1991 Mazda 626 LX review from North America
"...don't make 'em like they used to"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
I was interested to find that many other 626 owners had the same problems I had:
A couple CV boot replacements, especially on the right side.
New exhaust every 2 years.
Needed alignment often to eliminate shakes at high speeds- but was smooth as butter at 85mph when fixed.
Paint on hood was cracking near the end.
New throttle air hose at 143k.
Transmission was going at 144k when I kissed it goodbye. = (
General comments?
Glove box is small.
No cup holders.
Loved the pickup- everyone underestimated my 626 off the line!
Great cargo room when backseats are folded down.
Comfy, low seats for road-trips and cruising around.
I was sad to see this car go... it was a dream car after those Ford boats my dad made me drive in high school. My brother bought it new; there were no major problems until ~140k. I should have let go of it sooner because I only got $330 at trade-in.
Don't know if I would buy a new Mazda because of all the transmission horror stories I've heard about 1994-2001 626s. It's a bummer; I loved this car. The new Proteges look kinda sweet though.
New car: 2003 Corolla S. Excellent so far, but is a little more bumpy and sits much higher than the 626... can't see behind you to parallel park or pretend like you're low-riding. =)
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  | I have been unable to find another car that provides me with sheer driving pleasure |
| Best car I have ever owned, no/low maintenance and cheap to keep |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.2L Automatic |
| Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 10/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 109000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 144000 miles |
| Previous car | Ford LTD |
| Date of Entry | 6th June, 2003 |