1986 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.

1986 Mazda 626

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Common 1986 Mazda 626 problems

The Mazda 626 1986 is known for several common problems that owners have reported over the years. Here are some of the most frequently mentioned issues, along with details on what they entail and potential solutions:

  • Engine Won't Restart: The engine may stop while driving and then refuse to restart. This problem is typically due to weak inner parts of the spill valve on the fuel injection pump, which can lead to a drop in injection pressure.
  • Engine Cranks But Doesn't Start: The engine may crank but fail to turn over. This issue can be caused by a faulty distributor or a tripped inertia switch.
  • Knocking From Front or Rear: A knocking sound may come from the front or back of the car, especially on rough roads. This problem is often due to broken or loose sway bar linkages.
  • Engine Surge: The engine may surge when in forward gears. This issue is typically caused by a split intake tube between the mass airflow sensor and the throttle bottle.
  • Rough Idling: The engine may run rough when idling and may misfire. This problem is often due to a worn-out intake manifold gasket, a common issue with the Mazda 626.
  • Engine Stall When Stopping: The engine may stall when applying the brake to come to a stop. This issue is usually caused by low ATF levels, which can cause the torque convertor to lock up.
  • Heater Problems: The heater may only work on one setting or not at all. This problem is often due to a faulty heater blower motor.
  • Engine Misfiring: The engine may misfire, causing the revs to move up and down instead of remaining constant. This issue is typically caused by a failing MAF (Mass Air Flow) sensor.

In addition to these issues, the Mazda 626 1986 may also experience problems with its braking system, such as a leaking hydraulic booster or worn-out front brake pads

. The car's suspension may also be overly stiff, causing discomfort during driving

When encountering these problems, it's essential to diagnose and address them promptly to ensure the car's longevity and safety. Regular maintenance, such as checking and replacing worn-out parts, can help prevent these issues from arising in the first place. Additionally, consulting with Mazda specialists or mechanics familiar with the model can provide valuable insights and solutions for these common problems.

1986 Mazda 626 engine

What years to avoid Mazda 626?

We advise keeping clear of the 2003, 2004, 2006, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2013, 2014, and 2016 models. Most issues with this vehicle come from troubles like engine failure, transmission troubles, and interior accessory troubles. These can be costly and take a large chunk of your savings instantly.

How many miles can a Mazda 626 last?

217,000mi

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.

What causes a Mazda 626 to not start?

The most common reasons a Mazda 626 won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.

How much horsepower does a 1986 Mazda 626 GT Turbo have?

A 626 GT (also called the Turbo in Canada) was introduced in 1986 using the 120 hp (89 kW) and 150 lb⋅ft (200 N⋅m) FET engine.

1986 Mazda 626 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mazda 626 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

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

The graph below shows statistics for all 1986 Mazda 626 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1986 Mazda 626 complaints

The NHTSA has received 18 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1986 Mazda 626.

2004-02-13

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2003-07-20
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: AUTOMATIC TRANSMISION FAILED. FIRST FAILED IN JULY AND TRANSMISION REPLACED AND NOW HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM AGAIN O/D LIGHT FLASHING, HARD SHIFT WILL NOT SHIFT INTO O/D.*AK
2002-06-21

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2001-09-12
  • VIN: JM1GC221XG1
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: CONSUMER REQUESTING REIMBURSEMENT FOR REPAIRS MADE PRIOR TO RECALL NOTICE 90V118000 IGNITION SWITCH PROGRAM. DEALER DENIED REIMBURSEMENT CLAIM STATING THAT THE REPAIR ORDER DOES NOT SUPPORT THE REQUEST FOR REIMBURSEMENT. *TT
2002-06-21

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2001-09-12
  • VIN: JM1GC221XG1
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: CONSUMER HAD TO HAVE RACK BOOTS REPLACED. *TT
1999-11-10

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: JM1GC3112G1
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: THE KEY DOES NOT GO ALL THE WAY BACK TO START AFTER CAR IS STARTED
1999-04-22

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-03-31
  • Fire: 1
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: ENGINE OVERHEATED RESULTING IN VEHICLE FIRE. (OHIO TRAFFIC CRASH REPORT). MJS
1999-02-22

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-02-11
  • VIN: JM1GC2231G1
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: HEATER CORE BROKE, CAUSING THE HOT WATER TO SPILL INTO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT WHICH MAY HAVE CAUSED INJURIES. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK
1998-12-19

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: JM1GC2217G1
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: ANTI FREEZE SMOKE IS COMING THROUGH THE HEATER VENTS, ALSO EXHAUST IS LEAKING
1998-07-15

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: BRAKE FAILURE.
1998-04-13

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-02-01
  • VIN: JM1GC2211G1
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: IGNITION SWITCH FAILED TO START ENGINE COOLING FAN, CAUSING RADIATOR TO EXPLODE AND FUEL PUMP TO FAIL.
1998-01-20

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1997-12-01
  • VIN: JM1GC3119G1
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BELT CABLE BROKE.
1997-12-30

WHEELS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1997-11-01
  • VIN: JM1GC2216G1
  • Components: WHEELS
  • Summary: WHEEL BEARING PROBLEMS.
1997-08-19

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1997-07-02
  • VIN: JM1GC2216G1
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: IGNITION SWITCH ASSEMBLY FAILED.
1997-08-19

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1997-07-02
  • VIN: JM1GC2216G1
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: WINDSHIELD WASHER PUMP FAILED.
1995-06-19

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-06-19
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: CAR SOMETIMES STALL/STARTING PROBLEMS. *AK
1995-05-02

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-05-02
  • VIN: JM1GC3136G1
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT BUCKLE WOULDN'T LATCH . TT
1995-04-04

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: REAR PASSENGER SHOULDER/LAP BELT WON'T RETRACT ALL THE WAY. TT
1995-02-27

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-02-27
  • VIN: JM1GC2215G1
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: REAR SEATBELTS FAILS TO STAY FASTEN WHEN USING, UNFASTENING WHILE RIDING IN VEHICLE. PLEASE DESCRIBE DETAILS. TT
1995-01-06

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1994-12-29
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: GAS TANK RUSTED FROM OUTSIDE IN, RESULTING IN LEAKAGE. TT

1986 Mazda 626 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1986 Mazda 626.

1990-06-14
  • Manufacturer: MAZDA (NORTH AMERICA),INC
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
  • Summary: IGNITION SWITCH TERMINAL MAY MALFUNCTION.
  • Consequence: THIS COULD RESULT IN FAILURE OF WINDSHIELD WIPERS,WINDSHIELD WASHER, ENGINE COOLING FAN, HEATER BLOWER, AND AIR CONDITIONINGCOMPRESSOR. FAILURE OF WINDSHIELD CLEARING DEVICES COULD CAUSE REDUCEDVISIBILITY, WHICH COULD RESULT IN AN ACCIDENT.
  • Remedy: REPLACE IGNITION SWITCHES.
1986-03-11
  • Manufacturer: MAZDA (NORTH AMERICA),INC
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: THE THROTTLE ANGLE SENSOR ON THE CARBURETOR MAY CONTAIN A NYLON ROTOR WHICH HAS NOT BEEN HEAT TREATED. ROTORS THAT HAVE NOT BEEN HEAT TREATED CONTRACT IN THE PRESENCE OF HEAT CAUSING THE THROTTLE MECHANISM TO STICK. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: THIS MAY CAUSE THE THROTTLE TO STICK IN THE OPEN POSITION WHICH MAY RESULT IN LOSS OF CONTROL LEADING TO AN ACCIDENT. ALSO,VEHICLE MAY NOT CONFORM WITH STANDARD 124.
  • Remedy: REPLACE THROTTLE ANGLE SENSOR ASSEMBLIES WITH NEW HEAT TREATED ROTORS WITH LARGER INSIDE DIAMETERS.
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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1986 Mazda 626 problems:

Mazda 626, Reliable? [Archive] - MX-5 Miata Forum
Mazda 626, Reliable? [Archive] - MX-5 Miata Forum
https://forum.miata.net/vb/archive/index.php/t-201455.html

and are there any common problems with them? It's a very nice car but I have heard that some of them have transmission problems. Thanks ...

Mazda 626: Common Problems and Solutions | BreakerYard.com
Mazda 626: Common Problems and Solutions | BreakerYard.com
https://www.breakeryard.com/car-parts/mazda/626/common-problems

Mazda 626 Common Problems and Solutions · Slow Window Rising · Engine Won't Restart · Engine Cranks But Not Starting · Knocking From Front or Rear · Engine Surge ...

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Have 1999 Mazda 626 v6. Have oil leak and intend to replace valve ...
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Jul 6, 2013 ... Have 1999 Mazda 626 v6. Have oil leak and intend to replace valve cover gasket. May need to replace camshaft seal. does - Answered by a ...

1986 Jaguar XJ6 Reviews - Carsurvey.org
1986 Jaguar XJ6 Reviews - Carsurvey.org
http://www.carsurvey.org/reviews/jaguar/xj6/1986/

Mazda 626. Would you buy another car from this ... common weakness in these cars), fuel ... problems and am waiting till my next paycheck to address the issue.

Why do cars made by Mazda seem more prone to rust than the ...
Why do cars made by Mazda seem more prone to rust than the ...
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Jul 1, 2013 ... I'm thinking of buying a Mazda. What are some common problems I should expect?

Other years of Mazda 626

mazda 626 1987 photo
626 1987
Mazda

40

1

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mazda 626 1988 photo
626 1988
Mazda

52

6

0

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

48

2

0

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

55

2

11

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

95

2

11

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

22

1

20

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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1986 Mazda 626 photo