Known APK problem
Mazda Mazda6 (GJ/GL): steering
On the Mazda Mazda6 (GJ/GL) the APK inspector finds steering problems 2.9× as often as on cars of the same age: at 11–12 years 2.2%, against about 0.8% nationally.
Window: Oct 2025 – Sep 2026 · Updated: 16 Oct 2026
What is it?
Play or leaks in the steering rack, tie rods or power steering.
How to check it at the viewing
Turn the wheel while stationary: no play, knocking or heavy spot. On the test drive the car should keep running straight.
Ask the seller: Has any work been done on the steering rack or tie rod ends?
By age
Share of inspected Mazda Mazda6 (GJ/GL)s with this defect, compared with all cars of the same age.
| Age | Type | Mazda6 (GJ/GL) | National | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11 – 12 years | A | 2.2% | 0.8% | 2.9× |
A = structure, safety or costly mechanics; B = fail, usually simple; C = advisory. An age is missing when this defect is not among the most common there.
Comparable cars at 11–12 years
| Model | Steering | Vs. national |
|---|---|---|
| Mazda Mazda6 (GJ/GL) | 2.2% | 2.9× |
| Tesla Model S | 2.7% | 3.5× |
Looking at a Mazda Mazda6 (GJ/GL)? Check that car
Enter the plate and see the APK history, open recalls and how this car compares with other Mazda Mazda6 (GJ/GL)s of the same age.
All weak spots of the Mazda Mazda6 (GJ/GL) · Steering: which models more often · Checklist for this model
Frequently asked questions
Does the Mazda Mazda6 (GJ/GL) often have steering problems?
Yes, more often than average at the APK. At 11–12 years the inspector found a steering defect on 2.2% of inspected Mazda Mazda6 (GJ/GL)s, against about 0.8% of all cars of the same age (2.9×). Source: RDW Open Data, Oct 2025 – Sep 2026.
How do you check the steering on a used Mazda Mazda6 (GJ/GL)?
Turn the wheel while stationary: no play, knocking or heavy spot. On the test drive the car should keep running straight.
Repair indication: small, medium or large. An indication of the usual repair, not a quote: the real cost depends on the car, the cause and the garage.
Source: RDW Open Data (CC0), analysis CarXray.nl. 6,857,004 inspected passenger cars aged 3 years and older, Oct 2025 – Sep 2026. Each car counts once. How we know