Mazda 626 problems

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The Mazda Capella, also known as the 626 in Europe, North America and Southeast Asia, is a mid-size car that was manufactured by Mazda from 1970 until 2002. Sold in the Japanese domestic market under the Capella name, the vehicle was also commonly known in other major markets as the Mazda 626. Ford, Mazda's partner at the time, also used the Capella platform to create the Ford Telstar and Ford Probe. 4,345,279 of the 626 and Telstar models were sold worldwide.

Designed to compete against Japanese mid-size stalwarts such as the Honda Accord, Toyota Corona, and Nissan Bluebird, the Capella was succeeded by the Mazda6 (Atenza) in 2002.

The car was named after Capella, the brightest star in the constellation Auriga, the sixth-brightest in the night sky and the third-brightest in the northern celestial hemisphere, after Arcturus and Vega.

photo of Mazda 626 car production

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Mazda 626 model years

mazda 626 2003 photo
626 2003
Mazda

9

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda 626 2002 photo
626 2002
Mazda

88

0

38

1.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda 626 2001 photo
626 2001
Mazda

190

1

24

2.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda 626 2000 photo
626 2000
Mazda

224

2

37

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda 626 1999 photo
626 1999
Mazda

322

4

38

2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda 626 1998 photo
626 1998
Mazda

438

6

34

2.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda 626 1997 photo
626 1997
Mazda

379

4

34

1.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda 626 1996 photo
626 1996
Mazda

375

3

41

2.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda 626 1995 photo
626 1995
Mazda

518

4

36

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda 626 1994 photo
626 1994
Mazda

301

4

22

2.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda 626 1993 photo
626 1993
Mazda

180

2

29

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda 626 1992 photo
626 1992
Mazda

22

1

26

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda 626 1991 photo
626 1991
Mazda

95

2

20

2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda 626 1990 photo
626 1990
Mazda

55

2

18

2.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda 626 1989 photo
626 1989
Mazda

48

2

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
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mazda 626 1988 photo
626 1988
Mazda

52

6

0

  • 5
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mazda 626 1987 photo
626 1987
Mazda

40

1

0

  • 5
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mazda 626 1986 photo
626 1986
Mazda

18

2

0

  • 5
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  • 3
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mazda 626 1985 photo
626 1985
Mazda

6

0

0

  • 5
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  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda 626 1984 photo
626 1984
Mazda

3

0

0

  • 5
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mazda 626 1983 photo
626 1983
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2

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0

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Common Mazda 626 problems

The Mazda 626 is a popular vehicle, but like any car, it can experience some common problems over time. One of the most frequently reported issues is transmission failure, which affects both automatic and manual transmissions. Symptoms of transmission failure include difficulty shifting gears, slipping gears, and leaking transmission fluid. If left unaddressed, a failing transmission can cause significant damage to other components in the vehicle, resulting in costly repairs. This issue has been reported by over 150 owners, primarily in model years ranging from 1995 to 2002.

Another common problem experienced by Mazda 626 owners is a crank but no start issue, which occurs when the engine cranks but fails to start and run independently. This issue can be caused by various factors, including a faulty fuel pump, clogged fuel filter, failed ignition coil, or a malfunctioning crankshaft position sensor. Additionally, issues with the timing belt or camshaft position sensor can also cause this problem. This issue has been reported in model years from 1993 to 2002, with repairs costing up to $1000.

The intake manifold gasket is another common problem area in the Mazda 626. If the gasket fails, air can leak into the system, causing rough idle and other issues, such as reduced power or acceleration. The cost to repair these issues ranges from $502-575. Some common causes of intake manifold gasket failure include age, heat, and pressure. If you suspect a vacuum leak or notice a rough idle in your Mazda 626, it's important to have the intake manifold gasket inspected by a qualified mechanic to diagnose and resolve the problem before it causes further damage to the engine.

In addition to these mechanical issues, potential Mazda 626 owners should also be aware of potential problems with the bodywork and mechanical parts. When buying a used Mazda 626, it's important to choose only the smartest, well-cared examples and be especially vigilant over the bodywork. Watch out for dents, signs of over-spray, and bodged repairs, as body parts can work out expensive. Mechanical parts are generally robust with regular servicing, but when cars get older and less valuable, it's not uncommon for some owners to skimp on maintenance. Claims made by Warranty Direct customers suggest that the suspension, axles, brakes, and electrics are where potential trouble may lie, so inspect these closely.

In summary, while the Mazda 626 is a good value, potential owners should be aware of common problems with the transmission, crank but no start issue, and intake manifold gasket. These issues can lead to significant damage to other components in the vehicle and costly repairs if left unaddressed. Additionally, potential buyers should be vigilant over the bodywork and mechanical parts when buying a used Mazda 626.

Mazda 626

What is the common problem with Mazda 626?

In conclusion, while the 626 is a good value, there are many issues. These issues include transmission failure, crank but no start problems, and intake manifold gasket failure. Left unaddressed, these problems can lead to significant damage to other components in the vehicle and costly repairs.

How many miles can a Mazda 626 last?

The estimated lifespan of a Mazda 626 is 217,000mi, before reaching the life expectancy upper limit. Fuel type is a major factor when looking into a vehicles lifespan/life expectancy.

Is the Mazda 626 a good car?

Reliable Car, low maintenance

Purchased my mazda 626 used and had it for 4 years. It is reliable and low maintenance. Had no major mechanical or electrical issue. Rating breakdown (out of 5):

What causes a Mazda 626 to not start?

Your first step is to check your distributor. There's a good chance that this has reached its end of life and will need to be replaced with a new one from BreakerYard. If not, then disconnect the Spark Output Connector, wait ten minutes and reconnect and then look for an ignition spark. This often resolves the problem.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Mazda 626 years

We have researched Mazda problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Mazda 626 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Mazda 626 model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Mazda 626 model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Mazda 626 years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Mazda 626 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Mazda 626 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Power train problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Air bags problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Seat belts problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Mazda 626 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by 626 model years

A total of 203 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by 626 model years

There were a total of 51 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by 626 model years

There were a total of 308 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by 626 model years

There were a total of 105 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 3365 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Mazda 626 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Mazda 626 vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Mazda 626 2002
  • Date Of Incident: 2019-10-13
  • Date Complaint: 2020-02-02
  • Number Of Injuries: 2
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1YVGF22CX25
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: WITHOUT ANY WARNING THE TRANSMISSION STARTED SLIPPING OUT OF FORWARD GEAR WHILE AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT AFTER RELEASING THE BRAKES AND GENTLY PRESSING THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL THE VEHICLE DIDNT MOVE. MANUALLY SHIFTING INTO 1ST GEAR WAS THE CAR ABLE TO MOVE BUT CAUSING A VERY HARSH LURCHING FORWARD CAUSING A LOUD "CLUNKING" NOISE. I WAS ABLE TO LIMP THE CAR 3 MILES TO MY HOME. I WAS INVOLVED IN A REAR END ACCIDENT AT THE NEXT TRAFFIC LIGHT. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN 1ST GEAR AND HAVING THE BRAKES APPLIED THE TRANSMISSION CAUGHT IN GEAR AND LUNGED FORWARD CAUSING ME TO CONTACT THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME. BOTH MYSELF AND THE OCCUPANT OF THE VEHICLE I HIT SUSTAINED MINOR INJURIES AND WELL AS PROPERTY DAMAGE TO THE FRONT OF MY VEHICLE AND THE BACK OF THEIRS.
Mazda 626 2001
  • Date Of Incident: 2018-03-01
  • Date Complaint: 2019-07-09
  • VIN: 1YVGF22C415
  • Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 MAZDA 626. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AFTER FUEL WAS ADDED TO THE VEHICLE, THE ENGINE SEIZED AND WOULD NOT ENGAGE. THE ENGINE WOULD OPERATE WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS TAPPED. ALSO, WHILE DRIVING, THE VEHICLE SPORADICALLY STALLED. THE CONTACT WAS UNSURE IF ANY WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO FLOW MAZDA OF GREENSBORO (1205 BRIDFORD PKWY, GREENSBORO, NC 27407, 336-299-1500), BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
Mazda 626 1994
  • Date Of Incident: 2018-12-04
  • Date Complaint: 2018-12-08
  • VIN: 1YVGE22C0R5
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: TRANSMISSION WON'T SHIFT PROPERLY. WHEN IT DOES SHIFT, IT SHIFTS HARD. OD LIGHT FLASHES. WAS DRIVING VEHICLE FROM WORK AND TOOK OFF FROM A COMPLETE STOP. THE CAR REVVED UP REAL HIGH BUT WOULDN'T SHIFT. MADE IT HOME, AND NOW VEHICLE WON'T MOVE.
Mazda 626 1997
  • Date Of Incident: 2018-12-01
  • Date Complaint: 2018-12-08
  • VIN: 1YVGE22C2V5
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
  • Summary: THE VEHICLE IS STALLING DURING ACCELERATION AND AFTER. SOMETIMES IT'S STOPS AND CLEAR ITSELF UP AND THEN THROWS ITSELF INTO OVERDRIVE (O/D OFF LIGHTS STARTS FLASHING) ALL WHILE DRIVING IT IN THE STREET(CITY AND INTERSTATE). WHEN YOU LET THE CAR SIT AND NOT RUN IT WILL NOT FLASH BUT AFTER DRIVING AMD NOT GETTING ANY SPEED IT DOES IT AGAIN.
Mazda 626 2000
  • Date Of Incident: 2013-03-01
  • Date Complaint: 2018-05-07
  • Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 MAZDA 626. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL ODOR OF FUEL INSIDE THE CABIN. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL DEALER (PERRY FORD, 440 HITCHCOCK WAY, SANTA BARBARA, CA 93105 (805) 682-2411), BUT THE FAILURE WAS UNABLE TO BE DUPLICATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 44,825. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
Mazda 626 1995
  • Date Of Incident: 2018-01-13
  • Date Complaint: 2018-01-13
  • VIN: 1YVGE22C2S5
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: WENT TO START VEHICLE WILL NOT START SOMETHING FAULTY IN IGNITION POSSIBLY. SMELLED LIKE SMOKE INSTANTLY TURNING VEHICLE OFF. IMMEDIATELY DISCONNECTED BATTERY FROM VEHICLE.
Mazda 626 1998
  • Date Of Incident: 2017-01-01
  • Date Complaint: 2018-01-08
  • VIN: 1YVGF22C7W5
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: SINCE OWNING THE MAZDA 626 I HAVE HAD A VERY BIG PROBLEM THE TRANSMISSION SLIPPING. IT WILL SLIP GOING INTO SECOND GEAR. IF ITS BELOW 60 DEGREES THE CAR WONT SHIFT INTO DRIVE UNTIL THE MOTOR GETS HOT ENOUGH. THE CAR IS LIKE THIS EVERY SINGLE DAY AND DOES IT EVERY TIME IT IS DRIVEN. ALSO THE INTERIOR LIGHTS WORK SOMTIMES ON AND OFF AND THE BACK WINDOWS WONT ROLL DOWN FROM THE DRIVER BUTTON
Mazda 626 1999
  • Date Of Incident: 2011-05-09
  • Date Complaint: 2017-09-22
  • VIN: 1YVGF22CXX5
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: IGNITION SWITCH IS DEFECTED. AFTER STARTING THE VEHICLE, ONLY FOR A FEW MOMENTS, SMOKE BEGIN TO FLOW FROM THE STEERING COLUMN AND I MUST IMMEDIATELY DISENGAGE THE THE KEY FROM THE IGNITION POSITION.
Mazda 626 1997
  • Date Of Incident: 2015-10-19
  • Date Complaint: 2017-09-05
  • VIN: 1YVGE22D4V5
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 MAZDA 626. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V674000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT CALLED FIVE STAR MAZDA AT (478) 841-9275 (LOCATED AT 3068 RIVERSIDE DR, MACON, GA 31210) AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE DEALER WOULD CALL THE CONTACT. THE DEALER DID NOT CONFIRM THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE RECALL REMEDY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
Mazda 626 2000
  • Date Of Incident: 2000-07-12
  • Date Complaint: 2017-08-18
  • VIN: 1YVGF22D1Y5
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 MAZDA 626. UPON STARTING THE VEHICLE, A STRONG FUEL ODOR WAS DETECTED IN THE VEHICLE. THE ODOR WOULD DISAPPEAR SEVERAL MINUTES AFTER STARTING THE VEHICLE. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO PERRY FORD OF SANTA BARBARA (440 HITCHCOCK WAY, SANTA BARBARA, CA 93105 (877) 318-8239) SEVERAL TIMES OVER THE YEARS, BUT THE CAUSE OF THE FUEL ODOR COULD NOT BE DETERMINED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ODOR STARTED AT LEAST SIX MONTHS AFTER PURCHASING THE VEHICLE. THE VIN AND FAILURE MILEAGE WERE UNKNOWN.
Mazda 626 2000
  • Date Of Incident: 2017-05-25
  • Date Complaint: 2017-08-14
  • VIN: 1YVGF22C6Y5
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: TRANSMISSION FAILURE. CAR IS PARKED, AND WON'T GO INTO GEAR. SEEMS TO BE A COMMON ISSUE FOR THIS MAKE AND MODEL CAR.
Mazda 626 1999
  • Date Of Incident: 2011-11-15
  • Date Complaint: 2017-07-13
  • VIN: 1YGVF22CXX5
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: WHEN ENGAGING THE IGNITION SWITCH TO START THE VEHICLE, SMOKE COMES FROM THE STEERING COLUMN, I MUST IMMEDIATELY TURN OFF THE CONTACT POSITION. THIS PROBLEM OCCURS SECONDS AFTER THE IGNITION SWITCH IS ENGAGED.
Mazda 626 2002
  • Date Of Incident: 2017-06-06
  • Date Complaint: 2017-06-07
  • VIN: 1YVGF22C225
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: THE TRANSMISSION HAS BEEN REPLACED TWICE NOW. EVEN AFTER WE GET IT FIXED IT STILLS JERKS AND SOUNDS LIKE THE ENGINE IS GOING TO FALL OUT. IT HAS A TERRIBLE TIME SHIFTING FROM 1ST TO 2ND AND SOMETIMES WHEN YOU PUT IT IN REVERSE IT JUMPS AND SOUNDS LIKE IT IS GOING TO FALL OUT. MY DAD IS 94 YEARS OLD AND NEEDS THIS CAR TO WORK. HE DOESN'T NEED TO GO OUT AND BUY ANOTHER ONE OR SPEND ANOTHER $1800 OR SO TO GET THIS ONE FIXED. I HAVE READ A LOT OF COMPLAINTS ABOUT THIS CAR AND THE TRANSMISSION AND I FEEL MAZDA NEEDS TO MAKE IT RIGHT.
Mazda 626 1998
  • Date Of Incident: 2017-01-29
  • Date Complaint: 2017-05-30
  • VIN: IYVGF22C1W5
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
  • Summary: TAKATA RECALL. THE TRANSMISSION CD4E TRANNY DOESN'T HAVE SWITCH GEARS UNLESS YOU USE EXCESSIVE RPM.
Mazda 626 1995
  • Date Of Incident: 2015-10-22
  • Date Complaint: 2017-05-11
  • VIN: 1YVGE22C9S5
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1995 MAZDA 626. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V674000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.

Latest 5 recalls Mazda 626

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 46 recalls for different components of the Mazda 626.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Mazda 626 1994
  • Report Received Date: 2015-10-19
  • Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
  • Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 1989-1998 MPV, 1990-1995 323, 1990-1998 Protege, 1992-1993 MX-3, 1993-1995 929, 1993-1997 MX-6, and 1993-1998 626 vehicles. In the affected vehicles, grease applied to the contact points inside the ignition switch may become conductive and overheat.
  • Consequence: If the ignition switch overheats there would be an increased risk of a fire.
  • Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ignition switch, free of charge. The recall began on December 17, 2015. Owners may contact Mazda Customer Experience Center at 1-800-222-5500, option#6. Mazda's number for this recall is 8715J.
  • Model: Mazda 626 1993
  • Report Received Date: 2015-10-19
  • Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
  • Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 1989-1998 MPV, 1990-1995 323, 1990-1998 Protege, 1992-1993 MX-3, 1993-1995 929, 1993-1997 MX-6, and 1993-1998 626 vehicles. In the affected vehicles, grease applied to the contact points inside the ignition switch may become conductive and overheat.
  • Consequence: If the ignition switch overheats there would be an increased risk of a fire.
  • Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ignition switch, free of charge. The recall began on December 17, 2015. Owners may contact Mazda Customer Experience Center at 1-800-222-5500, option#6. Mazda's number for this recall is 8715J.
  • Model: Mazda 626 1995
  • Report Received Date: 2015-10-19
  • Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
  • Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 1989-1998 MPV, 1990-1995 323, 1990-1998 Protege, 1992-1993 MX-3, 1993-1995 929, 1993-1997 MX-6, and 1993-1998 626 vehicles. In the affected vehicles, grease applied to the contact points inside the ignition switch may become conductive and overheat.
  • Consequence: If the ignition switch overheats there would be an increased risk of a fire.
  • Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ignition switch, free of charge. The recall began on December 17, 2015. Owners may contact Mazda Customer Experience Center at 1-800-222-5500, option#6. Mazda's number for this recall is 8715J.
  • Model: Mazda 626 1998
  • Report Received Date: 2015-10-19
  • Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
  • Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 1989-1998 MPV, 1990-1995 323, 1990-1998 Protege, 1992-1993 MX-3, 1993-1995 929, 1993-1997 MX-6, and 1993-1998 626 vehicles. In the affected vehicles, grease applied to the contact points inside the ignition switch may become conductive and overheat.
  • Consequence: If the ignition switch overheats there would be an increased risk of a fire.
  • Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ignition switch, free of charge. The recall began on December 17, 2015. Owners may contact Mazda Customer Experience Center at 1-800-222-5500, option#6. Mazda's number for this recall is 8715J.
  • Model: Mazda 626 1997
  • Report Received Date: 2015-10-19
  • Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
  • Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 1989-1998 MPV, 1990-1995 323, 1990-1998 Protege, 1992-1993 MX-3, 1993-1995 929, 1993-1997 MX-6, and 1993-1998 626 vehicles. In the affected vehicles, grease applied to the contact points inside the ignition switch may become conductive and overheat.
  • Consequence: If the ignition switch overheats there would be an increased risk of a fire.
  • Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ignition switch, free of charge. The recall began on December 17, 2015. Owners may contact Mazda Customer Experience Center at 1-800-222-5500, option#6. Mazda's number for this recall is 8715J.

Latest negative Mazda 626 car reviews

  1. Carmelo O'Connell 2025-06-14

    Vehicle year: 1994

    Hi there! Thank you for sharing your experience with us. It's amazing to hear that your car is still running strong even after 10 years and 150K miles! You've done a great job maintaining it so far, and it's great to hear that the previous owner took good care of it too. It sounds like you've got a reliable car with a lot of life left in it. Just a friendly reminder that when buying a used car, it's important to do your research and make sure it's been well-maintained. Keep up the good work!

  2. Alejandrin McGlynn 2025-06-11

    Vehicle year: 1990

    Yes, I've owned this car since it was brand new. I bought it for around $11,500 in 1990. It has a 5-speed transmission, air conditioning, and cruise control. This car has been the most reliable and cost-effective vehicle I've ever owned, even compared to several Hondas I've owned since 1990. It gets an impressive 35mpg and has decent acceleration. I only had to replace the CV joints at 100K miles and the AC fan at 120K miles, which only cost me $80. The clutch is still the original one. I've only done routine maintenance such as brake pads, timing belt, and oil changes. It seems like this car still has another 100K+ miles left in it. Overall, this car is simply the best I've ever had. It's a true gem.

  3. Zachary McGlynn 2025-06-08

    Vehicle year: 1999

    I'm glad to hear that you've had a positive experience with your 626! While it may not have the most power, it's great to hear that it's still running well. It's understandable that with regular use, some parts may need to be replaced, but it's great that you haven't had any major issues. I appreciate your honesty about the fit and finish of the interior, but it's good to know that it's held up despite some wear and tear. Thank you for sharing your thoughts on your car!

  4. Thad Fadel 2025-06-01

    Vehicle year: 1996

    I'll make it easy to understand. I've had to spend over $2,500 on transmission repairs in two separate instances over the past three years. If it weren't for these repairs, I could have nearly paid off the note on this car. Unfortunately, I had to use my hard-earned cash to fix the transmission. As a result, I have decided not to purchase any more Mazda products in the future!

  5. Myrl Pfannerstill 2025-05-20

    Vehicle year: 1995

    I'm so glad to hear that your car is still running well even after purchasing it with 274,000 miles on it! Although you had to replace the transmission soon after buying it, it's impressive that it was the original from 1995. Additionally, the gas mileage is fantastic, especially with gas prices at 2.89. It's great that you can still fill up your tank for only $30!

Latest positive Mazda 626 car reviews

  1. Tyree Mueller 2025-06-18

    Vehicle year: 1997

    This was your first real car, how exciting! It's great to hear that you found a gem with only 45k miles on it, and owned by a sweet little old lady no less. I can understand why you were initially skeptical about the partnership between Mazda and Ford, but at $3,500 the price was definitely right and you made a great purchase. It's wonderful to hear that it's been the best car you've ever owned, and that you never once had an issue with it. Your commute to work was an hour round trip and you frequented the mountains often, so it's fantastic to hear that as an auto-enthusiast, you found it to be a fun and enjoyable drive. The 5-speed sounds like it was quick and easy to shift, and it mated well to Mazda's unique KL-DE V6 engine. I'm so sorry to hear that it was totaled just yesterday when a woman ran a red and hit you. I hope you're okay and that you'll be able to find another car that you'll love just as much.

  2. Kurtis Kuhn 2025-06-17

    Vehicle year: 2000

    I've had my car for 1.5 years and it's been trouble-free. Although I was a bit annoyed when I had to replace the freon, as I believe it was low when I got the car. Overall, the car looks great, handles well, and the V6 model is plenty fast. The only downside is the automatic downshift feature, which can be a little rough at times. I haven't noticed any engine noise, but I usually play my music loud. In my opinion, this car is definitely a better choice than the Camry or Honda. I used to own a Camry, and this car handles much better.

  3. Nikko Yost 2025-06-16

    Vehicle year: 1990

    I have never had to put a dime into this car other than routine maintenance. It is over 13 years old with 140,000 miles and it's just as reliable today as ever. I highly recommend this car.

  4. Jose Kling 2025-06-15

    Vehicle year: 1996

    In eight years, this car has never failed to start once. It's peppy, sassy, and responds smoothly. The seats are the most comfortable car seats I've ever been in. I would love to buy another one just like it!

  5. Kieran Berge 2025-06-12

    Vehicle year: 1995

    The vehicle is a 2.0 4cyl automatic hatchback with 150,000 km on the clock. It was purchased from the second owner, who was quite meticulous with maintenance. The car looks and feels like new, even after 15 years. I have made a few upgrades, such as changing the radio cassette to a CD player, adding a set of Eunos alloys with decent rubber, and installing a pod filter to improve air flow for the motor. The performance is already quite good for a 2.0 liter automatic, but I am looking to further improve it with a new sports exhaust, including a new catalytic converter. I will also upgrade the suspension. I have had no problems with the automatic transmission, which is fully imported from Japan. This car is ultra-reliable, as long as scheduled maintenance is performed on time.

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