Used Mazda 6 Saloon 2002 - 2007 review

Mazdas have a reputation for being sound bits of kit, but clutches on the 6 have been a weak spot. A vibrating clutch has been a problem on diesels, but this is easily cured by a visit to a dealer, who will fit a modified part, usually free of charge.

A fair number of owners (of diesel and petrol cars) have also reported total - and premature - clutch failure with fewer than 30,000 miles on the clock. However, when this has happened in the past, dealers have picked up the bill for a replacement.

There have been several recalls for the Mazda, most affecting cars built during 2003 and 2004. The most serious is to fix possible fuel leaks, but others cover a stalling problem, a duff brake warning light, an oil seal and a loose foglamp.

Otherwise, Mazdas rate well in the What Car? Reliability Index and also in JD Power customer satisfaction surveys, so you shouldn't experience many problems provided you keep that service book stamped - and the previous owner did the same.