1990 Mazda 626 LX review from North America

A/C was gone on purchase.

Secondary ignition coil at 115,000 miles, was a difficult problem to solve. Acted like a bad fuel pump. $108 for the part.

Replaced power steering pump at 162,000 miles, part cost $128.

Also at 162,000 miles replaced header, resonator pipe, and muffler, cost about $300 for parts.

Also at 162K replaced valve cover gasket, very simple job and I hope that the quart/week oil habit is cured.

When I first saw the 626 parked in a yard with a 'For Sale' sign on it, I thought it was a Corolla or the like, budget transportation with no frills. Was very pleased with the first drive, taking note of a good amount of grunt, comfortable seats, sunroof and many other gadgets, and very good feel of steering, brakes, shifter, and clutch. Price was $1,100 and mechanical upkeep was very good as was the interior. The exterior was marked by sun-damaged paint and a couple of rust spots.

An early improvement was a second-hand set of alloy wheels and some decent new tires, which brought out very fine ride and handling characteristics. The 626 is the best-handling car I have owned since my '77 VW Scirocco. The ride is firm and well-controlled, and grip is surprising for a family sedan. Not one squeak or rattle. The engine could idle a little smoother, but it's very happy pulling at low to medium revs and cruising on the freeway at 70 or 80. Fuel economy is just fine in the high 20s overall, low 30s on trips.

I have no idea how long I'll keep it, but I'm thinking of treating it to a low-budget paint job and seeing what the A/C needs.