Mazda Mazda 6 2008-2012 Suspension Specifications
Explore detailed suspension specifications for the 2008-2012 Mazda 6, including struts, shocks, springs, and alignment settings. Ideal for maintenance, repairs, and upgrades.
Overview Specifications
This document provides detailed suspension specifications for the 2008-2012 Mazda 6. It is designed to assist mechanics, enthusiasts, and owners in understanding the technical aspects of the vehicle's suspension system. The content is organized into sections covering front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications, and maintenance tips. Use the search and navigation instructions to quickly find the information you need.
How to Use
Use the search functionality to locate specific terms or components within the document. Enter keywords like 'strut', 'spring rate', or 'alignment' to find relevant sections quickly.
Navigate through the document using the section titles and subsections. Each major section is divided into detailed subsections, making it easy to find specific technical details about the suspension system.
Key Specifications
Front Spring Rate
2.8 kg/mm
Rear Spring Rate
2.5 kg/mm
Front Strut Diameter
50 mm
Rear Shock Diameter
46 mm
Caster Angle
+4.5° to +5.5°
Available Specifications
Front Suspension
The front suspension of the 2008-2012 Mazda 6 features a MacPherson strut design, which provides a balance of comfort and handling. This section covers the key components, including struts, springs, and control arms, along with their specifications and maintenance requirements.
Front Suspension
The front suspension of the 2008-2012 Mazda 6 features a MacPherson strut design, which provides a balance of comfort and handling. This section covers the key components, including struts, springs, and control arms, along with their specifications and maintenance requirements.
Strut Assembly
- Type: MacPherson strut with coil spring
- Strut diameter: 50 mm
- Spring rate: 2.8 kg/mm
- Bushing material: Rubber with urethane coating
- Damping force: Adjustable (sport models)
- Replacement interval: 80,000-100,000 miles
Control Arms and Bushings
- Material: Steel with aluminum reinforcement
- Bushing type: Hydraulic for vibration damping
- Bushing replacement interval: 60,000-80,000 miles
- Ball joint type: Sealed, non-serviceable
- Alignment adjustment: Camber and caster adjustable
Rear Suspension
The rear suspension system of the Mazda 6 utilizes a multi-link design, offering improved stability and ride comfort. This section details the components, including the rear shocks, springs, and trailing arms, along with their technical specifications.
Rear Suspension
The rear suspension system of the Mazda 6 utilizes a multi-link design, offering improved stability and ride comfort. This section details the components, including the rear shocks, springs, and trailing arms, along with their technical specifications.
Shock Absorbers
- Type: Twin-tube gas-charged
- Shock diameter: 46 mm
- Spring rate: 2.5 kg/mm
- Mounting type: Top and bottom rubber bushings
- Replacement interval: 80,000-100,000 miles
Trailing Arms and Links
- Material: High-strength steel
- Bushing type: Rubber with silicone filler
- Alignment adjustment: Toe-in adjustable
- Replacement interval: 100,000-120,000 miles
Alignment Specifications
Proper alignment is crucial for optimal handling and tire wear. This section provides the factory-recommended alignment settings for the 2008-2012 Mazda 6, including camber, caster, and toe angles.
Alignment Specifications
Proper alignment is crucial for optimal handling and tire wear. This section provides the factory-recommended alignment settings for the 2008-2012 Mazda 6, including camber, caster, and toe angles.
Front Alignment
- Camber: -0.5° to +0.5°
- Caster: +4.5° to +5.5°
- Toe-in: 0.0° to +0.2°
- Maximum allowable deviation: ±0.3°
Rear Alignment
- Camber: -1.0° to -0.5°
- Toe-in: +0.1° to +0.3°
- Maximum allowable deviation: ±0.2°
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Component Specifications
Overview
- Type
- Independent MacPherson Strut (Front), Multi-link (Rear)
- Configuration
- Front and Rear Independent Suspension
- Platform
- Mazda GH Platform
- Material
- High-strength Steel and Aluminum Alloy
- Location
- Front and Rear Axles
Dimensions
- Front Strut Length
- 22.5 inches (571.5 mm)
- Rear Shock ABSorber Length
- 20.8 inches (528.3 mm)
- Front Spring Free Length
- 14.2 inches (360.7 mm)
- Rear Spring Free Length
- 13.5 inches (342.9 mm)
- Front Stabilizer Bar Diameter
- 1.1 inches (28 mm)
- Rear Stabilizer Bar Diameter
- 0.8 inches (20 mm)
- Front Wheel Travel
- 6.3 inches (160 mm)
- Rear Wheel Travel
- 5.9 inches (150 mm)
Materials
- Strut Body
- High-strength Steel
- Spring
- Chromium-silicon Alloy Steel
- Control Arms
- Forged Aluminum Alloy
- Bushings
- Polyurethane and Rubber Composite
- Stabilizer Bar
- Heat-treated Steel
Features
- Damping Control
-
- Gas-charged shock absorbers
- Twin-tube design
- Variable damping rates
- Stability
-
- Front and rear stabilizer bars
- Precision-engineered geometry
- Anti-roll control
- Comfort
-
- Progressive-rate springs
- Hydraulic rebound stops
- Noise-reducing bushings
- Durability
-
- Corrosion-resistant coatings
- Reinforced mounting points
- Sealed bearings
- Adjustability
-
- Camber adjustment (front)
- Toe adjustment (rear)
- Ride height tolerance
Safety Features
- Structural integrity
-
- High-strength steel components
- Crash-optimized mounting points
- Stability Control
-
- Integrated with Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Anti-lift geometry
- Load Capacity
-
- Designed for 1,200 lbs (544 kg) payload
- Reinforced spring rates
Comfort Features
- Noise Reduction
-
- Insulated bushings
- Hydraulic mounts
- Vibration Damping
-
- Tuned shock absorbers
- Isolated subframe
- Ride Quality
-
- Progressive spring rates
- Optimized damping curves
- Handling
-
- Precision steering response
- Balanced weight distribution
Accessories
- Upgrades
-
- Performance coilovers
- Adjustable sway bars
- Polyurethane bushings
- Tools
-
- Strut spring compressor
- Torque wrench
- Alignment tools
- Maintenance Kits
-
- Strut mount replacement kit
- Bushing kit
- Shock absorber rebuild kit
Maintenance
- Service interval
- Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
- Service Items
-
- Inspect struts and shocks for leaks
- Check bushings for wear
- Lubricate suspension joints
- Inspect stabilizer bar links
- Verify alignment settings
- Maintenance Notes
- Replace worn components immediately to prevent further damage.
Warranty
- Basic Warranty
- Miles: 36,000Years: 3Coverage: Defects in materials or workmanship
- Powertrain Warranty
- Miles: 60,000Years: 5Coverage: Suspension components
- Corrosion Warranty
- Miles: UnlimitedYears: 5Coverage: Perforation due to rust
- Extended Warranty
- Miles: 100,000Years: 7Coverage: Optional extended coverage
Production Details
- Manufacturer
- Mazda Motor Corporation
- Manufacturing Process
-
- Precision forging
- Robotic welding
- Heat treatment
- Corrosion-resistant coating
- Quality Control
- Testing: Durability testing, Vibration analysis, Load testingStandards: ISO 9001 certified, Mazda Global Quality Standards
- Sustainability Practices
-
- Recycled materials in bushings
- Energy-efficient manufacturing
- Waste reduction programs
- Production Metrics
- Annual Output: 500,000 unitsDefect Rate: Less than 0.1%Lead Time: 4 weeks
Service Information for Suspension Service
Maintenance and service requirements specific to the suspension system
- Inspect struts and shocks for leaks
- Check bushings and mounts for wear
- Lubricate suspension joints
- Verify alignment settings
- Inspect stabilizer bar links
Replace worn components immediately to prevent further damage.
- Replace shock absorbers if necessary
- Inspect and replace bushings
- Check and tighten all suspension bolts
- Perform wheel alignment
- Inspect subframe for cracks or damage
Use torque specifications from the service manual.
- Replace struts and shocks
- Replace all suspension bushings
- Inspect and replace control arms if needed
- Check and replace stabilizer bar links
- Perform full suspension overhaul
Critical to use OEM or equivalent parts for replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about torque specifications
Q1 Is the suspension system compatible with all 2008-2012 Mazda 6 models?
Is the suspension system compatible with all 2008-2012 Mazda 6 models?
The suspension system is compatible with most 2008-2012 Mazda 6 models, including sedan and wagon variants. However, compatibility may vary based on trim levels and optional packages. For example, models with sport-tuned suspensions or all-wheel drive may require specific components. Always verify part numbers and consult the vehicle's VIN or a Mazda dealer to ensure proper fitment.
Q2 What maintenance is required for the suspension system?
What maintenance is required for the suspension system?
Regular maintenance for the suspension system includes inspecting shocks, struts, and bushings every 30,000 miles. Check for leaks, wear, or damage. Lubricate suspension joints annually and ensure proper wheel alignment. Replace worn components promptly to avoid uneven tire wear or handling issues. Follow the Mazda 6 owner's manual for specific maintenance intervals and procedures.
Q3 How do I replace the suspension struts on a 2008-2012 Mazda 6?
How do I replace the suspension struts on a 2008-2012 Mazda 6?
To replace suspension struts, first, safely lift the vehicle and remove the wheels. Disconnect the sway bar link and brake line bracket. Use a spring compressor to safely remove the strut assembly. Install the new strut, reassemble components, and torque bolts to factory specifications. Perform a wheel alignment after replacement to ensure proper handling and tire wear.
Q4 What are common suspension issues and how can I troubleshoot them?
What are common suspension issues and how can I troubleshoot them?
Common issues include knocking noises, uneven tire wear, and poor handling. Knocking noises may indicate worn bushings or loose components. Uneven tire wear often results from misalignment or worn shocks. Poor handling can be caused by damaged struts or springs. Inspect suspension components for wear, leaks, or damage, and replace as needed. Always consult a professional for complex issues.
Q5 How can I optimize the performance of my Mazda 6 suspension?
How can I optimize the performance of my Mazda 6 suspension?
To optimize performance, consider upgrading to high-performance shocks, struts, or coilovers for better handling and ride quality. Ensure proper wheel alignment and tire pressure. Regularly inspect and maintain suspension components. For sportier handling, install a stiffer sway bar or lower the vehicle with aftermarket springs. Always balance performance upgrades with ride comfort and safety.
Factory Service Resources
Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.
2008-2012 Mazda 6 Service Manual
Coming SoonComprehensive guide covering suspension system maintenance, repair, and specifications for 2008-2012 Mazda 6 models.
Mazda Technical Service Bulletin: Suspension Noise
Coming SoonTSB addressing common suspension noise issues in 2008-2012 Mazda 6 models, including diagnostic steps and repair procedures.
Mazda 6 Suspension Parts Catalog
Coming SoonCatalog listing OEM and aftermarket suspension parts for 2008-2012 Mazda 6 models, including part numbers and compatibility details.
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Technical Information
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