Known for its upscale interior, the Mazda6 boasts a sporty-looking exterior, impressive driving dynamics, innovative technology, and abundant safety features. In 2021, Mazda announced it would no longer sell the midsize sedan in America, citing the popularity of crossover SUVs for its decision.

The last new Mazda6 available in the U.S. ranged between $24,475 and $35,900, depending on the trim level. That’s considerably more than shoppers with a $15,000 budget have to spend, so an older model is the way to go. But not all used Mazda midsize sedans are created equal.

Here are three of the most reliable Mazda6 model years that make excellent used cars and are affordable for shoppers who want to pay less than $15,000.

(Note: Regardless of a used car’s reliability score, always obtain a vehicle history report and have a trusted mechanic perform an inspection to uncover potential problems before purchasing. Also, prices may vary depending on trim level, mileage, overall condition, and location.)

The award-winning 2015 Mazda6 offers great value

The 2015 Mazda6 received the J.D. Power Performance Award, an honor given to vehicles with the highest owner ratings for performance and design after the first 90 days of ownership.

The midsize sedan received a quality and reliability rating of 80/100 from J.D. Power. Owners liked the smoothness of the six-speed automatic transmission, paired with an inline-four engine making 184 hp. The average price range for a used 2015 Mazda6 is between $11,415 and $14,823.

According to CarComplaints.com, the 2015 model year has had few reported problems, with the primary concern being electrical issues that can lead to expensive transmission repairs. There are also minor issues with the wheels and exterior accessories.

The 2016 Mazda6 is an IIHS Top Safety Pick+

The 2016 Mazda6 stands out among other model years, receiving a “great” reliability rating of 81/100 from J.D. Power and an overall score of 80/100. People are paying about $12,706 to $16,855 for a used 2016 model.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named this midsize sedan a Top Safety Pick+. “Beginning with 2016 models, the side curtain airbags were lengthened, and the deployment timing for both the frontal and side airbags was reprogrammed to improve occupant protection in small overlap frontal crashes,” the IIHS noted.

According to CarComplaints.com, owners have cited some transmission problems and minor issues with interior accessories in the 2016 Mazda6.

The 2017 Mazda6 was the top-rated midsize sedan

 J.D. Power rated the 2017 Mazda6 as its No.1 choice for midsize cars giving it a “great” reliability rating of 84/100. That score reflects “the level of defects, malfunctions, and design flaws experienced by vehicle owners … A higher rating means fewer problems.”

After 90 days of ownership, the handling, trunk space, and seating comfort stood out as positives among drivers. However, owners reported not liking the annoying cabin noise and the navigation system.

CarComplaints.com says this Mazda6 year has had minor problems with brakes and exterior accessories.

A 2017 model in good condition might be challenging to find under $15,000, but it’s worth considering. J.D. Power says people are paying $14,991 to $19,903.

When looking for a used Mazda6, consider any of the above model years that are generally reliable. However, beware of the 2009 Mazda6, which has the worst problems and most complaints. Issues with this model year involve consistent problems with subframe rusting and paint degradation. The most serious concern is potential engine failure, resulting in costly repairs, sometimes exceeding $3,000.