Extremely high new and used car prices have many car buyers now looking for older vehicles that have aged well as a way to save significant dollars.
And the 2013 Mazda6 has proven to be a generally reliable vehicle over the longer-term. In fact, when properly cared for, one is expected to cover as much as 200,000 to 250,000 miles during its lifetime.
But there are no guarantees, of course. A lot of it comes down to a specific vehicle's maintenance regularity, it's driving conditions and the driving habits of previous owners.
So here, we'll take a look at its reliability track record, specific possible mechanical issues that previous owners have reported, as well as its overall pros and cons.
For more detailed information on the reliability of the Mazda6, visit our Used Mazda6 Reliability Guide, a more comprehensive look at the model years, engines, common problems, maintenance costs, expected lifespan, and the best years to buy or those to avoid.
2013 Mazda6 Reliability
The 2013 Mazda6 is one of the more reliable midsize sedans in its class, offering sporty handling, solid build quality, and relatively low ownership costs. As the final model year of the second-generation Mazda6, most early production issues had already been addressed, making 2013 one of the best years to buy. With proper maintenance, many examples easily exceed 200,000 miles.
The 2013 Mazda6 is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with either a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain has earned a reputation for durability, requiring little more than routine maintenance throughout its life. Unlike many competitors of the era, the Mazda6 avoids many of the widespread engine and transmission problems that affected some turbocharged or continuously variable transmission (CVT) equipped rivals.
Routine maintenance remains important, particularly regular oil changes, transmission servicing, cooling system inspections, and suspension maintenance as mileage climbs. Fortunately, major engine or transmission failures are uncommon on well-maintained vehicles.
Overall, the 2013 Mazda6 delivers an excellent balance of reliability, driving enjoyment, and affordable ownership costs. Buyers who find a vehicle with documented maintenance records can expect many additional years of dependable service.
- Overall reliability: Above Average to Excellent
- Expected lifespan: 200,000 to 250,000+ miles with proper maintenance
- Best choice: 2.5-liter four-cylinder with documented maintenance history
- Watch for: Suspension wear, minor oil leaks, and rust in northern climates
Bottom line: The 2013 Mazda6 is one of the strongest choices among used midsize sedans. It offers dependable mechanicals, enjoyable driving dynamics, and lower-than-average repair costs, making it an excellent long-term value.
- Why it's a good choice: Reliable drivetrain, responsive handling, comfortable ride, and low ownership costs
- Biggest concern: Age-related suspension wear and rust on vehicles driven in areas that use road salt
- Best version: Any well-maintained 2.5-liter model with complete service records
- Buy only if: The vehicle has been regularly maintained and passes a thorough pre-purchase inspection
A well-cared-for 2013 Mazda6 remains one of the better used midsize sedans available, offering reliability that rivals the best Japanese competitors while providing a more engaging driving experience.
If you may be buying soon, I'd also recommend reading my most effective negotiation methods for either new cars or used cars. Each explains a quick way to identify the dealerships most motivated to deal, no matter how busy they may seem, and how to follow up once you've found them. That can be the difference between getting a good price and getting a great one.
2013 Mazda6 Common Mechanical Problems
The 2013 Mazda6 has relatively few widespread mechanical problems compared to many competitors. Most issues are typical wear items that develop with age and mileage rather than major design flaws. A vehicle with regular maintenance records is usually a safe purchase.
- Transmission Issues: Some owners reported problems with the automatic transmission, including rough shifting or slipping. Transmission issues can be costly to repair, so it's important to address them promptly.
- Suspension wear: Front control arm bushings, sway bar links, struts, and rear shocks commonly wear after 100,000 miles. Worn components may cause clunking noises, uneven tire wear, or less responsive handling.
- Wheel bearing noise: Some higher-mileage vehicles develop worn wheel bearings that produce a humming or growling sound that becomes louder with speed.
- Minor oil leaks: Valve cover gaskets and other engine seals may begin leaking as the vehicle ages. Most leaks are relatively minor if repaired promptly.
- Brake wear: Brake pads and rotors may wear somewhat faster than average, particularly on vehicles driven primarily in city traffic. Fortunately, replacement costs are generally reasonable.
- Air conditioning compressor wear: Some owners report compressor failures or reduced cooling performance as mileage increases. Listen for unusual noises when the air conditioning is operating.
- Electrical components: Window switches, door lock actuators, and exterior lighting components occasionally fail as the vehicle ages, although widespread electrical problems are uncommon.
- Rust (northern climates): Vehicles exposed to road salt should be inspected carefully for corrosion underneath the vehicle, particularly around suspension mounting points, brake lines, and the lower body panels.
- Engine mounts: Higher-mileage Mazda6 models may develop worn engine mounts that cause increased vibration while idling or accelerating.
Fortunately, the 2013 Mazda6 is known for avoiding the costly engine and transmission failures that affect many competing midsize sedans. Most repairs involve normal maintenance items rather than major mechanical breakdowns.
Buyer Tip: Focus on finding a Mazda6 with complete maintenance records rather than simply the lowest mileage. During your inspection, check for suspension noise, smooth automatic transmission operation, signs of oil leaks, and any rust underneath the vehicle. A clean, well-maintained example is likely to provide many years of dependable service.
2013 Mazda6 Pros
Athletic Handling: A central theme in Mazda's overall position in the car market is to provide vehicles with a higher degree of engagement and handling ability. The Mazda6 certainly lives up to these expectations thanks to its lively engines and sportier-tuned underpinnings.
It also offers excellent outward visibility with one of the better driving positions in its class thanks to its comparatively higher seat.
The result is road performance that is superior to almost all of its competitors (perhaps second only to the Nissan Altima) when it comes to handling agility and "fun-to-drive" factors. In fact, its overall ride quality (the balance between ride comfort and handling) seems a lot closer to a European feel than one might expect from its Japanese roots.
Spacious Cabin: While the interior is well-designed, well-equipped and attractive, its best quality is the abundance of space. This is a very passenger-friendly vehicle with plenty of legroom and headroom both upfront and in the rear.
Actually, the rear quarters are particularly roomy and can even accommodate most very tall occupants. And with seats that are both comfortable and supportive, long trips are a lot easier to weather for all concerned.
Large Trunk: Also a plus on long trips is one of the largest trunks in this class. Measuring 16.6 cubic feet, the Mazda 6 offers a level of cargo capacity few can match. Utilizing its 60/40-split-folding rear seats can boost its storage abilities still more, while the trunk's fairly tucked away hinge mechanism makes for easier loading as well.
Stylish Design: The Mazda6 was praised for its sleek and sporty exterior design. The car's aesthetics appealed to many buyers.
Well-Designed Interior: The interior of the Mazda6 received positive feedback for its well-thought-out design, comfortable seats, and user-friendly controls.
Good Safety Features: The car was equipped with a range of safety features, including antilock brakes, stability control, and a suite of airbags.
2013 Mazda6 Cons
Mediocre Fuel Economy: Under the hood of the Mazda6 i versions is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that outputs 170 horsepower and 167 pound-feet of torque. Powering the s Grand Touring is a 3.7-liter V6 that pumps out a healthy 272 horsepower and 269 pound-feet.
In performance tests, the s Grand Touring has been timed from zero to 60 mph in a very quick-for-its-class 6.5 seconds, while the four-cylinder does the same sprint in a more average 9.1 seconds.
Gas mileage for the i models, whether manual or automatic, is an EPA-estimated 21 mpg city and 30 mpg on the highway, not a particularly impressive number for a four-cylinder sedan. Fuel economy for the V6 comes in at 18 mpg city and 27 highway, again on the lower end for this class.
Some Lower-Quality Interior Materials: While the 6's cabin is spacious, comfortable and attractive, it is unfortunate that there are some lower-grade plastics and hard surfaces. And while it is subjective, not everyone is on board with the black-and-silver trim accents on the upper models.
Outdated Infotainment System: The infotainment system in the 2013 Mazda6 was criticized for being outdated and less advanced compared to some of its competitors. It lacked some of the modern connectivity features found in newer models.
Road Noise: While the Mazda6 provided a sporty and responsive ride, some drivers and reviewers mentioned that road noise could be more noticeable compared to rival models.
And another con ... even a good price on the vehicle doesn't necessarily mean you're getting a good deal.
There are other numbers besides price that can significantly affect the final out-the-door cost. A well-negotiated selling price can quickly lose its advantage if the dealer makes up for the concession with a below-market trade-in offer. Also, dealer fees and add-ons can further increase the final cost, making it important to learn which fees you must pay, can negotiate, or should avoid.
To become better informed about these important but often-confusing parts of the deal, be sure to see my articles on trade-ins and dealer fees.
Overall:
The 2013 Mazda6 is a solid family sedan choice, particularly for those looking for more engaging driving dynamics. Potential buyers should also keep in mind that this is a segment loaded with strong choices and we always recommend considering top rivals as well before making a final decision.
Others worthy of consideration would include the Hyundai Sonata and its sibling the Kia Optima, both with strong performance and long feature lists for the money. The Toyota Camry is a well-rounded choice with better fuel economy, while the Volkswagen Passat offers European refinement and style.
Other strong handling choices would include the Ford Fusion as well as the aforementioned Nissan Altima.
Also, More On Mazda Reliability
If you'd like to compare different Mazda models, or years, including the Mazda6, be sure to read our Mazda Reliability & Problems: Best Used Mazdas & Years Guide. It compares the Mazda3, Mazda6, CX-5, CX-30, CX-50, CX-9, MX-5 Miata, and other popular Mazda models, highlights the best years to buy, common problems, and helps you choose the right Mazda for your needs.