2015 Mazda Mazda6 Safety Report

2015 Mazda Mazda6: Strong crash ratings, but persistent parking brake and airbag sensor complaints, with three recalls.

60Complaints
3Recalls
★★★★★Safety Rating
65/100Reliability Score
6Crash Reports
2Injuries
Most reported components: Service Brakes (10)Air Bags (6)Visibility/Wiper (5)Structure (3)Power Train (3)Wheels (3)Suspension (2)Fuel/Propulsion System (2)Tires (2)Steering (2)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2015 Mazda Mazda6

The 2015 Mazda Mazda6 presents a generally strong safety profile, evidenced by its excellent NHTSA crash test ratings, achieving an Overall 5-star rating, with 5 stars in Side impact and 4 stars in Frontal and Rollover tests. However, a review of 60 NHTSA complaints, 3 recalls, and specific complaint patterns reveals some areas of concern. The vehicle has been involved in 6 reported crashes and 2 injuries, with no reported fires or deaths. Common complaint patterns highlight issues with the SERVICE BRAKES (10 complaints), AIR BAGS (6 complaints), and VISIBILITY/WIPER (5 complaints). Specific complaints detail problems such as parking brake caliper binding, which aligns with a recall, and airbag warning lights illuminating without deployment in minor incidents. Other notable issues include fuel leaks, premature sub-frame corrosion, and steering lock-ups, though these are less frequent. Recall history includes three significant campaigns: one for the PARKING BRAKE (NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V393000) due to water entry causing actuator shaft binding, another for TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS (NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V660000) concerning potential sudden tire failure from underinflation, and a third for ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR (NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V330000) which could lead to a loss of charging and power. The parking brake recall, in particular, has multiple complaints indicating issues even after attempted repairs or parts unavailability, suggesting a persistent problem for some owners. While crash test performance is commendable, the recurring mechanical and electrical issues, especially those tied to recalls, warrant attention.

Reliability Score

The 2015 Mazda Mazda6 receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.

Known Issues for the 2015 Mazda Mazda6

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2015 Mazda Mazda6:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Parking Brake Actuator Binding
Water entry into the brake caliper can cause the parking brake actuator shaft to bind, leading to the parking brake not engaging or disengaging fully, increasing crash risk. This is covered by recall 17V393000, but complaints indicate issues even after recall attempts.
High Common variable miles
Airbag Warning Light/Non-Deployment
Airbag warning lights illuminate, and airbags fail to deploy in minor collisions, indicating potential sensor or system malfunctions (6 complaints).
High Occasional variable miles
Fuel Leaks
Fuel leaks reported, particularly when the tank is over 3/4 full, posing a fire risk.
Medium Occasional 90000+ miles
Premature Sub-Frame Corrosion
Significant rust and imminent failure reported on underbody components, especially lower rear control arms, due to road salt and poor finishing.
High Occasional variable miles
Steering Lock-Up/Loss Of Power Steering
Sudden steering lock-up and loss of power steering while driving, increasing crash risk.
High Rare 40000 miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2015 Mazda Mazda6:

Service Brakes 16% of complaints

Issues with parking brake binding, grinding sounds after recall repairs, and general brake malfunctions (10 complaints).

Air Bags 10% of complaints

Airbag warning lights, non-deployment in minor crashes, and sensor errors (6 complaints).

Visibility/Wiper 8% of complaints

Fragile windshields requiring multiple replacements and sunroof explosions (5 complaints).

Structure 5% of complaints

Premature sub-frame corrosion and issues with door sash molding (3 complaints).

Power Train 5% of complaints

RPM fluctuations, sudden downshifts, and transmission noises (3 complaints).

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2015 Mazda Mazda6

Is the 2015 Mazda Mazda6 safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2015 Mazda Mazda6 received excellent crash test ratings (5-star Overall). However, 60 complaints, including 6 crashes and 2 injuries, and 3 recalls, particularly for parking brake issues, suggest some safety concerns beyond crashworthiness.

What are common problems with the 2015 Mazda Mazda6?

The most reported issues are related to SERVICE BRAKES (10 complaints), often concerning the parking brake and grinding noises, AIR BAGS (6 complaints) with warning lights and non-deployment, and VISIBILITY/WIPER (5 complaints) including fragile windshields and sunroof explosions.

Are there any recalls for the 2015 Mazda Mazda6?

Yes, there are 3 recalls for the 2015 Mazda Mazda6. These include recalls for the PARKING BRAKE (17V393000), TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS (14V660000), and ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR (14V330000).

How does the 2015 Mazda Mazda6 perform in crash tests?

The 2015 Mazda Mazda6 performed very well in NHTSA crash tests, achieving an Overall 5-star safety rating, with 5 stars in Side impact, and 4 stars in both Frontal and Rollover tests.

What should I look out for when buying a used 2015 Mazda Mazda6?

When buying a used 2015 Mazda Mazda6, pay close attention to the parking brake's functionality, check for any airbag warning lights, inspect the undercarriage for signs of premature corrosion, and ensure all recall repairs have been completed and verified.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: While the 2015 Mazda Mazda6 boasts strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of recurring parking brake issues, airbag sensor problems, and the need to verify all three recalls have been properly addressed.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2015 Mazda Mazda6

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2015 Mazda Mazda6. The data includes 60 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 3 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 6 reported crashes, 2 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

The NHTSA has assigned the 2015 Mazda Mazda6 an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.

All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.

Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.