roubleshooting Problems

Troubleshooting Problems

Body
Door Will Not Latch Close
Replace Electric Power Door Locks Test
Brake System
Brake Pedal Goes to the Floor
Brake System Warning Light On
Pulls Right or Left Driving or Braking
Steering Wheel Shakes When Accelerating or Braking
Car Noises
Chirping Noise
Clicking Noise
Clunking Noise
Grinding Noises
Howling Noise
Popping Noise
Rattle Noises
Whirring Sounds
Whistling Noise
Climate Control
Air Conditioner Not Working
Air Vents Stay in the Defrost Position
Blower Fan Motor Works On High Speed Only
Heater Not Working
Low or No Airflow From Vents
Cooling System
Engine Coolant Problems
Thermostat Test
Drivetrain
Clutch Not Working
Electrical
Alternator Test
Battery Goes Dead Overnight
Battery Test
Both Headlights Blow Out at the Same Time
Brake Lights Not Working
Burned Fuse Connector Test
Coolant Temperature Hot Warning Light On
Electrical Goes Dead When Engine is Cranked
Electrical System Circuit Light Test Checker
Engine Will Not Crank Over
Headlights are Dim or Dull
How a Neutral Safety Switch Works
Ignition Switch Stuck Wont Turn
No Tail Lights or Running Lights
Oxygen Sensor Lean Mixture Codes P0171 or P0174
Rapid Clicking Sound When Starter is Used
Re-Program a Key Remote Fob
Relay and Wiring Circuit Test
Scan Test is Incomplete P1000 Repair
Scan for Check Engine Service Soon Light Trouble Codes
Turn Signals Blink Rapidly
Turn Signals Not Working
Engine Mechanical
Abnormal Engine Noises
Coolant in the Motor Oil
Engine Coolant Leaks
Engine Oil Leaks
Engine Oil in Coolant or Radiator GM 3.0 Liter V6
Excessive Smoke From Exhaust Pipe
Exhaust System Keeps Breaking
High or Low Engine Oil Pressure
Plugged Catalytic Converter Test
Vacuum Leak Test
Water Pump Failure and Overheating
White Smoke or Steam from the Exhaust Pipe
Engine Performance
Black Smoke Engine Exhaust System
Blue Smoke from Engine Exhaust Pipe
Engine Backfires
Engine Cranks But Wont Start
Engine Cranks Excessively Before Starting
Engine Hesitation
Engine Idling High to Fast
Engine Idling Low to Slow
Engine Loss Performance Power
Engine Overheating or Runs Hot
Engine Runs Rough or Misfires
Engine Stalls
Engine Surges
Engine Vibration at Idle
Stalls or Idles High or Low After Dead or New Battery
Fuel System
Fuel Injector Test
Suspension
Check Shocks and Struts
Low Tire Indicator Warning Light On
Power Steering Problems

Trouble Code Definitions

Trouble Code Definitions
OBD2 Diagnostic Trouble Code Tables 1995 - 2008
P0100 – P0199 | P0200 – P0299 | P0300 – P0399 | P0400 – P0499 | P0500 – P0599 | P0600 – P0699 | P0700 – P0799 | P0800 – P0899 | P0900 – P0999 | P1000 – P1099 | P1100 – P1199 | P1200 – P1299 | P1300 – P1399 | P1400 – P1499 | P1500 – P1599 | P1600 – P1699 | P1700 – P1799 | P1800 – P1899 |

P0100 – Mass or Volume Air Flow Circuit Malfunction
P0101 – Mass or Volume Air Flow Circuit Low Input
P0103 – Mass or Volume Air Flow Circuit High Input
P0104 – Mass or Volume Air Flow Circuit Intermittent
P0105 – Manifold Absolute Pressure/Barometric Pressure Circuit Malfunction
P0106 – Manifold Absolute Pressure/Barometric Pressure Circuit Range/Performance Problem
P0107 – Manifold Absolute Pressure/Barometric Pressure Circuit Low Input
P0108 – Manifold Absolute Pressure/Barometric Pressure Circuit High Input
P0109 – Manifold Absolute Pressure/Barometric Pressure Circuit Intermittent
P0110 – Intake Air Temperature Circuit Malfunction
P0111 – Intake Air Temperature Circuit Range/Performance Problem
P0112 – Intake Air Temperature Circuit Low Input
P0113 – Intake Air Temperature Circuit High Input
P0114 – Intake Air Temperature Circuit Intermittent
P0115 – Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Malfunction
P0116 – Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Range/Performance Problem
P0117 – Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input
P0118 – Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit High Input
P0119 – Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Intermittent
P0120 – ETS Main Throttle Position Sensor Malfunction
P0121 – Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch A Circuit Range/Performance Problem
P0122 – Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch A Circuit Low Input
P0123 – Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch A Circuit High Input
P0124 – Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch A Circuit Intermittent
P0125 – Insufficient Coolant Temperature for Closed Loop Fuel Control
P0126 – Insufficient Coolant Temperature for Stable Operation
P0128 – ECT Below Thermostat Regulating Temperature
P0130 – Oxygen Sensor Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1 Sensor 1
P0131 – Oxygen Sensor Circuit Low Voltage (Bank 1 Sensor 1)
P0132 – Oxygen Sensor Circuit High Voltage (Bank 1 Sensor 1)
P0133 – Oxygen Sensor Circuit Slow Response (Bank 1 Sensor 1)
P0134 – Oxygen Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected (Bank 1 Sensor 1)
P0135 – Oxygen Sensor Heater Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1 Sensor 1)
P0136 – Oxygen Sensor Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1 Sensor 2)
P0137 – Oxygen Sensor Circuit Low Voltage (Bank 1 Sensor 2)
P0138 – Oxygen Sensor Circuit High Voltage (Bank 1 Sensor 2)
P0139 – Oxygen Sensor Circuit Slow Response (Bank 1 Sensor 2)
P0140 – Oxygen Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected (Bank 1 Sensor 2)
P0141 – Oxygen Sensor Heater Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1 Sensor 2)
P0142 – Oxygen Sensor Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1 Sensor 3)
P0143 – Oxygen Sensor Circuit Low Voltage (Bank 1 Sensor 3)
P0144 – Oxygen Sensor Circuit High Voltage (Bank 1 Sensor 3)
P0145 – Oxygen Sensor Circuit Slow Response (Bank 1 Sensor 3)
P0146 – Oxygen Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected (Bank 1 Sensor 3)
P0147 – Oxygen Sensor Heater Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1 Sensor 3)
P0150 – Oxygen Sensor Circuit Malfunction (Bank 2 Sensor 1)
P0151 – Oxygen Sensor Circuit Low Voltage (Bank 2 Sensor 1)
P0152 – Oxygen Sensor Circuit High Voltage (Bank 2 Sensor 1)
P0153 – Oxygen Sensor Circuit Slow Response (Bank 2 Sensor 1)
P0154 – Oxygen Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected (Bank 2 Sensor 1
P0155 – Oxygen Sensor Heater Circuit Malfunction (Bank 2 Sensor 1)
P0156 – Oxygen Sensor Circuit Malfunction (Bank 2 Sensor 2)
P0157 – Oxygen Sensor Circuit Low Voltage (Bank 2 Sensor 2)
P0158 – Oxygen Sensor Circuit High Voltage (Bank 2 Sensor 2)
P0159 – Oxygen Sensor Circuit Slow Response (Bank 2 Sensor 2)
P0160 – Oxygen Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected (Bank 2 Sensor 2)
P0161 – Oxygen Sensor Heater Circuit Malfunction (Bank 2 Sensor 2)
P0162 – Oxygen Sensor Circuit Malfunction (Bank 2 Sensor 3)
P0163 – Oxygen Sensor Circuit Low Voltage (Bank 2 Sensor 3)
P0164 – Oxygen Sensor Circuit High Voltage (Bank 2 Sensor 3)
P0165 – Oxygen Sensor Circuit Slow Response (Bank 2 Sensor 3)
P0166 – Oxygen Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected (Bank 2 Sensor 3
P0167 – Oxygen Sensor Heater Circuit Malfunction (Bank 2 Sensor 3)
P0170 – Fuel Trim Malfunction (Bank 1)
P0171 – System too Lean (Bank 1)
P0172 – System too Rich (Bank 1)
P0173 – Fuel Trim Malfunction (Bank 2)
P0174 – System too Lean (Bank 2)
P0175 – System too Rich (Bank 2)
P0176 – Fuel Composition Sensor Circuit Malfunction
P0177 – Fuel Composition Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
P0178 – Fuel Composition Sensor Circuit Low Input
P0179 – Fuel Composition Sensor Circuit High Input
P0180 – Fuel Temperature Sensor A Circuit Malfunction
P0181 – Fuel Temperature Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance
P0182 – Fuel Temperature Sensor A Circuit Low Input
P0183 – Fuel Temperature Sensor A Circuit High Input
P0184 – Fuel Temperature Sensor A Circuit Intermittent
P0185 – Fuel Temperature Sensor B Circuit Malfunction
P0186 – Fuel Temperature Sensor B Circuit Range/Performance
P0187 – Fuel Temperature Sensor B Circuit Low Input
P0188 – Fuel Temperature Sensor B Circuit High Input
P0189 – Fuel Temperature Sensor B Circuit Intermittent
P0190 – Fuel Rail Pressure Sensor Circuit Malfunction
P0191 – Fuel Rail Pressure Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
P0192 – Fuel Rail Pressure Sensor Circuit Low Input
P0193 – Fuel Rail Pressure Sensor Circuit High Input
P0194 – Fuel Rail Pressure Sensor Circuit Intermittent
P0195 – Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Malfunction
P0196 – Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Range/Performance
P0197 – Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Low
P0198 – Engine Oil Temperature Sensor High
P0199 – Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Intermittent

How to Repair or Service

How to Repair or Service

Body
Door Will Not Latch Close
Open Hood Release Latch
Replace Electric Power Door Locks Test
Replace Power Window Motor Test
Replace Windshield Washer Pump
Replace Windshield Wiper Blades and Inserts
Brake System
ABS Wheel Speed Sensor
Bleed and Flush a Brake System
Brake Pedal Goes to the Floor
Brake System Warning Light On
Checking Headlights Blinkers and Tail Lights
Pulls Right or Left Driving or Braking
Replace Brake Caliper
Replace Brake Flex Hose
Replace Brake Master Cylinder
Replace Brake Power Booster
Replace Brake System ABS Controller
Replace Brake Wheel Cylinder
Replace Emergency Parking Brake Shoe and Adjust
Replace Front Brake Pads and Rotors FWD
Replace Front Brake Pads and Rotors RWD
Replace Rear Brake Drums and Adjust
Replace Rear Brake Pads and Rotors
Replace Rear Brake Shoes Drums and Adjust
Steering Wheel Shakes When Accelerating or Braking
Car Noises
Chirping Noise
Clicking Noise
Clunking Noise
Grinding Noises
Howling Noise
Popping Noise
Rattle Noises
Scraping Noises
Squeaking Noise
Vibration Noises
Whirring Sounds
Whistling Noise
Climate Control
Air Conditioner Not Working
Air Vents Stay in the Defrost Position
Blower Fan Motor Works On High Speed Only
Heater Not Working
Low or No Airflow From Vents
Re-Charge an Air Conditioner System
Replace Air Cabin Filter
Replace Air Conditioner Compressor
Replace Blend Door Motor
Replace Heater Control Valve
Replace Heater Core
Replace Heater Hoses
Cooling System
Replace Radiator Cooling Fan Motor
Replace Radiator Hoses
Replace Radiator and Flush Coolant
Replace Thermostat
Replace Water Pump
Thermostat Test
Drivetrain
Check Fluid Levels
Clutch Not Working
Drain and Refill Gear Oil Differential Service
Replace Automatic Transmission
Replace Axle Wheel Bearing Hub
Replace CV Axle
Replace Clutch Cable and Adjust
Replace Clutch Master Cylinder
Replace Clutch Slave-Secondary Cylinder
Replace Clutch and Adjust
Replace Differential
Replace Driveshaft
Replace Universal U Joint
Service Automatic Transmission Fluid and Filter
Electrical
Alternator Test
Battery Goes Dead Overnight
Battery Test
Both Headlights Blow Out at the Same Time
Brake Lights Not Working
Burned Fuse Connector Test
Check Fuses
Coolant Temperature Hot Warning Light On
Electrical Goes Dead When Engine is Cranked
Electrical System Circuit Light Test Checker
Engine Will Not Crank Over
Headlights are Dim or Dull
How to Use a Voltmeter
How to Use an Infrared Temperature Meter
Ignition Switch Stuck Wont Turn
Ignition System Test
Ignition Timing Adjust
Jump Start Battery Using Jumper Cables
No Tail Lights or Running Lights
Oxygen Sensor O2 Test
Rapid Clicking Sound When Starter is Used
Re-Program a Key Remote Fob
Relay and Wiring Circuit Test
Replace Alternator
Replace Battery
Replace Battery Cables
Replace Brake Light Bulb Video
Replace Electric Antenna Mast
Replace Headlight Bulb
Replace Idle Air Speed Control Motor
Replace Ignition Switch
Replace Mass Air Flow Sensor MAF
Replace Oxygen Sensor
Replace Starter Motor and Solenoid
Replace Throttle Position Sensor TPS
Replace Turn Signal Flasher
Scan for Check Engine Service Soon Light Trouble Codes
Turn Signals Blink Rapidly
Turn Signals Not Working
Engine Mechanical
Abnormal Engine Noises
Auto Maintenance and Service Procedure Instructions
Change Engine Oil and Filter
Change Motor Oil and Filter Video
Coolant in the Motor Oil
Engine Coolant Leaks
Engine Cylinder Compression Test
Engine Oil Leaks
Engine Oil in Coolant or Radiator GM 3.0 Liter V6
Excessive Smoke From Exhaust Pipe
Exhaust System Keeps Breaking
First Service Procedures with Oil Change
Getting Your Car Ready for the Summer Heat
High or Low Engine Oil Pressure
One Year or 15,000 Mile Service
Performing Safety Inspection
Plugged Catalytic Converter Test
Replace EGR Valve
Replace Engine Air Filter and Clean Housing
Replace Intake Manifold Gasket
Replace Motor Mounts
Replace Serpentine Belt
Replace Serpentine Belt Video
Replace Spark Plugs
Replace Timing Chain
Replace Valve Cover Gasket
Vacuum Leak Test
Water Pump Failure and Overheating
Engine Performance
Black Smoke Engine Exhaust System
Blue Smoke from Engine Exhaust Pipe
Engine Backfires
Engine Cranks But Wont Start
Engine Cranks Excessively Before Starting
Engine Hesitation
Engine Idling High to Fast
Engine Idling Low to Slow
Engine Loss Performance Power
Engine Overheating or Runs Hot
Engine Runs Rough or Misfires
Engine Stalls
Engine Surges
Engine Tune-up
Engine Vibration at Idle
Replace an Air Intake Boot
Stalls or Idles High or Low After Dead or New Battery
Fuel System
Check Fuel Pump and Regulator Test
Fuel Injector Test
Replace Fuel Filter
Replace Fuel Injector
Replace Fuel Pump
Suspension
Check Shocks and Struts
How to Use a Tire Pressure Gauge
Low Tire Indicator Warning Light On
Replace Ball Joint
Replace Power Steering Pump
Replace Rack and Pinion
Replace Shock Absorber
Replace Struts
Replace Suspension Bushings

Vehicle Common Problem

Vehicle Common Problem
These are terrific cars and will last a long time if properly maintained. Mostly, that means regular oil changes and inspections, so the first thing I would look for is service records. If you can't find them or they appear to be incomplete, take the VIN number of the car to your local BMW dealer and ask them to look up the service history. Unless they performed the work, they won't be able to give you much detail, but they can tell you which BMW dealer did it and you can contact them directly.

Also, while you're at the BMW dealer, ask them to check if the car is a CPO (certified pre-owned) vehicle. If so, it will be warranted to 100,000 miles and six years (from the original in-service date). If that's the case, you can get anything that might need attention fixed for free.

I'd recommend checking to see if the radiator has been recently replaced. They have a tendancy to fail after 50k-60k miles. Fortunately, BMW recently lowered the price on the radiators so you can get one for around $120, plus labor.

Listen for any kind of weird noises from the transmission. If its making a whining or whirring sound, particularly in the low gears during acceleration, check the transmission fluid filter to see if it was replaced with an aftermarket filter. The OEM filter is labeled "FILTRAN" on it. Anyting else can cause problems. I know because I had this problem recently on my own vehicle.

If the catalytic converters haven't been replaced, they'll probably need replacing soon, so brace for that. Aftermarket cats can be had for around $300 but their quality/endurance is an open question. The OEM cats can be had for around $660 (plus labor). Don't let a dealer sell you a $2,000 catalytic converter deal.

The front cupholder is poorly designed and subject to breaking easily. It costs $100 for the part and around 1.7 hours of labor to replace it. Be sure to keep your wood trim because the new part won't include it. I saw a lady get royally hacked off at a local dealer one day because she threw her broken cupholder away, then had to spend even more money for a new wood trim piece because it's not included.

The power steering hoses can leak, particularly on the older models. If you get the service records, check to see if they've been replaced. If so, you're in good shape.

The next time you get your oil changed, have the mechanic drop the oil pan and check for loose bolts on the oil pump. The BMW dealer may tell you its not necessary, but it is. Spending the extra $100 or so will be a cheap insurance policy against having a loose bolt get kicked up into your engine and destroying it.

With the miles you mentioned, several front-end components may be due for replacement, including thrust arms and bushings and the center tie rod. Fortunately, these parts aren't terribly expensive. If the seller isn't including them, buy your own parts (ALWAYS get OEM BMW parts) and use a qualified BMW repair shop to do the work and save some money. If the car has mostly highway miles, your shocks will probably be fine.

Other less critical but potentially expensive items to watch for include the commom "missing pixels" issue in the electronic displays (the instrument cluster and radio) and excessive wind noise from the sunroof (make sure all four "lift pads" are present under the car).

Welcome to the family!

2012 Honda Civic EX

2012 Honda Civic EX
Honda has never paid too much attention to how other car makers do things. In the past this led to many highly successful innovations. Today…well today we have the ninth-generation Civic, recently launched as an early 2012 model.

The eight-generation Civic was the most stylish to date. While not everyone was a fan, I personally liked the car’s tight proportions and smooth flowing curves. Still do. At the time I thought the 2006 Civic signaled a new emphasis on innovative yet tasteful design by Honda. The years since have proved me wrong. For the 2012 Civic, Honda has retained similar dimensions (though, reversing a decades-long trend, its wheelbase is 1.2 inches shorter). Some creases and angles have been added to the sedan to make it, in the words of the press release, “the most aerodynamically and aggressively styled models in the model’s history.” The side windows have been scrunched vertically and lengthened horizontally to outwardly express the increased roominess of the interior. The windowlette ahead of the door has shifted to the door itself, leaving a black plastic triangle where it used to be. At the rear edge of the side windows a crudely executed Hofmeister kink has been added. Overall, the new design is busier, less graceful, and simply much less attractive.

Honda claims that the revised interior “delivers more style and convenience than any other vehicle in [the] segment.” Yes, style is highly subjective. The instrument panel remains a bi-level affair, with the tach visible within the small steering wheel rim and the other instruments, including a new five-inch information display (you can upload your own background!), visible above it. This layout was my least favorite aspect of the 2006, and I have yet to warm to it (though some owners have told me they like it). Other car manufacturers used to copy Honda’s innovations. None of them have copied this layout. This might serve as a clue.

One thing I do like: the center stack is now aggressively canted towards the driver, classic BMW style, so you can easily see and reach the audio and HVAC controls. With the odd exception of the audio power switch, the buttons are fairly large. So while I can’t see the touted style, I can see the claimed convenience. But this does not justify the interior’s clunky styling, poor panel fits, and materials that vie with those in the 2011 VW Jetta for worst-in-class honors. The door panels include four different hard plastics. I couldn’t decide which of them is the worst. Probably the pebbly stuff above the armrest. Said armrest is pleasantly cushy, but it elicited a “crunch” when pressed. Even in the uplevel Civic EX the fabric appears chintzy. Honda needs to pay much closer attention to what GM, Ford, and Hyundai have been doing—the interiors of the Cruze, Focus, and (to a lesser but still large extent) Elantra are all far ahead. They might also consider following Chrysler’s lead and banishing light gray from the interior color palette.

Once upon a time the instrument panels in Hondas were compact and shockingly low. The rest of the industry studied its cars to figure out how they’d done it. Well, the bi-level monstrosity in the 2012 Civic is so tall that I had to crank the seat up a few clicks to comfortably see over it. The front seats are better than those in smaller Hondas because the headrests don’t jut quite as far forward. They also provide more lateral support than you’ll ever need given the nature of the car. In back, the cushion is comfortably high off the floor, but (in the sunroof-equipped EX) there’s only enough headroom for those up to 5-10. Both the cushion and floorboard are both nearly flat, to enhance comfort for a center passenger. There’s a little more rear legroom than before, but the seat’s width remains that of a compact sedan.

Even in EX trim the Civic tips the scales at 2,765 pounds, light for a compact sedan these days. The powertrain remains a 1.8-liter four good for 140 horsepower hitched to five-speed automatic (a manual is no longer offered in the EX, a six-speed automatic has yet to arrive). Even if you don’t engage “Eco” mode the powertrain’s responds in a leisurely fashion and performs adequately at best. The transmission upshifts quickly and sometimes seems indecisive. Like that in the Elantra and some other competitors, a “smart” alternator tries to do most of its charging during braking, and de-clutches much of the rest of the time. Partly because of this attempt to boost fuel economy, the brakes feel more than a little like those in a hybrid.

In fact, the entire driving experience is oddly similar to that in a Prius. In another fuel economy-oriented tweak, the steering is now electric assist on all Civics rather than just the Si and Hybrid. The new system feels artificial to the extent it feels like anything at all. Stability control, previously reserved for the EX-L and Si, is now standard across the line. But it should rarely come into play. The new Civic’s handling is predictable, stable, and safe. What it isn’t: fun. There’s quite a bit of lean when the wheel is turned. Even a Prius has a more direct, connected feel. Perhaps this shouldn’t come as a surprise, but even the weakest, most spartan Civics used to be fun cars.

The new Civic usually rides smoothly, but feels a little unsettled over some surfaces and never feels precisely damped the way a Ford Focus or Mazda3 does. At times the rear suspension sounds and feels like it’s bottoming out under minimal duress—even with no one in the back seat. Noise levels are lower than in the past. But even with its enhanced smoothness and quietness, the Civic lacks the premium sound and feel of the Cruze and Focus.

The major payoff of all the thrill-killing tweaks: the EPA ratings are up from 25/36 to 28/39—edging out the Ford Focus’s 28/38 and nearly matching the Hyundai Elantra’s 29/40. (To out-eco the Elantra, a Civic HF with 29/41 ratings is also offered.) To help you achieve these numbers, a pair of thick bars flanking the digital speedometer change color from blue to green when you’re behaving. There’s also a prominently placed instantaneous mpg display. The average fuel economy readout within the new information display is a bit of a bother, though. You must reset the trip odometer to reset it, and to do this you must dig through three menu levels using buttons on the steering wheel, and then dig your way back out. “Keep it simple” this isn’t.

The 2012 Honda Civic EX lists for $21,255, up $100 from the 2011 despite the addition of a few features, including stability control. But even though the 2012 is a better value than the 2011, you can get a superior, better-equipped car for the same or less from a number of other manufacturers. The most aggressively priced: a Hyundai Elantra Limited, with heated leather seats (in both rows!), lists for $20,700. A 2012 Ford Focus SE lists for about the same as the Honda when equipped with sunroof and alloy wheels, but is more fun to drive and feels like a much more expensive car.

Back in the 1970s and 1980s, the Honda Civic was so far ahead of its key competitors in responsiveness, handling, fuel economy, features, and reliability that owners became evangelists for the brand. The 1984 car was a design landmark whose influence continues 28 years later. Through the 1990s and into the 2000s the Civic was so fun to drive that an entire tuning industry sprung up around it.

It’s hard to see how the 2012 car could have inspired any of this passion. It’s a little roomier, and its fuel economy is the best yet for a run-of-the-mill Civic (if not quite best-in-class). But the design is clunky, the materials are cut-rate, and the driving experience is so dreadfully dull that even a Toyota Prius is a blast in comparison. Over the past few years Honda has repeatedly claimed to have remembered what made it great, and to be returning to those roots. While they’re at it, they might want to pay closer attention to what GM, Ford, and Hyundai have been up to. Perhaps this has happened, just not quite soon enough to help the new Civic. If so, we’ll be able to look back on the 2012 model year as a low point, after which the cars got better.

Mike Ulrey at Honda Bloomfield (MI) provided the car. An exceptionally helpful sales consultant, h

Automotive Term Abbreviation Directory Table

Automotive Term Abbreviation Directory Table

Below is a directory that includes abbreviation terms that are related to the automotive field. Abbreviation terms are common in the car repair field to help facilitate system, parts, service and repair. These abbreviation are also used for various sensors and tools used for feedback data to the PCM and repair procedures accepted throughout the vehicles repair industry. The beginning letter should match the first letter used in the term you are inquiring about. Understanding car related abbreviations, trouble codes, and diagrams is an important part in understanding the definition or description of a particular word, diagnostic trouble code or illustration.

This information can be useful and is sometimes mandatory in the process of finding the source of the car problem. Once the abbreviation has a definition connected to it the meaning becomes clear and the repair or diagnosis can continue. For example: if a technician has informed you that you have had a malfunction in the ABS system of your car there is no way to tell what he or she is talking about. After looking up the "ABS" abbreviation you will find that the technician is referring to the anti-lock brake system of your car.

The abbreviations for the automotive terms that start with the letters "A through Z". These terms are used to provide the most popular term associated with the letter beginning with these letters. Most manufacturers have adopted a "common usage" style of identification that is used to avoid confusion. Definitions below are the most recognized terms available for the abbreviation used in the car repair field to date. Over time abbreviations can change and when they do we update this page to industry standards. As the car manufacturing process evolves new terms can be added or existing ones can be updated to reflect the new meaning of the abbreviation. Abbreviations have become a standard throughout many industries such as medical, construction, architecture and more.

Each of these industries might have the same abbreviations but they could have different meanings. Never assume the definition of any car term because every industry is different. The difference between abbreviation can be extreme for example: KS in the auto repair field means "kilovolt", whereas KS means "K member support" in the construction field. If these terms below obviously do not pertain to your car problem some car manufacturers have unique meanings and specific inquires are required to the manufacturer. When an abbreviation is presented it can be confusing unless the one, two, three or four letter code is identified. In some instances there are multiple entries for a particular abbreviation. In this case we have listed them from most popular to least popular. Please follow the tables below:

"A" Car Term Abbreviations

A - Amperes

ABS - Anti-Lock Brakes

ABRS - Air Bag Restraint System

AC - Alternating Current

A/C - Air Conditioning

ACCS - A/C Cycling Switch

ACCUM - Accumulator

ACCY - Accessory

ACT - Air Charge Temperature Sensor

ADJ - Adjust or Adjustable

ADV - Advance

AFS - Airflow Sensor

A/F - Air/Fuel Ratio

AI - Air Injection

AIR or A.I.R. - Air Injection Reactor

AIS - Air Injection System

Alt. - Alternator or Altitude

ALDL - Assembly Line Data Link

Amp - /amp/amps: Ampere

APS - Absolute Pressure Sensor

ASCS - Air Suction Control Solenoid

ASD - Auto Shutdown

ASDM - Air Bag System Diagnostic Module

ASV - Air Suction Valve

A/T - Automatic Transmission/Transaxle

ATC - Automatic Temperature Control

ATDC - After Top Dead Center

ATF - Automatic Transmission Fluid

ATS - Air Temperature Sensor

AWD - All Wheel Drive

Aux. - Auxiliary

Avg. - Average

AXOD - Automatic Transaxle Overdrive (Ford Models Only)



"B" Term Abbreviations for Cars

B+ - Battery Positive Voltage

BAC - By-Pass Air Control

BAP - Barometric Absolute Pressure Sensor

BARO - Barometric

Batt. - Battery

Bbl. - Barrel (Example: 4-Bbl.)

BCM - Body Control Module

BHP - Brake Horsepower

BMAP - Barometric and Manifold Absolute Pressure Sensor

BOO - Brake On-Off Switch

B/P - Backpressure

BPS - Barometric Pressure Sensor

BPT - Backpressure Transducer

BTDC - Before Top Dead Center

BTU - British Thermal Unit

BVSV - Bimetallic Vacuum Switching Valve



Auto Terms that Start with the letter "C"

C - Celsius (Degrees)

Calif. - California

CAN - Controller Area Network

CANP - Canister Purge

CAS - Crank Angle Sensor

CARB - California Air Resources Board

CAT - Catalytic Converter

CB - Circuit Breaker

CBD - Closed Bowl Distributor

CC - cubic centimeter

CCC - Computer Command Control

CCD - Computer Controlled Dwell

CCOT - Cycling Clutch Orifice Tube

CCW - Counterclockwise

CDI - Capacitor Discharge Ignition

CEC - Computerized Engine Control

CID - Cubic Inch Displacement

CM - Centimeter

CMP - Camshaft Position Sensor

CO - Carbon Monoxide

CO2 - Carbon Dioxide

Cont. - Continued

CONV - Convertible

CP - Canister Purge

CKP - Crankshaft Position Sensor

COP - Coil On Plug Ignition

CPI - Central Port Injection

CPU - Central Processing Unit

CSSA - Cold Start Spark Advance

CSSH - Cold Start Spark Hold

CTS - Coolant Temperature Sensor

CTVS - Choke Thermal Vacuum Switch

Cu. In. - Cubic Inch

CVC - Constant Vacuum Control

CVR - Control Vacuum Regulator

CV - Check Valve or Constant Velocity

CW - Clockwise

CYL or Cyl. - Cylinder

C3I - Computer Controlled Coil Ignition

C4 - Computer Controlled Catalytic Converter



Auto abbreviations starting with the letter "D"

D - Drive

dB - Decibels

DC - Direct Current Or Discharge

DDD - Dual Diaphragm Distributor

Def. - Defrost

Defog. - Defogger

DEFI - Digital Electronic Fuel Injection

DERM - Diagnostic Energy Reserve Module

DFI - Digital Fuel Injection

DFS - Deceleration Fuel Shutoff

Diag. - Diagnostic

DIC - Driver Information Center

DIS - Distributorless Ignition System

DIST - Distribution

DLC - Data Link Connector

DMM - Digital Multi Meter

DOHC - Double Overhead Cam

DTC - Diagnostic Trouble Code

DOT - Department of Transportation

DRB-II - Diagnostic Readout Box

DVOM - Digital Volt-Ohmmeter



Vehicle Abbreviation Terms beginning with the letter "E"

E2PROM - Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory

EACV - Electronic Air Control Valve

EBCM - Electronic Brake Control Module

EBL - Electronic Back Light

EBM - Electronic Body Module

ECA - Electronic Control Assembly

ECM - Engine Control Module (sometimes referred to as PCM powertrain control module)

ECT - Engine Coolant Temperature

ECU - Electronic Control Unit

EDIS - Electronic Distributorless Ignition System

EEC - Electronic Engine Control

EECS - Evaporative Emission Control System

EEPROM - Electronically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory

E2PROM - Electronically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory

EFC - Electronic Fuel Control

EFCA - Electronic Fuel Control Assembly

EFE - Early Fuel Evaporation

EFI - Electronic Fuel Injection

EGO - Exhaust Gas Oxygen Sensor

EGR - Exhaust Gas Recirculation

EGRPS - EGR Valve Position Sensor

EGRT - EGR Temperature

EI - Electronic Ignition

EMI - Electromagnetic Interference

EMR - Electronic Module Retard

EOS - Exhaust Oxygen Sensor

EOBD - European Onboard Diagnostics

EPOS - EGR Valve Position Sensor

EPROM - Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (chip)

ESA - Electronic Spark Advance

ESC - Electronic Spark Control

EST - Electronic Spark Timing

ETC - Electronic Throttle Control

EVAP - Evaporative Emission System

EVIC - Electronic Vehicle Information Center

EVP - EGR Valve Position

Exc. - Except



Automobile Terms for the Abbreviation Starting with the Letter "F"

F - Fahrenheit

F/B - Fuse Block

FBC - Feedback Carburetor System

FBCA - Feedback Carburetor Actuator

FCS - Fuel Control Solenoid

Fed - Federal

FDC - Fuel Deceleration Valve

FI - Fuel Injection

FIPL - Fuel Injector Pump Lever

FPR-VSV - Fuel Pressure Regulator Vacuum Switching Valve

FLS - Fluid Level Sensor

ft.lb. - Foot Pound

FWD - Front-Wheel Drive



Car Abbreviation Starting with the Letter "G"

G - Grams

GALS - Gallon

GDI - Gasoline Direct Injection

GEN - Generator

GND or GRND - Ground

GPEC - Global Powertrain Engine Controller

GPM - Grams Per Mile

GPS - Global Positioning System

GVW - Gross Vehicle Weight



Vehicle Abbreviation Term Definitions starting with the letter "H"

H20 - Water

HAC - High Altitude Compensation

HC - Hydrocarbons

H/D - Heavy Duty

HEGO - Heated Exhaust Gas Oxygen Sensor

HEI - High Energy Ignition

Hg - Mercury

HGT - Height

HLDT - Headlight

HO - High Output

HO2S - Heated Oxygen Sensor

HP - High Performance or Horsepower

HSC - High Swirl Combustion

HSO - High Specific Output

HT - High Tension

HTR - Heater

Hz - Hertz(Cycles Per Second)



Vehicle Term Abbreviations starting with "I"

IACV - Idle Air Control Valve

IAT - Intake Air Temperature

IATS - Intake Air Temperature Sensor

IC - Integrated Circuit

ICM - Ignition Control Module

ICS - Idle Control Solenoid

I.D. - Inside Diameter

ID - Identification

IFI - Indirect Fuel Injection

IGN - Ignition

In. - Inches

Inch Lbs. - Inch Pounds

in. Hg - Inches of Mercury

Inj. - Injector

IMRC - Intake Manifold Runner Control

IP - Instrument Panel

ISC - Idle Speed Control

ISO - International Standards Organization

ITCS - Ignition Timing Control System

ITS - Idle Tracking Switch

IVSV - Idle Vacuum Switching Valve



Car Repair Terms Starting with the letter "J"

JAS - Jet Air System

J/B - Junction Block

JTEC - Jeep Truck Engine Controller



Automobile Abbreviation Terms Starting with "K"

KAPWR - Keep Alive Power

k/ohms - kilo-ohms (1000 ohms)

kg - kilograms (weight)

kg/cm - Kilograms Per Square Centimeter

kHz - Kilohertz

Km - Kilometers

KM/H - Kilometers Per Hour

KOEC - Key On, Engine Cranking

KOEO - Key On, Engine Off

KOER - Key On, Engine Running

kPa - Kilopascals

KS - Knock Sensor

kV - Kilovolt

kW - Kilowatt



Automobile Repair Abbreviation Terms Starting with the Letter "L"

L - Liter

lbs. - Pounds

lb./ft. - Pound Feet

LCD - Liquid Crystal Display

L/D - Light Duty

LED - Light Emitting Diode

LHD - Left-Hand Drive

LTFT - Long Term Fuel Trim

LWB - Long Wheel-Base



Vehicle Abbreviation Starting with "M"

mA - Milliamps

MA/MAF - Mass Air Flow

MAFS - Mass Air Flow Sensor

MAP - Manifold Absolute Pressure

MAT - Manifold Air Temperature

MCS - Mixture Control Solenoid

MCT - Manifold Charge Temperature

Mem. - Memory

MEM/CAL - Memory Calibration Chip

mfd. - Microfarads

MFI - Multiport Fuel Injection

MIL - Malfunction Indicator Light

mm - Millimeters

MPG - Miles Per Gallon

MPH - Miles Per Hour

MPI - Multi-Point (Fuel) Injection

MPV - Multi-Purpose Vehicle

ms - Millisecond

mV - Millivolts



Auto Abbreviation Beginning with "N"

NA - Not Available

NGC - New Generation Controller

NGS - New Generation Star

N.m - Newton Meter

No. - Number

Nos. - Numbers

NOx - Oxides of Nitrogen

NVRAM - Nonvolatile Random Access Memory



Car Abbreviation Beginning with the Letter "O"

O2 - Oxygen

O2S - Oxygen Sensor

OBD - On-board Diagnostics

OBD I - On-board Diagnostics One

OBD II - On-board Diagnostics Two

OBD III - On-board Diagnostics Three

OC - Oxidation Catalyst

OD - Overdrive

O.D. - Outside Diameter

OE - Original Equipment

OEM - Original Equipment Manufacturer

OHC - Over Head Camshaft

OHV - Over Head Valve

O/S - Oversize

OS - Oxygen Sensor

oz. - Ounce

ozs. - Ounces



Automobile Repair Abbreviation Terms Starting with the Letter "P"

P - Park

P/B - Power Bakes

P/C - Printed Circuit

P/N - Part Number

PA - Pressure Air

PAIR - Pulsed Secondary Air Injection

PAS - Power-Assisted Steering

PCM - Powertrain Control Module (sometimes referred to as ECM engine control module)

PCS/PC/SOL - Purge Control Solenoid

PCV - Positive Crankcase Ventilation

PECV - Power Enrichment Control Valve

PFI - Port Fuel Injection

PGM-FI - Programmed Fuel Injection

PID - Parameter Identification

PIP - Profile ignition pick-up

PNP - Park Neutral Position Switch

P/N - Park/Neutral

PPM - Parts Per Million

PRNDL - Park Reverse Neutral Drive Low

PROM - Program Read Only Memory (chip)

P/S - Power Steering

PSI - Pounds Per Square Inch

PSP - Power Steering Pressure

PSPS - Power Steering Pressure Switch

pts. - Pints

PTC - Pending Trouble Code

PTC - Positive temperature coefficient Additional : This is applied to the way the resistance of a thermistor varies with temperature. In this case, the resistance will increase as the temperature raises

PTO - Power Take-Off

Pwr. - Power

PWR - Power to Weight Ratio



Vehicle Abbreviation Terms beginning with the letter "Q"

Qts. - Quarts



Auto Term Abbreviations Starting with the letter "R"

R/A - Resume or Accelerate

RABS - Rear Anti-lock Brake System

RAC - Remote Accessory Controller

RAM - Random Access Memory

RAM - Ride Air Module

RAM - Remote Anti-theft Module

RAP - Retained Access Power

RAV - Remote Activation Verification

RBC - Rotary Blade Coupling

RCC - Rear Climate Control

RCC - Remote Climate Control

RCM - Restraint Control Module

RCDLR - Remote Control Door Lock Receiver

RDCM - Right Door Control Module

RDM - Rear Door Module

RDS - Radio (broadcast) Data System

RDS - Radio Display System

REC - Receive

RECAL - Recalibrate, Recalibration

RECIRC - Recirculation

RECIS - Remote Entry Control and Immobilizer System

REDOX - Reduction Oxidation Catalytic Converter

REEGR - Rotary Electric EGR

REF - Reference

RESC - Remote Emergency Satellite Unit

REX - Rear Exchanger

RF - Radio Frequency

RF - Right Front

RFA - Remote Function Actuator

RFF - Roller Finger Followers

RFI - Radio Frequency Interference

RFID - Radio Frequency Identification

RFWS - Right Front Wheel Speed

RH - Right Hand

RIM - Radio Interface Module

RIM - Rear Integration Module

RKE - Remote Keyless Entry

Rly - Relay

RM - Relay Module

RMD - Right Mid Door

ROM - Read Only Memory

RPA - Rear Parking Assist

RPM - Revolutions Per Minute

RPM - Remote Power Module

RPO - Regular Production Option

R&R - Remove and Replace

RR - Right Rear

RRD - Right Rear Door

RSA - Rear Seat Audio

RSC - Roll Stability Control

RSS - Reverse Sensing System

RSS - Road Sensing Suspension

R/T - Road/Track

RT - Right

RTC - Real?Time Clock

RTD - Real Time Dampening

RTN - Return

RTT - Reconfigurable Telltale

RTTP - Rotunda Technician Tool Program

RTV - Room Temperature Vulcanizing

RV - Recreational Vehicle

RVAC - Rear Video/Audi/HVAC Module

RVP - Reid Vapor Pressure

RWAL - Rear Wheel Anti-lock

RWD - Rear Wheel Drive

RWS - Rear Wheel Steer



Abbreviations Starting with the letter "S" for Automobiles

SBC - Single Bed Converter

SBD - Strategy Base Diagnostics

SBEC - Single Board Engine Controller

SC - Supercharged

SEFI - Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection

SES - Service Engine Soon (light)

SFI - Sequential (Port) Fuel Injection

SIL - Shift Indicator Light

SIR - Supplemental Inflatable Restraint

SIPS - Side Impact Protection System

SOHC - Single Overhead Cam

SPFI - Sequential Port Fuel Injection

SPOUT - Spark Output

SPK - Spark Control

SOL/Sol. - Solenoid

SRI - Service Reminder Indicator

SRS - Secondary Restraint System

SRS - Supplemental Restraint System (air bag)

SRT - System Readiness Test

SS - Speed Sensor

SSI - Solid State Ignition

STAR - Self-Test Automatic Readout

STFT - Short Term Fuel Trim

STO - Self-Test Output

SUB-O2 - Sub Oxygen Sensor

Sw. - Switch

SWB - Short Wheel-Base

Sys. - System



Abbreviations Beginning with the Letter "T" for Autos

TAB - Thermactor Air By-Pass

TAD - Thermactor Air Diverter

TACH - Tachometer

TB - Throttle Body

TBI - Throttle Body Injection

TC - Turbocharged

TCC - Torque Converter Clutch

TCM - Transmission or Transaxle Control Module

TCS - Traction control solenoid (SAAB 9000)

TD - Turbo Diesel

TDC - Top Dead Center

TDI - Turbo Direct Injection (A turbo charged direct injected diesel engine)

Temp. - Temperature

TFI - Thick Film Ignition

THERMAC - Thermostatic Air Cleaner

TIV - Thermactor Idle Vacuum Valve

TKS - Throttle Kicker Solenoid

TPI - Tuned Port Injection

TPP - Throttle Position Potentiometer

TPS - Throttle Position Sensor/Switch

TPT - Throttle Position Transducer

TS - Temperature Sensor

TSP - Throttle Solenoid Positioner

TV - Throttle Valve

TV - Thermovalve

TVS - Thermal Vacuum Switch

TWC - Three Way Catalyst

TWC+OC - Three Way + Oxidation Catalytic Converter



Abbreviations Starting with the letter "V" for Vehicles

V - Valve

Vac. - Vacuum

VAF - Vane Airflow

VAPS - Variable Assist Power Steering

VCC - Viscous Converter Clutch

VCRM - Variable Control Relay Module

VIN - Vehicle Identification Number

VM - Vacuum Modulator

VOLT. - Voltage

VOM - Volt-Ohmmeter (Analog)

VRV - Vacuum Regulator Valve

VSS - Vehicle Speed Sensor

VSV - Vacuum Switching Valve

VVC - Variable Valve Control

Mazda6 Maintenance and Repair

All Mazda MAZDA6 Models


"help people understand the issues all of us are having with the Mazda 6?" I am not haveing any of these issues on my Mazda6 2006 V6 Sport 5 speed. 72400 miles and still running great. It has been a very long time since you started this thread. Seems there would be a resolution by now.

Mazda6 Prices Paid and Buying Experience

Re: 2010 i GT auto with Tech Pkg. [jeffyscott]
Written by: igozoomzoom on Jan 9, 2011 1:00:08 AM

Well, you do get a 5/10 year warranty with Kia. I think/hope they have come a long way since the days of the Sephia, etc. I drove an Optima from 2 generations back, as a rental car for a week once and it was terrible. Agree with you on the looks. Kia is making some nice looking (to me) cars. Both the Optima and Forte look good and better to me ... Read More

Midsize Sedans 2.0

Re: size standards [brainfertilize]
Written by: backy on Oct 26, 2010 5:39:16 PM

I really wish I knew why the Mazda6 doesn't sell better. About the only thing it's not at or near the top on is fuel economy, but it's not like the FE is terrible. It's possible that some mid-sized family sedan buyers find the styling too much, but then look how well the Sonata is selling, and that car's styling is even more extreme to my eyes than the Mazda6's. If ... Read More

Mazda6 Sedan

Re: mazda6 touring handling question [michaelscai]
Written by: jeffyscott on Oct 14, 2010 6:55:24 AM

I felt my 2007 Mazda6 had steering that was a bit light, Accord I test drove back in 2006 seemed even lighter and was too light for me while the Mazda was light but acceptable. I think the new version of Mazda6 is lighter than mine. After a while, I got used to the lighter feel and it did not bother me. I was coming from a Contour, which had a ... Read More

Mazda6 Maintenance and Repair

Re: 2006 mazda 6 3.0 V6 Car sputter at 1/8 tank [aaron1218]
Written by: 1cartrouble2 on Oct 13, 2010 12:10:44 PM

I posted something similar last night on my daughter's Mazda6. It sputters/skips bad and now she has bad exhaust spell inside the car! When it first started skipping, the mechanic (not Mazda dealership) said it was the coils. He changed out; did fine for a while, but weeks later started doing it again. Found out then, they changed the wrong coils! Changed the right ones, but later doing it again. I ... Read More

Mazda6 Engine Problems

Re: what is it? [ada7240]
Written by: xwrdpuzlr on Sep 2, 2010 3:30:22 PM

Mine's a 2006 Mazda6, purchased new. 2.3L DOHC 16-valve VVT 14 engine, 5-speed manual transmission. At 42200 miles, it made a rattling noise on acceleration; the engine light came on. When I took it in to Mazda, they claimed it had no oil in it, causing the cam shaft to come out of position. I had checked and changed oil assiduously. It had had previous problems, with "oil sludge" according to ... Read More
Mazda6 major problems
Written by: xwrdpuzlr on Jul 29, 2010 7:20:44 PM

I just got the bill from my mechanic (independent, not Mazda) for almost $3000 for a blown transmission. According to him, something inside the transmission came apart and blew through the case. All the fluid drained out, of course, and soaked the clutch en route. The car is a 2006, with about 67000 miles on it -- out of warranty, of course. There is no way a transmission should blow in ... Read More

Midsize Sedans 2.0

Re: Suzuki Kizashi [backy]
Written by: 8babies1dog on Oct 18, 2009 10:19:27 AM

Just to add a little about the "porky" Sonata it was a 2006 model and a rental car according to article on MSN news. Have 2009 SE V6 since July 2009 now have 10,000k+ miles (travel a lot) 2000k mile trip ave over 31MPG did see 36.1 on trip computer, under controlled driving 47MPH @ 1300RPM f/ 30+ miles. I also have a Mazda 2.5Lv6-166HP no trip com. best ever calculated ... Read More

Mazda6 Maintenance and Repair

2006 Mazda6 Not Starting
Written by: artemis88 on Aug 17, 2009 3:05:56 PM

I've noticed a few posting about their car not starting but i couldn't see if people had a fix for it yet. Here is my problem. I have a 2006 Mazda6 and for the past 3 years i've had it not start quite a few times. Of course i've taken it to a dealership and they can't replicate the issue nor can they resolve it. I've listed below some information regarding ... Read More

Mazda6 Engine Problems

Re: 2006 mazda6s 3 litre v6 blown motor 59 000 miles [pjw_mc72]
Written by: racefanf1 on May 13, 2009 2:52:14 PM

I drive past Dworkin Mazda all the time and the buildings are empty. Too bad to a business that screwed me. And Mazda USA.... let them die as well. I've had 56 cars of which 7 were Mazdas. Great cars........Crappy company. Bye Bye Mazda.
2006 mazda6s 3 litre v6 blown motor 59 000 miles
Written by: pjw_mc72 on May 13, 2009 2:18:55 PM

i have a 2006 mazda 6s 3 litre v6 that blew a rod at 59 000 miles this is totally ridiculous and of course my warranties up and ofcourse they cant do anything for me at all. now they want these services reciepts for the car and i bought it used in 2008 so anything from 06 till feb 08 i dont have and ofcourse since i like to take care ... Read More

Midsize Sedans 2.0

Re: KBB Rates Malibu as Best in Class [kdshapiro]
Written by: aviboy97 on Sep 29, 2008 10:46:26 AM

The Legacy GT with a mtx is the quickest, and smallest of the bunch. I have spent a lot of time in all Legacy's, since we have a Subaru store in addition to our Mazda store. The atx Legacy GT has an excess of turbo lag that is just too much to over look. The handling of the Legacy GT is also undesirable. It has a very soft suspension, and the ... Read More
Re: Some compliments to the KIA Optima [mickeyrom]
Written by: moveover on Aug 28, 2008 12:01:43 PM

In 2006 MAZDA had the 50/4 yr bumper to bumper and reduced that in 2007 to 36/3 yr with a 60/5yr drive train According to a leading German publication the Mazda6 is the most reliable car for the first 100,000 km Btw. 2007 Mazda6 ex-rentals (Hertz) are selling for $15-16k with 30K

2009 Mazda6

Re: Altima uses premium [captain2]
Written by: aviboy97 on Aug 25, 2008 8:35:10 AM

Let's see how late the 3.7L really is.... Toyota Camry 3.5L --------debuted 2006 (269hp) Hyundai Sonata 3.3L------debuted 2006 upgraded 2009 (237hp-249hp) Honda Accord 3.5L--------debuted 2008 upgrades 2009 (268hp-271hp) Nissan Altima3.5L---------debuted 2003 upgraded 2005-2007 (245hp-250hp-270hp) Ford Fusion 3.0L-----------debuted 2005 (221hp) Chevy Malibu 3.6L----------debuted 2008 (252hp) Mazda6 3.7L-----------------debuted 2009 (272hp) As far as I can see, looks like everyone was behind Nissan in this department. Once exception is that in 03-05 Honda had ... Read More
Re: [trobson]
Written by: blueguydotcom on Aug 19, 2008 9:56:58 PM

Used up-market, less warranty, higher repair costs, higher insurance, higher TCO. Significant issues, ones that 'define' class as much as anything. A 2007 Certified Infiniti G35 with 25k miles comes with a better warranty than a new Mazda6. :) Mazda warranty: Mazda warrants that new 2007 and 2008 Mazda cars and trucks will be free of defects with normal use and prescribed maintenance for 36 months or 36,000 miles, whichever comes ... Read More
Re: Wow, I was more right than I thought I was (deja vu) [m6user]
Written by: blueguydotcom on Aug 19, 2008 7:26:36 PM

Depends on how you shop. If you're a segment-only, new only shopper, then no, the options outside of the Mazda6, Camry, Altima and Accord rarely come up. I tend to shop based on size, performance, usability and price. Segment is meaningless to me; as is new or used. For 20-30k I see a variety that many 6 buyers will never entertain. If one is willing to blow 28k on a Mazda6, ... Read More
Drove the 2009 Mazda6 V6 Grand Touring
Written by: blueguydotcom on Aug 16, 2008 3:34:15 PM

So we took out a Mazda6 V6 Grand Touring. MSRP: 30k+ Options: Bose/Moonroof Well approaching the car it looks far better than pictures would indicate. There's a strong family resemblance to the RX8 and Mazda3. The front and sides seem nicely sculpted. The raked windshield and high beltline with tall trunk creates a nice illusion of forward motion. The trunk is probably the 6's best angle as there's a nice combination ... Read More

Mazda6 Maintenance and Repair

2006 V6 6-Speed ATX Shifting Issues
Written by: kaiserhead6 on Jul 12, 2008 9:58:45 AM

I have a 2006 Mazda6 3.0 V6 with the 6-speed Aisin automatic transmission that is having major shifting issues at high speeds. When the car is traveling at more than 45 miles an hour in 4th to 6th gear and I want to accelerate, the transmission violently downshifts to 2nd or 3rd and bucks the car around until the transmission shifts into neutral (safe mode.) The dealer has called Mazda HQ ... Read More

Article Comments - 2009 Mazda 6 First Drive and Full Test

Some plus, some minus
Written by: lobe on May 24, 2008 6:56:34 PM

I don't know. I like the looks. Personally, I like the looks of my 2006 ok, too. I like it about the same as the Accord, and better than the Camry, Altima, and Fusion. I have never liked the Camry's styling (it doesn't have any style) and always have felt Nissan's styling-and the Altima in this case-is kind of odd. I guess the interior is a little nicer? Doesn't look much ... Read More

Midsize Sedans 2.0

Re: Mazda6 v Honda Accord [aviboy97]
Written by: thegraduate on May 20, 2008 8:17:27 AM

I would say that Mazda's 2.5L is on par with Honda's Accord LX. Obviously, the EX has more hp, but, less tq. That's i-VTEC for ya! As for the V6's, I would guess that the Mazda will be quicker, especially with the 21 lb-ft torque advantage, however, curb weight and gearing will come into play. Honda is known for great gearing. Interesting read, avi. One thing I noticed, that I hadn't ... Read More
Re: Malibu Vs Accord Vs Camry vs Sonata [lilengineerboy]
Written by: aviboy97 on Apr 29, 2008 3:54:35 PM

the rebadged Tribute got the 3L duratec that Captain so enjoys. The 2003-2006 Mazda6 s also had the Ford Duratec30(200hp), with the addition of Mazda's VV-T (220hp). capitan- The new Duratec35 and 37 are not just bored/stroked versions of the Duratec30. The 35 and 37 are adaptable to direct injection and are equipped with VV-T. Also, fuel economy has been drastically improved. Preliminary figures have Mazda's 3.7L version getting 27mpg's and ... Read More

2009 Mazda6

Re: Oh Dear! They Just Spoilt the Mazda 6! [aviboy97]
Written by: jeffyscott on Apr 28, 2008 6:35:29 AM

2004-2005 5-door sales were pretty good, still not as high as sedan sales. For 2006-2008 5-door sales have been pretty poor. From a sales stand point, the sedan is a clear winner. I cannot find the exact sales figures, however, I do know that there has been talk in my region about the lack of interest in the 5-door Mazda6. And this is despite the tough competition in the sedan category ... Read More
Re: Oh Dear! They Just Spoilt the Mazda 6! [jeffyscott]
Written by: aviboy97 on Apr 27, 2008 6:59:00 PM

What are the sales figures for the hatch vs. the sedan? 2004-2005 5-door sales were pretty good, still not as high as sedan sales. For 2006-2008 5-door sales have been pretty poor. From a sales stand point, the sedan is a clear winner. I cannot find the exact sales figures, however, I do know that there has been talk in my region about the lack of interest in the 5-door Mazda6. ... Read More

Midsize Sedans 2.0

Re: Malibu Vs Accord Vs Camry vs Sonata [jeffyscott]
Written by: lilengineerboy on Apr 26, 2008 6:15:52 AM

I like my Mazda6, but it is not really a "sports sedan" is it? (well, mine clearly is not...but even if it were a V6 manual, would it be?) I don't think there is anything particularly un-sporty about even the base Mazda6, and I think sportiness isn't always about power (the E36 3-series is considered sporty and power-wise it was about the same as my Contour). The problem with Mazda's 4 ... Read More
Re: Test drove a Milan w/ V-6 and Sync [zzzoom6]
Written by: urnews on Feb 10, 2008 12:14:52 PM

Thanks for a very enjoyable review, Zzzoom6. ... I was impressed at how a few changes in the interior and suspension bits could transform a Mazda6 to meet the needs of a more mature and refined buyer. Maybe my age, 64 at the time (a more mature and refined buyer) had something to do with our decision to go with a 2007 Ford Fusion SEL AWD in December 2006. My wife ... Read More

Mazda6 Maintenance and Repair

Re: 2006 Mazda6 check engine light, key fobs not working [tameegunn]
Written by: karlomario on Oct 31, 2007 11:30:23 AM

Hi , I came across your issue becauseI have had the same situation , and it started with my keyless not able to start // I have a mazda 6 with 50.000 miles 2003 , bought it from a dealer and Ive bee nexperiencing the same issue and now,im getting the check engine light on // I m wondering it it has to do something with the electrical system first time ... Read More
Re: 2006 Mazda Grand Touring 6 Vibration Issue [digitom]
Written by: chikoo on Oct 17, 2007 8:18:29 PM

Have you ever driven a tight suspension car with low profile tires? from the description of your problem, I will say NO. I have the 2003 Mazda6 with 18" wheels and 235/40/18 tires and the ride is amazing over 66000 miles. Feels as good as the day I bought it. I will say what you are feeling is road irregularities which will be easily transmitted to you (feedback) because of the ... Read More

Midsize Sedans 2.0

Re: Fleet sales [jeffyscott]
Written by: aviboy97 on Dec 4, 2007 1:00:36 PM

Not sure what you are looking at, but they had ~$2000 or higher rebates available since about Nov 2006. I am looking at my program sheets from the past 12 months. Mazda did not introduce a $2000 rebate until the July/August. Currently, there is now a $2,500 rebate on all 07's. There was a $1000 rebate for most of the year prior. I got about an additional $1500 below that in ... Read More
Re: Whatever happened to the "redesigned" Mazda6? [captain2]
Written by: aviboy97 on Nov 27, 2007 10:24:47 AM

see post #7561 - our resident FoMoCo expert - for some reason when we end up talking about rumors and changes that just don't happen (or happen late) , that would be Ford-itis I assume you are talking about me. I am not a FoMoCo expert. I have knowledge pertaining to Mazda. There has never been a launch date for the North American Mazda6. All we heard, this going back about ... Read More
Re: Most Wanted Re: the meaning of zoom-zoom [backy]
Written by: robertsmx on Oct 21, 2007 9:01:38 PM

Forget ME, if others cared, wouldn't a "most wanted" mainstream car actually sell better than Mazda6 does? Thru September 2006, Mazda had sold 52.5K units, and this year, the number is at 44K. What makes for a "most wanted" car? Is its "want" being limited by production? Or is it limited by demand? I would love for you to explain that, instead of trying to jump on my throat. Unless, most ... Read More
Re: Acura's leather seemed richer [andres3]
Written by: aviboy97 on Oct 15, 2007 3:45:42 PM

Sort of like the way the Mazda leather seems like vinyl compared to the robustness of Audi's leather to me. See, to me Audi looks like pleather, especialy in black. Actually, doesn't Audi use fake leather?? It also does not wear well. VW has the same problem. Take a look at the new Mazda6 leather, it's much nicer, they changed it in 2006.
I need midsize perspective
Written by: bruuklin on Oct 14, 2007 8:53:37 AM

I need to buy a new car. Right now we have a 2006 Accord (4cyl) and an old, dying 1997 Nissan Sentra. The Sentra must go. More than anything, as boring as it may sound, we need reliability and longevity in whatever we buy (which is why we replaced our old, dying 1996 Mazda Protege with the Accord). I have been very pleased with the Accord so far, and I am ... Read More
Re: Mid-Size Warranties Increase, but does Quality? [zzzoom6]
Written by: robertsmx on Sep 26, 2007 11:26:52 PM

While I don't care much for JD Powers etc, but since you brought up the name, I decided to look at their IQS from 2006 for following cars ranked best to worst, averaging overall quality ratings (mechanical and design): 1-Honda Accord: 4.75 1-Toyota Camry: 4.75 2-Ford Fusion: 4.25 2-Nissan Altima: 4.25 3-Chrysler 300: 3.75 3-Pontiac G6: 3.75 4-Chevrolet Impala: 3.25 5-Mazda6: 3.0 6-Dodge Stratus: 2.75 As Mazda's and Ford's positions suggest, ... Read More
Re: The problem with the Saturn... [akirby]
Written by: benderofbows on Jul 19, 2007 10:49:46 AM

From Wikipedia: "Ford Motor Company's modern 2.5 L and 3.0 L V6 automobile engines are evolutions of the same design, first used in the 1994 Ford Mondeo. This line is sold under the brand name "Duratec", as are many other engines. The Mondeo V6 is a modern aluminum DOHC V6 with a 60° bank angle. The primary engineering input came from Porsche, who were developing a similar V6 before selling the ... Read More

Mazda6 Lease Questions

Re: Mazda6: Lease Questions [dotsync]
Written by: Car_man on Jan 21, 2007 6:02:47 AM

Hi Nick. Unfortunately, Mazda is not longer providing lease support on 2006 models. As a result, if you really want to lease one you would have to do so through an independent bank. You probably would be better off leasing a 2007 model at this point and paying cash for or financing a 2006 model. Mazda is providing a special $1,000 bonus on this car for consumers who finance one through ... Read More
Re: Mazda 6 lease rates and rebates for December [daddypost]
Written by: Car_man on Jan 21, 2007 5:52:13 AM

Hi daddypost. Mazda is no longer providing lease support on the 2006 Mazda6. However it is currently providing $1,500 lease cash on the 2007 Mazda6 Sedan. If you were able to negotiate a selling price of $500 over invoice and then have this lease cash subtracted, your car's capitalized cost would be at around $1,000 under invoice. You definitely should stop by the following discussion to see how much other community ... Read More
Re: Mazda6: Lease Questions [Car_man]
Written by: dotsync on Jan 4, 2007 12:26:10 PM

Hi Car_man, It's the beginning of the new year I'm looking at leasing a 2006 Mazda Mazda6 4dr Sedan s Sport. I need to know the residual, money factor, and any lease rebates/dealer cash that would apply to this vehicle. I'm looking at a 36mo/15k lease with nothing out of pocket. Also, in your opinion, is a lease or purchase stronger on this vehicle? The salesperson I was dealing with today ... Read More

Midsize Sedans 2.0

Re: Advice on Mazda6 [leadfoot6]
Written by: backy on Jun 10, 2007 2:46:05 PM

Also - did you not see the latest Initial Quality Survey by JD Power that place Mazda next to last? Well, fortunately for this particular buyer, the Mazda6s he is considering is a 2006, and Mazda did better in the 2006 IQS. ;)
Re: Advice on Mazda6 [urnews]
Written by: mcoctopus on Jun 10, 2007 8:49:01 AM

At 16,500, it's 9000 off the sticker price. There are quite a few Mazda dealers close by but they dont have new 2006 version. They have used auctioned-of-rental cars but not for a price I'm willing to pay. I cannot bring myself to pay 15,000+ for an ex-rental with 20,000 mileage when I can buy the new car for 16,500. I'm not going to keep this car for more than 3 ... Read More
Re: "Refined" Engines [jeffyscott]
Written by: benderofbows on Apr 18, 2007 12:43:09 PM

Did you drive the 2.3L I4? If so, did you have the same impression of that engine? Yes I have driven the 2.3L I4: normally aspirated in a 2006 Fusion SE manual, and then turbocharged and direct-injected in a 2006 Mazdaspeed Mazda6. In normally aspirated form, I noticed a slight "buzziness" to the sound, not entirely displeasing because it reminded me of the 2.2L I4 I had in my first car, ... Read More

Mazda6 Wagon

M6 Wagon - First impressions
Written by: ganderite on Apr 9, 2007 1:39:14 PM

I drove my new 2006 M6 wagon home yesterday. This was a 1200 mile non-stop trip, so I was able form some initial impressions of the car. Me: Each of us relates to a car from a different background and perspective. I am a Canadian who sometimes buys cars in the USA, if there is a price or condition advantage. For used cars there usually is. Arizona cars are rust free. ... Read More
Driving the Wagon - First Impressions
Written by: ganderite on Apr 8, 2007 9:43:16 PM

I drove my new 2006 M6 wagon home yesterday. This was a 1200 mile non-stop trip, so I was able form some initial impressions of the car. Me: Each of us relates to a car from a different background and perspective. I am a Canadian who sometimes buys cars in the USA, if there is a price or condition advantage. For used cars there usually is. Arizona cars are rust free. ... Read More

Mazda6 Prices Paid and Buying Experience

Re: 2006 Grand Sport [dano100]
Written by: jeffyscott on Mar 4, 2007 4:44:19 AM

Another way to look at the comparison to Honda and Toyota is the selling price, when comparably equipped, of the Mazda6 is about at the Civic or Corolla level rather than Accord or Camry. (Though even within Mazda, the 3 does not seem to sell for much less than the 6)

Mazda6 Wagon

Re: 2006 vs 2007 [ccwinslow]
Written by: mz6greyghost on Feb 13, 2007 1:13:06 PM

Unless Mazda has changed them dramatically since 2004, I've heard terrible stories about them pilling before their time. This is true, the '03-'05 cloth isn't very good, at least based on other owners accounts (my cloth seats in my '04 are still in good shape, with no pilling or fading, and this is with 45K miles on them). For '06, the Mazda6 was freshened both inside and out, the seats were ... Read More

Mazda6 Prices Paid and Buying Experience

Re: 2006 Mazda 6 S for $17,500 [saabski]
Written by: lobe on Jan 26, 2007 11:41:25 PM

In September I bought a 2006 6S version with the manual transmission, cloth interior, and no options. I paid 17,800 with destination and fees, and not tax. That was 3,500 in incentives at the time, plus was $500 below invoice. I am guesstimating that the automatic would add about $800 to $900 to the invoice. So that would have been $18,600. Say that included about $200 for fees. So $18,400. And ... Read More

Mazda6 Maintenance and Repair

Re: Excessive tire wear [grey6]
Written by: birdbmw on Jan 21, 2007 10:46:35 AM

I had a similiar problem with my Mazda6 Diesel Sport 2006. It kept pulling to the nearside on a flat road, the dealer ship told me everything was OK. I would not accept this being an ex Police vehicle examiner. I took my car for a full computer geomtry examination.The settings were at the extreme but within Mazda's tolerances.I requested my car be set up as close as posible to the ... Read More
SEVERE PULLING
Written by: pamabla on Dec 31, 2006 7:10:11 AM

Blackmazda--- I purchased a 2006 Mazda6 Grand Touring with 18 inch wheels and have been having the same problem since I bought it in July of 06. Is your model the fully loaded, BOSE, leather...etc model? I had my car in the dealership the very next day after I picked it up for an alignment. They said it was all fixed. It still pulled. Then they said it was the Perelli ... Read More

Midsize Sedans Comparison Thread

Re: Interior Comfort of the Mazda 6?? [redsfan1]
Written by: jeffyscott on Dec 21, 2006 6:53:58 PM

Well, different people will have different feelings about what is comfortable, but... Based on test drives, I think the Mazda6 seats are very comfortable in 2006 or 2007 models. If you think the new ones are hard, you should sit in a 2005...now those were too hard for me. I am not a fan of too soft seats. Fusion also has seat that seems very comfortable to me...again only from test ... Read More
Re: AutoWeek got it exactly right [venus537]
Written by: captain2 on Nov 5, 2006 1:14:14 PM

the majority of car buyers out there wear 'successful' car price negotiations, as some sort of ego gratifying badge of honor - which is fine, whatever makes them happy. But there are a few inescapable facts: 1) any car that sells at a high discount/rebatas/finance-lease buydown, must invariably have a problem with resale value 2) conversely any car that sells at a higher relative price must also hold a higher relative ... Read More
Bias at Consumer Reports?
Written by: rickypaul on Oct 24, 2006 6:18:44 PM

Car and Driver is a magazine. They take advertising and therefore they can't be completely objective, or can they? My beef is with that Paragon of Objectivity, Consumer Reports. They have their heads so far up Honda and Toyotas keester that they have ring around the collar. Case in point. New Models come out and there is no real data to report reliability. In the Summer 2006 car buyer's guidee, the ... Read More

Mazda6 Sedan

Re: Still having a hard time decide which mazda 6 [redsfan1]
Written by: mazdamotoring on Oct 24, 2006 6:03:27 AM

Redsfan1, I also had a tough time deciding between the 4 cylinder and V6 (though I was looking at the manual versions). I thought the V6 was the quietest between the two, but still thought the 4 cylinder was relatively quiet, and had very good acceleration. I was coming from a 2000 Sentra SE, which in comparison was more noisy than either of the Mazda6 models. Yes, I'm unimpressed with the ... Read More
Re: Mazda 6 trip computer [damianinpa]
Written by: bobzoom on Oct 20, 2006 8:55:37 AM

My 2006 Mazda6 Grand Sport Sedan has an A and a B Trip computers, along with the odometer.

Mazda6 Prices Paid and Buying Experience

Re: How easy for invoice? [zoomzoom4]
Written by: dwynne on Oct 6, 2006 8:26:17 AM

If they have a car you want it should be fairly easy to get invoice less all the rebates. Use the search feature on the MUSA web page to find the car like you want and then see if they have a web page. You want the "internet sales manager" or some such to deal with. Also check their online or printer specials, they can be a good indicator of their ... Read More
How easy for invoice?
Written by: zoomzoom4 on Oct 6, 2006 7:02:15 AM

How easy will it be to try to drive the dealer down to invoice for the price of a Mazda6 2006 at this time of the year? I assume I get a better deal by financing from my bank then through the MAC, but the rebates appear to end at october 2nd, will there be more incentives to come? My goal is to buy the Mazda 6 Sport (preferably the i ... Read More
Re: Leasing incentives by trim [zoomzoom4]
Written by: dwynne on Oct 5, 2006 3:34:22 PM

The $219 deal is just a special, pre-configured lease price based on $xxxx out of pocket from you and assuming you sign over the $2,000 rebate to the dealer (and they discount the car to the proper price). It is just a starting point and often you can negotiate a better deal - same payment with less out of pocket or lower payment - but negotiating the price of the car ... Read More
Re: 2007 vs 2006 [mazdamotoring]
Written by: lobe on Oct 3, 2006 10:31:01 PM

Hi Bob, From me also, congratulations on the new car! Yes, I agree that what level car you get for the price right now, it falls into the "steal" category. The way I define it, it you get a good price it is a "deal". If you get a great price, it is a "steal". I just got the absolutely plain "S" version, manual v-6. As I recall, the invoice on ... Read More
Re: Mazda 6 at invoice [entropy42]
Written by: mazdamotoring on Sep 28, 2006 3:00:08 AM

I'm in the Central Ohio area and also shopping for a 2006 Mazda6 (s model - V6). My dealer offered $2500 in rebates below invoice, plus another $1000.00 if I finance through MAC. He will also throw in leather interior and heated seats (outsourced to a local shop they work with). It's very tempting, but for 2007, I see Mazda has lowered the price and added features. One example (all other ... Read More
Re: Mazda 6 at invoice [ejmiller2]
Written by: lobe on Sep 26, 2006 8:51:06 PM

I bought a week ago Monday, so that was September 18. At that time, there was $2500 "cash to customer". There was also $1000 "cash to customer" if Mazda Credit was used. I don't know exactly which models that applied to, but it applied to many Mazda6 models, including mine. So I got $3,500 "cash back"--so was instantly taken off on the contract. I don't know why they reduced it from ... Read More
Re: Mazda 6 at invoice [ejmiller2]
Written by: lobe on Sep 25, 2006 10:38:30 PM

Are you talking about a 2006 model or 2007? I can tell you that when I was searching for a 2006 Mazda6, I could have received invoice price minus the $3500 rebates from several Mazda dealerships in Milwaukee and Chicago. Several dealerships had newspaper ads for that. As I posted, I got mine for $500 below invoice. And that was not with haggling, walking away, fighting, etc. I was asked what ... Read More
Re: new 2006 Mazda6 S v-6 manual [entropy42]
Written by: lobe on Sep 25, 2006 10:27:51 PM

Amato Mazda in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. I know they had one for sure, and I THINK they had two. 2006's. When I was looking at the Mazda6's, you see rows of cars. I saw the blue and got my hopes up as I walked down the row to the blue one and...let down (for me), an automatic! Awwww. As I recall, they were the S version with the automatic, and not loaded ... Read More

MAZDASPEED Mazda6

Re: not so much fun [monkeymobile]
Written by: fasterthanyou on Sep 23, 2006 9:55:53 AM

OK, I admit maybe is too much to say that the Mazdaspeed6 is overpriced at 22000. Is just that I'm disappointed with the way this car drives. I start to understand why you think is a great car...it is probably the fact that you never owned a Mazda before and your expectations were not so big. I'm telling you, the difference between a regular Mazda6 and the speed6 is very small. ... Read More

Mazda6 Prices Paid and Buying Experience

new 2006 Mazda6 S v-6 manual
Written by: lobe on Sep 20, 2006 11:13:31 PM

I was looking for the basic 2006 Mazda6 S v-6 manual. MSRP is $23,570. I would have loved to get the blue, but no manuals. A couple of automatics in blue, but not interested. Many places were offering invoice price-$3500. I offered $17671, knowing they would want to add the "dealer service fee" of $129. So essentially $17,800, plus tax, title, license. They accepted it. I went for the glacier silver ... Read More

Mazda6 Sedan

Re: Almost bought a Mazda6 last night [audia8q]
Written by: dellsucks on Sep 15, 2006 11:58:12 AM

No dealer is letting somebody walk on a 2006 Mazda6 with a $1000 profit. so something is wrong with your numbers. Did you include the regional ad fee that mazda charges its dealers? Did you try another dealer? I got my figures from Edmunds here, and they were collaborated by KBB.com and cars.com, so if they're wrong, then all 3 sites have bad data. The difference between the dealer invoice price ... Read More
Re: Almost bought a Mazda6 last night [dellsucks]
Written by: audia8q on Sep 15, 2006 10:15:11 AM

So I'm pretty confident that your netting around $1000 on this sale. I'm willing to come up to $19,999 but that's my ceiling." He said "No way", so we walked. No dealer is letting somebody walk on a 2006 Mazda6 with a $1000 profit. so something is wrong with your numbers. Did you include the regional ad fee that mazda charges its dealers? Did you try another dealer?
Almost bought a Mazda6 last night
Written by: dellsucks on Sep 15, 2006 7:33:56 AM

Greetings everyone. Long time reader, first time poster. Last night my wife and I went back to our local Mazda dealership to make an offer on a 2006 Mazda6 4 cylinder. Here are the sticker stats: base price: 19,110 convenience package: - perimeter alarm - 17" alloy wheels w/ 215/50R17 tires - 8 way power driver's seat 1,000 auto trans: 900 side curatin air bags: 500 rear spoiler: 325 autodim mirror ... Read More

Midsize Sedans Comparison Thread

4 cylinder midsize sedans TMV
Written by: louiswei on Sep 12, 2006 10:14:44 AM

Last time we did a comparison of TMV of all top of the line V6 midsize sedans. This time the comparison is for all 4 cylinder base models. All prices include automatic transmission and ABS. Also, some model comes with ESC and some does not. 2006 Honda Accord LX - $19,126 2007 Toyota Camry CE (with ESC) - $19,756 2007 Hyundai Sonata GLS - $17,746 (with $500 incentive) 2007 Ford Fusion ... Read More

Mazda6 vs Hyundai Sonata

Re: 2003 Mazda 6 vs 2006 Sonata GLS V6 [bobad]
Written by: jeffyscott on Sep 5, 2006 11:28:33 AM

Did you also try a regular (non-speed) Mazda6?
Re: 2003 Mazda 6 vs 2006 Sonata GLS V6 [cajuncycler]
Written by: chikoo on Sep 4, 2006 4:02:11 PM

"However compared to my Sonata it does ride crudely rough." Love the ignorance. The Mazda6 is tuned to drive "firmer" than a grandma's comfort couch. The (new) sonata is a good car, but the two cannot be compared when it comes to ride quality. Different demographics.

Mazda6 Lease Questions

Re: Looking for Mazda6 wagon lease info.... [71bug]
Written by: Car_man on Sep 4, 2006 6:56:33 AM

Here's the information that you're looking for, Dan. Mazda Credit's current buy rate lease money factor and residual value for a 36 month lease of a 2006 Mazda6 Sport Wagon Sport model with 12,000 miles per year are .00240 and 44%, respectively. The numbers for an otherwise identical lease of a 2006 Mazda6 Sport Wagon Grand Sport model are .00240 and 48%. When negotiating your lease on either of these models ... Read More
Re: Car_man... Do you have the numbers? [mbartels11]
Written by: Car_man on Sep 4, 2006 6:50:31 AM

Greetings mbartels11. You were quoted over $700 a month for a Mazda6?!?!?! YIKES . That's way too high. Mazda Credit's current buy rate lease money factor and residual value for a 24 month lease of a 2006 Mazda6 S 5-Door with 12,000 miles per year are .00070 and 57%, respectively. The numbers for an otherwise identical 36 month lease of this car are .00151 and 48%. When negotiating your lease on ... Read More

Midsize Sedans Comparison Thread

2006 Mazda6s deal
Written by: backy on Aug 31, 2006 7:01:16 AM

Heard a radio ad from a Twin Cities Mazda dealer this morning. They are offering $6500 off on all 2006 Mazda6s 6ATs when you finance through Mazda ($5500 off if you don't). That means you can get a nicely-equipped Mazda6s with V6 and the 6AT for as little as $18k + T&L. Very nice deal on a V6 mid-sizer.

Mazda6 Maintenance and Repair

SEVERE PULLING TO THE RIGHT
Written by: pamabla on Aug 28, 2006 5:16:27 PM

Just purchased a 2006 Mazda6 S Grand Touring model on July 31, 2006. I bought the car for the styling, the Mazda name and for the awesome Bose system. Unfortunately, I had to take it back the next day due to severe pulling to the right. In the past month, I have had to take it back 4 times for alignments, forced road alignments, the possibility of it being the calipers ... Read More

Mazda6 Lease Questions

Re: Car_man... Do you have the numbers? [hartt]
Written by: Car_man on Aug 2, 2006 3:22:08 AM

Here you go, Tim. Mazda Credit's current buy rate lease money factor and residual value for a 24 month lease of a 2006 Mazda6 i Grand Sport Sedan with 15,000 miles per year are .00226 and 59%, respectively. The numbers for an otherwise identical 36 month lease of this car are .00276 and 50%. When negotiating your lease on this car, make sure to take the $2,000 lease cash that is ... Read More
Re: Current Mazda6 Lease program [tac379]
Written by: Car_man on Jul 16, 2006 10:30:08 AM

Hi Tom . If you were to lease a 2006 Mazdaspeed Mazda6 Sport through Mazda Credit (that's a lot of Mazda's for one sentence :) ) right now for 24 months with 15,000 miles per year, its buy rate lease money factor and residual value should be .00171 and 60%, respectively. The numbers for an otherwise identical 36 month lease should be .00256 and 50%. If you were to lease this ... Read More

Mazda6 Prices Paid and Buying Experience

Re: Crazy Quote, or just right? [chawposer]
Written by: mikezoomzoom on Jun 26, 2006 11:53:03 AM

Conventional finance rebates are not always the same offered on lease/balloon scenarios. The 2006 Mazda6 has a $2,500 factory rebate and a $500 MAC Bonus(only if financed conventionally through Mazda American Credit). This accounts for the $3,000 you speak of. OR The 2006 Mazda6 has a $1,500 MAC Lease/AVP rebate and an additional $500 MAC Lease/AVP Bonus(only if you enter into a Special MAC Lease/AVP). This means you only of receive ... Read More

Mazda6 Lease Questions

Re: Current Mazda6 Lease program [foghat81]
Written by: Car_man on Jun 20, 2006 2:32:30 AM

Hi foghat81. The way this advertised lease is worded is a little strange. Mazda is providing $2,000 lease cash on the 2006 Mazda6. This incentive is completely paid for by Mazda and does not come out of consumers' pockets. I'm not sure why Mazda isn't just calling this a $0 down lease because that is essentially what it is. Calling it that would make it look even more attractive. Car_man Host ... Read More

Mazda6 Sedan

Re: Possible Buyer, looking for feedback on Mazda 6 Grand Sport/Touring i [
Written by: cschneider3 on May 5, 2006 8:55:42 AM

Any opinion on the 2005 Mazda 6's? Are these just as good as the 2006 models? The reason I ask is because I've found a 2005 with 5,500 miles on it. The specs are listed below: Vehicle 2005 Mazda MAZDA6 S Bodystyle 4 Dr Sedan Exterior Color Onyx Black Interior Color Beige Mileage 5,424 Miles Engine 3.0 liter 6 Cyl. Fuel Injected Transmission Automatic With these options: Cruise Control Side Impact ... Read More
Re: Possible Buyer, looking for feedback on Mazda 6 Grand Sport/Touring i [ [cschneider3]
Written by: kmaurer on May 4, 2006 5:22:34 PM

It's nice to know I'm not the only person that was victim to Delphi's piece of s**t electric steering. Consumer Reports recommends the 4 cylinder models, but not the V6 models of the Mazda6. I talked with a few Mazda6i owners before I purchased mine, and they have not had any major problems with their cars. My hope is that by 2006 (the 4th model year of the car) the major ... Read More

Mazda6 Maintenance and Repair

2006 Mazda 6i noise problem
Written by: georgesea on Apr 19, 2006 2:39:52 PM

I bought a Mazda6 in Jan. Now it is only 3K mile. I got the noise problem about 10 days after buying. When I turn right on a slope, the back of the car squeaks. The noise is from the left side of the car. However, when I turn left, there is no problem at all. I sent it in the Mazda delear last week. I called today, they still do ... Read More

Midsize Sedans Comparison Thread

Re: that was the most stupid comparo ever [narenji]
Written by: thegraduate on Mar 27, 2006 9:15:26 PM

that was the most stupid comparo ever by narenji Mar 27, 2006 (11:08 pm) no mazda6, no altima or maxima... i dont understand their evaluation criteria, and i dont understand why the aforementioned cars weren't included... Mazda 6 - too small Nissan Altima - about extinct, new model out in months Nissam Maxima - in a class w/Avalon, Azera, and Five Hundred, not CamCord, Fusion, Sonata

Mazda6 Lease Questions

Re: lease residual value difference mazda 6 [pretendstar]
Written by: Car_man on Mar 17, 2006 3:53:31 AM

Hi pretendstar. The 2006 Mazda6 Grand Sport Hatchback's residual values are definitely lower than the Grand Sport Sedan's. The hatchback's 48 month, 10,500 mile per year residual value is currently 42% versus 44% for the sedan. So your dealer was telling the truth about the residual values, It is still a little shady for them to try to switch you from a 39 month, 12,000 mile per year lease to much ... Read More
Re: Current Money factor and Residual [javamonkey]
Written by: Car_man on Mar 16, 2006 5:47:44 PM

Hi javamonkey. The person who you are speaking about certainly has a good credit score. This car's exact lease program will vary depending upon how long this person leases it for and how many miles per year they are allowed to drive it. For now I will assume that they are interested in a 36 month lease with 15,000 miles per year. Mazda Credit's current 39 month, 15,000 mile per year ... Read More

Mazda6 Maintenance and Repair

Mazda 3.0 liter V6
Written by: lefthandman on Mar 7, 2006 12:44:40 PM

The Mazda 3.0 V6 is based on Ford's 3.0 Duratec engine, but it is not an exact replica. I found the following at www.wikipedia.org -Lefthandman Duratec 30 The 3.0 L Duratec 30 or Mazda AJ was introduced in 1996 as a replacement for the 232 in³ (3.8 L) Essex V6 in the Taurus/Sable. It has 2967 cc of displacement and produces between 200 and 240 horsepower (150 and 180 kW). The ... Read More

Mazda6 Lease Questions

Re: [mittbb]
Written by: Car_man on Feb 19, 2006 7:24:35 AM

Greetings mittbb. If you were to lease a 2006 Mazda6i Grand Sport Sedan through Mazda Credit right now for 39 months with 15,000 miles per year, its buy rate lease money factor and residual value should be .00223 and 47%, respectively. Mazda's 12,000 mile per year residual value would be 2% higher. I don't believe that it is currently offering 36 month leases on this car, so if you want one ... Read More
Re: [mittbb]
Written by: gmcjoe on Feb 13, 2006 5:45:27 PM

Let me try to answer one part of your question. The remote engine starter is a dealer installed option. It can be added to any automatic transmission equipped Mazda6 on the lot. You may special order a Mazda6 with the remote start option, but it would be installed at the dealer anyway. It's an OEM dealer installed Mazda accessory. I have one on my 2006 6s Grand Sport 5-door. Since the ... Read More

Mazda6 Prices Paid and Buying Experience

Re: musiclawyer [mazda6s]
Written by: ashleyk1 on Jan 30, 2006 7:25:57 PM

Just purchased my 2006 Mazda 6i today! It has the Rear Lip Spoiler, Cargo Net, Convenience package, and Frt/RR Side Airbags in Tungsten Gray. Bought it from Fitzgerald in MD. They have a system where you do not haggle they simply have their lowest possible price advertised...That said That price was $18,677--Great Deal IMO, with TTF it was 20,099 then I purchased the extended warranty...What do you think? I think it ... Read More

Mazda6 Hatchback

Re: Mazda6 Hatch Fog Lights [otis4]
Written by: aviboy97 on Jan 23, 2006 3:37:35 PM

I know I have the ones in my headlight cluster. However, I really do not like them. So, I was wondering if they someone had made them aftermarket to fit the lower front facia. I know the sport bumper is diff. then the non-sport, I'm a Mazda dealer. I also like the look of fog's in the bumper, like the 2006's have now. Thery are no longer in the headlight cluster. ... Read More

Mazda6 Maintenance and Repair

Re: Mazda6 [rparis]
Written by: martinbertrand on Jan 14, 2006 6:12:04 PM

i just bought a 2006 mazda6 5 doors hatchback with the 2.3 5 speed manual, Gt, leather seats, xenon lights!!! it's a wonderfull car, it's well balanced and mazda modified the 2006. the seats are new(borrowed from volvo), suspension has been upgrade, interior noise is better, the front disk are bigger and fade resistant, I just change a volvo s60 2002 for this mazda6 ...i'm telling you this car is better. ... Read More
Mazda6
Written by: rparis on Jan 14, 2006 1:26:44 PM

I am considering purchasing a 2006 Mazda 6 as it is very stylish looking and competitively priced with rebates. However, it seems that the reliability is not very good at all. I do not want to purchase the car and have engine warning lights, odors, etc. On a new car, after the first few "bugs" are worked out, I would hope for almost no problems and this does not seem to ... Read More

Mazda6 Lease Questions

Re: 06 MazdaSpeed6 GT [masscounsel]
Written by: Car_man on Jan 10, 2006 2:52:41 AM

Hi masscounsel. I haven't seen a 39 month lease program for this car, but Mazda Credit's current 36 month, 15,000 miles per year buy rate lease money factor and residual value for the 2006 Mazda6i GT Sedan are .00223 and 48%, respectively. When negotiating your lease on this car, keep in mind that Mazda is currently providing $1,000 lease cash on it. This money will help you to negotiate an attractive ... Read More

Mazda6 Sedan

Mazda6 2006 Wheels??
Written by: dairyshick on Dec 11, 2005 10:12:26 AM

I was at a FL dealership this weekend looking at a 2006 MZ6s sport. However, I think the wheels on it are the 17inch ones from the 2005 models. They're not the new ones you see in all of the photos on the Mazda website. Anyone know why??

Mazda6 Prices Paid and Buying Experience

Re: 05 Mazda 6 Wagon V6 auto [guss]
Written by: tonto1 on Dec 10, 2005 3:38:28 PM

I got 2 Questions: I am planning to buy a mazda, so here are my options: Option 1: Mazda6, 2006, V4, the cheapest of the Models, but I am gonna have them add Leather Seats and Rear Spoiler, out of the door price (including taxes and all that junk) is $19K Option 2: Mazda6, 2005, V6, its the 5 Door Model, it comes with every extra posibble, moonroof, leather seats, etc, ... Read More

Mazda6 Maintenance and Repair

Re: Whats wrong with my Trans????? [freshflames]
Written by: aviboy97 on Dec 3, 2005 9:14:43 AM

Well, to all of you who seem to be haveing a problem with you Mazda6, I notice that the majority are with the "s" model. To all of you that dont know, the 3.0L V6 is a Ford Motor. Now, Mazda is aware of the problems this motor is causeing for their company. The reason they used it is because they have a contract with Ford to used "X" number of ... Read More

Mazda6 Prices Paid and Buying Experience

Great Deal on a 2005 6s
Written by: noodlesz on Nov 23, 2005 11:56:25 AM

I disagree w/ the user1235 comments about the 6 vs the 3. I was looking into the 2006 3...good peppiness but certainly NOTHING compared w/ the 6cy 6s...it's got much more power, even w/ the added weight, and is smoother and has a better put together. The 3 also revs higher, and seems like it's trying to put out all this energy while the 6 cyl handles the acceleration w/ ease. ... Read More

Mazda6 Lease Questions

Re: 06 Mazda 6 [jhandal]
Written by: Car_man on Nov 13, 2005 8:21:49 AM

Hi jhandal. I would be happy to help you out. You never mentioned how long you want to lease this car for or how many miles per year you need to be able to drive it, so for now I will give you the info for a 36 month, 15,000 mile per year lease. Let me know if the lease that you are interested in is different. If you were to ... Read More

Mazda6 Sedan

totalled 2003 mazda6s
Written by: sevenseas on Sep 21, 2005 10:29:46 AM

Just finished working with Wawanesa Insurance regarding fair market value on my 2003 Mazda6s, loaded except side air bags, auto, 9600 miles.It was totalled August 28th. They used AutoTrader, 25 mile search. They valued the car at 17,845. With tax, license total was 19,511.21, less $500 deductable on my collision coverage, for a paid claim amount of $19,011.21. I owed $14,085 to Mazda American Credit so I will receive a check ... Read More
2006 Mazda6 Exterior/Interior impressions
Written by: akumaz on Sep 14, 2005 7:06:43 PM

My local dealer in Chandler, AZ got their first 2006 Mazda6 in, and I went by to check it out. It was a 6s sport model sedan in glacier silver and black interior. Most of the other MZ6 boards have been up in arms about the outside revisions. The sport grill slats were wider than the previous grill, with less empty area. The lower grill now resembles the squared-off MZ3 chin, ... Read More
Road noise
Written by: austinman7 on Oct 22, 2005 5:58:32 PM

I'm shopping for a sedan and drove a Mazda6 V6 automatic today for the first time. My impressions were almost all very good except for some road noise while on the interstate at 70 mph. On another road at about 60 I wasn't aware of it, so maybe the road surface is the key factor. I checked out my old Car & Driver (June 2004) and their long-term review of the .