1995 Mazda 626 LX review from North America
"Excellent Japanese car except for the troublesome Ford auto trans"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Had to have the transmission rebuilt at 107,000 miles - 2007.
Now, in April of 2009, after 30,000 miles, the O/D light flashes after going up 4 or 5 long uphill grades - West Virginia. Pulling over and letting it cool for 1/2 hour solves this. The flashing O/D light is definitely caused by overheating of transmission from 65-70 mph speed going up mountains on interstate. Asked a transmission shop to install a trans cooler, which I supplied, and they said they've never once had to do this - still in the trunk of the car. Obviously needs additional cooling capacity of some kind.
General comments?
This car has excellent acceleration for a 120 hp 2.0 Liter 4 cylinder - runs like a 150 hp engine.
Very comfortable car - runs like bigger car on the highway - climbs hills easily (not withstanding the overheating problem).
Well designed - slicker looking than a 95 Accord or Camry. Lots of trunk room with fold-forward seats. Very quiet car - well sound-proofed.
Recommended reviews
| This car sucks! I hate this heap of junk! |
|
| Stylish and Relativley reliable if you get the Automatic |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1995 |
| Year of manufacture | 1995 |
| First year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 gas Automatic |
| Performance marks | 9 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 6 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 10 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 104 miles |
| Most recent distance | 137 miles |
| Previous car | Buick Riviera |
| Date of Entry | 13th April, 2009 |