MAZDA 6 (2006)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 2,430 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
69%
Total Tests (2024)
2,430
Avg Mileage
105,119 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,927
Is the 2006 MAZDA 6 reliable?
Below average reliability. Budget extra for maintenance and repairs. That's 13 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the MAZDA brand average of 81%.
At 18 years old, 69% of MAZDA 6s from 2006 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 2,430 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 105,119 miles.
How does the 2006 MAZDA 6 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2006 MAZDA 6 has 105,119 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 133,200 miles for a 18-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a MAZDA 6?
The most reliable year is the 2020 model with a 94% MOT pass rate, while the 2002 model has the lowest at 54%. The 2006 sits between the two at 69%.
How much does a 2006 MAZDA 6 cost to run?
Higher than average due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
MAZDA 6 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 93% | 118 | 26,540 mi |
| 2020 | 94% | 1,786 | 31,783 mi |
| 2019 | 91% | 7,381 | 44,030 mi |
| 2018 | 89% | 5,151 | 55,840 mi |
| 2017 | 87% | 7,764 | 68,812 mi |
| 2016 | 84% | 11,771 | 78,854 mi |
| 2015 | 82% | 11,898 | 88,374 mi |
| 2014 | 80% | 11,144 | 97,838 mi |
| 2013 | 80% | 7,682 | 103,079 mi |
| 2012 | 75% | 5,149 | 103,925 mi |
| 2011 | 74% | 7,535 | 117,021 mi |
| 2010 | 73% | 9,673 | 121,783 mi |
| 2009 | 73% | 7,396 | 124,353 mi |
| 2008 | 71% | 6,498 | 124,138 mi |
| 2007 | 68% | 4,401 | 109,611 mi |
| 2006 | 69% | 2,430 | 105,119 mi |
| 2005 | 64% | 1,596 | 100,805 mi |
| 2004 | 62% | 763 | 99,968 mi |
| 2003 | 63% | 356 | 98,803 mi |
| 2002 | 54% | 140 | 98,087 mi |
Checking a specific MAZDA 6?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2006 MAZDA 6
The 2006 MAZDA 6 is a family car with a 1998cc diesel engine. 2,430 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. It sits in the bottom 78% of 2006 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 105,119 miles at 18 years old, MAZDA 6 owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2006 MAZDA 6 Fuel Costs
The 1998cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 48 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,037 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2006 MAZDA 6?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,927 (£161/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £700 predicted repairs. The higher repair estimate reflects the 69% MOT pass rate. Cars in this bracket tend to need work on suspension, brakes, and emissions components.
MAZDA 6 Reliability Trend
Newer MAZDA 6s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 18 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2006 MAZDA 6
At 18 years old, the MAZDA 6 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2020 model has the highest pass rate at 94%.
Alternatives to the 2006 MAZDA 6
If reliability is your priority, there are 4 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2007) 73% pass rate (+4%) from 80,988 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2007) 71% pass rate (+2%) from 71,923 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2007) 72% pass rate (+3%) from 45,025 tests
- AUDI A4 (2008) 78% pass rate (+9%) from 31,415 tests