1993 Mazda 626
Introduction
The 1993 Mazda 626 was a mid-size sedan offered with a range of engine and transmission options. The base engine was a 2.0-liter inline-four with 125 horsepower and 122 lb-ft of torque. A more powerful 2.5-liter V6 was also available, producing 164 horsepower and 159 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic.
The 626 was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and responsive handling. However, it was also criticized for its lack of engine power and underwhelming interior materials.
Engine
2.0-liter Inline-Four
Faulty Ignition Coils Description/Symptoms: Misfiring, rough idling, decreased engine power Solution: Replace ignition coils Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
Cracked Intake Manifold Description/Symptoms: Vacuum leak, loss of power, rough idling Solution: Replace intake manifold Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
2.5-liter V6
Timing Belt Failure Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, no-start condition, catastrophic engine damage Solution: Replace timing belt and tensioner Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000+ Recalls: 93V023000, 99V133000
Leaking Oil Pan Gasket Description/Symptoms: Oil leak, low oil levels Solution: Replace oil pan gasket Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
Transmission
5-Speed Manual
Shifter Linkage Issues Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, popping out of gear Solution: Adjust or replace shifter linkage Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
4-Speed Automatic
Slipping Transmission Description/Symptoms: Loss of acceleration, delayed shifting Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
Suspension
Struts/Shocks Description/Symptoms: Rough ride, loss of handling, uneven tire wear Solution: Replace struts/shocks Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+ per axle
Control Arm Bushings Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise, unstable handling, premature tire wear Solution: Replace control arm bushings Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+ per side
Electrical
Alternator Failure Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, electrical system malfunction Solution: Replace alternator Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700+
Starter Motor Failure Description/Symptoms: No-start condition Solution: Replace starter motor Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
Exterior
Rust on Body Panels Description/Symptoms: Oxidized paint, bubbling or perforation Solution: Repair or replace affected body panels Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on severity
Fading Headlights Description/Symptoms: Dimmed or cloudy headlights Solution: Restore or replace headlights Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
Interior
HVAC Blower Motor Failure Description/Symptoms: No airflow from vents, overheating Solution: Replace blower motor Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
Power Window Regulator Failure Description/Symptoms: Window fails to roll up or down Solution: Replace window regulator Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+ per window
Summary
The 1993 Mazda 626 has several potential issues that can affect its reliability and performance. These issues range in severity from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures that can be costly to repair. While some issues, such as rust and interior component failures, are common to older vehicles, others, like timing belt failure and transmission problems, are more specific to this particular model. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues and factor in the potential cost of repairs when considering a 1993 Mazda 626.