1996 Mazda 626 LX review from North America
"This model has chronic transmission problems."
What things have gone wrong with the car?
This car has known transmission problems. Less than a year after 3rd transmission was installed the car was leaking fluid. The repair shop diagnosed leaking transmission fluid, and recommended dealer replacement. The dealer had replaced the last one. The dealer service dept advised front pump failed, and replaced. This is now the 4th transmission on a car with exactly 60,000 miles. Front pump failed on this transmission after only 6,000 miles in one year. Reports filed with the National Highway Transportation Safety Board. However, despite large volume of complaints it is unlikely a recall will be issued on a car this old. The Ford transmission installed in this model is known to be a bad design and prone to defects.
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![]() ![]() | A single mom's financial nightmare |
![]() ![]() | I wouldn't have too much hopes on this car |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0L Automatic |
| Performance marks | 3/10 |
| Reliability marks | 2/10 |
| Comfort marks | 6/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 4/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 1/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 30000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 60000 miles |
| Previous car | Mazda 626 |
| Date of Entry | 8th June, 2003 |

