1999 Mazda 626 LX review from North America

Brake problem upon purchase, but told by sales dept and service dept that they were fine. After serious jerking and squealing, took it elsewhere for new brakes.

Windshield wipers malfunctioned the first rain. Dealer said not covered under warranty; took it elsewhere to have wipers repaired.

Door moldings peeled off within twelve months. Took back to dealer and told not covered under warranty.

Transmission blew after two years - not under warranty. Took elsewhere to have it fixed.

Computer malfunctioned after five years - under warranty! Repaired by dealer!

Check engine light came on continuously after computer repair. Maintenance Dept at dealer said nothing wrong just reacting to new parts. Took back again twice - same message from service crews. had it checked elsewhere and told catalytic converter was the problem (75,000). Had trip coming up, took vehicle - came back and went to dealer. Not covered under warranty; have to find someone else to put in a new one.

After five previous Mazdas with no problems ever, I'll never purchase a Ford-built Mazda again. Never.

Mazdas built in Japan were excellent vehicles and served the family well. We used (and abused) them for ten years, and at one point had two of them in the garage.

The first vehicle we bought that was built in USA fell apart. We will never buy another.