1997 Mazda 626 LX review from North America
"Reliable car with a bad transmission"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Transmission failed @ 108000 miles.
General comments?
I bought this car as cheap transportation to work and it has been a good companion. It is an old car and I had to get the transmission rebuilt for $1500. The suspension is soft, the 4 cylinder lacks power and the car vibrates when the engine is in idle, so I need to shift to neutral.
Rebuilding the transmission seems to be necessary, so be sure to factor it into the purchase price if you plan to buy any 626 with around 100k miles on it.
Other than that, I'd get 98 or newer model next time. They have more power and run better.
The engine is great, all the electrics are working, and other than CV axles, water pump, belts and brakes, nothing seems to be too bad. I don't have any emission issues like I have with my Ford all the time.
In all, a great little car. Get a 6 cylinder or manual transmission, or look put for a transmission repair shop.
Recommended reviews
| This is the worst car I ever owned |
|
| With Manual tranny, a high mileage warrior; with auto, a problem on 4 wheels |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1997 |
| Year of manufacture | 1997 |
| First year of ownership | 2007 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2008 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.3 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 3 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 2 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 3 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 106000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 113000 miles |
| Previous car | Ford Ranger |
| Date of Entry | 14th February, 2008 |