1998 MAZDA 626

1998 Mazda LX 2.0 L Automatic

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought my car in 1998 new. I've owned it for the past 16 years and have NEVER had one bit of problems. The only thing I've done is change the oil regularly, replaced one set of complete tires, and have had regular service intervals. Car still looks good and the interior still looks new. I've never regretted buying this car. Gas mileage is good but could be better but I have no complaints. This is a great car!

AWESOME CAR

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought this car new at the end of 1997 and I have almost 130,000 miles on it. I have the services done and the oil changed - that's it. I have had no major problems with this jewel. I have the automatic transmission, so I don't understand those who have had problems. Are they having their car serviced and oil changed? Anyway, I finally had to get a new battery after 8 years and the guy at my local service center was amazed that it was the original battery. I have had to finally get new tires. This is just a great car, I think I will keep it until it stops and it is not showing any signs of that anytime soon. It still drives like a new car. WOW!

Excellent Car

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

We have been driving this car for 9 years, now, and this was the best car decision we ever made. The car is now 12 years old, and most of the original parts still work fine, including alternator, power options, rad, water pump, steering components, etc. The only unexpected problems were with some replacement wheel bearings which didn't last as long as they should have. We live in a very wintry area with lots of road salt, and the body has held up well. I did a bit of research before we bought the car, so I avoided the automatic (Ford built) transmission of the 90's. Ours is a manual transmission, and it is still smooth as silk ; and the gas mileage is amazing. Basically, I love it!

What a piece of junk

Performance: 2 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 1

I bought my 1998 Mazda 626LX before I knew what a piece of crap it really is. These cars have the worst transmissions around. It was replaced once and rebuilt once already since I have had it and it is going out again! Mazda needs to do a recall! I found out that the transmission put into the 94-2002 was not good and has a habit of going out not just once but several times. This needs to be fixed.

A great car to me

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We purchased our 626 after reading in Consumer Guide that it was highly recommended year and model. We have really enjoyed driving this car. We get an honest to goodness average of 40 mpg. I drive it at 65 to 70 on the freeway and it handles well as far as I am concerned. It never burns any oil and I have gone to synthetic oil. I'm keeping it till it dies because we have been so pleased with it. It only has 122,000 on the engine.

Wish it still ran

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Bought this car for $2000, loved it. I drove it till this year when the third transmission went out. I've put at least $3500 into the car just in fixing it. The front axle had to be replaced transmission is out would replace it again but cannot find one. Over all the car has 171,000mls. I got my money out of it, now it's just setting around till someone buys it. Wonderful body, and love the sun roof. The car ran good, but also ran through a lot of money.

engine stalled while driving 60 mph hwy

Performance: 1 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

I purchased this car last year from a private seller. 2 months after having the car, no more then 80,000 miles on it, the transmission went out. Beginning of April 2009 I drove it to Georgia. It handled the mountains very well. Now that I was confident in this car I allowed my 18 year old daughter to use the car to go approximately 118 miles out of town. On her trip back the engine stalled while she was going 60 mph on the highway..now it was towed today and I want to know what other safety hazards I must be aware of with this car. It was my first luxury car and it let me down and almost killed my first born. Where do I go to file a safety complaint? Others need to be aware of this danger!

Solid ten years of transportation

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Looking to buy a new (used) car and mentally struggling to part with "old reliable"--think I'll gift to the kids for transportation and expect they can get at least another five years out of the old gal. Bought as year-old used and have had no troubles--simply changed the oil every 4-5K miles and was careful to change transmission fluid every 60K (as recommended by my non-dealer mechanic). Otherwise all predictable and expected general maintenance. Mazda is a winner in my book.

The car wont die

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

i have had this car for 6 months now it is my first car and it keeps turning heads even at 11 or how ever old it is people have stopped me and said what a nice cat that is i cant complain the car only die once because of a bad fuel pump but come on it is from 1998. when i bought it it had 125,000 and in six months i have put on another thousand so it really holds up

Typical Automatic Issues?

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 2

Bottom line is I love the car. I must. I've owned it for over 10 years, and am only now deciding to sell. But, transmission #3 is issuing signals, and the pre-cat went out years ago. The pre-cat triggers the chk eng light, then the light goes out in a couple of weeks. Not really an issue, just an annoyance. We also lost a lot of weather-stripping around the doors. I re-hung it. But I think it needs more than just an adhesive to really do the job. After two years, we also have two dash bulbs out. Makes it a pain to use the heater when you can't real the dial. But I still have the car, so it isn't all bad. A very fun car to drive, even with low power.

Weak transmissions

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 4

I bought the car for my daughter in 1998 for her to finish high school and go off to college in. The car has never left her stranded, but the automatic transmission has greatly increased the cost of a higher education. I've had the transmission replaced twice, once at 55K miles, and again at 120K. The clutch packs appear to be the weak link in the transmission. I had to change the heater coil in 2000. I made the repairs myself one week end. I'll never do that again.

Great car!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

We bought this car when we found out we were expecting. It has been great for 10 years 168,000 (we used it like a second home & drove it constantly) no problems or repairs. She's just now starting to show her age & will be replaced in the spring. Wonderful car for $19k and 10 years w/out a dime in repairs just tires, and general maintenance oil, spark plugs, etc. If you find a low miles used one, buy it! We have a new tribute and it's not near as good. Lots of issues already.

Mazda 626 Problems

Performance: 2 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

New 1998 Mazda 626 replaced a 626 that was totaled. Been nothing but problems. I'm an engineer, change oil religiously, chk tires etc. Auto transmission failure at 66K miles. Seems there was a design flaw in the tranny Mazda never fixed. After discovering this I didn't want Mazda parts used so I went to guaranteed for life tranny shop. Rebuilt transmission still running strong. Mazda refused to help with the costs as I used non-Mazda parts. Nothing but electrical problems. Factory car alarm goes off without any reason, windshield wipers slow. Turn sig. blinkers are fast then slow. Engine runs good but rest of car is a mess. After owning 4 Mazdas I've not bought another and will not.

Still running after 164,000 miles strong

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We bought our 626 new '98 we have had no major issues with this car. Routine expected work and we have had more issues with cars with less mileage then our Mazda. The car is still beautiful rides like it's 4 yrs old and have just had super performance from this car. We bought a Mazda CX9 as well this year and again very pleased - we only drive Mazda now.

Love my Mazda

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My mazda drives like a dream. I have a 97 automatic and should have blown up by now and OD out but won't quit . My 98 manual drives like a dream, interior is grey and sharp. It is a comfortable ride and with regular tune up gas mileage is still good. Love to just go for a ride or drive on pretty days.

Mazda 626LX - an excellent vehicle!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have loved this car; it's the best vehicle I've ever owned. It's now nearly 10 years old and it still drives really well. It's a standard and I've never replaced or repaired the clutch and I've got @110,000 miles on it! The leather interior and sun roof have been wonderful. I've replaced the exhaust system and the tires, and reparied the rear bumpers several times due to nicks. Otherwise, I've been nearly repair free! Great car; wish Mazda still made this one because I'd get another!

1998 Mazda 626 LX 5 Speed

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

What can I say. My wife's dad purchased this car with 100,000 miles. She has been driving it for the past 4 years. It now has 208,000 miles and still running strong. I def. wasn't sure about Mazda at first. This car has actually been just as reliable than my Accord though. The clutch is strong and it is the original! I have heard plenty on bad things about the auto trans, but the 5 speed is money.

Decent buy

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 5

I fount this car to be an excellent choice for my first one. I had to put a new engine in it when I received it. Drove it for approximately three months, then got into an accident and the car was totaled. All in all it was an extremely fun car to drive. It handled exceptionally well. When we received it, it had over 140,000 miles on it but we put an engine in it with only 50,000 miles on it. It ran perfectly flawless with the exception of a squeaky belt. I give mazda credit for building an excellent gas miser. I got close to 30 mpg. That is excellent considering how hard it was used and it was close to 10 years old. It isn't a real head turner, but if you are looking for an every day driver, it is a steal.

Goes Early

Performance: 3 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

I bought the car at 115,000 miles. It looked like it was in great shape and also had a new transmission put in. But the engine is where I got my problems. This engine sludged up on me and gave way too early. I paid way to much for this car to not even last me a year and a half! Overall I give it a bad grade. Maybe that's why they don't make them anymore?

Surprisingly good vehicle...follow up

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Well I'm sorry for all of those that bought the automatic. The standard has been fantastic (knock on wood). I've had to change the oil pan after some rust. That's about it. Next to the usual maintenance work the car runs the same as it did before. I also take back the A/C comment since it doesn't seem to affect the gas mileage that much on long rides. In town driving shows a greater gas mileage drop off with the A/C. Annual driving given in kilometres approx. 40,000 km or 25,000 miles.

Happy with a 5 speed

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought this car new in 1998 and have had few problems. The ABS failed one week after the warranty expired and the weather stripping came loose after seven years.The Ford/Mazda product isn't as high quality as pure Mazda products I've owned previously. I have gotten over 40 mpg on highway trips and city travel averages in the high 20's. After 8 years the only repair I have required is brake pads, plug wires and cleaning the throttle body. Friends that have the automatic transmission have had lots of problems but the stick shift has performed flawlessly. My Mazda truck is going strong after 21 years with out needing ANY major repairs. I think the merger with Ford has weakened the product.

Loves to eat transmissions

Performance: 2 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

Bought with 53K on it and it has 94K as of 1/30/06. Guess what -- will be replacing the transmission again for the 3rd time. Piece of junk and will never buy another Mazda.

This car has issues

Performance: 2 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

Nothing good has come out of this car. Ever since I bought it, it has been giving me problems. Over the recent summer, I put in over a grand on the car, and now it's having issues again; drive axles, brakes don't last long at all, around 7 or 8 months before having to replace rotors, shoes, pads, and drums. It's ridiculous. And I've had to replace the main belt about 3 or 4 times, because it keeps breaking, because what makes the belt move was loose when we bought it.

Transmission Issue

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 2

I have rated this car with extreme leniency. I bought it at 70,000 miles. Transmission went out at around 86,000 miles. I spent $2500 on it and couldn't believe that it happened to me. Mazda is a Japanese car and everything in the engine is supposed to be top notch. That assumption went down the hole when the mechanic told me, "Yeah it's got a Ford Transmission in it and it's out of stock." These type of Ford transmissions were being used so much at that time that they were out of stock. I don't need to say anything else about the Ford company and its transmission. I can see how someone a little short can have problem looking back. The way the car's back side is, it's hard to get a complete back view.

Surprisingly good vehicle...

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I had to say goodbye to my '92 Honda Accord after it began to give some trouble. It took about 3 months of car shopping and a serious test of patience to finally pick my '98 Mazda 626 LX. I took the 4 cylinder standard partly because I prefer standard and I've read (on Edmunds) that the automatic transmissions give too much trouble. I'll say I'm happy with my purchase (used with 124,500 kilometres or about 87,500 miles). I didn't know Mazda still had the swivel vents (Mazda had them since 1980's) which made me smile. I find it very comfortable on long drives (fiancee and son live in Rochester, NY) and the sound system is wicked. I'll tell anyone to get this car, but I won't push them towards the automatic.

Wonderful Sedan

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Bought the car new. Now with 86000 miles I have only done oil changes, spark plugs, serp belt, and replaced the tires. Everything else is original. I love the 5 speed trans and excellent reliability!!!

Great car

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I purchased the car new in 1998, have driven it 115,000 miles, and had very few problems. Left front axle has cracked twice, and the coolant reservoir has been replaced twice. Other than that, almost nothing other than regular wear and tear. The 5 speed is very smooth, and the engine has great power, especially above 3000 rpm. Fuel economy has gone a little downhill recently, but it is a high mileage car. Overall very pleased, and can't wait for the MazdaSpeed 6 to come out next year. Would definitely buy another Mazda.

Best Car I Ever Owned

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Without a doubt, the best car I ever owned. I gave my son this car a year ago for him to drive to work. Later, I sold him my truck and he returned the Mazda. I fully intended to trade it in for whatever it was worth, considering it had 122,000 miles on it. The moment I got in again, after a year, I realized I couldn't get rid of it. It was too reliable and too good a ride. I had a mechanic check it out. It only needed new spark plug wires. In 124,000 miles, besides the usual maintenance, only the water pump failed (at about 30,000 miles) which was under warantee. Well worth the $22,000 or so I spent on it.

Junk

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

Had this car for a year and it's been in the shop more than i'v seen it. I'm on about the 5th transmission. I would have sold it the 2nd time it went out but i'v got to drive something. The transmission cost about 1800 bucks, but i got lifetime warrenty with mine luckly, but the company doesn't want to keep replacing it. other than the transmission the car is great. nice seats, awesome vents and it handles good. i wouldn't recommend this car with a 4cyl auto. i'm getting mine converted to 5spd b/c trans company won't give me anymore autos and then i'm selling this piece of crap. want something reliable? buy a toyota, honda, or mercedes.

The Little Engine that Can

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have had my 626 for over a year now and it ahs been a real champ. The car is classy inside and out, reliable, and is not a Camry or Accord. I wanted an inexpensive, classy mid-size, but loathed buying a Camry or Accord and the 626 nailed it.

Avoid automatics at all costs

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 2

This was my second 626. The engine has been mostly fine, blew a head gasket at 85,000 but that feels like a fluke. The door seals, mentioned by many others, are annoying but no big deal. The trouble, as you've guessed, is the automatic transmission, made by Ford, which completely fell apart at 90,000 miles, took $2500 to fix, and has been back in the shop 3 more times in the next 12,000 miles. Some apparently break as early as 60,000. It's sad, because I really liked the car up until the fateful day it was towed to the shop. Look for a manual, which is what I'll be in the market for as soon as this one breaks again.

mazda 626 lx sedan

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

It's a great car, I have absolutely no problems with it. It runs great and is fun to drive for a big car.

Very happy with my 626

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I am very happy with my Mazda 626. I purchased it 1.5 years ago The car has been very reliable and I have put 22000 miles on it and no problems since new. I feel that for a $21,000 car new, its an exceptional value. I am suprised that the trade in value is only $4100 as it is a quality car and rates up there with the higher end ones. I read these complaints that people have and have to laugh. They buy the car used, don't know who had it first, then complain that its Mazda? Who knows what kind of driver may have beat the car for the for 50,000 miles. Think about it?

not a problem yet

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I enjoy this car, but I am just hitting the mileage point (after 55,000) where i may or may not have problems. For example, the weather stripping has come off the doors several times (and will not stay glued). Also, the doors are not latching shut as easily as they used to. I have to slam them hard to get them to shut. Otherwise, i have not had any significant repairs as of date, just normal maintenence. i love this car, but my family has outgrown it! Reccomended a excellent car for a family of four or less.

Great Purchase!

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I bought my 626 used with 61k already on it.I have had the timing chain replaced, belts, rotors, brakes and maintenance on a regular basis. i keep reading about the transmissions (mine is the automatic) and I consider myself blessed at not having any trouble with it and I am at 101k and still going. I do suggest that anyone owning the automatic get the transmission fluid pumped out and replaced on occasion to increase the life of the automatic as I do, it seems to help.

1998 626 LX

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Not a bad car for the price. Stay away from the automatic transmission models--they have a long history of premature failure. Luckily, ours came with a 5 speed. Unless you're very concerned with gas milage, try to find a V6. I've found the 125hp four cylinder engine very unrewarding. Where the 626 shines is in handling. I've been very impressed with the way the car corners

Hi, Guys try Mazda

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Good Car! I bought it one year ago, just love to drive it. No any problem.

Great car for the money!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Replace the O2 sensor regularly and the brakes and its all good!

Happy with my fourth mazda

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This 98 626 has never reqired any repairs except an ABS sensor @30K. It is a 5 speed manual which seems to be more reliable than the automatics. I change the oil every 3000 miles and keep up with scheduled services and have yet to have a hint of a problem. I'm a little worried about the Ford connection as my well cared for Windstar's engine blew up after 61,000 miles. The car has plenty of pep with the 5 speed and appears to be utterly reliable...more trouble free than my Honda accord which puts it in good company. It also handles well in snow and ice but will bog down in the really deep stuff.

Piece of Crap

Performance: 1 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 1 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 1

Since buying this marvel of technology we've had the transmission die at 60,000, the front axel brake, the drive chain fall off, the fuel sensor die causing us to loose all acceleration power while driving on the highway, and a recent intermittent ABS failure. If it weren't for an extended warranty, we would have cut our loses long ago. I would like to add that the many other cars we've owned in our lives (no other mazdas) have not had these problems.

very reliable

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Bought the 626 to be different than all my neighbors who were driving Camry's. Opted for the 5 speed manual. Never had any problems with this car for the first 100,000 miles. After that...just normal wear and tear. (fuel filter, brakes, plugs) Love the car and would consider buying the new "6" that just came out

very reliable

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Bought the 626 to be different than all my neighbors who were driving Camry's. Opted for the 5 speed manual. Never had any problems with this car for the first 100,000 miles. After that...just normal wear and tear. (fuel filter, brakes, plugs) Love the car and would consider buying the new "6" that just came out

My 1998 626

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

It has been the best car I have ever owned. It's hard to believe it was built as a joint venture with FORD.

STAY AWAY FAR AWAY

Performance: 1 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 1

THE TRANSMISSION IN MY CAR IS A PIECE OF CRAP. MY TRANSMISSION WENT OUT AT 80,000 MILES AND IT HAS BEEN IN THE SHOP FIVE TIMES SINCE HAVING IT FIXED (THE FIRST TIME IN DECEMBER 2001). IT IS NOW JANUARY 2003 AND GUESS WHAT MY CAR HAS BEEN IN THE SHOP TWO WEEKS GOING ON THREE BECAUSE THE TRANSMISSION WENT OUT FOR THE FIFTH TIME.

good car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

very reliabile. never let me down. I just love this car. I am thinking to buy another one several years later.

transmissions

Performance: 2 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

Transmission went out at 90,000 miles. Transmission shop has worked on many 626's and usual life for the Ford transmission that is in the 626 is 90,000-100,000.

It Ain't Sexy, But It's Wheels

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

A good car for the price. Bought this car new and drove it 4 years during college. Boring sedan styling, but I'm a boring sedan kind of guy. Looks more expensive than it is to people who don't know it's just a re-badged Ford. Won't turn heads, but better than driving an Accord or Civic like everybody else. Unlike other reviewers, I had absolutely no problems with my 626, except for weather stipping around doors that fell out EVERY summer and had to be replaced (under warranty). The car never failed to start. Biggest gripe is acceleration from 0 is nonexistent. Lots of trunk space. Oscilating air vents will wow all your friends!

Never buy a Mazda 626

Performance: 1 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

Bought the car 1 year ago and recently, at 53,000 miles, the head gaskets went out. Mazda refused to assist in paying and will never buy another mazda.

A Ford by any other name is still a Ford

Performance: 1 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 3

I have owned my Mazda 626 for 4 1/2 years now and I have learned one major lesson in what cars not to buy. I am currently on my 3rd, yep, that's right 3rd transmission. First went at 17,000 (with a FULL replacement of the transmission required, luckily under warranty). The second went at 91,000 and if you like dropping $2600 on a whim then by all means buy a Mazda 626, in fact, you can buy mine. And with its unique color its sure to be a top seller! Easy to spot, its yellow and has the big Sunkist sticker on the door! Some good advice? If anyone recommends to you to buy a FORD, turn around and run as fast as you possibly can.

Most Bang for the buck!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've had this car for 4 yrs now and I can tell anyone who's looking for a new or used car that it is extremely reliable. I've done my oil changes every 6000 - 7000 miles and the car has always run flawlessly. The car is very clean and basic, not too much junk that will break that many cars tend to have. The interior ergonomics are perfect.

Don't do it!

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 2

I bought this car used about two years ago as a commuter car. It had about 36000 when I bought it. Now it has 78000 and the transmission is beginning to slip. After reading other reviews it appears as though my opinion of FORD quality has been reaffirmed, Fixed Or Repaired Daily. I am also geting a grinding noise from the driver side from tire. I had an older Mazda previous to this with no problems, but this car is awful. The Mitsubishi that I replaced had 170000 miles on it without ever getting the problems I am having with this car.

1998 Mazda 626 4 cyl.

Performance: 1 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

I bought a 1998 Mazda thinking I was buying Japanese reliance (i.e., Honday, Nissan, Toyota). Not realizing they are mostly Fords! Most parts you have to buy from dealership, now transmission has just went out (114,000). I have no idea how much repairs will be on that.

NoMoreMazdasforMe

Performance: 1 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 2

I've had this car about 15 months. I bought it with 58000 miles. The guides and the rails broke on the moonroof about 6 weeks after I purchased the car about $1100.00 to fix. The radiator had to be replaced at about 91000 miles- $350.00. The air conditioner condenser started leaking a few weeks ago-another $200.00. Now the clutch has gone out and that is going to cost me about $800.00 with the repairs I have already done on the clutch. I WOULD NOT RECOMMEND ANYONE TO BUY A MAZDA.

Transmission Woes

Performance: 2 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 1

I will never buy another 626 or mazda for that matter. The transmission had always been extrememly jerky, defeating the purpose of having an automatic, and I was told by a number of different dealerships that there was nothing wrong with it. Finally, an honest Mazda employee told me that it was jerky by design and there was nothing I could do about it. Not to my surprise, the transmission went out at 50,000 only to be replaced with an equally shotty transmission. The only thing I like about this car is the swing option on the vents.

Commuting 626

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Needed a car to commute 35 miles one way, wanted something stylish and good on gas. Toyota's and Honda's are so much more expensive, whereas Mazda is often the forgotten step brother! I bought it with 43K miles on it and at 65K the Alternator went out took it to the shop nearby. 24 hours later, the EFI valve went out,...suspicous,...And it was something I couldn't do myself , because Mazada would not release that part to the public yet. Anyway, it is a great commuter and decent sound system. Should've gotten the 6 cyl instead of the 4 cyl, not enough snort. My wife has a hard time seeing out the back, other than that very happy with it.

Another Transmission Failure

Performance: 1 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 2

This is without a doubt the worst car I have ever owned. 0-60 in approximately 2 minutes. Transmission failed with less than 100,000 miles (previous car was Honda Accord with 238,000 miles at trade-in, never a problem). Wish I had read all of these reviews prior to purchasing this car. Will probably trade for another Accord if I am able to get rid of this piece of junk.

Runs Well

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Had this vehicle for over a year now and have had no major problems. Drives smoothly, and after reading all the commnets am happy i got the manual transmission. Could use a little more power though.

what a deal

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

bought 6 months ago from private seller. 1998 ES-V6 5 speed manual, 60k miles. have put 20,000 more on it since, have had no problems whatsover. It is quite fast, i guess about 7.5 seconds to 60mph. runs right with preludes, eclipses, other little 4 cylinders... great fun. the only ford parts i see are the cruise control, and some minor engine control systems. no big deal. dont know about manual tranny, but it works fine. dealer says engine/tranny combo "bulletproof" compared to other mazdas so i expect near toyota-like reliability to continue

Buy a 626 at your own risk

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

I bought one of the first 1998 Mazda 626's in the area. If I had known better, I would have checked Edmunds and purchased another car. My car has been back to the dealer 9 times for electrical problems. This was fixed when the dealer replaced the whole wiring harnass. Even more drama was in store for me. The transmission went at 62,000 miles. $3200 to replace the transmission. With the electrical problems, the transmission, and poor trade in value, this car was a complete bust. My only saving grace was purchasing mechanical breakdown insurance from Geico, this made the cost of replacing my transmission $250.

My car Seems great

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have had my car for Quite some time. I love it, It has been a great car No problems so far. The ride quality is great everything works perfect. I love my V6 engine although it is not as powerful as Toyota or Honda. It still has alot of Go to it. Overall I think it is a great car.

Great Car But...

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The 626 four cylinder 5 speed is fun to drive, roomy and good looking.

Great Car

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have had this car for four years and had no problems. Drives great in mountainous areas as well as the desert. The exhaust has a nice sound. Handles really well for a sedan.

Lemon

Performance: 1 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

Automatic transmission had been a little rough (slight jerking) since day I bought the vehichle. Had the dealer check it out numerous times but said this was normal. After about 87,000 miles the entire transmission had to be replaced at considerable expense. Neither the Dealer nor the Manufacturor would not reimburse me, let alone share in the cost.

Excellent.

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I love it. The only quirks it has is the auto tranmission, it's alittle jerky untill you get used to how to let off on the gas, but other than that it's great. Very smooth, good fit and finish, and one of the best factory sound systems in the industry. The only other thing thing about this car is the oil filter location...why? The instruction manual says to get the oil changed at a dealer because of the "special tool" needed to change it. Again I ask....why?

MAZDA SHOULD DEEP SIX FORD!

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FAILED AT 50K, SINCE I BOUGHT IT AS A PROGRAM CAR, I HAD THE 100K 7 YR WARRANTY. REBUILT TRANNY WORKS VERY WELL THOUGH A BIT CRUDE COMPARED WITH TOYOTA. CAR IS FUN TO DRIVE, PRETTY QUICK FOR A FOUR. HEADLIGHTS ARE A FAVORITE; THEY REALLY LIGHT UP THE ROADSIDE (GREAT FOR DEER AREAS). INTERIOR COMFORTABLE; CONTROLS INTUITIVE, GOOD BUILD QUALITY, FEELS HEAVY AND SOLID.

Good Car

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 4

Too much vibration when car exceed 70 mph. Driver seat too low.

delicious vanilla, no toppings

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Great economical mid-size. Would reccomend it to anyone looking for a reliable car of this type. Was a little puzzled why the outer C-V boots failed at 60k miles. It has been my experience this usually happens after 100 k miles.