Is the 2009 Mazda Mazda6 reliable?

Overall reliability is generally good for a midsize sedan of its era, especially with consistent maintenance. The biggest reliability differences come down to service history, oil level vigilance on the 2.5L, and how well the transmission and suspension were maintained.

What are the most common 2009 Mazda Mazda6 problems?

The most commonly reported issues include oil consumption on some 2.5L engines, higher-mileage automatic transmission shift complaints, front suspension wear (clunks and uneven tire wear), and occasional age-related electrical/accessory glitches.

Are maintenance costs high for a 2009 Mazda6?

Maintenance costs are typically moderate for the class. Routine items like brakes, tires, fluids, and suspension components are comparable to other midsize sedans, and costs stay reasonable when you keep up with preventative service.

What are the best years of Mazda6 to buy?

Many shoppers prefer later years within a generation because small updates and running changes can improve long-term ownership. For the second-generation Mazda6, comparing 2009 to later model years with proven service records can be a smart strategy.

What should I check before buying a used 2009 Mazda Mazda6?

Confirm oil level and look for signs of consumption, test drive for smooth shifting, listen for suspension clunks over bumps, inspect tire wear for alignment issues, and scan for diagnostic codes—even if no warning lights are on. For deeper ownership confidence, get a complete owner’s guide with full specs, trim details, fluid capacities, and the recommended maintenance schedules for the 2009 Mazda Mazda6.

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Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2009 Mazda Mazda6 Reliability ReportC+ grade · moderate risk · system-by-system breakdown

78/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A fun-to-drive, practical sedan that offers good value, provided you address its Achilles' heel: rust.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2009 Mazda Mazda6

The system most likely to surface first: body & chassis corrosion (major severity).
Has 10 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the suspension:front:control arm.
Scores 5 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2007 Mazda Mazda6 earns a 83.

Is the 2009 Mazda Mazda6 Worth Buying?

The 2009 Mazda Mazda6 is a compelling choice for buyers seeking an engaging drive and practical sedan, but it demands diligent inspection and proactive maintenance to mitigate specific known weaknesses. While generally reliable, potential rust issues and common wear items mean it’s not a 'set it and forget it' vehicle, making a thorough pre-purchase inspection absolutely critical for long-term satisfaction.

Biggest Strengths

Engaging driving dynamics and responsive handling
Generally robust engine options (2.5L I4 and 3.7L V6)
Spacious and comfortable interior for its class

What Tends to Fail First on the 2009 Mazda Mazda6

The systems that break first on the 2009 Mazda Mazda6. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Body & Chassis Corrosionmajor

Braking System Componentsmoderate

Electrical System & Interior Trimminor

Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

2009 Mazda Mazda6 Recall History

10 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM

Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2009-2010 Mazda Mazda6 vehicles sold, or ever registered in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. The front cross member may corrode after exposure to road salt.

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2007-2012 CX-7, CX-9, and 2009-2012 Maza6 vehicles. These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.

What breaks on the 2009 Mazda Mazda6?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

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Other Mazda Mazda6 Years to Consider

Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Mazda Mazda6. Click any year for its full report.

All Mazda Mazda6 years ranked →Mazda Mazda6 years to avoid →Mazda Mazda6 common problems →

2009 Mazda Mazda6 Alternatives

Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.

2007 ToyotaLand Cruiser

2007 ChevroletCorvette

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Frequently Asked Questions

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