MAZDASPEED 6 / MAZDA 6 MPS | noob thread / summary GUIDE for NEW OWNERS
MAZDASPEED 6 / MPS | noob thread / summary GUIDE for NEW OWNERS
NOTE: Everything with a color of RED is important, not that all of this is… but if you are lazy and want to skim look for the red stuff..
DISCLAIMER: I am not responsible for anything done to your car regarding anything below..
ANOTHER NOTE: I am not affiliated with any links or companies, but I do recommend them as I have had good luck with them myself as well as others on this forum.
PURCHASING: Remember you can purchase from retailers directly from their websites, as well as “group buys” resulting in many people buying the same item, getting that item at a lower price, and under the “for sale” section in the forums buying from people with new/used items, and of course anywhere else online like eBay, and at physical stores, if you can find one.
*BEFORE YOU PURCHASE:
CHECK WARRANTY STATUS! (for your powertrain warranty)
Get the VIN # and call Mazda USA to make sure the warranty is still in tact/active (depending on how many miles it has). Cars with branded/black listed warranties are NOT eligible for an extended warranty and have no current warranty.
2006 models have a 50Kmile pt warranty | 2007 models have a 64Kmile pt warranty
How much should I pay?
It really depends on your area, and depends on the ever changing economy, but you might be looking for a FINAL price of somewhere around $14K-16K for a 2006 Sport/GT with 30-60K miles. $15K-18K for a 2007 with 20-50K miles. Any more miles just keeping taking money off. $1000 per 25K miles is about right to a point. For options like a sunroof and navigation, expect to pay even more ($1000+).
http://forum.mazda6club.com/mazdaspeed6/169952-mazdaspeed6-pricing-thread.html < look at most recent posts
*JUST BOUGHT YOUR MAZDASPEED6/MPS
RESOURCES
Forums (****LEARN HOW TO USE THE SEARCH FEATURE!!******):
www.Mazda6club.com < stay in the MS6 area to suite your specific model, good stuff here
(use quotes to search for three letter words. ex: "CAI", "FMM", "CBE", etc... will make life much easier.)
www.Mazdaspeedforums.com < MS3’s and MS6’s here, lots of great useful resources here
***Easier way to search the forums (successfully)***: http://forum.mazda6club.com/site-su...sier-way-search-forum-if-you-use-firefox.html
Online PDF User manuals
Mazda 6/Mazdaspeed 6 Manuals Online
Online Parts Stores
OEM/Stock parts
RockAuto Auto Parts < best prices for new parts
Car-Part.com--Used Auto Parts Market < search index for used parts
Online Mazda Parts <OEM Replacement Mazda Parts
Performance parts
StreetUnit.com - Premier MAZDA/MAZDASPEED SPECIALISTS
Revolution Performance Motorsports! Your source for aftermarket performance parts! - Revolution Performance Motorsports!
Home | Custom Performance Engineering
Mazdaspeedstore.com
CorkSport Mazda Performance - 360-260-CORK
Other
Animation of our engine in motion: http://forum.mazda6club.com/mazdasp...d-summary-guide-new-owners-5.html#post3297376
And drivetrain dynamics: http://forum.mazda6club.com/mazdasp...d-summary-guide-new-owners-6.html#post3304937
TIPS/REMINDERS
-Always let your car fully warm up before letting it get into boost (when you feel the turbo kick in). About midway on the temp gauge is where the needle should be, if not wait an extra 5-10min until your oil temp is warm as well (no gauge for this). If it's colder out, wait longer.
-Try and stay out of boost until at least 3000RPM. Read below under "Boost Gauge" to find out more and the reason why.
-If you even need to tow your car: ALWAYS MAKE SURE YOU USE A FLATBED, NOT A REGULAR TOW!! The car is AWD and anything other than a flatbed could cause major damage.
Carbon build up thread, good info
http://forum.mazda6club.com/mazdaspeed6/241011-carbon-build-up-speed-6-3-big-issue.html
*see Oil Catch Can near the bottom of the thread
BASIC MAINTENANCE
Gas
Be sure to run 93/91 grade, whichever is available. Anything less will detune the car resulting in a huge loss of hp/tq.
Oil Changes
To keep oil from seeping past the turbo seals (problem with this car), use 5W-40 in the winter (if it's cold), and 10W-40 in the summer. Synthetic blend is recommended in the manual, but most use Fully Synthetic.
When to change is up to you. Most recommend every 5,000 if using synthetic, 3,000 if using basic oil.
Checking/Changing your fluids
http://forum.mazda6club.com/speed6-engine-drivetrain/217750-ms6-fluid-notes-diy-pictures.html
How to: Brake Job
http://forum.mazda6club.com/mazdaspeed6/224563-how-mazdaspeed6-replace-pads-rotors.html
Part #: Cabin Air Filter (every 25K miles)
Part: http://forum.mazda6club.com/mazdaspeed6/230585-cabin-air-filter-6.html#post3223019
How to: How to Install a Cabin Air Filter in a Mazda Speed 6 | eHow.com
How to: Spark Plugs
http://forum.mazda6club.com/speed6-engine-drivetrain/196616-how-spark-plug-replacement.html
All the info about different types you'll ever need: http://forum.mazda6club.com/speed6-engine-drivetrain/242721-ms6-spark-plug-reference-list.html
4 Plugs (4 cyl): NGK Part # 3787 [OEM replacement] $11/ea @ RockAuto.com
How to: Door teardown
http://forum.mazda6club.com/mazdaspeed6/241130-drivers-door-teardown.html
FIXES
My windows won't go down automatically & I can't control them from the driver's door??!
Happens after the battery is disconnected. Simply roll down EACH window a bit, then back up, holding the button "up" until you hear a couple clicks. ALL SET!
Alignment! You will want to get your alignment checked out ASAP. Mazda's specs have a HUGE range, and are set for a very aggressive stance, which leads to severe uneven tire wear. So if you are looking for more a more even alignment, giving even tire wear...
http://forum.mazda6club.com/speed6-...ment-spec-not-good-enough-26.html#post3205384
Also, the front camber is not adjustable stock, if you are interested in adjusting you will need to purchase SPC adjustable BallJoints, then follow the specs for "SPC Ball Joints" in the above thread (scroll to beginning) after they are installed.
SPC Camber Adjustable Ball Joint
WOT (wide open throttle) Stutter Fix
If your car is sputtering/stuttering at WOT
http://forum.mazda6club.com/speed6-...wide-open-throttle-engine-studder-fix-12.html
2006 Clutch pedal adjustment (does not apply to some later 2006’s and ALL 2007’s)
If you notice your clutch petal is hard to press down, or is too annoying to operate, you can do two things:
1. Do a simple, quick adjustment which changes where it engages so it is easier to shift (still the same pressure to press however), or 2. Take it to Mazda and beg them to do the “Clutch TSB”, which means they will change out the entire clutch completely under warranty
Adjustment link: http://forum.mazda6club.com/speed6-...306-adjusting-clutch-pedal-2.html#post2414564
More info: http://forum.mazda6club.com/mtx-transmission-discussion/150441-howto-clutch-pedal-adjustment.html
Rear differential mounts (two mounts holding the rear diff up listed below)
The stock bushings of the mounts are very weak in stock form. If you plan on driving this car casually, don’t worry about this, but if you like some spirited driving once and a while (actually using that gas pedal), these are highly recommended.
1. Rear diff FRONT mount
Turbine Tech Rear Differential Front Mount: MS6
The mount is weak in stock form if you are going to do any heavy/spirited driving
2a. Rear diff REAR mount bushings: Turbinetech
The bushings in this mount are especially weak in stock form, allowing the diff to move around more than it should.
2b. *or* us a Tie Down Strap (instead of getting mounts, however, this is only a temporary fix)
You can strap it with a tie down strap, just make sure when you do this it is even/centered and not pulled to one side..
This is the "poor man's" fix:
http://forum.mazda6club.com/mazdaspeed6/197808-diff-strapping-101-a-7.html#post2789899
2c. *or* replace the Rear diff REAR mount completely
SU Rear Diff Mount: StreetUnit Differential Brace mazdaspeed 6
CPE Rear Diff Mount: CPE Rear Differential Mount for Mazdaspeed 6 - Revolution Performance Motorsports!
Smoking Turbo (smoke is coming out of your exhaust pipe when you are sitting idle for 5-10min+.
You might or might not experience this..
Do an oil change, changing to 5W/10W-40 rather than 30. This is a thicker viscosity preventing the oil to seep past the seals anymore
Find a boost leak
http://forum.mazda6club.com/mazdaspeed6/219844-how-find-boost-leak.html
HOW-TO's
1. Use the search in the forums.
2. Here is a directory list made up (MS6 specific): Mazdaspeed Forums
and MS3 how to's (mostly similar to our car, the MS3 is much more popular as there are many more on the road): Mazdaspeed Forums
INTERIOR SHOW/MODS
Adding an auxiliary port for about $10
http://forum.mazda6club.com/mazdaspeed6/225354-how-3-5mm-stereo-bose-system.html
Fold down rear seats mod SIMPLE & FREE: http://forum.mazda6club.com/mazdaspeed6/158539-speed-6-rear-seats-do-fold-down-16.html#post3297346
ADVANCED w/ Pull Tabs: http://forum.mazda6club.com/mazdaspeed6/158539-speed-6-rear-seats-do-fold-down-17.html#post3302816
Light bulb guide (part #'s) (replace/update all lighting)
http://forum.mazda6club.com/mazdaspeed6/236748-fog-light-help-2.html#post3275500
All-Weather floor mats (these will fit)
Mazda Mazda6 Floor Mats at Dealerfit.com
194 LED bulbs eBay link (dome lights, door, lic. plate, headlights) buy 10 total
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=160531931911&viewitem=&sspagename=STRK%3AMEWAX%3AIT
(link to pics soon)
EXTERIOR SHOW/MODS
HID Fog light conversion
HID Kits, BMW Aftermarket Bumpers & Lighting, DEPO - DDM Tuning
Go with the 35W, H11 type kit. Color Temp is up to you. It's plug and play
(link to how-to and pics soon)
Black out / tint side markers, brake light, etc. whateva you want
http://forum.mazda6club.com/exterior-modifications/151796-how-tint-rear-taillights-niteshades.html
Front 'towPlate' (places your lic. plate off to the side rather than front)
Rho-plate for Mazda or
MazdaSPEED6 TowPlate? | Custom Performance Engineering
Fix rock chips
How To: Fix rock chips
Front low profile lip (cheap as hell) technique
DIY: Home Depot Lip - 6Crew.com Forum
Replacement HID headlights (also change color temperature if you want)
HID Kits, BMW Aftermarket Bumpers & Lighting, DEPO - DDM Tuning
stock color is around 5000K
Tail lights
LED Euro: Mazda6 LED Tail Lights - F4D Lighting
Euro: Mazda Mazda6 Tail Light Kit Clear at Dealerfit.com
MODS/MODDING
*NOTE: Any type of modding could potentially void your factory Mazda warranty!
PREVENTATIVE MEASURES
You want to make your MS6 last longer...
Boost gauge
Reason you want this is to have the ability to monitor the vacuum and boost being put into your engine.
The conjecture is: you want to try and stay out of boost under 3000RPM in 2nd, 3rd, 4th gear, and 3250RPM in 5th gear, and 3500RPM in 6th gear. The car will boost very quickly and easily in all gears, especially at a low RPM in 4-6th gears, so having this installed is helpful to possibly prolonging the life of your engine. Boosting at low RPM's puts much strain on your engine.
Links for a stock look and purchasing resources below:
Mine complete (Vent pod w/ Defi Red Racer gauge): http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_images/3/3513/3041/33781520011_large.jpg
Defi Red Racer Gauge: Defi Red Racer 52mm Boost Gauge (PSi)
Driver’s side defrost vent pod (this guy makes very high quality custom pods): http://forum.mazda6club.com/mazdaspeed6/216065-i-am-making-selling-52-60mm-vent_pods.html
OCC (Oil Catch Can) System
“The oil and unclean vapors that once contaminated the intake tract, are captured buy the catch can. By doing this, cleaner air enters the engine, octane rates are not reduced by oil contaminants, and less detonation occurs”
Complete kit w/ directions and support: Performance Automotive Engineering - OCC KITS MAZDASPEED6
Turbo Timer
What this does is keeps your engine running after you turn the key off, get out, lock up, etc. Especially recommended if you drive it heavy (lots of boosting), then quickly shut it off. Allows the turbo to spool back down while oil is running through it, rather than no oil after a quick shut off. OR YOU CAN JUST SIT IN YOUR CAR FOR 10-30seconds and wait.
http://forum.mazda6club.com/speed6-engine-drivetrain/170165-apexi-turbo-timer-installed.html
*For GT models, the doors will not lock automatically, you must "drop window, get out, reach in and manually lock, pull auto-window up, and remove hand."
Scan Tool
Click on the link for more info on this. Basically gives you all the information you will ever need to monitor your car
Dashhawk Scan Tool
Engine build info
http://forum.mazda6club.com/mazdaspeed6/230164-p3-engine-build-info-please.html#post3215320
Better Suspension (rear)
Whiteline 24mm Adjustable Rear Sway Bar for Mazdaspeed 6 - Revolution Performance Motorsports!
POWER MODS
You want to get more power out of your MS6..
*most items under “FIXES” and “CATEGORY1” are recommended before you start POWER modding!
*These are just some basic mods to get you started, research/search when you get to learn the car.
Rear engine mount
This keeps the engine stiffer in the bay during strong shifts. Your shifts will be smoother, but you might feel more vibration during idle and lower RPM’s, as well as when the A/C is turned on.
CPE Wishbone Engine Mount MAZDASPEED 6
Front engine mount
Same as above but for the front of the engine, you will notice even more increased stiffness and smoother/quicker shifts
Turbine Tech Front Motor Mount: MAZDASPEED6
K&N Air Filter (a little less restrictive airflow, possibly a 2-5hp/tq gain) *you can wash this filter, rather than replacing it
K&N 33-2279 $45.99 - Replacement Filters, Replacement Air Filter
Audible noise increase: .5 out of 10
Remove intake resonator (instead of CAI/SRI below)
There is no how-to or thread but will hopefully have one up soon...
*It's basically the lower intake box, get to it by removing your wheel well cover, and it comes off with 3 bolts.
Audible noise increase: 2 out of 10 (can only hear when in boost or very close to boosting)
SRI/CAI (Short Ram intake/Cold Air Intake)
SRI is shorter, as the intake filter sits in your engine bay. Very easy to install.
Cobb SRI: Mazdaspeed 6
Audible noise increase: 6 out of 10
CAI is longer, as the intake filter sits in front of your driver's side tire, sucking in colder air. Keep in mind you might suck up water and potentially hydro-lock your engine, if you are worried about this stick with a SRI.
Xcel™ Cold Air Intake for MazdaSPEED6
Audible noise increase: 7 out of 10
*With either intake, you will notice a huge jump in noise from the turbo. You will be able to hear it spool now.
*HP/TQ gains are somewhere around 10-15whp/tq
Intake filter/shield (if above is equipped)
Prevents water for easily getting into your intake, which will get into your engine and possibly hydrolock
http://forum.mazda6club.com/mazdaspeed6/203131-how-cai-splash-shield.html
Turbo Inlet
Allows better airflow into your turbocharger itself, will make your car a bit louder
CobbTuning.com - MS6 Turbo Inlet Hose
Audible noise increase: 2 out of 10
Exhaust
Magnaflow < the quietest of all, but still louder than stock
MagnaFlow Exhaust Products - For Trucks, Suv's, American Muscle, Diesel, & Sport Compact Vehicles
Audible noise increase: 6 out of 10
CP-E
MazdaSPEED6 3" Cat Back Exhaust
MazdaSPEED6 3" Down-Pipe
Audible noise increase: 7 out of 10
GHL
Mazda
Audible noise increase: 7 out of 10
ETS
ETS MazdaSpeed 6 Exhaust System MZ6EX001
Audible noise increase: 7 out of 10
Piggyback/custom tuning
These tools plug directly into your OBD II port, allowing you to replace your ECU (car’s computer) MAP (data on what to tell the car to do at certain times)
NOTE: Before doing any tuning, consult the mnfcr's required specs (mounts, plugs, TSB's, etc.)
Standback: StandBack™ MazdaSPEED6 < for advanced/intermediate users looking to do custom tuning, some preset tunes available
Access Port: CobbTuning.com - AccessPORT < for intermediate/beginners looking for preset tunes, as well as doing custom tuning later on
HyperTech: Performance is our Passion - Hypertech < for beginners or people who are looking to stay either stock, or use only bolt on's (no custom tuning here)
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
Let me know what you guys might want changed, removed, added, etc. and I’ll update the main post as I can..
MAZDASPEED 6 / MPS | noob thread / summary GUIDE for NEW OWNERS
NOTE: Everything with a color of RED is important, not that all of this is… but if you are lazy and want to skim look for the red stuff..
DISCLAIMER: I am not responsible for anything done to your car regarding anything below..
ANOTHER NOTE: I am not affiliated with any links or companies, but I do recommend them as I have had good luck with them myself as well as others on this forum.
PURCHASING: Remember you can purchase from retailers directly from their websites, as well as “group buys” resulting in many people buying the same item, getting that item at a lower price, and under the “for sale” section in the forums buying from people with new/used items, and of course anywhere else online like eBay, and at physical stores, if you can find one.
*BEFORE YOU PURCHASE:
CHECK WARRANTY STATUS! (for your powertrain warranty)
Get the VIN # and call Mazda USA to make sure the warranty is still in tact/active (depending on how many miles it has). Cars with branded/black listed warranties are NOT eligible for an extended warranty and have no current warranty.
2006 models have a 50Kmile pt warranty | 2007 models have a 64Kmile pt warranty
How much should I pay?
It really depends on your area, and depends on the ever changing economy, but you might be looking for a FINAL price of somewhere around $14K-16K for a 2006 Sport/GT with 30-60K miles. $15K-18K for a 2007 with 20-50K miles. Any more miles just keeping taking money off. $1000 per 25K miles is about right to a point. For options like a sunroof and navigation, expect to pay even more ($1000+).
http://forum.mazda6club.com/mazdaspeed6/169952-mazdaspeed6-pricing-thread.html < look at most recent posts
*JUST BOUGHT YOUR MAZDASPEED6/MPS
RESOURCES
Forums (****LEARN HOW TO USE THE SEARCH FEATURE!!******):
www.Mazda6club.com < stay in the MS6 area to suite your specific model, good stuff here
(use quotes to search for three letter words. ex: "CAI", "FMM", "CBE", etc... will make life much easier.)
www.Mazdaspeedforums.com < MS3’s and MS6’s here, lots of great useful resources here
***Easier way to search the forums (successfully)***: http://forum.mazda6club.com/site-su...sier-way-search-forum-if-you-use-firefox.html
Online PDF User manuals
Mazda 6/Mazdaspeed 6 Manuals Online
Online Parts Stores
OEM/Stock parts
RockAuto Auto Parts < best prices for new parts
Car-Part.com--Used Auto Parts Market < search index for used parts
Online Mazda Parts <OEM Replacement Mazda Parts
Performance parts
StreetUnit.com - Premier MAZDA/MAZDASPEED SPECIALISTS
Revolution Performance Motorsports! Your source for aftermarket performance parts! - Revolution Performance Motorsports!
Home | Custom Performance Engineering
Mazdaspeedstore.com
CorkSport Mazda Performance - 360-260-CORK
Other
Animation of our engine in motion: http://forum.mazda6club.com/mazdasp...d-summary-guide-new-owners-5.html#post3297376
And drivetrain dynamics: http://forum.mazda6club.com/mazdasp...d-summary-guide-new-owners-6.html#post3304937
TIPS/REMINDERS
-Always let your car fully warm up before letting it get into boost (when you feel the turbo kick in). About midway on the temp gauge is where the needle should be, if not wait an extra 5-10min until your oil temp is warm as well (no gauge for this). If it's colder out, wait longer.
-Try and stay out of boost until at least 3000RPM. Read below under "Boost Gauge" to find out more and the reason why.
-If you even need to tow your car: ALWAYS MAKE SURE YOU USE A FLATBED, NOT A REGULAR TOW!! The car is AWD and anything other than a flatbed could cause major damage.
Carbon build up thread, good info
http://forum.mazda6club.com/mazdaspeed6/241011-carbon-build-up-speed-6-3-big-issue.html
*see Oil Catch Can near the bottom of the thread
BASIC MAINTENANCE
Gas
Be sure to run 93/91 grade, whichever is available. Anything less will detune the car resulting in a huge loss of hp/tq.
Oil Changes
To keep oil from seeping past the turbo seals (problem with this car), use 5W-40 in the winter (if it's cold), and 10W-40 in the summer. Synthetic blend is recommended in the manual, but most use Fully Synthetic.
When to change is up to you. Most recommend every 5,000 if using synthetic, 3,000 if using basic oil.
Checking/Changing your fluids
http://forum.mazda6club.com/speed6-engine-drivetrain/217750-ms6-fluid-notes-diy-pictures.html
How to: Brake Job
http://forum.mazda6club.com/mazdaspeed6/224563-how-mazdaspeed6-replace-pads-rotors.html
Part #: Cabin Air Filter (every 25K miles)
Part: http://forum.mazda6club.com/mazdaspeed6/230585-cabin-air-filter-6.html#post3223019
How to: How to Install a Cabin Air Filter in a Mazda Speed 6 | eHow.com
How to: Spark Plugs
http://forum.mazda6club.com/speed6-engine-drivetrain/196616-how-spark-plug-replacement.html
All the info about different types you'll ever need: http://forum.mazda6club.com/speed6-engine-drivetrain/242721-ms6-spark-plug-reference-list.html
4 Plugs (4 cyl): NGK Part # 3787 [OEM replacement] $11/ea @ RockAuto.com
How to: Door teardown
http://forum.mazda6club.com/mazdaspeed6/241130-drivers-door-teardown.html
FIXES
My windows won't go down automatically & I can't control them from the driver's door??!
Happens after the battery is disconnected. Simply roll down EACH window a bit, then back up, holding the button "up" until you hear a couple clicks. ALL SET!
Alignment! You will want to get your alignment checked out ASAP. Mazda's specs have a HUGE range, and are set for a very aggressive stance, which leads to severe uneven tire wear. So if you are looking for more a more even alignment, giving even tire wear...
http://forum.mazda6club.com/speed6-...ment-spec-not-good-enough-26.html#post3205384
Also, the front camber is not adjustable stock, if you are interested in adjusting you will need to purchase SPC adjustable BallJoints, then follow the specs for "SPC Ball Joints" in the above thread (scroll to beginning) after they are installed.
SPC Camber Adjustable Ball Joint
WOT (wide open throttle) Stutter Fix
If your car is sputtering/stuttering at WOT
http://forum.mazda6club.com/speed6-...wide-open-throttle-engine-studder-fix-12.html
2006 Clutch pedal adjustment (does not apply to some later 2006’s and ALL 2007’s)
If you notice your clutch petal is hard to press down, or is too annoying to operate, you can do two things:
1. Do a simple, quick adjustment which changes where it engages so it is easier to shift (still the same pressure to press however), or 2. Take it to Mazda and beg them to do the “Clutch TSB”, which means they will change out the entire clutch completely under warranty
Adjustment link: http://forum.mazda6club.com/speed6-...306-adjusting-clutch-pedal-2.html#post2414564
More info: http://forum.mazda6club.com/mtx-transmission-discussion/150441-howto-clutch-pedal-adjustment.html
Rear differential mounts (two mounts holding the rear diff up listed below)
The stock bushings of the mounts are very weak in stock form. If you plan on driving this car casually, don’t worry about this, but if you like some spirited driving once and a while (actually using that gas pedal), these are highly recommended.
1. Rear diff FRONT mount
Turbine Tech Rear Differential Front Mount: MS6
The mount is weak in stock form if you are going to do any heavy/spirited driving
2a. Rear diff REAR mount bushings: Turbinetech
The bushings in this mount are especially weak in stock form, allowing the diff to move around more than it should.
2b. *or* us a Tie Down Strap (instead of getting mounts, however, this is only a temporary fix)
You can strap it with a tie down strap, just make sure when you do this it is even/centered and not pulled to one side..
This is the "poor man's" fix:
http://forum.mazda6club.com/mazdaspeed6/197808-diff-strapping-101-a-7.html#post2789899
2c. *or* replace the Rear diff REAR mount completely
SU Rear Diff Mount: StreetUnit Differential Brace mazdaspeed 6
CPE Rear Diff Mount: CPE Rear Differential Mount for Mazdaspeed 6 - Revolution Performance Motorsports!
Smoking Turbo (smoke is coming out of your exhaust pipe when you are sitting idle for 5-10min+.
You might or might not experience this..
Do an oil change, changing to 5W/10W-40 rather than 30. This is a thicker viscosity preventing the oil to seep past the seals anymore
Find a boost leak
http://forum.mazda6club.com/mazdaspeed6/219844-how-find-boost-leak.html
HOW-TO's
1. Use the search in the forums.
2. Here is a directory list made up (MS6 specific): Mazdaspeed Forums
and MS3 how to's (mostly similar to our car, the MS3 is much more popular as there are many more on the road): Mazdaspeed Forums
INTERIOR SHOW/MODS
Adding an auxiliary port for about $10
http://forum.mazda6club.com/mazdaspeed6/225354-how-3-5mm-stereo-bose-system.html
Fold down rear seats mod SIMPLE & FREE: http://forum.mazda6club.com/mazdaspeed6/158539-speed-6-rear-seats-do-fold-down-16.html#post3297346
ADVANCED w/ Pull Tabs: http://forum.mazda6club.com/mazdaspeed6/158539-speed-6-rear-seats-do-fold-down-17.html#post3302816
Light bulb guide (part #'s) (replace/update all lighting)
http://forum.mazda6club.com/mazdaspeed6/236748-fog-light-help-2.html#post3275500
All-Weather floor mats (these will fit)
Mazda Mazda6 Floor Mats at Dealerfit.com
194 LED bulbs eBay link (dome lights, door, lic. plate, headlights) buy 10 total
(link to pics soon)
EXTERIOR SHOW/MODS
HID Fog light conversion
HID Kits, BMW Aftermarket Bumpers & Lighting, DEPO - DDM Tuning
Go with the 35W, H11 type kit. Color Temp is up to you. It's plug and play
(link to how-to and pics soon)
Black out / tint side markers, brake light, etc. whateva you want
http://forum.mazda6club.com/exterior-modifications/151796-how-tint-rear-taillights-niteshades.html
Front 'towPlate' (places your lic. plate off to the side rather than front)
Rho-plate for Mazda or
MazdaSPEED6 TowPlate? | Custom Performance Engineering
Fix rock chips
How To: Fix rock chips
Front low profile lip (cheap as hell) technique
DIY: Home Depot Lip - 6Crew.com Forum
Replacement HID headlights (also change color temperature if you want)
HID Kits, BMW Aftermarket Bumpers & Lighting, DEPO - DDM Tuning
stock color is around 5000K
Tail lights
LED Euro: Mazda6 LED Tail Lights - F4D Lighting
Euro: Mazda Mazda6 Tail Light Kit Clear at Dealerfit.com
MODS/MODDING
*NOTE: Any type of modding could potentially void your factory Mazda warranty!
PREVENTATIVE MEASURES
You want to make your MS6 last longer...
Boost gauge
Reason you want this is to have the ability to monitor the vacuum and boost being put into your engine.
The conjecture is: you want to try and stay out of boost under 3000RPM in 2nd, 3rd, 4th gear, and 3250RPM in 5th gear, and 3500RPM in 6th gear. The car will boost very quickly and easily in all gears, especially at a low RPM in 4-6th gears, so having this installed is helpful to possibly prolonging the life of your engine. Boosting at low RPM's puts much strain on your engine.
Links for a stock look and purchasing resources below:
Mine complete (Vent pod w/ Defi Red Racer gauge): http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_images/3/3513/3041/33781520011_large.jpg
Defi Red Racer Gauge: Defi Red Racer 52mm Boost Gauge (PSi)
Driver’s side defrost vent pod (this guy makes very high quality custom pods): http://forum.mazda6club.com/mazdaspeed6/216065-i-am-making-selling-52-60mm-vent_pods.html
OCC (Oil Catch Can) System
“The oil and unclean vapors that once contaminated the intake tract, are captured buy the catch can. By doing this, cleaner air enters the engine, octane rates are not reduced by oil contaminants, and less detonation occurs”
Complete kit w/ directions and support: Performance Automotive Engineering - OCC KITS MAZDASPEED6
Turbo Timer
What this does is keeps your engine running after you turn the key off, get out, lock up, etc. Especially recommended if you drive it heavy (lots of boosting), then quickly shut it off. Allows the turbo to spool back down while oil is running through it, rather than no oil after a quick shut off. OR YOU CAN JUST SIT IN YOUR CAR FOR 10-30seconds and wait.
http://forum.mazda6club.com/speed6-engine-drivetrain/170165-apexi-turbo-timer-installed.html
*For GT models, the doors will not lock automatically, you must "drop window, get out, reach in and manually lock, pull auto-window up, and remove hand."
Scan Tool
Click on the link for more info on this. Basically gives you all the information you will ever need to monitor your car
Dashhawk Scan Tool
Engine build info
http://forum.mazda6club.com/mazdaspeed6/230164-p3-engine-build-info-please.html#post3215320
Better Suspension (rear)
Whiteline 24mm Adjustable Rear Sway Bar for Mazdaspeed 6 - Revolution Performance Motorsports!
POWER MODS
You want to get more power out of your MS6..
*most items under “FIXES” and “CATEGORY1” are recommended before you start POWER modding!
*These are just some basic mods to get you started, research/search when you get to learn the car.
Rear engine mount
This keeps the engine stiffer in the bay during strong shifts. Your shifts will be smoother, but you might feel more vibration during idle and lower RPM’s, as well as when the A/C is turned on.
CPE Wishbone Engine Mount MAZDASPEED 6
Front engine mount
Same as above but for the front of the engine, you will notice even more increased stiffness and smoother/quicker shifts
Turbine Tech Front Motor Mount: MAZDASPEED6
K&N Air Filter (a little less restrictive airflow, possibly a 2-5hp/tq gain) *you can wash this filter, rather than replacing it
K&N 33-2279 $45.99 - Replacement Filters, Replacement Air Filter
Audible noise increase: .5 out of 10
Remove intake resonator (instead of CAI/SRI below)
There is no how-to or thread but will hopefully have one up soon...
*It's basically the lower intake box, get to it by removing your wheel well cover, and it comes off with 3 bolts.
Audible noise increase: 2 out of 10 (can only hear when in boost or very close to boosting)
SRI/CAI (Short Ram intake/Cold Air Intake)
SRI is shorter, as the intake filter sits in your engine bay. Very easy to install.
Cobb SRI: Mazdaspeed 6
Audible noise increase: 6 out of 10
CAI is longer, as the intake filter sits in front of your driver's side tire, sucking in colder air. Keep in mind you might suck up water and potentially hydro-lock your engine, if you are worried about this stick with a SRI.
Xcel™ Cold Air Intake for MazdaSPEED6
Audible noise increase: 7 out of 10
*With either intake, you will notice a huge jump in noise from the turbo. You will be able to hear it spool now.
*HP/TQ gains are somewhere around 10-15whp/tq
Intake filter/shield (if above is equipped)
Prevents water for easily getting into your intake, which will get into your engine and possibly hydrolock
http://forum.mazda6club.com/mazdaspeed6/203131-how-cai-splash-shield.html
Turbo Inlet
Allows better airflow into your turbocharger itself, will make your car a bit louder
CobbTuning.com - MS6 Turbo Inlet Hose
Audible noise increase: 2 out of 10
Exhaust
Magnaflow < the quietest of all, but still louder than stock
MagnaFlow Exhaust Products - For Trucks, Suv's, American Muscle, Diesel, & Sport Compact Vehicles
Audible noise increase: 6 out of 10
CP-E
MazdaSPEED6 3" Cat Back Exhaust
MazdaSPEED6 3" Down-Pipe
Audible noise increase: 7 out of 10
GHL
Mazda
Audible noise increase: 7 out of 10
ETS
ETS MazdaSpeed 6 Exhaust System MZ6EX001
Audible noise increase: 7 out of 10
Piggyback/custom tuning
These tools plug directly into your OBD II port, allowing you to replace your ECU (car’s computer) MAP (data on what to tell the car to do at certain times)
NOTE: Before doing any tuning, consult the mnfcr's required specs (mounts, plugs, TSB's, etc.)
Standback: StandBack™ MazdaSPEED6 < for advanced/intermediate users looking to do custom tuning, some preset tunes available
Access Port: CobbTuning.com - AccessPORT < for intermediate/beginners looking for preset tunes, as well as doing custom tuning later on
HyperTech: Performance is our Passion - Hypertech < for beginners or people who are looking to stay either stock, or use only bolt on's (no custom tuning here)
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Let me know what you guys might want changed, removed, added, etc. and I’ll update the main post as I can..