1999 Mazda 626 LX review from North America

I had to get a new water pump when my car had less than 30000 miles.

I've had to get new front brakes three times since I have owned the car.

I had to get a new transmission at 61000 miles. One day I got in my car on it wouldn't move when I put it in drive. I would move in second gear and reverse, but that was it. I was livid since I had just got it back after the expensive 60k maintenance package.

I am geting a new radiator today with 85000 miles.

The power antenna has been replaced two times since I have owned my car.

The CD player stopped working after two years.

I am really disappointed with the parts on this car. I have been very good about taking it to my Mazda dealer for every oil change and all maintenance; including the very expensive 15k, 30k, 45k and 60k maintenance that Mazda recommends.

I do have to say, that my dealer (the one I bought it at and have service it) stood behind me when the transmission failed. When I received the call about the $2300 to replace the transmission, I went through the roof and told them it was simply unacceptable and demanded to talk to someone within Mazda. None-the-less, Mazda paid for the transmission and I paid for the labor. I was not going to stop complaining until they listened, and thanks to my dealer I did not have to complain for long!

Today, I took it in for an early 90k maintenance and received a call about an hour ago that I needed a new radiator. No lights were on, no other "warning" signs were present, but now I get to pay approx. 480 dollars for a new radiator.

Now I know why the 626 was discontinued! It is labeled a Mazda product, but it is built with cheap Ford parts.