Faults:

Head gasket blew at 120,000 miles.

Always had issues idling, would die at stop lights.

Belts shredded going 80 in LA.

Everything in it rattles with no end.

I think the regulator is going out right now because all the lights are throbbing.

General Comments:

It handles a little better than a 95 Toyota Corolla wagon, is faster than one too, and has higher gears for more comfortable highway cruising. But the Corolla, while slightly less comfortable is much more reliable.

This car will suck your wallet dry. Don't buy one.

In my opinion they look like jelly beans, which some call "timeless design", but that's just code for crappy and generic. It is pretty quick, but if I wanted fast I would buy an MR2.

Faults:

I got what I thought was a "good deal" on my 1995 626. However, I have had the same transmission problem oft described here, with the OD light flashing and super-hard shifting. My car required a new torque converter and shift kit or shift reprogram. Now I am also in need of a transmission mount.

General Comments:

I know my car has very high miles on it, but based on the problems people are mentioning in their reviews, I will be getting rid of mine very soon, as it seems to be trying to fit in with its peers more and more.

Faults:

Mazda replaced transmission at 50,000 miles

Replaced O2 sensors twice

Replaced timing belt every 60,000 miles

The O/D light flashes and it starts to shift hard. The fix is to disconnect the battery for a minute and then reconnect. Works every time.

General Comments:

I'd keep it running if I could, but it may be time to let it go. It's been reliable, with good power. It's comfortable and I can haul a bale of hay in the back seat. Since the tranny was replaced, it's been solid with few problems. I think I got a bad O2 sensor the first time I replaced.

Faults:

Hello all,

Before buying this kind of car, make sure you have an extended warranty (dealer) because you will not make any money with it.

Buy that car in 2006 for $2000.00. After, putting Coil Spring, muffler, Rebuilt transmission. It is in good shape.

I had the light problem (problem is wire is not connected well. have them services) when transmission went out. the rebuilt guy put an coolant into it and space gear on the first and 2nd. Told me that was the problem. gear was heating because of no space.

Rebuilt cost 3,000lbs with a Mass air flow changer (used one)

Now, a full year with no problem.. have to fix break, suspension, but hey. this is normal

All together, I have put 7500 dollars in this car.

How long an engine last anyway?

4 liter is good on gas, good on long trip, but definitely not a 2006 honda civic.

General Comments:

I might buy another Mazda, but not with a mix of Ford part.

But would love to go to GTI golf.

Faults:

I've had this Mazda 626 for about 6 months now and I've recently found out that for some reason I cannot set the timing which is about 25 degrees out. other that that the car runs great and I have not had any problems out of it. I use the recommended fuel (91 octane premium) and I get my moneys worth in mpg.

General Comments:

I have replaced the muffler and intake with high performance parts and I'm really satisfied. I gust wish it could be a manual!

Faults:

Intake manifold gasket - we bought it used at an auction for $600 and this was the main fault as to why it was up for sale. Apparently it wasn't passing emissions inspections. Had to replace the right front CV shaft was replaced as well after about a year of sitting around before getting it roadworthy.

Water pump went out after 18 months of driving - this is suspect as routine wear and tear items as it was the gland seal bearing. Had the timing belt replaced as its one the way into the water pump.

General Comments:

The model is stripped down and is few on frills (less stuff to break) but has been a real cream puff on mileage. On a trip east from Utah to Ohio on I-70 it averaged about 46.5 mpg, which I wouldn't believe coming from a 4-door sedan unless I actually was tallying all of the gas receipts. Admittedly it is the 2.0 liter engine with the 5-speed manual. Nonetheless, the 626 seems to have a lot of responsiveness. A spartan interior but very functional. the fold down seat that extend the truck space are an excellent feature.