1991 Mazda 626

Introduction:

The 1991 Mazda 626 is a mid-size sedan that offered a comfortable ride and reliable performance. It was available with a variety of engine and transmission options, including a 2.2-liter inline-four and a 2.5-liter V6, paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Despite its overall positive reputation, the 626 has been reported to have some specific issues over the years.

Engine

2.2L Inline-Four

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Belt Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls, no start condition
  • Solution: Replace timing belt and related components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L V6

• Valve Cover Gasket Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from under the valve cover
  • Solution: Replace valve cover gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Air Temperature Sensor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine runs poorly, stalls
  • Solution: Replace intake air temperature sensor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Synchro Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficult to shift gears, grinding noises
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1200
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Fluid Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leak, slipping gears
  • Solution: Inspect and repair or replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises, poor ride quality
  • Solution: Replace struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace ball joints
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, loss of electrical power
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: No start condition
  • Solution: Replace starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Trunk Lid Rust:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the trunk lid
  • Solution: Replace trunk lid or repair rust
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors won’t lock or unlock properly
  • Solution: Replace door lock actuators
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dashboard cracking over time
  • Solution: Replace dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows won’t roll up or down
  • Solution: Replace power window motor or switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 1991 Mazda 626 generally has a good reputation for reliability. However, like all vehicles, it does have some specific issues that have been reported by owners. These issues include engine leaks, transmission problems, suspension wear, electrical failures, and interior issues. The severity and cost of these issues vary depending on the specific problem, but overall, they are not major concerns and can be addressed with regular maintenance and repairs.