Mazda Mazda6 2016 recalls, problems, complaints and safety
NHTSA lists 1 safety recall issued for the Mazda Mazda6 2016 and 77 complaints filed by owners. It's the model year with the most complaints for the Mazda Mazda6 between 2016 and 2021.
These are recalls issued for this model and year, not for your specific car. A car may already be repaired or may not be included. Confirm with your VIN on NHTSA.
Own or buying a Mazda Mazda6 2016? Enter its VIN to see its exact trim and engine, and confirm on NHTSA whether its recalls were repaired.
Recalls issued for the Mazda Mazda6 2016
Steering
NHTSA campaign 17V546000 · 2017-08-31
What happens
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2016 Mazda6 vehicles. Debris from the welding process during manufacturing of the front passenger seat frame may damage the occupant classification system (OCS) wiring.
Consequence
If the wiring becomes damaged, there may be a loss of power steering assist and the deactivation of the passenger air bag, increasing the risk of a crash and the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Remedy
Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will attach a protective pad on the seat frame. If the OCS harness is damaged, insulating tape will be applied to the harness. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began October 26, 2017. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's number for this recall is 1517H.
The repair is free at any dealer of the brand.
Complaints from other owners
77 complaints filed with NHTSA by owners of this model.
9 with a crash · 8 injuries
Most reported problems on the Mazda Mazda6 2016
- Powertrain and transmission: 11 (14% of complaints)
- Brakes: 11 (14% of complaints)
- Electrical system: 10 (13% of complaints)
- Seats: 9 (12% of complaints)
- Throttle and cruise control: 7 (9% of complaints)
Complaints are written by owners and NHTSA doesn't verify each one. They're useful to spot trends.
What to check before buying a Mazda Mazda6 2016
- Confirm by VIN on NHTSA that the recalls on this list were repaired.
- On the test drive, check for smooth shifts with no jerks, slipping or noises; check the transmission fluid condition.
- Brake hard somewhere safe: the car shouldn't pull to one side and the pedal shouldn't sink; check rotors and pads.
- Test lights, windows, locks, the screen and dashboard warning lights; have trouble codes scanned.
- Get an inspection from an independent mechanic before paying.
Safety rating (NCAP)
| Overall | Frontal | Side | Rollover | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 Mazda Mazda6 4 DR FWD | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
Mazda Mazda6 recalls by year
- 2016 : 1 recall · 77 complaints
- 2017 : 1 recall · 60 complaints
- 2018 : 2 recalls · 58 complaints
- 2019 : 1 recall · 6 complaints
- 2020 : 0 recalls · 2 complaints
- 2021 : 0 recalls · 17 complaints
Guides for this check
Frequently asked questions
How many recalls does the Mazda Mazda6 2016 have?
NHTSA lists 1 safety recall issued for the Mazda Mazda6 2016. That doesn't mean every car has them open: confirm with the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. The repair is free at the dealer.
What is the most common problem with the Mazda Mazda6 2016?
In complaints filed with NHTSA, the most mentioned component is: powertrain and transmission (11 of 77 complaints). Complaints aren't verified one by one, but they show trends.
Model-level information from official NHTSA sources. Confirm by VIN on NHTSA. Not a substitute for a mechanical inspection.
Last updated: October 23, 2026. Sources: NHTSA vPIC (decoding), NHTSA Recalls, NHTSA Complaints and NHTSA NCAP (5-Star Safety Ratings).