1998 Mazda 626 LX review from North America

The transmission went out the first time at about 50,000 miles. I had it re-built and it cost about 1900 dollars. The transmission went out the second time at about 70,000 miles. this time it cost me 2500 dollars, I had a transmission cooler added as I was told it would help. This transmission lasted 13,000 miles. It is now sitting in a cow pasture as I don't have another 2000 dollars to put in this car, besides I am currently serving with the Air Force in the Middle East for Enduring/Iraqi Freedom.

I have not had any major problems out of this car outside of the transmission. But that problem is enough for me to know I will never buy another car from this company. Not just because it is a lemon, but because the company knows there is a major problem with this cars transmission and they refuse to recall it. My car is now worth, if it had a working transmission, about 4,000 and I have already spent almost 5,000 in transmission repairs and it still needs another 2000-2500 dollars.

The car is comfortable and drives very well. I have kept the oil changed every 3000 miles and the oil is almost clean at every change.

Gas mileage has been about 20-23 mpg.

Tire wear has been low as I also rotate my tires at every oil change.

Performance is not great as my car only had the 4 Cyl. But it was OK.

If this car did not have an extremely bad transmission, it would be a really good car.