1992 Mazda 323 review from Australia and New Zealand

Automatic transmission required 3 rebuilds, each lasting around 40,000 km.

Leaking cam seals, crank seals (front and rear)

Drivers master window swicth, left rear central lock motor failed.

Great wee car that was let down by the automatic transmission. Failed first time after around 10,000 km in my ownership, judging by oil condition, due to lack of maintenance. Transmission was overhauled. After overhaul in clunked when selecting reverse. After taking it back the the workshop it was repaired the agreed to remove it and check. It was removed and found to be faulty and was repaired. Once refitted it was found it only had 1st gear. Removed again and found to be un-repairable. Second hand transmission was purchased, overhauled and fitted. I picked the car up and traveled out of town some 40 km. When I went to return the transmission was in limp mode and had return to town in 2nd gear. Fault was finally repaired.

Other than these faults and small electrical fault this was a great car. Handled open road driving well. Very economical.