2001 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.

2001 Mazda 626

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Common 2001 Mazda 626 problems

Based on the information from the sources provided, here is a list of common problems with the Mazda 626 2001 as reported by owners:

  1. Slow Window Rising:
    • Problem: One or more door windows may go down easily but take around 10 minutes to go back up, or they may stop moving entirely.
    • Solution: This issue is often due to a failing window motor or regulator. Replacing these components can resolve the problem.
  2. Engine Won't Restart:
    • Problem: The engine may stop while driving and then fail to restart.
    • Solution: Early models of the Mazda 626 had issues with the spill valve on the fuel injection pump, causing a drop in injection pressure. Replacing the spill valve can address this problem.
  3. Engine Cranks But Not Starting:
    • Problem: The engine cranks but does not start.
    • Solution: This could be related to a worn distributor or a tripped inertia switch. Checking and replacing the distributor or resetting the inertia switch can help resolve this issue.
  4. Knocking From Front or Rear:
    • Problem: A knocking sound is heard from the front or rear of the car, especially on rough roads.
    • Solution: This issue is often caused by broken or loose sway bar linkages. Tightening them or replacing with redesigned linkages can fix the problem.
  5. Engine Surge:
    • Problem: The engine surges unexpectedly when in forward gears.
    • Solution: Check the intake tube for splits between the mass airflow sensor and throttle bottle. Replacing damaged intake ducting can resolve this issue.
  6. Rough Idling:
    • Problem: The engine runs rough when idling and may misfire.
    • Solution: Worn-out intake manifold gaskets are a common issue. Replacing the gasket can improve engine performance and prevent overheating.
  7. Engine Stall When Stopping:
    • Problem: The engine stalls when applying the brake to stop.
    • Solution: Low ATF levels can cause the torque converter to lock up, leading to stalling. Topping up the ATF can resolve this stalling issue.
  8. Heater Problems:
    • Problem: Issues with the heater only working on specific settings, likely due to a faulty heater blower motor.
    • Solution: Replacing the heater blower motor can fix this problem and restore proper heater functionality.
  9. Engine Misfiring:
    • Problem: Engine misfiring, fluctuating revs, and poor acceleration due to a failing MAF (Mass Air Flow) sensor.
    • Solution: Replacing the MAF sensor can address misfiring issues and improve engine performance.

These common problems with the Mazda 626 2001 can impact the car's performance and reliability, requiring specific repairs and replacements to ensure optimal functioning.

2001 Mazda 626 engine

What is the common problem with Mazda 626?

The MAF (Mass Air Flow) sensor is prone to failure on this car, causing misfiring/poor engine idling. This issue can also lead to poor performance and lack of acceleration.

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.

2001 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:

  • Power train problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Equipment problems
  • Air bags problems
  • Service brakes problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2001 Mazda 626 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 2001 Mazda 626

The NHTSA has received 190 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2001 Mazda 626. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2001 Mazda 626 vehicles.

2019-07-09

ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-03-01
  • 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.
2016-06-23

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-06-10
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 1YVGF22C115
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: MY DAUGHTER WAS SITTING IN HER CAR WHEN SHE NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM THE WIPER SWITCH AREA AND BLINKER AREA. THE SMOKE SMELLED LIKE BURNING PLASTIC. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION BY A MECHANIC, IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE IGNITION SWITCH WAS BAD, CAUSING THE STARTER TO STAY ENGAGED. THE BURNING SMELL WAS COMING FROM THE IGNITION SWITCH. I CURRENTLY HAVE THE DEFECTIVE PART AS WELL AS THE RECEIPT FOR THE REPLACEMENT PART.
2016-04-18

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-04-16
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 1YVGF22C115
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 MAZDA 626. WHILE DRIVING 15 MPH, AND SLOWING DOWN TO MAKE A TURN INTO A PARKING LOT, THE STEERING WHEEL EMITTED SMOKE AND BURST INTO FLAMES. THE POLICE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE, BUT DID NOT FILE A REPORT. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC REPLACED THE STEERING WHEEL. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
2015-02-16

SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-02-16
  • VIN: 4F2YU09191K
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: OUR MAZDA 2001 TRIBUTE HAS BEEN LEAKING BRAKE FLUID AND MECHANIC SAID IT MAY BE SOMETHING WITH MASTER CYLINDER. AFTER SEARCHING THE INTERNET I FOUND MAZDA HAD A RECALL (#6712A) THAT COVERED 2001-2002 MODEL YEAR TRIBUTE SUVS FOR A FAULTY BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER RESERVOIR CAP. WE CALLED MAZDA AND SPOKE TO A REP. KATRINA SAID "YOUR CAR DOES NOT QUALIFY BECAUSE YOU DO NOT HAVE ABS BRAKES". WHETHER WE HAVE ABS BRAKES OR NOT WE SHOULD BE ABLE TO HAVE OUR CAR CHECKED IN THIS RECALL FOR OUR SAFETY. WE SHOULD NOT BE EXCLUDED FROM THIS RECALL. PLEASE LET US KNOW WHAT NEEDS TO BE DONE. *TR
2015-01-05

SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE,TIRES,SERVICE BRAKES,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-10-31
  • VIN: LYVGF22C3L5
  • Components: SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE,TIRES,SERVICE BRAKES,VISIBILITY/WIPER
  • Summary: I HAVE PUT SO MUCH MONEY IN THIS CAR. ALTERNATOR, TRANSMISSION, BRAKES, TIRES AND BALL JOINTS. NOW THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER NEEDS REPLACED, WIPER MOTOR AND QUARTER PANELS ARE ALL RUSTED OUT. I AM DISABLED AND THIS IS MY ONLY TRANSPORTATION. SHOULD ALL OF THIS SHOULD OF GONE WRONG? IT WILL NOT PASS INSPECTION. I HAVE HAD THIS CAR EIGHT YEARS. *TR
2014-12-07

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-12-07
  • VIN: 1YVGF22C015
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: TRANSMISSION O/D LIGHTS FLASHING AND DOES NOT MOVE IN THE FIRST GEAR OR SHIFT TO SECOND EITHER HAS HAPPENED ON FREE WAY ALSO WHICH IS VERY DANGEROUS. MY WIFE DRIVES WITH KIDS. *TR
2012-09-22

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2012-09-12
  • VIN: 1YVGF22D915
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: THIS CAR STARTED HAVING DIFFICULTY WITH GOING INTO REVERSE. FORWARD IS BECOMING DIFFICULT ALSO. TWO DIFFERENT MECHANICS INDICATE THAT IT IS THE TRANSMISSION. THEY NOTE THAT CHANGING THE TRANSMISSION FLUID MAY GIVE TEMPORARY RELIEF BUT THE REAL PROBLEM IS I NEED A NEW TRANSMISSION. I LIVE AND WORK OVERSEAS ON A US ARMY MILITARY BASE SO TO EVEN CONSIDER BRINGING AN SPEC REBUILT TRANSMISSION OVER IS VERY EXPENSIVE. I HAVE BEEN TOLD THAT WITH A REPLACEMENT TRANSMISSION I WILL HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM. I HAVE HAD ALL PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE DONE ON THE COVER OVER THE YEARS AND TO HAVE THIS HAPPEN AT 88,000 MILES IS A FINANCIAL HARDSHIP. *TR
2012-09-07

STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2012-06-19
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 1YVGF22C615
  • Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: COLUMBIA HEIGHTS, WASHINGTON DC JUNE 19TH 2012, I WAS WITH MY MOTHER AND PARTNER PARKING IN FRONT OF GIANT SUPERMARKET RETURNING A MOVIE AT LOCAL REDBOX, WHILE WAITING FOR MY PARTNER, I TURNED OFF THE CAR, SITTING INSIDE NOTICED DENSE FUMES CAME FROM THE IGNITION, I REMOVED THE KEY AND FUMES STILL COMING OUT, WE STEP OUTSIDE THE CAR AND WE SAW SEVERAL SPARKS IN THE IGNITION, I CALLED IMMEDIATELY 911, SUDDENLY A BIG FLAME OF FIRE CAME FROM THE STEERING WHEEL, THE CAR WAS ON FIRE, WE WERE CLOSE TO THE ROOMS FROM A LOCAL FIRE DEPARTMENT, A MAN CAME WITH A FIRE EXTINGUISHER AND CALM THE FIRE AND FLAMES; FIRE TRUCK CAME LESS THAN 10 MINUTES LATER, BUT CAR WAS ALREADY DESTROYED. I HAVE PICTURES TO PROVE, PHONE CALLS AND WITNESS. *TR
2012-07-27

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2012-05-23
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: TRAVELING IN CAR ON INTERSTATE IN THE RIGHT HAND LANE USING CRUISE CONTROL SET AT 70MPH. WAS COMING UP ON A CAR AND TAPPED THE BRAKE TO DISENGAGE CRUISE CONTROL AND THE CAR DID NOT DISENGAGE. I TRIED TO USE THE BRAKE AND IT WAS NOT WORKING AND WENT TO THE FLOOR. I COULD NOT SHUT THE CRUISE CONTROL OFF AT THE CONTROLS ON THE STEERING WHEEL EITHER. I QUICKLY SWERVED ONTO THE SHOULDER OF THE FREEWAY TO AVOID HITTING THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME. MY HUSBAND TURNED OFF THE IGNITION AND I EASED UP ON THE EMERGENCY BRAKE AND WE CAME TO A SAFE STOP. AFTER INSPECTING THE CAR WE TURNED THE CAR BACK ON AND TESTED THE BRAKES AT SLOW SPEEDS ON THE SHOULDER AND THE BRAKES ENGAGED NORMALLY. MY HUSBAND FEELS THE CRUISE CONTROL STUCK AND THAT IS WHY WE COULD NOT STOP THE CAR WITH THE CRUISE CONTROL BUTTONS OR WITH THE BRAKE PEDAL. *TR
2012-02-28

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2011-02-28
  • VIN: 1YVGF22C015
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: I BOUGHT THIS CAR USED A YEAR AGO THIS MONTH WHEN MY DAUGHTERS CAR ENGINE LOCKED UP. SHE WAS OUT OF STATE SO IT WAS A HURRY UP THING OVER THE PHONE. SHE DIDN'T REALIZE THE TRANSMISSION WAS SLIPPING IN FIRST GEAR, THOUGHT IT WAS CV JOINT. SHOP DIAGNOSED THE TRANSMISSION. THIS REALLY MAKES ME SOOO MAD AS THIS IS A NICE CAR. I THINK FORD SHOULD PAY TO REPLACE ALL THE TRANSMISSIONS IN THESE CARS. NOW I HAVE TO EITHER DUMP IT AT A LOSS OR PAY OUT ALOT TO GET TRANSMISSION REPAIRED . *TR
2011-04-12

POWER TRAIN,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2011-03-31
  • VIN: 1YVGF22C115
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,EQUIPMENT
  • Summary: THE TRANSMISSION IN MY 2001 MAZDA 626 I4 HAS FAILED TWICE. THE FIRST TIME IT FAILED AT 118,000 MILES WHILE I WAS ACCELERATING FROM A STOP AT A INTERSECTION ALMOST CAUSING AN SERIOUS ACCIDENT WITH THE CARS BEHIND ME. AFTER HAVING THE TRANSMISSION REBUILT FOR 2K THE TRANSMISSION FAILED AGAIN AT 120,000 MILES WHILE ACCELERATING FROM A STOP AT AN INTERSECTION ON A UPHILL SLANT AND ALMOST CAUSED A MAJOR ACCIDENT WITH THE CARS BEHIND ME AS I BACKED THE CAR DOWN THE HILL TO THE CURBSIDE. FORD NEEDS TO RECALL THESE HORRIBLE CD4E TRANSMISSIONS. I HAVE HAD THE TRANSMISSION REBUILT AGAIN AND THE CERTIFIED TRANSMISSION SHOP TELLS ME FORD HAS REDESIGNED THE DRUM FOR THESE TRANSMISSIONS (THE PART THAT FAILED BOTH TIMES) AND THEY ONLY RELEASE THEM 1 AT A TIME FROM THE FORD FACTORY TO TRANSMISSION SHOPS TO AVOID A RECALL ON THE PREVIOUS DESIGN WHICH FAILED ALL OF THEIR CD4E TRANSMISSIONS PREMATURELY. THIS IS VERY POOR CUSTOMER SERVICE ON FORDS PART AND THEY SHOULD STAND BEHIND THEIR PRODUCT AND NOT HIDE FROM THEIR FAILURES WHILE STICKING IT TO THEIR COSTUMERS. I WILL NOT BUY ANOTHER FORD PRODUCT AGAIN. *TR
2011-01-14

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2010-12-10
  • VIN: 1YVGF22C015
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 MAZDA 626LX. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 10 MPH WHEN THE TRANSMISSION BEGAN TO SLIP WITH SEVERE HESITATION. THE VEHICLE WAS DIAGNOSED BY TWO DIFFERENT INDEPENDENT MECHANICS WHO ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT THE TRANSMISSION WAS DEFECTIVE AND WOULD NEED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 123,000.
2010-10-21

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2010-09-28
  • VIN: 1YVGF22C915
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: I OWN A 2001 MAZDA 626. WHILE THE CAR IS 9 YEARS OLD, IT HAS ONLY 72,000 MILES ON IT. THE PROBLEM I'VE HAD WITH IT IS THAT THE SHIFTER CABLE KEEPS FAILING ON IT. THIS IS A VERY DANGEROUS AND POTENTIALLY FATAL THING THAT KEEPS HAPPENING. IT HAS FAILED 3 TIMES IN THE PAST 4 YEARS (2006-2010) AND SEEMS TO BE HAPPENING EVERY 20K-30K MILES. THE LAST TIME WAS LESS THAN A MONTH AGO AND JUST OVER A YEAR SINCE THE LAST FAILURE. EACH TIME, THE WARRANTY PERIOD HAS EXPIRED, SO I'M HAVING TO PAY HUNDREDS OF DOLLARS OUT OF POCKET TO GET THIS REPLACED. I'VE HAD IT DONE AT 3 DIFFERENT PLACES, INCLUDING A MAZDA DEALERSHIP. THERE IS OBVIOUSLY A SERIOUS DEFECT IN THE SHIFTER CABLE PARTS/DESIGN, BUT, TO MY KNOWLEDGE, MAZDA HAS YET TO ACKNOWLEDGE IT. I'VE CONTACTED THEM TO NO AVAIL. MOST PEOPLE, MYSELF INCLUDED, HAVE CARS FOR YEARS AND YEARS AND WITH A LOT MORE MILEAGE, AND THE SHIFTER CABLE NEVER GOES OUT. MAZDA NEEDS TO BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR THIS DISGRACE. WHAT CAN I DO TO SEE JUSTICE SERVED? *TR
2010-08-24

POWER TRAIN,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2010-08-15
  • VIN: 1YVGF22C015
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
  • Summary: 2001 MAZDA 626. TRANSMISSION SHIFTING CABLE FALLS OFF SHIFT LEVER ON TRANSMISSION. ONCE OCCURS, CAN NOT SHIFT OUT OF WHATEVER POSITION YOU ARE IN AT THE TIME OF THE FAILURE. MAZDA SELLS A NEW CABLE KIT WITH NEW/ADEQUATE CABLE TO TRANSMISSION CONNECTION DEVICE ($180). YOU CAN NOT JUST BUY THE CONNECTOR. MAZDA PARTS PERSON SAID, "WE SELL A LOT OF THESE" INDICATING NUMEROUS FAILURES FOR SAME CAUSE. BEING A MECHANICAL ENGINEER, I RESOLVED THE ISSUE WITH A AXLE NUT AS USED TO HOLD WHEELS ON A CHILD'S WAGON, ETC. *TR
2010-05-24

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2010-05-23
  • VIN: 1YVGF22CX15
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: O/D LIGHT BLINKING, WONT STOP, CANNOT ENGAGE OR DISENGAGE O/D FUNCTION. *TR
2010-02-20

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2010-01-12
  • VIN: 1YVGF22C115
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: O/D LIGHT FLASHING, AND GEARS SLIPPING. *TR
2010-02-08

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2009-11-01
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: MY 2001 626 (4 CYLINDER) TRANSMISSION NEEDS TO BE REPLACED AT UNDER 81,000 MILES!!!! THE ONLY WARNING SIGN WAS IT WOULDN'T SHIFT INTO REVERSE ONE DAY, THEN BOOM, IT BARELY MOVED FORWARD AGAIN. I HAVE NEVER HAD A PROBLEM WITH THIS CAR AND I HAVE MOSTLY OWNED MAZDA'S SO IMAGINE MY SURPRISE AND DISAPPOINTMENT THAT IT HAPPENED JUST AFTER I LOST MY JOB. NOW I HAVE NO JOB, NO TRANSPORTATION AND NO MEANS TO GET A JOB WITHOUT IT. MAZDA APPARENTLY KNEW THERE WERE PROBLEMS WITH THE TRANSMISSIONS AND CHOSE TO DO NOTHING ABOUT IT. I WILL NEVER PURCHASE OR RECOMMEND A MAZDA EVER AGAIN! AS A RESULT OF YOUR BLATANT FAILURE TO INFORM YOUR CUSTOMERS YOU HAVE LOST AT LEAST ONE GOOD CUSTOMER FOREVER.
2009-08-29

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2009-06-15
  • VIN: 1YVGF22C015
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: THE TRANSMISSION ON MY 01 MAZDA 626 IS BROKEN. IT WON'T SHIFT FROM THIRD TO FOURTH GEAR. I KNOW THIS IS A PROBLEM WITH ALMOST EVERY 626 THAT HAS A CD4E TRANSMISSION. SO THE TRANSMISSION IS OBVIOUSLY DEFECTIVE. *TR
2009-08-18

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2009-04-15
  • VIN: 1YVGF22C515
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: I OWN A 2001 MAZDA 626 4 CYL. MY CAR'S TRANSMISSION USUALLY RUNS IN THIRD GEAR ON LONG TRIPS AND DOESN'T SHIFT TO THE OVER DRIVE. ALSO, THERE IS A DELAY WHEN SHIFTING FROM SECOND TO THIRD AND FROM THIRD TO OVERDRIVE. IT WORKS FINE SHIFTING FROM FIRST TO SECOND GEAR. THIS IS A REALLY ANNOYING THING COMING FROM THIS CAR. I ALREADY DID A TRANSMISSION FLUSH TO SOLVE THE ISSUE BUT IT WORKED FINE FOR JUST A COUPLE OF DAYS AND IT IS JUST AS IT WAS AT THE BEGINNING. I HOPE SOMEONE TAKES CARE OF THIS BECAUSE THERE IS A LOT OF DISAPPOINTED CUSTOMERS DUE TO THIS COMMON ISSUE IN THIS VEHICLE. *TR
2009-08-07

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2001-06-01
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: 2001 MAZDA 626 4 CYLINDER AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FAILED. THE CAR WILL NOT DRIVE ANYMORE. AFTER DRIVING IT FOR A DISTANCE OF 60 MILES ONE DAY, I PARKED IT, TRIED TO START DRIVING IT AGAIN AND IT WOULDN'T GO. *TR
2009-06-10

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2003-06-08
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 MAZDA 626. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE WATER RESERVOIR OFF THE RADIATOR HAS TO BE REPLACED FOR THE FIFTH TIME. THE RESERVOIR HOLDS THE OVERFLOW FROM THE RADIATOR. THERE IS A CRACK IN THE SEAL WHERE THE SEAL MEETS. SHE HAS HAD TO PAY FOR EACH REPAIR BECAUSE THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS OUT OF WARRANTY. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150,000.
2009-05-16

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2009-05-08
  • VIN: JMDGF105260
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: THE LIGHT FOR THE AIR BAGS JUST STARTED TO FLASH ON THE PANEL - CAR ONLY 8 YEARS OLD & DONE AROUND 50000 KMS - HAVE BEEN TOLD IT IS THE MODULE AND NEEDS REPLACING - ALSO THAT THE BAGS COULD EITHER INFLATE WITHOUT WARNING OR MAY NOT WORK AT ALL IF CAR INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT - THEREFORE CONSIDERED DANGEROUS. COST OF APPROX AU$1500. SHOULD THIS REALLY BE HAPPENING IN A CAR OF THIS AGE. WE FEEL IT IS A FAULT WITH THE CAR AND THE MODULE SHOULD BE REPLACED AS A 'CAR DEFECT REPLACEMENT'. HAS ANYONE HAD ANY DEALINGS WITH THIS PROBLEM BEFORE AND IF SO WHAT WAS THE OUTCOME. I FEEL WE SHOULD NOT HAVE TO PAY FOR THIS AS IT IS DEFINITELY A MANUFACTURING PROBLEM. *TR
2009-04-22

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2009-04-07
  • VIN: 1YVGF22C315
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: 2001 626 MAZDA 4 CY. TRANSMISSION IS GOING OUT AND DUE TO THE NUMBER OF ISSUES REPORTED BY CONSUMERS ABOUT TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS, COSTLY REPAIRS AND EVEN ADDITIONAL PROBLEMS. WHEN IS MAZDA GOING TO BE FORCED TO DO SOMETHING ABOUT THIS ISSUE? IF THEY DO NOT - THIS WILL BE MY LAST MAZDA. *TR
2009-04-21

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2006-12-20
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: TRANSMISSION FAILED, EVEN AFTER PROPER MAINTENANCE. 2ND TRANSMISSION ALSO FAILED 13 MONTHS LATER. 2001 MAZDA 626 ES V6 2.5L AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. *TR
2009-04-07

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2009-04-06
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: TRANSMISSION FAILURE OCCURRED THE FIRST TIME IN EARLY SPRING OF 2003. MY 626 HAD JUST TURNED OVER 53,000 MILES WHEN THE TRANSMISSION WENT. CALLED FOR A TOW, TRANSMISSION PLACE SAID THAT IT WAS LIKELY TO HAVE TO BE A FULL REBUILD. I CALLED DEALERSHIP, THEY CALLED MAZDA AND MAZDA PAID FOR NEW TRANSMISSION AND TOW, EVEN THOUGH THE CAR WAS OUT OF WARRANTY. THIS WEEKEND, DRIVING CAR, NO SIGN OF ANY ISSUE, JUST HAD A FLUID FLUSH DONE ON THE CAR 6,000 MILES AGO SO I KNOW THAT IS FINE. COME HOME AFTER A WEEKEND OF CITY DRIVING AND GO TO GET IN THE CAR THE NEXT MORNING WHEN THE CAR WILL NOT SHIFT. STAYS IN PARK NO MATTER WHAT GEAR I MOVE SHIFTER TO. TAKING IT IN AGAIN WITH ONLY 45,000 MILES ON THE ~NEW~ TRANSMISSION THAT MAZDA PAID FOR THE FIRST TIME ROUND. CAR ONLY HAD 98,000 MILES ON IT AND HAS SUFFERED 2 DIFFERENT TRANSMISSION FAILURES. *TR

2001 Mazda 626 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2001 Mazda 626.

2005-10-05
  • Manufacturer: SPX FILTRAN
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: CERTAIN SPX FILTRAN FUEL FILTERS WITH A 45-DEGREE ANGLE INLET TUBE, MODEL 800F350-S1, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT FILTERS FOR 1993-1997 FORD PROBE,1993-2001 MAZDA 626 AND MX-6, AND 1983-1994 LOYAL, 3-DOOR COUPE, HATCHBACK, SEDAN, WAGON, BRAT, DL, GL, GL-10, RX, XT, AND XT6 PASSENGER VEHICLES WITH EFI OR TURBO ENGINES. THESE FILTERS ARE PACKAGED AS WIX, NAPA, AND CARQUEST BRAND FUEL FILTERS. CERTAIN SPX FILTRAN FUEL FILTERS WITH A 90-DEGREE ANGLE INLET TUBE, MODEL 800F300-S2, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT FILTERS FOR 19983-1994 SUBARU VEHICLES WITH EFI OR TURBO ENGINES. THESE FILTERS ARE PACKAGED AS WIX, NAPA, AND CARQUEST BRAND FUEL FILTERS. FUEL MAY LEAK FROM THE FILTER DUE TO NON-CONFORMING BRAZING WELDS WHERE THE INLET TUBE IS CONNECTED TO THE FILTER CAN.
  • Consequence: IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A VEHICLE FIRE CAN OCCUR.
  • Remedy: SPX WILL NOTIFY ITS CUSTOMERS AND PROVIDE A FULL REFUND. THE RECALL BEGAN SEPTEMBER 27, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MR. CHRIS GREESON AT 704-869-3733 OR CONTACT THE WIX INFORMATION HOTLINE AT 800-949-6698.

Negative 2001 Mazda 626 car reviews

  1. Charlie Toy 2025-01-01

    In one year, you may need to consider an expensive tune-up and the transmission may go out at 85K miles. Additionally, the gas mileage may not be very good for a four-cylinder engine. You may also experience a leak in the right tail lamp when it rains, which may require replacement.

  2. Nathaniel Heathcote 2024-08-14

    The car has unfortunately required two transmission rebuilds, one at 65k and another at 85k. Additionally, a factory defect caused a trunk leak which led to water damage and mildew. There are also signs of rust around the rear tire well. Despite these challenges, I have invested approximately 8k in maintenance and repairs since purchasing the car used with 38k miles.

  3. Arvel Morissette 2024-06-24

    I think this car would have been more enjoyable with a 5-speed manual transmission. Personally, I prefer not to build a 4-cylinder car with an automatic transmission because it can be underpowered and noisy. Unfortunately, I experienced some issues with my car, including a broken boot and front drive axle, after only 59,000 miles and a major tune-up. The handling in different weather conditions could be improved. Although it is a front-wheel-drive car, it struggles to control its back end at times.

  4. Edison Kassulke 2024-06-18

    Although there have been some challenges with this investment, I have taken proactive measures to ensure its maintenance and longevity. I have noticed some issues with the transmission and suspension, but I have addressed them promptly with the shop. I am confident that with proper care and attention, this investment will continue to serve me well.

  5. Cooper Schulist 2024-05-10

    Hello! Firstly, this car is a reliable choice that will get you where you need to go. While it may not be the fastest car on the road, it does its job well and has had no problems so far. It may not have any fancy features, but it is a great option for a high school student or a family. I hope this helps!

Positive 2001 Mazda 626 car reviews

  1. Wilton Larkin 2025-01-09

    I have a Mazda with 45K miles and have had no problems with it. The standard 4 cylinder motor provides plenty of power for both town and interstate driving. While the styling is a little dated, it suits me just fine. The comfort is pretty good, although the driver's armrest could be better. The only thing I don't like is the ignition key, which is very long and jabs into my side during the day while it's in my pocket. I change my own oil, but it's one of the hardest vehicles to change the oil on due to the super small filter in a hard-to-reach place. Most of the time, I go to Jiffy Lube instead. I've owned 4 Honda Accords in the past, and I can say that this car is just as good overall as a Honda, but a little bit cheaper to purchase. So far, I haven't experienced any defects.

  2. Matteo Greenholt 2024-09-24

    It is little more than basic transportation. It won't 'WOW' you, but it's reliable. The transmission is a little 'choppy' and 'harsh'. Overall, it's a decent vehicle.

  3. Delmer Von 2024-08-13

    This is a fantastic car to drive! If you're in the market for a family car with a sporty look (mine even has a spoiler!), then this is definitely the car for you. Just make sure to keep up with your maintenance schedule and you'll be able to enjoy this car for years to come - without any worries!

  4. Vincent Huels 2024-07-15

    I am extremely satisfied with my 2nd 626. Despite having 80K miles, it has proven to be highly dependable and reliable. The car's MPG is impressive, achieving 29 on the highway and 24 all-around. Although the ride quality is decent, the pick-up and transmission could be improved, but this is to be expected with a 4 cylinder engine. Additionally, the AC could be stronger when idling, which is again a common issue with 4 cylinder engines. However, I have no complaints about leg room, even on 4 hour trips with my family (including my 15 and 8 year old). Overall, this car is not only practical and efficient, but also highly dependable and reliable. I am confident in its ability to get me where I need to go.

  5. Rasheed Daniel 2024-06-17

    You've made an excellent choice with this car! It's impressive that you've already driven 44k miles without any issues. It's comparable to the Camry and Accord, but at a much better price point. Mazda really offers a great performance/price ratio. Would you consider buying another Mazda in the future?

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2001 Mazda 626 problems:

2001 Mazda 626 Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
2001 Mazda 626 Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2001-mazda-626/problems

Top 2001 Mazda 626 Problems · Transmission Failure Common. 153 people have reported this · Crank but No Start Condition. 145 people have reported this · Crank ...

Mazda 626 Starting Issues — Car Forums at Edmunds.com
Mazda 626 Starting Issues — Car Forums at Edmunds.com
https://forums.edmunds.com/discussion/6726/mazda/626/mazda-626-starting-issues

Dec 29, 2006 ... I'm having the same problem with my 2001 626. Sometimes it will start and sometimes not. When it won't start after 3 or 4 trys, I use ...

Mazda 626 Problems and Complaints - 13 Issues
Mazda 626 Problems and Complaints - 13 Issues
https://repairpal.com/problems/mazda/626

Top Mazda 626 Problems · Transmission Failure Common · Crank but No Start Condition · Crank but No Start Condition and No Spark · Check Engine Light Due to ...

Q&A: Troubleshooting Starting Issues on a 2001 Mazda 626
Q&A: Troubleshooting Starting Issues on a 2001 Mazda 626
https://www.justanswer.com/car/1mnaa-2001-mazda-626-i-m-having-hard-time-starting.html

Dec 9, 2008 ... If it starts right off with starter fluid, you definitely have a fuel concern. I would definitely start with the regulator. You may find you ...

2002 Mazda 626 Problems and Complaints - 10 Issues
2002 Mazda 626 Problems and Complaints - 10 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2002-mazda-626/problems

Problem with your 2002 Mazda 626? Our list of 10 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2002 Mazda 626.

Other years of Mazda 626

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626 2002
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626 2003
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626 1983
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626 1984
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626 1985
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626 1986
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