1990 Mazda 929

Introduction The 1990 Mazda 929 is a mid-size luxury sedan that was available with a variety of engine and transmission options. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and stylish exterior. However, it also had its share of problems.

Engine

• 2.2L I4
  • Oil Leaks: The rear main seal is prone to leaking, leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage.
    • Solution: Replace rear main seal.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Coolant Leaks: The radiator and water pump can develop leaks, causing overheating.
    • Solution: Replace radiator or water pump as needed.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• 3.0L V6
  • Timing Belt Failure: The timing belt can fail, causing catastrophic engine damage.
    • Solution: Replace timing belt and tensioner regularly per manufacturer’s schedule.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
  • Intake Manifold Gasket Failure: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing coolant and oil leaks.
    • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+

Transmission

• 4-Speed Automatic
  • Slipping Gears: The transmission may slip gears, especially when shifting from 3rd to 4th.
    • Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
• 5-Speed Manual
  • Clutch Problems: The clutch can wear out prematurely, leading to difficulty shifting or engaging gears.
    • Solution: Replace clutch.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000+

Suspension

• Front Struts: The front struts can wear out prematurely, resulting in a rough ride and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace front struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200+
• Rear Shocks: The rear shocks can also wear out prematurely, causing the rear of the vehicle to sag.
  • Solution: Replace rear shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+

Electrical

• Alternator Failure: The alternator can fail, leading to a loss of power and potential battery damage.
  • Solution: Replace alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
• Ignition Coil Problems: The ignition coils can fail, causing misfires and poor engine performance.
  • Solution: Replace ignition coils.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Exterior

• Rust: The 929 is prone to rust, especially in areas such as the fenders, rocker panels, and trunk lid.
  • Solution: Apply rust protection and regularly inspect for signs of corrosion.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on severity
• Clear Coat Peeling: The clear coat on the paint can peel or fade over time.
  • Solution: Repaint or touch up affected areas.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on severity

Interior

• Power Window Failure: The power window motors or switches can fail, causing the windows to become inoperable.
  • Solution: Replace window motor or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per window
• Climate Control Malfunctions: The climate control system can malfunction, resulting in problems with heating or air conditioning.
  • Solution: Repair or replace climate control components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+

Summary The 1990 Mazda 929 has a number of potential problems, including engine leaks, transmission issues, suspension wear, electrical failures, and exterior and interior issues. The severity and cost of these issues can vary, but some of them can be quite expensive to repair. Overall, the 929 is a reliable vehicle, but it is important to be aware of the potential problems that it may experience.