A Guide to Replacing the Ignition Coils on Your 2010-2014 Mazda 6
Understand the common failure symptoms and how to choose the right replacement ignition coil for your specific Mazda 6 engine.
- Verify your engine before buying: 2010-2013 (2.5L I4 or 3.7L V6) and 2014 (2.5L Skyactiv I4) use different coils.
- If you have a 2014 model with a rough idle, check TSB 01-014/16, as you likely have faulty factory coils.
- Stick to high-quality aftermarket brands like Denso, NGK, or Hitachi for reliability; avoid cheap, unbranded coils.
- Always replace spark plugs at the same time as ignition coils to prevent premature failure of the new parts.
Understanding Your 2010-2014 Mazda 6 Ignition Coils
Before buying a new ignition coil, it's critical to know that the 2010-2014 year range covers two different generations of the Mazda 6, which use different engines and different coils. Ordering the wrong part is a common mistake.
- 2010-2013 Mazda 6: These models came with either a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine or a 3.7L V6 engine. These two engines use different ignition coils.
- 2014 Mazda 6: This model year marks the beginning of the third generation, featuring the 2.5L Skyactiv 4-cylinder engine. It uses a completely different ignition coil than the earlier models.
Check Your Engine Before You Buy
The most important step is to confirm your vehicle's year and engine type. The 4-cylinder coil for a 2013 model will not work on a 2014 model. The 2010-2013 2.5L coil typically has a 3-terminal connector, while the 2014 Skyactiv coil has a 4-terminal connector.
Common Symptoms of a Failing Ignition Coil
When an ignition coil starts to fail, the signs are hard to ignore. Your car's computer will almost always trigger the Check Engine Light. Other common symptoms include:
- Rough Idle: The engine will shake, cough, or sputter when you are stopped.
- Loss of Power: The car will feel weak or sluggish when you try to accelerate.
- Poor Fuel Economy: A misfiring cylinder wastes fuel, so you'll find yourself at the gas station more often.
- Engine Stalling: In more severe cases, the engine may shut off when it's idling.
- Backfiring: You may hear a loud pop from the exhaust, sometimes with black smoke, as unburned fuel ignites in the exhaust system.
Known Issues: TSB for 2014 Mazda 6
Mazda issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 01-014/16 for some 2014-2016 Mazda 6 vehicles with Skyactiv engines. It notes that original ignition coils made by a supplier named YUMEBISHI can fail early. This causes misfires, a rough idle, and a check engine light with codes P0300-P0304. If you own a 2014 Mazda 6 and experience these symptoms, it is very likely you have these faulty original coils. The fix is to replace them with an updated part.
🎬 Watch this step-by-step guide to replacing 2014 Skyactiv coils.Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Coil
When it comes to ignition coils, quality matters. While cheap options are available, they often fail quickly. Here’s a breakdown of your choices:
- OEM-Level Brands (Best Quality): Brands like Denso and NGK are often the original equipment suppliers for Mazda. Choosing one of these brands is the safest bet for reliability and performance that meets or exceeds factory standards. Hitachi is another brand cited as being an actual OE part for Mazda.
- Quality Aftermarket Brands (Good Quality): Brands like Beck Arnley and Hella offer a balance of quality and price. They are reputable and source parts that are designed to fit and perform correctly. One owner reported that a Beck Arnley box contained a refurbished OEM part.
- Economy Brands (Use with Caution): Inexpensive, often unbranded coils found on sites like Amazon or from store brands are not recommended. Forum members frequently report that these parts fail quickly, costing more in the long run.
Pro Tip: Replace Spark Plugs and Coils Together
Old and worn spark plugs put extra stress on ignition coils, which can cause new coils to fail prematurely. Since you will already have access to the plugs, it is highly recommended to replace the spark plugs at the same time you replace the coils. 🎬 See how to replace spark plugs on earlier 4-cylinder models. On V6 engines, it is also wise to replace all six coils at once, as the labor to access the three rear coils is significant.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it hard to replace a Mazda 6 ignition coil?
For 4-cylinder engines (2010-2014), the job is very easy and can be done with basic tools in under an hour. The coils are right on top of the engine. For the 3.7L V6 (2010-2013), the front three coils are easy, but the rear three are under the intake manifold and are much more difficult to replace.
🎬 Watch this walkthrough for accessing coils on the 3.7L V6.Should I replace all ignition coils at once?
It is good practice. Coils are exposed to the same heat and wear, so when one fails, others may soon follow. For the V6 engine, it is highly recommended to replace all six at once to avoid paying for the difficult labor to access the rear bank a second time.
Is there a recall for the 2010-2014 Mazda 6 ignition coil?
No, there are no safety recalls for ignition coils on these models. However, there is a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) for 2014 models that addresses a known issue with faulty original coils from a specific supplier.
What is the difference between OEM and aftermarket coils?
OEM coils are what Mazda installed at the factory. High-quality aftermarket brands like Denso or NGK are often the same manufacturer that made the OEM part, so quality is comparable. The main differences are price and warranty. Cheaper aftermarket brands may use lower-quality materials and may not last as long.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: PE20-18-100A (2014 2.5L) UF540 (Interchange for 2010-13 2.5L) CY0118100B (2010-13 3.7L)
Direct ignition coil-on-plug design. Voltage: 12V. Connector type varies by engine: 3-pin for 2010-2013 2.5L I4, 4-pin for 2014 2.5L Skyactiv I4.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Mazda 6:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Understanding Your 2010-2014 Mazda 6 Ignition Coils
- Check Your Engine Before You Buy
- Common Symptoms of a Failing Ignition Coil
- Known Issues: TSB for 2014 Mazda 6
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Coil
- Pro Tip: Replace Spark Plugs and Coils Together
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 🎟️ Get 5% Off