Since I just purchased the car, nothing has gone wrong under my ownership.
However, as of writing the MX-6 needs:
New tires.
New front ball joints.
The airbag diagnostic circuit replaced.
AC recharged.
Drivers seat leather repaired.
Minor bodywork/paint.
I have always wanted one of these cars, and when the opportunity came to snatch one up at a super low price, I couldn't resist.
What a deal! This is such a wickedly fun and at the same time civilized and refined automobile.
The 2.5L V6 is very responsive and smooth throughout its RPM range and can pull from low speeds in any gear. Drop a gear and floor it and the car blasts ahead. I have never owned such a powerful car.
Like the engine, the suspension and chassis grip the road with tenacity, but also give a taut controlled ride that is not jarring. And for a larger car, the MX-6 handles great in the corners.
The clutch is buttery sooth and once one gets used to the heavier shift linkage, quick, precise shifts can be done with ease.
Something that really sold me on this car, along with the timeless styling, were the seats! The leather ones in my LS are a dream- I would be proud to have them as furniture in my home.
Great stock 6 speaker CD stereo. For a 13 year old sound system it works great and sounds awesome.
I'm expecting the MX-6 to cost more to run and maintain than my last car, a 1992 Hyundai Scoupe. But I don't care as it is just so much fun.
As of posting this report a month or so ago, I've gotten to know my 6 better. I still think it's a great car for the money- if one can afford the upkeep. I've got new tires on it, replaced the airbag diagnostic circuit, and a leather seat has been repaired.
Two major problems have yet to be addressed though- the AC and a clunk in the steering at parking speeds. The AC requires a Mazda retrofit to convert it to R134 refrigerant. 1993 MX-6's used the old freon R12, but 94' and later models used the CFC free R134. The retrofit kit costs $600 Can+tax and labour, though I wouldn't be surprised if it costs me a grand if more needs to be fixed! If I'd known about the need AC conversion, I'd have looked for a 94' or later MX-6 when buying.
Another problem is a clunk in the steering at low speeds. I am sure it is not CV joints or ball joints, but more likely the steering rack or strut bearings. I'm going to have a mechanic diagnose the sound and hopefully it will be the strut bearings. These, I can fix myself and save a bit of money.
Despite these impending costs, I still feel the 93-97 MX-6's are great cars for the money and still look fresh and current. My V6 LS pulls along with authority and delivers decent gas mileage if driven with restraint. I love the leather seats, the quiet cruising and sure footed handling the car delivers.
Looking forward to lots of fun motoring.
A.
I've had the 93 MX-6 LS for nearly three months now and it just keeps on getting better and better (just add money). New V rated tires have been installed and I've had the steering clunk repaired- the cause being worn out strut bearings. In the process new front struts were put in (Monroe Sensatracks) and the car rides ever so much more smoothly and corners with aplomb. This thing is a hoot to drive on twisty roads! Also, I've had the driver's leather seat repaired and the interior now looks pretty much mint.
I have also learned a great deal more about these cars, including the need for non sulphurous gear oil. Cheaping out and using regular 80w-90 hypoid oil results in poor shift quality and reduced syncro life. I was recommended to use Red Line Synthetic 75w-90 or Mazda's own lube.
Anyhow, this thing just keeps on getting better and better. I'd seriously recommend a MX-6 LS (V6) to anyone seeking a powerful car at a reasonable price.
A.
I use to own a 1993 Mazda MX-6 but had to sell it as the cost of maintaining it was way too high. I bought it with 75,000 km on it and basically spent $1,000 per month on it for the next 2.5 years. Replaced the following items twice each over the course of my ownership. Front axles ($1,200 rebuilt from Mazda the 1st time...$400 new from NAPA the second time), brakes all around (calipers, rotors and pads...$600 each time), muffler. These items we're fixed once...manifold, igniter, 3 windshields... the list goes on!!
The last year I owned the car it cost me well over $10,000 to keep it on the road. It was a heck of a fun car to drive though.
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