Hello,

I am in the market for a 2005 or newer Mazda 6 or Mazda 3. I would like to know about the reliability between the two cars and also between the I and the S models of each car. I have read about some reliability issues on the Mazda 6 on Consumer Reports, but I would like to ask the actual owners of these cars. Also, if I purchase a used Mazda, is there key codes or radio codes that come with the car? I know the new Hondas come with key codes and radio code cards for ordering new keys or resetting your radio system after the battery terminal is pulled. Any input or experiences will be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

 

The Mazda 6 did have a few issues in its debut year in 2003. However, they have been fixed. The 6 is a pleasure to own. I have had 25, 450 trouble free miles. The 3 is very similiar. Just smaller and is more nimble.

 

I prefer mazda6 over mazda3. I had mazda 6i, 04 but crashed by bmw. Now I just get mazda 6s, 06about 3 months.For safety,Mazda6 ismuch better than mazda3.

 

I own both a Mazda 3i (currently for sale) and a Mazda6 Sportwagon. I love them both. The 3 is a little small for me to carry both my kids and their stuff, but it's a great car.

I've put over 50,000 miles on both of these vehicles so far with very few problems.

 

My mazda 6i with over 51,200 miles on it with a few things that had to be taken care of, but less than most cars. Its been amazing and the handling for the price is unparalled!

 

Thank you for all your replies. I had a 97 Protege with 140,000 miles. With regular maintenance, I had no problems with it. Unfortunately someone rear-ended me so the insurance company totaled my car. I usually keep my cars forever, so I was looking for a reliable sporty car to replace my old Protege. I do like the idea of having a bit more room with the Mazda 6. What about transmission? What are the preferred transmission, Auto or Manual? Would a manual be better suited for the 6i? Thanks again.

 

I own mazda 6s and love every bit about it. My friend owns a mazda 3 and it looks great and its a good car no doubt. If your are going to get a mazda 6 gets the sports model because of the bigger motor. The mazda 3s has the same motor as the 6i does so you have a much heavier car with the same motor. The 3 will save on gas and give more speed. I perfer the 6 because of the room inside and the comfort it gives, and personaly i like the looks more. The only downfall on the 6 is that it doesnt have a very good turning radius but thats minor. Good luck with your search.

 

i got the mazda3... i love it!!
its surprisingly quick, handles pretty good, it looks really nice, and same with the interior...

the engine makes 150hp, and the engines are really torquey....
they're great little cars, and they have a ton of cool features... altho im sure the 6 has pretty much the same ones....

but imo, the 3 seems kinda tall.... and theres quite a bit of wheel gap (distance between the tire and fender).... but that can all be fixed with some new springs....