The 2004 Mazda MAZDA6 marked Mazda's return to the mid-size sedan market, replacing the 626. Available as a sedan, hatchback (5-door), and wagon, it offered sporty handling and distinctive styling. Key trims included the base 'i' and the more upscale 's'. When new, pricing ranged from around $19,000 to $24,000. Its responsive handling, driver-focused design, and overall fun-to-drive character made it a popular choice against more conservatively styled competitors. It stood out for its Zoom-Zoom spirit.
The Good
The 2004 MAZDA6 offers a compelling blend of sporty performance and practicality. Emotionally, it's appealing due to its responsive handling and stylish design. Practically, it provides decent fuel efficiency, comfortable seating for five (especially in wagon form), and a reputation for solid reliability (though with caveats). It delivers good value for money, being relatively affordable to purchase and maintain.
The Bad
The 2004 MAZDA6 has some known weaknesses. Rust, especially in areas with road salt, is a significant concern. Premature suspension wear, particularly in the front, is also common. Some owners have reported issues with the automatic transmission and the air conditioning system. Oil leaks can develop as the car ages.
2004 Mazda MAZDA6: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.3L Inline-4: (i trim)
- 3.0L V6: (s trim)
- Horsepower:
- 2.3L I4: 160 hp
- 3.0L V6: 220 hp
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimates):
- 2.3L I4: 22 mpg city / 29 mpg highway (manual), 21 mpg city / 28 mpg highway (automatic)
- 3.0L V6: 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway (automatic)
- 0-60 Times:
- 2.3L I4: Around 8.5 - 9 seconds
- 3.0L V6: Around 7 - 7.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity:
Not Recommended for towing. Minimal towing capacity if any.
- Trim Level Features:
- i (Base): Cloth upholstery, power windows and locks, air conditioning, CD player, keyless entry.
- s (Upgraded): V6 engine, alloy wheels, upgraded audio system, leather-wrapped steering wheel, sport seats (optional). Available options like sunroof, leather seats, Bose audio.
2004 Mazda MAZDA6 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2004 |
| Make | Mazda |
| Model | MAZDA6 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | YAMAGUCHI |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | L3V |
| Engine Size | 2.3L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
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Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2004 Mazda MAZDA6 Have?
The 2004 Mazda MAZDA6 has several frequently reported problems and reliability concerns. Rust is a major issue, especially in colder climates where road salt is used. This can affect the body panels, undercarriage, and suspension components. Suspension wear is also common, with reports of premature failure of ball joints, tie rod ends, and struts.
Some owners have reported issues with the automatic transmission, including rough shifting and complete failure, particularly in the V6 models. The air conditioning system is another area of concern, with reports of compressor failure and refrigerant leaks. Oil leaks, particularly from the valve cover gasket and oil pan, are also frequently reported as the car ages.
Recalls for the 2004 Mazda MAZDA6 have addressed issues such as faulty fuel filler pipes and potential airbag malfunctions. Long-term reliability concerns revolve around the aforementioned rust, suspension, and transmission issues. While the engines themselves are generally durable, the surrounding components and systems can require costly repairs over time. Earlier model years (2003-2005) seem to be more prone to certain issues compared to later years of the first generation.
Some owners have reported issues with the automatic transmission, including rough shifting and complete failure, particularly in the V6 models. The air conditioning system is another area of concern, with reports of compressor failure and refrigerant leaks. Oil leaks, particularly from the valve cover gasket and oil pan, are also frequently reported as the car ages.
Recalls for the 2004 Mazda MAZDA6 have addressed issues such as faulty fuel filler pipes and potential airbag malfunctions. Long-term reliability concerns revolve around the aforementioned rust, suspension, and transmission issues. While the engines themselves are generally durable, the surrounding components and systems can require costly repairs over time. Earlier model years (2003-2005) seem to be more prone to certain issues compared to later years of the first generation.
How long will the 2004 Mazda MAZDA6 last?
With proper maintenance, a 2004 Mazda MAZDA6 can realistically reach 200,000 miles or more. However, its lifespan heavily depends on maintenance habits and geographic location. Cars in areas with harsh winters and road salt are more susceptible to rust, significantly shortening their lifespan. Neglecting regular maintenance, such as oil changes and fluid flushes, will also negatively impact longevity. The main long-term weaknesses are rust, suspension wear, and potential transmission issues. Address these proactively, and the MAZDA6 can provide many years of reliable service.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2004 Mazda MAZDA6's built-in tech and entertainment features were fairly standard for its time. Base models came with a CD player and basic audio system. Higher trims offered upgraded Bose audio systems. There were no advanced driver-assistance features like lane departure warning or blind-spot monitoring available.
Safety features included standard front airbags and anti-lock brakes (ABS). Side airbags were available as an option. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) was not standard on all trims.
Optional features included a sunroof, leather upholstery, and automatic climate control. The instrument cluster was well-designed and easy to read.
In terms of crash-test ratings, the 2004 Mazda MAZDA6 performed reasonably well. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) gave it generally good scores in frontal and side crash tests. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) also awarded it good ratings in its crash tests. However, ratings can vary depending on the specific test and model year, so it's important to consult the official reports for detailed information. Considering its age, the safety technology is dated compared to modern vehicles.
Safety features included standard front airbags and anti-lock brakes (ABS). Side airbags were available as an option. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) was not standard on all trims.
Optional features included a sunroof, leather upholstery, and automatic climate control. The instrument cluster was well-designed and easy to read.
In terms of crash-test ratings, the 2004 Mazda MAZDA6 performed reasonably well. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) gave it generally good scores in frontal and side crash tests. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) also awarded it good ratings in its crash tests. However, ratings can vary depending on the specific test and model year, so it's important to consult the official reports for detailed information. Considering its age, the safety technology is dated compared to modern vehicles.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Titanium Gray Metallic
Black Mica
Sunlight Silver Metallic
Redfire Metallic
Blazing Copper Metallic
Royal Blue Mica
White Pearl Mica
Interior Colors
Dark Charcoal
Beige
2004 Mazda MAZDA6 Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2004 Mazda MAZDA6 ranged from approximately $19,000 to $24,000, depending on the trim level and options. Currently, used market prices typically range from $2,000 to $6,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. The MAZDA6 has depreciated significantly due to its age. Factors affecting resale value include rust (a major detractor), mechanical condition, mileage, and overall appearance. Well-maintained examples in good condition will command higher prices, but even then, the value remains relatively low compared to newer vehicles.
2004 Mazda MAZDA6 Cost of Ownership
The 2004 Mazda MAZDA6 generally falls into the economical category for ownership costs. Insurance premiums are relatively low due to its age and value. Fuel costs are moderate, especially with the 2.3L engine. Maintenance costs can be reasonable if preventative maintenance is followed. However, repair costs can become significant if major issues like rust, transmission problems, or suspension failures arise. Long-term ownership costs are heavily influenced by the vehicle's condition and how well it has been maintained.
2004 Mazda MAZDA6 Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2004 Mazda MAZDA6 Safety Rating
NHTSA
2004 Mazda MAZDA6 Recalls & Defects
Seat Belts:rear/Other
Recall date
2004-12-10
Recall no.
04v582000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Passenger Vehicles, THE Right And/Or Left Rear Seat Belts MAY NOT Lock Properly DUE TO Missing Retaining Pins ON THE Housing.
Consequence
THE Locking Mechanism OF THE Seat Belt Retractor MAY Malfunction, Increasing THE Risk OF Death or Serious Injury TO THE Rear Seat Passengers IN THE Event OF A Crash. Passengers Should NOT SIT and Child Seats Should NOT BE Used IN THE Right or Left Rear Seats Until This Defect HAS Been Corrected.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Rear Seat Belts and Replace Defective Seat Belt Retractors. THE Recall Began ON December 27, 2004. Owners Should Contact Mazda AT 1-800-222-5500, Option #4.
Notes
Mazda Recall NO. 2604l.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Exterior Lighting
Recall date
2009-04-07
Recall no.
09e012000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Sabersport IS Recalling 16,270 Combination Corner and Bumper Lamp Assemblies OF Various Part Numbers Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
Consequence
Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Sabersport Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund FOR THE Noncompliant Combination Lamps. THE Safety Recall Began ON MAY 11, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Sabersport AT 1-909-598-7589.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Sabersport.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Equipment
Recall date
2009-04-02
Recall no.
09e011000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
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. These FIT Kits Were Sold AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR USE ON THE Vehicles Listed Above. THE Bolt(S) Used TO Secure THE Foot TO THE Vehicle WAS Manufactured TO A Hardness That MAY Cause THE Bolt(S) TO BE Brittle and Potentially Break Under Stress.
Consequence
This MAY Result IN THE Bolt(S) Snapping OFF During USE or Without A Load. THE Unsecured Rack and Load CAN Then Come Loose While Driving Creating A Potential Road Hazard, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Thule Will Mail A Retro FIT KIT Along With Repair Instructions TO Owners Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall IS Expected TO Begin ON or Before April 13, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Thule Toll-Free AT 1-800-238-2388.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Thule Aftermarket Roof Mounted Load Carriers and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Listed Passenger Vehicles.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date
2009-05-11
Recall no.
09e025000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Dope, Inc. IS Recalling 42,540 Combination Corner and Bumper Lamp Assemblies OF Various Part Numbers Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
Consequence
Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Dope, Inc. Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund FOR THE Noncompliant Combination Lamps. THE Safety Recall Began ON July 28, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Dope, Inc. AT 1-626-272-1798.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Dope, Inc.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen. Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
AIR Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
Recall date
2017-07-26
Recall no.
17v474000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
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 Intrusion and Other Factors, Including Manufacturing Variability That, Over Time, Could Cause THE Inflator TO Rupture.
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Driver's Frontal AIR Bag, THE Inflator Could Rupture With Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
Owners ARE Advised NOT TO Drive Their Vehicles Until THE Remedy IS Performed. Mazda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Driver's Frontal AIR BAG Inflator With AN Alternate Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON September 12, 2017. Owners MAY Contact Mazda Customer Service AT 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's Number FOR This Recall IS 1417g. Note: This Recall Supersedes Recall 15v-382.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date
2019-10-31
Recall no.
19v781000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
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 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.
Consequence
AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
Owners ARE Advised NOT TO Drive Their Vehicles Until THE Remedy IS Performed. Mazda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger AIR BAG Inflator With AN Alternate One, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began December 3, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Mazda Customer Service AT 1-800-222-5500, Option 4. Mazda's Number FOR This Recall IS 2618f. Note: This Recall Supersedes Recalls 13v130, 14v362, 14v773 and 15v869.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date
2018-06-15
Recall no.
18v402000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
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 Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, NEW Jersey, NEW Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, THE Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and THE U.s. Virgin Islands. ON July 9, 2019 This Recall WAS Expanded TO Include Certain 2004-2011 Rx-8 Vehicles That Were Previously Recalled Under 16v-354 BUT Have NOT YET Been Repaired. These Vehicles ARE Equipped With Certain AIR BAG Inflators Assembled AS Part OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Modules, and Used AS Original Equipment or Replacement Equipment. IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR Bag, These Passenger AIR BAG Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO Absolute Humidity and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence
AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
Owners ARE Advised NOT TO Drive Their Vehicles Until THE Remedy IS Performed. Mazda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger AIR BAG Inflator With AN Alternate Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began July 6, 2018. Mailing TO THE Affected Rx-8 Owners Began July 6, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Mazda Customer Service AT 1-800-222-5500, Option 4. Mazda's Number FOR This Recall IS 2618f. Note: With THE Addition OF THE Rx-8 Vehicles, This Recall Fully Supersedes Recall 16v354.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
2004 Mazda MAZDA6 Insurance
Insurance for a 2004 Mazda MAZDA6 is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2004 Mazda MAZDA6 Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2004 Mazda MAZDA6 competed against rivals like the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, and Ford Fusion. In terms of performance, the MAZDA6 offered a sportier driving experience than the Camry and Accord, but the Altima was also known for its lively handling. Features were comparable across the board, though the MAZDA6 might have lacked some of the advanced tech available on higher trims of its competitors.
Reliability is where the MAZDA6 falls slightly behind the Accord and Camry, which have reputations for bulletproof reliability. The Altima is generally comparable in reliability to the MAZDA6. The Ford Fusion, being a newer design, could also offer better long-term reliability and refinement.
Regarding price, the MAZDA6 was competitive when new, and used prices are attractive. If reliability is a top priority, the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry might be better alternatives, though they may command a higher price on the used market. The Nissan Altima offers a similar sporty driving experience. A well-maintained Ford Fusion from a slightly newer year could also be a good alternative, offering a blend of reliability and modern features.
Reliability is where the MAZDA6 falls slightly behind the Accord and Camry, which have reputations for bulletproof reliability. The Altima is generally comparable in reliability to the MAZDA6. The Ford Fusion, being a newer design, could also offer better long-term reliability and refinement.
Regarding price, the MAZDA6 was competitive when new, and used prices are attractive. If reliability is a top priority, the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry might be better alternatives, though they may command a higher price on the used market. The Nissan Altima offers a similar sporty driving experience. A well-maintained Ford Fusion from a slightly newer year could also be a good alternative, offering a blend of reliability and modern features.
Final Verdict: Is the 2004 Mazda MAZDA6 a Good Sedan?
The 2004 Mazda MAZDA6 is ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking a fun-to-drive sedan, hatchback, or wagon. It's worth buying *used* if you can find a well-maintained example with minimal rust and a clean service history. Opting for a higher trim like the "s" provides the more powerful V6 engine. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is essential, paying close attention to rust, suspension components, and transmission health. If you prioritize absolute reliability above all else, a Honda Accord or Toyota Camry might be a safer bet. However, if you value a sporty driving experience and are willing to accept some potential maintenance challenges, the MAZDA6 can be a rewarding choice.
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.