Models · Mazda
Mazda6 GJ/GL buying guide
The third-generation Mazda6, on sale in the UK from January 2013 as a saloon and Tourer estate, with Skyactiv 2.0 petrol and 2.2 diesel engines and updates through to 2023. Most cars are trouble-free, and the diesels have more of the known issues than the petrols.
The versions
- 2.0 Skyactiv-G petrol: 145PS or 165PS
- 2.2 Skyactiv-D twin-turbo diesel: 150PS or 175PS
- Six-speed manual or six-speed automatic
- Saloon and Tourer estate; revised in January 2015 and November 2016
What to check on a GJ/GL Mazda6
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
2.2 diesel DPF and the oil level
What to look for: On a diesel, check the oil on the dipstick: it should not be above the maximum mark or smell of diesel. Ask how the car has been used, and look for regular oil changes in the history. Watch for warning lights on the drive.
Why it matters: The diesel particulate filter can block if the car is switched off during a regeneration cycle, and repeated interrupted regenerations dilute the oil with fuel. That can lead to rapid timing chain wear or failure, so a correct oil level and regular oil changes are what you want to see.
Turbo smoke and an erratic idle
What to look for: On a diesel, watch the exhaust for blue smoke as you accelerate and note any loss of power on the drive. Let the engine idle for a few minutes and watch for an uneven idle.
Why it matters: The twin-turbo set-up on the 2.2 diesel can fail, with loss of power or blue smoke as the warning signs. An erratic idle on the 2.2 is usually fixed by a software update.
Coolant leaks and the water pump
What to look for: Look under the front of the engine and around the hoses for coolant leaks or crusty deposits, check the level in the expansion tank, and watch the temperature gauge stays steady on the drive.
Why it matters: Water pumps can fail on this generation, which shows as coolant leaks or overheating. It is a straightforward replacement when caught early, and a steady gauge with a full, clean tank is what you want to see.
Also in the full guide
- Early-car brakes, air conditioning and recalls
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the GJ/GL Mazda6
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Mazda.