2001 Mazda 626 from North America - Comments

Not much, needed new brakes due to shaking, and had a little problem with rough idle, but this was sensor and new software. Good car, but see other comments.

Overall I was satisfied with this car when new. Very few problems, but during my 4 years of ownership this car degraded rapidly. And this is not my fault since it was used for steady high-way driving and all checkups done. It does not seem very solid and when I traded it in for a new Mazda last year it felt like it was completely falling apart. Exhaust, dampers, springs, door-sealings, worn seat and interior seemed worn, everything was shaking and cracking, the last year it was starting to use oil, transmission leaked, etc, but nothing that immediately had to be fixed.

I think it was wise to trade it in, and I got fair price, but I wonder who will buy this one used from the dealer. I wouldn't, for sure. It would take a lot of money to get this car right. Compared to my previous car that was a Chrysler the Mazda was more fault free, but the Chrysler had clocked up over 190.000 when the engine blew. And even at that mileage it felt more solid. But would not buy Chrysler again since resale value is not good.

Will the car last? In my experience and the experience of every person I know who owns a Mazda 626 is that it will NOT last. My car is in the shop as I type for a SECOND transmission repair in less than two years. Tell me is that lasting? If anyone is considering a Mazda I would strongly suggest going with something more reliable. Yes it is a fairly good-looking car, but what good is that if it will not shift gears?

I just bought a Mazda 626, my friend sent me this link... now I am so scared. T T.

I just bought my 2001 626 last week. I bought it because it got good gas mileage, and it was cheap and good looking. I paid 4200 for it, and after I drove it home I found that both axles had problems (which the dealer fixed), and I noticed from park to reverse, and from 1st to 2nd gear were really rough.

The car is pretty noisy, especially in the rear, and I don't know why. Also there's a lot of shaking, but the tires are pretty bad. All I can say is it was better than my last car. 1989 Oldsmobile Regency with 350000 miles. But I don't think the 626 will make it to 150000 miles.