Owners have filed 529 complaints
about the 2009 Mazda MAZDA6 with NHTSA between 2009 and 2026.
The largest single group is the body & structure.
Across this model's run it ranks 10 of 18 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 100
Against the median year of the Mazda MAZDA6. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 19
3.6% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 16
9% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Body
7973.8%
Valve
65.6%
Frame AND Members
65.6%
Pressure Monitoring AND Regulating Systems
54.7%
Latch
43.7%
Door
32.8%
Underbody Shields
21.9%
Sensor/Control Module
21.9%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
51.4%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
61.7%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
133.7%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
5114.6%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
6117.4%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
6618.9%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
9828.0%
150,000+ miles
5014.3%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Mar 2009peak 25Jul 2026
NHTSA investigations into the 2009 Mazda MAZDA6
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
PE18006Opened 21 May 2018Closed 2 Nov 2018SUSPENSION:FRONT
Front Subframe Corrosion
In a letter dated September 14, 2018, Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) notified the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) of a defect in the front subframe assemblies of model year (MY) 2009 through 2010 Mazda6 vehicles in certain states with high road salt use in winter months (Recall 18V-631). The recall covers approximately 48,814 vehicles that were sold or ever registered in the following states and District of Columbia:Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey,...
PE13015Opened 9 May 2013Closed 30 Sep 2013LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
Door Latch Failures Due to Loose Screws
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this investigation based on reports that the doors were failing to properly latch on model year (MY) 2009 Mazda6 vehicles.Complainants alleged that the door would fail to latch, or would not properly latch. ODI received a total of 9 complaints alleging this condition primarily on the front side doors, however any of the four side doors could be affected.In response to ODI's Information Request, Mazda provided 56 consumer complaints related to the alleged problem, and 329 warranty claims.On September 23, 2013, Mazda notified ODI that it would con...
Recalls on the 2009 Mazda MAZDA6
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
19V782000
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.
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
18V631000
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.
Risk: Corrosion may weaken the mounting point for the passenger side lower control arm, unexpectedly changing the steering alignment and increasing the risk of a crash.
18V018000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2013 Mazda6 and CX-9 vehicles sold, or ever registered in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." Additionally, unless covered in "Zone A," Mazda is recalling certain 2010 Mazda6, CX-7 and CX-9 vehicles sold, or ever registered in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." Additionally, unless covered in Zone A or Zone B, Mazda is recalling certain 2009 Mazda6, CX-7, and CX-9 vehicles ever registered in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "Zone C." These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of th
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
17V457000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Mazda North America Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2012 CX-7, CX-9 and Mazda6 vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" above, Mazda is recalling certain 2009 CX-7, CX-9 and Mazda6 vehicles sold, or ever registered in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" or "Zone B" above, Mazda is recalling certain 2007-2008 CX-7 and CX-9 sold, or ever registered in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as
Risk: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
17V429000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Mazda North America Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2009-2011 Mazda6, and 2007-2011 CX-7 and CX-9 vehicles. 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 front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
16V594000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2009-2010 Mazda6 vehicles manufactured February 4, 2008, to December 3, 2009. The protective coating may not have been properly applied to the air bag control unit (ACU) and, as a result, moisture may damage the unit causing it to malfunction.
Risk: Failure of the ACU would illuminate the air bag warning light and prevent the air bags from deploying in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
13V425000
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.
Risk: If all three door latch mounting screws become excessively loose the door latch mechanism would not engage and the door might open while the vehicle is in motion increasing the risk of accident or injury.
11V134000
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 CAUSE A RESTRICTION IN THE LINE. IF THIS OCCURS, THE FUEL TANK PRESSURE MAY BECOME EXCESSIVELY NEGATIVE WHEN THE EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM WORKS TO PURGE THE VAPORS FROM THE CANISTER.
Risk: AS THE CANISTER IS PURGED REPEATEDLY DURING NORMAL OPERATION, THE STRESS ON THE FUEL TANK MAY EVENTUALLY RESULT IN A CRACK, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO FUEL LEAKAGE AD AN INCREASED RISK OF FIRE.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 201850414,102 units in Canada
Structure
On certain vehicles registered and operated in areas of heavy road salt usage during winter months (Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland & Labrador), the front cross member may rust due to a manufacturing defect. This could affect vehicle handling and cause reduced steering control, potentially increasing the risk of a crash causing injury and/or property damage. Correction: Dealers will install a drain hose, inspect the cross member and, depending on its condition, replace it or install a reinforcement and apply a wax coating.
Recall 20180407,646 units in Canada
Airbag
On certain vehicles, long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, could eventually degrade the propellant contained in the passenger frontal airbag. This could cause the airbag to deploy with more force than normal. As a result, if the vehicle were involved in a collision that warrants airbag deployment, fragments could be propelled toward vehicle occupants, and the airbag assembly could be damaged, preventing proper function. These issues could increase the risk of injury. Correction: Dealers will replace the passenger frontal airbag inflator. Note: Canadian climate results in the propellant degrading slowly. The recall is being conducted as a precaution to address future risk, and is expected to replace airbag inflators before their function would be affected.
Recall 20163957,575 units in Canada
Airbag
On certain vehicles, a defect in the supplemental restraint system (SRS) controller could result in airbags and seatbelt pretensioners failing to deploy in a crash where deployment is warranted. Failure of the SRS components to deploy in a crash could increase the risk of injury. Correction: Dealers will replace the SRS control unit. Note: This condition would cause the illumination of the SRS warning light.
Recall 201332225,155 units in Canada
Structure
On certain vehicles, door latch screws could loosen over time, causing the door(s) to fail to latch when closed and illuminating the door ajar warning light. If the vehicle is driven in this condition, the door(s) could open while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of an accident causing injury and/or property damage. Correction: Dealers will inspect and re-tighten or replace the latch screws.
Recall 201109010,247 units in Canada
Fuel System
On certain vehicles equipped with the 2.5L engine, a particular type of spider may weave a web in the evaporative canister vent line which may cause a restriction in the line. If this occurs, the fuel tank pressure may become excessively negative when the emission control system works to purge the vapors from the canister. As the canister is purged repeatedly during normal operation, the stress on the fuel tank may eventually result in a crack causing a fuel leak. Fuel leakage, in the presence of an ignition source, could result in a fire causing property damage and/or personal injury. Correction: Dealers will clean the canister vent line and install a spring to prohibit spider intrusion. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) will be reprogrammed with modified software having a function to avoid excessive negative pressure of the fuel tank. When any damage of the fuel tank and/or presence of a web in the canister vent line are found, the fuel tank and the check valve on the canister vent line will be replaced.
Recall 20090363,958 units in Canada
Structure
On certain vehicles, the outer door handle may bind, thereby preventing the door from latching. This could allow the door to swing open while the vehicle is in motion. Correction: Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the outer door handles and related brackets.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
Greenville, OHCrash
SUSPENSION
Both my back and front chassis are completely rusted through and it’s a complete screwed car. Looking online there is a recall on something like this but not for my model? All I see online is people talking about how they had to scrap their cars because of this issue. The salt and snow has ruined this car and so many people have complained to no avail.
NHTSA complaint #11564706 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 100,000 milesANN Arbor, MICrash
SUSPENSION
THE SUBFRAME OF MY 2009 MAZDA6 COMPLETELY ROTTED OUT FROM THE INSIDE AND THE VEHICLE BROKE DOWN DURING NORMAL USE. ON WEDNESDAY, MAY 2ND, A MAZDA DEALERSHIP REPLACED MY ROTORS, PADS, AND NOTICED THE CAR WAS PULLING TO ONE SIDE SO THEY CORRECTED THE ALIGNMENT. DURING THIS TIME THEY IDENTIFIED A NORMAL LEVEL OF RUST ON THE SUBFRAME BUT WAS NOT CONCERNED BY ANY OTHER SIGNS OF FAILURE. LESS THAN 10 MILES AFTER LEAVING THE DEALERSHIP THE SUBFRAME CRACKED, MY FRONT PASSENGER WHEEL CV AXIL DISCONNECTED AND THE CAR WAS INOPERABLE. THANKFULLY I WAS GOING ONLY 35 MPH, DOWN A STRAIGHT, PAVED CITY ROAD, AND NOT ON THE HIGHWAY. I FEAR THAT AT HIGHER SPEEDS THE CAR WOULD HAVE GONE OFF ROAD OR WORSE FOR WHEN THE SUBFRAME BROKE THE CAR JERKED HEAVILY TO THE RIGHT THEN COMPLETELY STOPPED. I BELIEVE THE DEALERSHIP PROVIDED QUALITY SERVICE AND DUE TO THE TYPE OF PHYSICAL FAILURE OF ROTTING FROM THE INSIDE THE DANGER IT POSED TO MYSELF AND MY FAMILY IN THE CAR WAS HIDDEN. THE DEALERSHIP INFORMS ME THAT THERE IS A BACKORDER (400ISH) FOR THE PART AND THAT PARTS MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE FOR SEVERAL WEEKS. SEARCHING ONLINE THERE SEEMS TO BE MANY SIMILAR CASES REPORTED WITH MODELS AROUND THIS TIMEFRAME. DUE TO THE TYPE OF FAILURE, NUMBER OF SIMILAR CASES, AGE OF THE CAR, TYPE OF USE, I AM SHOCKED THAT THERE IS NOT A RECALL.
NHTSA complaint #11091913 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 100,000 milesANN Arbor, MICrash
STRUCTURE:BODY
THE SUBFRAME OF MY 2009 MAZDA6 COMPLETELY ROTTED OUT FROM THE INSIDE AND THE VEHICLE BROKE DOWN DURING NORMAL USE. ON WEDNESDAY, MAY 2ND, A MAZDA DEALERSHIP REPLACED MY ROTORS, PADS, AND NOTICED THE CAR WAS PULLING TO ONE SIDE SO THEY CORRECTED THE ALIGNMENT. DURING THIS TIME THEY IDENTIFIED A NORMAL LEVEL OF RUST ON THE SUBFRAME BUT WAS NOT CONCERNED BY ANY OTHER SIGNS OF FAILURE. LESS THAN 10 MILES AFTER LEAVING THE DEALERSHIP THE SUBFRAME CRACKED, MY FRONT PASSENGER WHEEL CV AXIL DISCONNECTED AND THE CAR WAS INOPERABLE. THANKFULLY I WAS GOING ONLY 35 MPH, DOWN A STRAIGHT, PAVED CITY ROAD, AND NOT ON THE HIGHWAY. I FEAR THAT AT HIGHER SPEEDS THE CAR WOULD HAVE GONE OFF ROAD OR WORSE FOR WHEN THE SUBFRAME BROKE THE CAR JERKED HEAVILY TO THE RIGHT THEN COMPLETELY STOPPED. I BELIEVE THE DEALERSHIP PROVIDED QUALITY SERVICE AND DUE TO THE TYPE OF PHYSICAL FAILURE OF ROTTING FROM THE INSIDE THE DANGER IT POSED TO MYSELF AND MY FAMILY IN THE CAR WAS HIDDEN. THE DEALERSHIP INFORMS ME THAT THERE IS A BACKORDER (400ISH) FOR THE PART AND THAT PARTS MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE FOR SEVERAL WEEKS. SEARCHING ONLINE THERE SEEMS TO BE MANY SIMILAR CASES REPORTED WITH MODELS AROUND THIS TIMEFRAME. DUE TO THE TYPE OF FAILURE, NUMBER OF SIMILAR CASES, AGE OF THE CAR, TYPE OF USE, I AM SHOCKED THAT THERE IS NOT A RECALL.
NHTSA complaint #11091913 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 78,000 milesDenver, COCrash
SERVICE BRAKES
FAULTY E-BRAKE. E-BRAKE BUTTON HAS CORRODED AWAY AND WILL NO LONGER HOLD THE CAR IN PARK (CAR IS A MANUAL, SO THIS IS PARTICULARLY CONCERNING SINCE THIS IS THE ONLY WAY TO OFFICALLY KEEP THE CAR IN PARK WHEN TURNED OFF). CAR WAS PARKED IN A STATIONARY POSITION, ON A SLIGHTLY SLANTED ROAD. CAME BACK AND CAR HAD SLIGHTLY BACKED UP INTO CAR BEHIND IT BECAUSE PARKING BREAK HAD 'LET GO'. LUCKILY SLANT WAS SMALL ENOUGH TO NOT CAUSE DAMAGE TO THE CAR BEHIND MINE, AND ONLY LEFT A MINOR DENT IN MY REAR BUMPER. INSIDE OF CAR WAS HOT (IT WAS A USUAL HOT DAY) AND SEEMED AS THOUGH THE ACTUAL PARKING BREAK BUTTON, OR GLUE THAT HELD IT ON, HAD MELTED. I CAN NOW NO LONGER KEEP THE BREAK IN PARK - HAVE TO EITHER PUT IT IN FIRST GEAR, OR PHYSICALLY HOLD THE BREAK UP WITH SOMETHING UNDERNEATH, PUTTING MY CAR AND OTHER AT RISK FOR CAR ROLLING BACK.
NHTSA complaint #11043734 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 60,000 milesLexington, KYCrash2 injured
AIR BAGS
TAKATA RECALL- MY MAZDA MAZDA6 -2009 VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN AN AUTO ACCIDENT ON IN JANUARY 2015. I WAS INJURED WITH BURNS IN MY WRIST FROM THE AIRBAG. I ALSO HAD TO GO THROUGH PT TO REGAIN MOVEMENT TO MY INJURED WRIST. THE VEHICLE WAS MOVING AND ANOTHER CAR CUT OUT IN FRONT OF US AND HIT MY CAR. I WAS NOT CITED IN THE POLICE REPORT THE OTHER PARTY WAS.
NHTSA complaint #10990872 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 68,694 milesOlyphant, PACrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2009 MAZDA 6. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO A TELEPHONE POLE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT SUFFERED LACERATIONS TO THE NOSE, WHICH REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 68,694.
NHTSA complaint #10916167 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Sayville, NY
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Rear cross member broke due to corrosion breaking off lateral arm from driver side of cross member, I may add the front crossmember was repaired due to recall for extreme corrosion not too long ago, as I research this problem I uncover many owners of this vehicle having the same issue in the northeast,even with much lower mileage.mazda should be held accountable.$3,926.62 for part alone on Mazda parts.com
NHTSA complaint #11750964 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Sayville, NY
SUSPENSION
Rear cross member broke due to corrosion breaking off lateral arm from driver side of cross member, I may add the front crossmember was repaired due to recall for extreme corrosion not too long ago, as I research this problem I uncover many owners of this vehicle having the same issue in the northeast,even with much lower mileage.mazda should be held accountable.$3,926.62 for part alone on Mazda parts.com
NHTSA complaint #11750964 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Menomonee Falls, WI
SUSPENSION
The rear subframe rusted out and my control arm broke off! This is extremely serious and because there is no recall I’m going to have to buy an another vehicle. Please issue a recall. I’ve read forms about this and many others have had the same issue with the rear subframe corroding and rotting out.
NHTSA complaint #11734456 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Laval, GU
STRUCTURE:BODY
My rear subframe rusted thru and has holes in it. It is too dangerous to drive and mazda won't recall the rear like the front subframe knowing that a lot of people are suffering from the same issue. A subframe should last a long time. My mechanic inspected the car and feels like it's not safe to drive.
NHTSA complaint #11699875 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Taylorsville, KY
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
This car was purchased in 2017 and maintenanced regularly. We recently took it to have the oil changed and to check out a noise that was coming from the passenger side. We were told that the subframe was rusted so badly it was too dangerous to drive and would cost $7k to repair. That caught us by surprise and we ended up having to buy a car by the next day. We traded the car in… However, I started doing some research and noted that this is very common and there was a recall between 2010 and 2014. I’m pretty upset that we lost this car without having any recall notification after the purchase. Could this have been taken care of instead of having to get a new car?
NHTSA complaint #11690156 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Cumming, GA
SUSPENSION
Component or System that Failed: The front subframe on my 2009 Mazda 6i Touring is completely rusted through. There are holes in the frame and large flakes of rusted metal breaking off. The car is available for inspection if needed. Safety Risk: This is a serious safety concern because if the subframe fails, I could lose steering or suspension control while driving. That would put me and other drivers at immediate risk of an accident. Reproduction / Confirmation: An independent mechanic confirmed the problem and told me the car is unsafe to drive in its current condition. Inspection: The vehicle had the original Mazda subframe corrosion recall performed years ago, but now the same exact problem has come back. The car has not yet been re-inspected by Mazda, but the severity of the rust is obvious. Warning Lamps / Symptoms: There were no warning lights or messages before this happened. The issue was only noticed when the rust and holes became visible on the underside of the car during a recent inspection.
NHTSA complaint #11683036 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Evansville, IN
SUSPENSION
Hello, My name is [XXX] . I took our Mazda 6 in for wheel balance and alignment and was informed of very serious rust issues in the rear suspension. I was pretty shocked at what they showed me. I worked at Raben Tire for 10 years and I've never seen anything like this. I have two retired mechanic friends look at it, and they (along with the mechanic from firestone) said they cannot even fathom how this level of rust is possible (80+% of the miles on this vehicle are highway). One of my retired mechanic friends started looking into it and said he'd noticed the 09 Mazda recalls for suspension rust. We all thought that made sense given how immensely abnormal this rusting is. The recall list sent to me says "front" suspension. I'm not sure why the front is listed and not the rear, but this, to all of us, is very clearly faulty (the rusting is INCREDIBLY abnormal) and we believe should be considered as part of the suspension rust recall (there are no rusting issues anywhere else). Ive provided pictures. This is incredibly unsafe. The rear suspension could collapse at any moment while driving and cause casualties. Thank you for your time, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11680053 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Piscataway, NJ
AIR BAGS
The passenger crash pad has deteriorated and become sticky and cracked. This may affect deployment of airbag and perhaps allow outside environmental elements to affect the airbag. The takata fiasco being an example of environmental factors affecting airbag safety.
NHTSA complaint #11658729 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Piscataway, NJ
SUSPENSION
The front and rear crossmembers have significant rust. The front has holes and chunks of metal missing due to rust corrosion. The rear has flaking and is deeply pockmarked with rust. These are structural components. Failure can lead to a crash.
NHTSA complaint #11658728 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Piscataway, NJ
STRUCTURE:BODY
The front and rear crossmembers have significant rust. The front has holes and chunks of metal missing due to rust corrosion. The rear has flaking and is deeply pockmarked with rust. These are structural components. Failure can lead to a crash.
NHTSA complaint #11658728 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Indianapolis, IN
SUSPENSION
The rear Suspension Frame has failed due to corrosion. The right rear tire has worn severely from the premature failure of that part on the right side. I feel it was a defect in Engineering by Mazda. My email: [XXX] Mobile: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11652399 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Indianapolis, IN
SUSPENSION
The rear frame has failed due to corrosion on the right side. The rear passenger tire is canted in on the topside worn severely worn. This was noted when I drove home from my job. This is a critical part of the vehicle and should've never failed. I'm hopeful to hear from the NHTSB for a repair to be done properly by Mazda;
NHTSA complaint #11650252 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lakewood, OH
SUSPENSION
Rear suspension cross-member corroded to the point that a minor pothole separated the right lower control arm mounting point from the cross-member, rendering the car undrivable. The rest of the car is fairly rust-free.
NHTSA complaint #11647355 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Amelia, OH
SUSPENSION
Rear subframe corrosion
NHTSA complaint #11630883 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Stockton, CA
AIR BAGS
Vehicle jerks at low speed when accelerate and idle when accelerate, P0766 Code shows, engine noise and gears jump, when reverse the vehicle jerks.
NHTSA complaint #11615881 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Windber, PA
SUSPENSION
2009 Mazda 6 Rear subframe and springs are deemed unsafe due to extreme rusting and corrosion. The vehicle is registered and has been registered in both NY and PA (salt states), however was regularly washed and garage maintained. Vehicle will no longer pass inspection due to this issue and Mazda indicates no recall for the rear at this time and is ignoring that this is a highly prevalent issue. Mazda recalled and acknowledged this issue on these makes/models related to the front; however refuses to acknowledge and repair/recall the issue extending to the rear. The vehicle is in otherwise good shape, and the extreme rusting to the subframe/springs is not consistent with normal wear and tear. This is an extremely prevalent issue arising to these vehicles being ignored by Mazda. Mechanics are indicating the issue is extremely deteriorated and not safe, but that the vehicle is in otherwise good shape and the issue is consistent with faulty parts.
NHTSA complaint #11616055 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Windber, PA
STRUCTURE:BODY
2009 Mazda 6 Rear subframe and springs are deemed unsafe due to extreme rusting and corrosion. The vehicle is registered and has been registered in both NY and PA (salt states), however was regularly washed and garage maintained. Vehicle will no longer pass inspection due to this issue and Mazda indicates no recall for the rear at this time and is ignoring that this is a highly prevalent issue. Mazda recalled and acknowledged this issue on these makes/models related to the front; however refuses to acknowledge and repair/recall the issue extending to the rear. The vehicle is in otherwise good shape, and the extreme rusting to the subframe/springs is not consistent with normal wear and tear. This is an extremely prevalent issue arising to these vehicles being ignored by Mazda. Mechanics are indicating the issue is extremely deteriorated and not safe, but that the vehicle is in otherwise good shape and the issue is consistent with faulty parts.
NHTSA complaint #11616055 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Stockton, CA
ENGINE
Vehicle jerks at low speed when accelerate and idle when accelerate, P0766 Code shows, engine noise and gears jump, when reverse the vehicle jerks.
NHTSA complaint #11615881 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Stockton, CA
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Vehicle jerks at low speed when accelerate and idle when accelerate, P0766 Code shows, engine noise and gears jump, when reverse the vehicle jerks.
NHTSA complaint #11615881 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Plymouth, MI
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The sensors on my alarm system will randomly activate, with alarm going off at 30 second intervals. The problem began approximately 6 months ago. I took the initiative to replace my cars battery, along with the battery in my fab. I really thought that solved my problem, as a first step fix. I began once again to identify the sound of my car alarm in multiple parking lots throughout time. I have been investigating this problem, and have read that this alarm problem has been sited by many Mazda 6 owners. I am the original owner of the 2009 Mazda 6 Grand Touring, and have 67,000 miles driven. I called the Repair Department at my dealership, and was told that it cost $185.00 for just the diagnosis. My auto insurance company policy price is based on using a secured vehicle. Right now I only can leave it unlocked in my garage, otherwise, my vehicle is at risk of being stolen.
NHTSA complaint #11611849 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Getzville, NY
SUSPENSION
This 2009 Mazda 6 hit a chuck hole in the Buffalo NY area, virtually severing the connection between the rear cross member (aka cradle or sub frame) and the right rear wheel and rendering the car all but undriveable. Mechanic said the failure to sufficiently rust proof the subject parts caused severe deterioration of the rear sub frame. This is essentially the same problem that led NHTSA to issue a recall on this vehicle for the front engine cradle in 2018.
NHTSA complaint #11605498 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Columubus, OH
SUSPENSION
I noticed a rattling sound that seemed to come from the rear passenger side wheel. I took it to a mechanic who told me that the rear sub-frame was so rusted that the damper had come loose from the sub-frame and caused the rattling sound. He said that he was unable to reattch the damper because the sub-frame was too rusted. The only solution was to remove the loose damper to eliminate the rattling sound and continue driving that way OR have the rear sub-frame replaced which would cost from $4,000-$6,000.
NHTSA complaint #11596083 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Meriden, CT
STRUCTURE:BODY
I have a 2009 Mazda 6, the subframe/engine cradle has completely rusted out on the right side causing the lower control arm to detach from the frame while I was driving almost causing a accident luckily I was driving slow at the time. There was a recall for this exact issue, I contacted Mazda and they have no open recalls and can not help me
NHTSA complaint #11590508 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Pittsburgh, PA
SUSPENSION
"What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request?" - Rear subframe. Total rust through due to improper steel alloy and insufficient paint. Same as happened for the front subframe. Front subframe was recalled as 2818I (Mazda's number) and 19V-323, 18V-631 (NHTSA numbers). NHTSA should also mandate rear subframe be recalled. "How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk?" - Total catastrophic structural failure of rear suspension. Would result in a total loss of control while driving. This would likely lead to a severe, possibly fatal accident at-speed. "Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center?" - As reported by independent service center. "Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others?" - no, this exact vehicle has not been inspected by manufacturer. Manufacturer is doubtless aware of the issue. A cursory google search leads to dozens of identical cases. "Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear?" - there were no warnings of the failure prior to discovery by service center.
NHTSA complaint #11581728 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Pittsburgh, PA
STRUCTURE:BODY
"What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request?" - Rear subframe. Total rust through due to improper steel alloy and insufficient paint. Same as happened for the front subframe. Front subframe was recalled as 2818I (Mazda's number) and 19V-323, 18V-631 (NHTSA numbers). NHTSA should also mandate rear subframe be recalled. "How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk?" - Total catastrophic structural failure of rear suspension. Would result in a total loss of control while driving. This would likely lead to a severe, possibly fatal accident at-speed. "Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center?" - As reported by independent service center. "Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others?" - no, this exact vehicle has not been inspected by manufacturer. Manufacturer is doubtless aware of the issue. A cursory google search leads to dozens of identical cases. "Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear?" - there were no warnings of the failure prior to discovery by service center.
NHTSA complaint #11581728 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.