1986 Mazda 626 LX 5 door review from North America
"A reliable, well-appointed family touring sedan"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Replaced expensive OEM electronic adjustable shocks twice, then switched to Monroe Sensatracs.
New head gasket at 180,000 km.
New gas tank at 242,000 km.
AC was never strong suit... died at 160,000 km.
Needs original clutch replaced now, at 275,000 km.
General comments?
Car is underpowered by 2003 standards at 93 hp (no turbo).
Very well appointed in cabin with most gadgets still operational after 17 years of family ownership.
Mazda OEM parts seem excessively expensive (compared to Volkswagen).
Overall, very happy with this car we continue to drive every day. Maybe replace with '04 Mazda 6 once mandatory rear hatch version makes (inevitable) comeback.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1986 |
| First year of ownership | 1989 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0i Manual |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 9 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 3 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 60000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 275000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Honda Civic |
| Date of Entry | 19th February, 2003 |