complaints can name more than one part, so the counts add up to more than the total. Select a part to see its complaints, recalls and bulletins.
- Air bags55 34%
- Body and structure15 9.4%
- Electrical system13 8.1%
- Brakes11 6.9%
- Engine cooling11 6.9%
- Latches, locks and linkages10 6.3%
- Engine7 4.4%
- Exterior lighting7 4.4%
- Vehicle speed control7 4.4%
Also reported: Fuel system (6), Other or unknown (5), Visibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors) (5), Seats (4), Suspension (4), Tires (4), Seat belts (3), Steering (3), Equipment (2), Electronic stability control (1), Wheels (1).
Example complaints
Air bags: “Takata inflaors. I received a recall notice over 6 months ago, but the part isn't yet available for replacement. This is unacceptable. While I understand that the defect is mainly for vehicles in hot humid climates how can they assume just because I'm in wi I don't drive the vehicle in other states. Also it gets hot and humid here in the summer too. Please force them to comply quicker.”
NHTSA complaint #10811781, filed 2015-12, 150,000 milesTransmission and drivetrain: “Kept put its self in gear which is a safety mode !!! So I went to change the battery and smelled something burning and the fuse for the radio was blown and every time I went to change the fuse it would blow.so I took it to the shop to see what was wrong and they had to replace the radio some wiring alternator was putting out 17 volts and burned out the wiring!!! This is a common problem with this car and should be covered!!!”
NHTSA complaint #10551746, filed 2013-11, 55,000 milesBody and structure: “While traveling on interstate at 70 MPH, a piece of chrome plated trim from the top of the grill (roughly 3 x 24 ) flew off striking the front windshield on the driver's side directly in front of my face (the dealer provided Mazda part number for the trim is gk2a50710c). The piece either exploded on impact or was deflected and there was no damage to the windshield but I feel that an issue like this should never happen. …”
NHTSA complaint #10460801, filed 2012-06, 95,000 milesElectrical system: “I bought this car for 3,000 from the owner had it for 2 months, got oil and all fluids changed. When I was leaving my house a block away it totally died on me and now it wont start at all. I am very frustrated because I dont have the money to buy abother one. Or even repair it.”
NHTSA complaint #11344097, filed 2020-08, 1 milesMileage when problems were reported
42% of the 93 complaints with a mileage were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles; the middle half falls between 24,688 and 114,000 miles.
Complaints by year filed
Trend: stable. Complaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are within 25% of the 3 years before.
Crash test ratings
NHTSA's 5-Star Safety Ratings for the 2004 Mazda MAZDA6. Frontal results are shown driver / passenger; rollover shows the star rating and NHTSA's estimated risk of rolling over in a single-vehicle crash.
| Version | Overall | Frontal | Side | Side pole | Rollover |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAZDA6 · 5 dr hatchback | not rated | 5 / 5 | — | — | — |
| MAZDA6 · 5 dr sport wagon | not rated | 5 / 5 | — | — | — |
| MAZDA6 · sedan | not rated | 5 / 5 | — | — | — |
Ratings before the 2011 model year come from an older, less demanding test and are not comparable with ratings for 2011 and later.
Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (5-Star Safety Ratings), nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Fuel economy and running cost
EPA ratings for each 2004 Mazda MAZDA6 version. Annual fuel cost is the EPA's estimate at its current fuel prices for 15,000 miles a year (55% city driving).
| Version | Engine | Transmission | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel / yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 FWD | 2.3L 4-cyl | 5-speed manual | 21 | 29 | 24 | $2,800 |
| 6 FWD | 2.3L 4-cyl | 4-speed automatic | 20 | 26 | 22 | $3,050 |
| 6 FWD | 3.0L 6-cyl | 5-speed manual | 17 | 24 | 20 | $3,350 |
| 6 FWD | 3.0L 6-cyl | 5-speed automatic | 17 | 24 | 19 | $3,550 |
Source: U.S. EPA and Department of Energy, fueleconomy.gov. Ratings are for comparing vehicles; real-world mileage varies with driving and conditions.
Recalls and investigations
- Air bags › Frontal › Passenger side › Inflator moduleCovers: Mazda MAZDA6 2003–2008, MPV 2004–2005, MAZDASPEED6 2006–2007 +1 more
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2003-2008 Mazda6, 2004-2005 MPV, 2004 RX-8, and 2006-2007 Mazdaspeed6 vehicles. These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators…
- Air bags › Frontal › Passenger side › Inflator moduleCovers: Mazda MAZDA6 2003–2008, RX-8 2004–2011, MPV 2004–2006 +1 more
Mazda North America Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2003-2008 Mazda6, 2006-2007 Mazdaspeed6 and 2004 MPV vehicles nationwide. Mazda is also recalling 2005-2006 MPV vehicles in Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Delaware, the District of…
- Air bags › Frontal › Driver side › Inflator moduleCovers: Mazda MAZDA6 2003–2008, RX-8 2004–2008, MAZDASPEED6 2006–2007
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2003-2008 Mazda6, 2004-2008 RX-8, and 2006-2007 Mazdaspeed6 vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with a dual-stage driver frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture…
- 04V582000Dec 10, 2004Seat belts › Rear/otherCovers: Mazda MAZDA6 2004
On certain passenger vehicles, the right and/or left rear seat belts may not lock properly due to missing retaining pins on the housing.
Recall details for the 2004 Mazda MAZDA6 → · Check a VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls
Technical service bulletins
TSBs are manufacturer notes to dealers about known repair procedures. They are not recalls and do not by themselves mean a vehicle has a fault. 193 on record; the latest 10 are shown.
- 11037013Aug 20, 2026Other or unknown. Product Quality Information (PQI) DESCRIPTION Service Information MT-041/12 is no longer valid. It has been unpublished and superseded by the Field Quality Information Report (FQIR) reporting system.
- 11035599Jul 29, 2026Electrical system, Visibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors). This bulletin supersedes the previously issued bulletin(s) listed below. The changes are noted in Red text. 09-042/04 12/10/04 DESCRIPTION Some vehicles may exhibit inoperative electric rear window…
- 11032103Apr 21, 2026Engine, Brakes, Other or unknown, Transmission and…. This Service Alert supersedes the previously issued SA listed below: The changes are noted in Red. SA-011/24 02/12/24, 06/06/24, 07/29/24 DESCRIPTION Mazda has developed factory recommended…
- 11026904Dec 10, 2025Other or unknown. A musty/mildew type odor may come from the vents when the air conditioning (A/C) system is operating. It is most noticeable when the A/C is first turned ON. This odor is the result of mold growth in…
- 11022742Aug 22, 2025Body and structure, Other or unknown. Some vehicles may experience exterior trim heat damage such (melted, separating, etc.) when parked near a glass building or Low-E windows. This may be caused by the sun's reflection. If a…
- 11022727Aug 14, 2025Other or unknown. When replacing the SiriusXM satellite radio unit, a call must be made to inform SiriusXM of the existing Radio ID and the new/replacement SAT Radio ID as soon as possible to ensure the customer…
- 11020039Jun 19, 2025Other or unknown. Some customers may complain about a noisy HVAC blower motor or odor after a cabin air filter replacement. Foreign debris on the blower motor after servicing the cabin air filter may be the cause…
- 11017699Apr 25, 2025Other or unknown. A musty/mildew type odor may come from the vents when the air conditioning (A/C) system is operating. It is most noticeable when the A/C is first turned ON. This odor is the result of mold growth in…
- 11007022Aug 15, 2024Body and structure. Some vehicles may experience exterior trim heat damage such (melted, separating, etc.) when parked near a glass building or Low-E windows. This may be caused by the sun's reflection.
- 11006987Aug 8, 2024Other or unknown, Electrical system. In accordance with Federal regulations, follow the procedure listed below when replacing a speedometer. NOTE: Tampering with a motor vehicle odometer is strictly prohibited by Federal, and State…
Other model years of the Mazda MAZDA6
| Year | Complaints | Median mi | Recalls | Crash ★ | MPG | Score (50 = typical) | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 17 | — | 0 | 5 | 29 | — | Falling |
| 2019 | 6 | 53,000 | 1 | 5 | 27 | — | Not enough data |
| 2018 | 58 | 11,400 | 2 | 5 | 27 | 10 · Fewer | Rising |
| 2017 | 60 | 23,450 | 1 | 5 | 29 | 0 · Fewer | Rising |
| 2016 | 77 | 29,774 | 1 | 5 | 30 | 39 · Typical | Falling |
| 2015 | 60 | 21,500 | 3 | 5 | 30 | 47 · Typical | Rising |
| 2014 | 137 | 39,000 | 4 | 5 | 30 | 65 · More | Stable |
| 2013 | 23 | 50,000 | 4 | 4 | 24 | — | Falling |
| 2012 | 99 | 66,000 | 6 | 4 | 24 | 53 · Typical | Rising |
| 2011 | 135 | 89,914 | 6 | — | 24 | 44 · Typical | Stable |
| 2010 | 225 | 80,000 | 9 | — | 23 | 75 · More | Stable |
| 2009 | 386 | 80,856 | 9 | — | 23 | 100 · More | Stable |
| 2008 | 111 | 65,000 | 4 | — | 24 | 55 · Typical | Rising |
| 2007 | 156 | 77,750 | 4 | — | 23 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2006 | 173 | 75,000 | 3 | — | 23 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2005 | 147 | 58,000 | 3 | — | 22 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2004 | 160 | 66,100 | 4 | — | 22 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 2003 | 174 | 24,990 | 6 | — | 22 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2002 | 28 | 48,611 | 1 | — | — | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
All Mazda MAZDA6 model years · Best and worst years by complaints
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common problems with the 2004 Mazda MAZDA6?
Complaints on this model year cluster in two areas: the Takata front airbag inflator recalls, with owners describing long waits for parts, and a front driver door latch that stops opening from either handle, often at higher mileage. The issues reported most often: Driver door will not open (latch failure); Harsh or banging automatic transmission shifts.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2004 Mazda MAZDA6 have?
NHTSA recorded 160 consumer complaints for the 2004 Mazda MAZDA6 as of Oct 28, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
What part of the 2004 Mazda MAZDA6 is reported most often?
Air bags is named most often, in 55 complaints (34% of the total), followed by transmission and drivetrain with 19.
Has the 2004 Mazda MAZDA6 been recalled?
NHTSA lists 4 recall campaigns for this model year, 3 of them with a do-not-drive advisory. To check a specific vehicle, enter its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What gas mileage does the 2004 Mazda MAZDA6 get?
The EPA rates the 2004 Mazda MAZDA6 (6, 2.3L 4-cyl) at 22 mpg combined, 20 city and 26 highway, with an estimated annual fuel cost of $3,050 at 15,000 miles a year. Other engine and drive versions are rated differently.
At what mileage are problems with the 2004 Mazda MAZDA6 reported?
Among the 93 complaints that include a mileage, the median is 66,100 miles and the middle half falls between 24,688 and 114,000 miles; 42% were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles.
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 28, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate. Crash ratings are from NHTSA’s New Car Assessment Program. Fuel economy is from the EPA and DOE (fueleconomy.gov).
Complaint counts come from NHTSA’s public complaint database; we count each complaint once. The source records for this vehicle are on nhtsa.gov. Scores and trends are our own summaries of that data, described in the methodology. This page is not legal, safety or repair advice: for a specific vehicle, check its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls and ask a qualified mechanic. See an error? Tell us.